Newport to Ensenada and Border Run sailing races merge
In an effort to increase regatta participation, the Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race has merged with the Border Run race from Newport to San Diego and added a shorter youth course.
The Newport Ocean Sailing Assn. (NOSA), which puts on the “N2E” from Newport Beach to Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico, every spring, will start all three courses from Newport waters on April 27.
The youth course, which will run to Dana Point, is aimed at high school and collegiate sailors in smaller boats.
The established primary courses to Ensenada and San Diego are unchanged.
“This is an excellent option for racers who want to sail N2E but are less confident when it comes to the logistics of sailing to Ensenada, then returning home,” NOSA commodore Daniel Hodge said in a statement.
He and Border Run proprietor Randy Reynolds said feedback on the merger has been positive.
“Randy and I are passionate sailors first,” Hodge said. “We were able to complete the acquisition because, as sailors, we have a shared aspiration of creating energy that motivates others to get out on the water.”
The Newport to Ensenada race has been a local sailing institution since 1948, but has seen participation dwindle in recent years. In 2008 there were 388 entries, then 272 in 2009; in 2016 there were 212 entries, and in 2017, about 185.
The Border Run, which was established in 2009, has also seen a shrinking field.
“With the two races joining forces we have a better chance of bringing back the glory days of 400-plus boats racing down the coast to the border,” Reynolds said.
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