The Ladybug Event returns May 3-4 with more sailing, more learning and more fun. Hosted by St. Augustine Sailing, the event celebrates the local sailing community and shines a light on equitable access for all.
Tracy Edwards will be the keynote speaker this year. Edwards is a British sailor who skippered the first all-female crew in the 1989 Whitbread Round the World Yacht Race.
The fun kicks off at 9 a.m. May 3 at Windward by Camachee Cove Yacht Harbor, 3076 Harbor Drive, in St. Augustine.
“We wanted this event to highlight the sailing community, with a special nod to the growing number of women entering and flourishing in the sport,” said Rose Ann Points, owner, captain and broker at St. Augustine Sailing. “That’s why we’re thrilled to have a true sailing legend, Tracy Edwards, joining us virtually for an inspiring chat about her life and the ongoing mission of The Maiden Factor Foundation, which empowers girls through education.”
The event begins with a full day of workshops and seminars designed for landlubbers all the way to experienced sailors. Topics range from cooking to medical preparedness at sea. Many workshops are free, but donations are accepted. The American Heart Association CPR Certification Course has a small fee associated with the official certification.
All Points Yacht Sales, in collaboration with Atlas Yacht Sales and SailTime, will host a mini-boat show on Saturday only, beginning at 10 a.m. and featuring an array of Jeanneau monohulls and catamarans. SailTime team members will be on hand to discuss memberships.
The sailing action kicks off Sunday, with the widely anticipated Ladybug Race, featuring both performance and cruising classes racing. The race is open to all. Freelance sailors can join St. Augustine Sailing’s Crew Program or Women on the Water (WOW!) for an opportunity to crew on one of its boats.
The racecourse will take captains and crew out of the marina and north up the Tolomato River, where boats will deftly combat the wind, tide and each other. For spectators, it will be a chance to see technical maneuvering, teamwork and skill. Guests can board the Committee Boat or one of St. Augustine Sailing’s comfortable luxury sailing yachts for the best views.
On the Water tickets begin at $49 per person and include light refreshments. Racers will be recognized at the awards dinner held Sunday evening, hosted by Outer Banks Boil Company, beginning at 6 p.m. Tickets to the dinner are $89 per person.
To register for the Ladybug Race, a workshop space, buy spectator tickets or learn more, go to sta-sail.com/ladybug-race.
