We have made tremendous progress with plans for Newport MetreFest 2017, now just 3 months away! The racing schedule is set with 3 days of sailing (June 9–11) for all classes with the New York Yacht Club running races for the 12s, 8s and 6s and Ida Lewis Yacht Club officiating for the large 2.4 Metre fleet.

Docking arrangements are in place for all competitors at Sail Newport’s Fort Adams facilities. The primary objective of MetreFest is to promote all International Rule boats. By having our historic Metre yachts docked en masse we hope to create a powerful impression and garner exposure benefiting all of our Classes. We also envision a fun festival atmosphere among the competitors and an opportunity to engage the public with an up-close look at our historic metre boats before and after racing.

The fun begins on Thursday night with a Welcome part at Ida Lewis Yacht Club, on Friday evening Sail Newport will be our host with a cocktail party adjacent to our docked racing fleet. All MetreFest participants are invited to New York Yacht Club’s Annual Regatta party on Saturday night and again for Sunday’s prize-giving, both held at Harbour Court. All in all, a robust but convenient social schedule for participants and their guests.

We continue to field inquires through our MetreFest website and Facebook page. Please help us continue to spread the word by sharing our links with your sailing friends and social outlets. And if you are able to volunteer prior to or during the event, please contact me. With your help, we’ll kick off the 2017 sailing season with a spectacular showing at Newport MetreFest! — Jamie Hilton