I don't know how many wil dig down the forum to find this, so I am re-posting it new here. I have tried to come up with Pros and Cons for possible formats of the HB replacement race. There is still some possibility of keeping it Islamorada to Key West, but we need to understand all aspects. So here are the pros and cons I see. Hopefully most can dig thru this and get to this page. Let me know what those who expect to race want. I can go either way. If possible please respond with your choice: Venue 1,2 or 3, to [email protected] , or herin.

Pros and Cons HB replacement on 19 April, following MKL
Or stay on original dates: 25 – 26 April

Venue 1: Race from Black Water sound to Chan 5 then up ocean side to Islander Resort, racing on 19 April 2009.

Pros
A continuing race the following day
Stay on bay side for o-night, do not have to de-rig boat
Run down to Chan 5 and return to Islander, doable
Sailors get two races in one weekend
Caribbean Club, do-able, may be right answer, no trailers needed there.
May expand race to possibly more boats
Three weeks before Tybee

Cons
Trailers must be moved by ground crew
Difficult race on 2nd day
Where to stop and Remain over night
Gilberts unknown support after Brooke left Marley’s,
May not be do-able; definitely will not be permanent answer for the new race
Race length for this version is about 44 miles, vs 90 miles; Really reduces the significance of this race
Time factor, must be coordinated with MKL organizers
Caribbean Club, Access? Cost? Boat safety?? Race must go through mangrove islands (two sets) immediately after start
Three weeks before Tybee
Hotel at other than boat location

Venue 2: Start at Islander on 25 April, down to Marathon, stay or have lunch and return to Islander Resort (Boats may be left at Islander Resort until Tybee. Tybee will start at Islander this year.)

Pros
One stop for trailers, ground crews un-necessary, (two sailors and go)
Good distance race to check out boats (approx 90 miles)
Race reasonably safe for medium skilled sailors, by staying in Hawks Cannel
Hotel at boat area, may have arrangements to have rigged boats pulled thru at Snake Creek bridge after MLK.
Two Weeks before Tybee
Cons
Must breakdown boats and wait a week to race, makes two weekends necessary
Shorter race 44 miles in one day vs 90 miles in one or two days.
Two Weeks before Tybee

Venue 3: Stay with old concept and keep looking at logistics issues and finding a new Sponsor.