Just in time for the New Year, the January issue of Latitude 38 will hit all the usual places today. We review the top stories of 2009 in ‘The Year in Review’, hear the Coast Guard’s side of the story regarding the loss of the Catalina 36 JoJo — which we reported on in the December 2 ‘Lectronic Latitude — learn the basics of cruising the South Pacific, join in the fun of the Banderas Bay Regatta, and, of course, pay our respects to the great Roy Disney. Get yours in time for the weekend, and have a terrific New Year!
As we say goodbye to 2009, we thought it would be fun to take a look back through the news and nonsense that we’ve shared with you this year in ‘Lectronic. While mainstream journalists were busy covering economic misery, foreign wars and celebrity scandals, we shined our spotlights on everything from around-the-world races to learn-to-sail programs for grade-schoolers.
The images here are some of our favorites from year. Simply click a photo, and you’ll be taken to that day’s ‘Lectronic Latitude posting. Happy New Year!
In February, we checked out the no-carbon-footprint method for transporting billfish. At the time, the currency exchange rate was so good, travelers could afford to eat fresh seafood every day.
We enjoyed a visual feast in May at the annual Master Mariners Regatta which drew 60 boats in 13 divisions. Seen here is Ouessant chasing Credit which is chasing Curlew.
In June, we looked on as Pacific Puddle Jumpers were given a glorious welcome to French Polynesia at the annual Tahiti-Moorea Sailing Rendezvous. The 60-boat fleet of international cruisers was the largest yachting event in the history of French Polynesia.
July’s big to-do was the Delta Doo Dah, a week-long ‘rally’ from the Bay to Stockton. Thirty-some boats partied their way through the steamy Delta – and didn’t want it to end!
August saw the acquittal of Bismarck Dinius, who’d been prosecuted for the death of Lynn Thornton. Many thought Bismarck was made a scapegoat because the powerboat that killed Thornton was driven by Lake County Deputy Sheriff Russell Perdock.
In September, Bill and Grace Bodle’s magnificent 103-ft schooner Eros (ex-Fair Sarae) turned heads as she toured the Bay before heading south for the Baja Ha-Ha.
With 165 boats and 601 sailors crossing the finish line in November, the ‘Sweet Sixteen’ Baja Ha-Ha was a record-breaker. Unfortunately, for the first time in its history, a boat was lost – the J/120 J World – though all crew were safely rescued.
Earlier in the year, we reported that Mirian Saez, Director of Operations at Treasure Island Development Authority, was working on a plan to require permits to anchor in Clipper Cove.
