Swiftsure Yacht Race - Sailors for the Sea

Swiftsure Yacht Race

 May 24, 2012  | By: Oceana

We are very excited to have the Swiftsure International Yacht Race – hosted by the Royal Victoria Yacht Club – participating in the Clean Regattas program for the third year in a row! This year event organizers are working to be certified at the silver level. Swiftsure is now actually five different races over three separate courses, plus the two day inshore regatta and festival on shore. Each Steering Committee chair and subcommittee has pledged for 2012 to uphold the spirit of Clean Regattas, environmental initiatives include:

  • WATER BOTTLE REDUCTION – Reduce single-use, disposable water bottle use
  • GREEN TEAM – Assemble a volunteer team to help carry out Clean Regattas
  • TRASH FREE REGATTA – Keep your shores and waters clear of debris
  • NO DISCHARGE – Prevent discharge of untreated sewage or blackwater
  • RECYCLING – Provide and promote recycling services
  • NON-TOXIC PRODUCTS – Use only non-toxic cleaning products during the event
  • GRAY WATER REDUCTION – reduce runoff of phosphates and nitrates
  • OIL SPILL PREVENTION – Require that motorized vessels shall carry spill kits
  • PAPER – Use 100% post-consumer recycled paper or using an electronic registration service
  • BOTTOM CLEANING – Prevent bottom cleaning in harbor and sensitive areas
  •  REGATTA AWARDS – Present recycled or practical race awards

Every year, the Swiftsure International Yacht Race is a major community event – the premiere long distance sailing race in the B.C. and US Pacific Northwest area and a festival on shore.  It is a race in which yachts, both racing and cruising, and crews capable of adventure in exposed waters are encouraged to compete and test their skills.  Swiftsure has drawn boats and sailors from California, Hawaii, New Zealand, and even Russia.  For more information on the history of the Swiftsure International Yacht Race; including photos, past results, trophies, and records visit:  www.swiftsure.org

We thank the event organizers and sailors for their commitment to the environment!