The 75th annual Swiftsure International Classic is next weekend, offering a chance for Victorians to indulge their inner sailor.
Friday, May 25
Yacht contestants will start arriving at the Inner Harbour between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. The public is welcome to walk the docks until 6 p.m.
Saturday, May 26
At 8 a.m. at Clover Point and before the race, Central Saanich Lions will serve a pancake breakfast, and Songhees and Esquimalt First Nation elders will bless the event.
At 9 a.m. off Clover Point, the races begin, with six start times in all for the various events. The starts continue until 9:50.
After the races have started, the Royal Canadian Air Force 442 Squadron will conduct a search-and-rescue demonstration with a Cormorant helicopter. Also taking part will be the Canadian Coast Guard and Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue.
Sunday, May 27, and Monday, May 28
The best place to watch the yachts cross the finish line is at Ogden Point beginning Sunday. The time will depend on the wind. The race is officially over at 6 a.m. on Monday.
