Three Seasons, One Regatta: Pacific Coast Championships Recap
If you had told me I’d be sailing in snow on the second day of summer, I probably would’ve laughed. But that’s exactly what happened at this year’s Pacific Coast Championships. Over the course of three days at Lake Tahoe, we experienced nearly every condition imaginable — nuking breeze, full-on flurries, and ghost-light air. And somehow, in the middle of all that chaos, I found some of my best racing rhythm yet.
Day 1 – Too Windy to Race
Friday started off… intense. The breeze ramped up quickly, gusting to 37 knots. We waited on shore while whitecaps rolled across the lake and multiple sailors tried to rig up in the wild conditions. Ultimately, the race committee called it: no sailing. It was the right decision, but definitely a frustrating one — everyone was ready to go, just not willing to fly off the course.
Day 2 – Snowflakes on Sails
Then came Saturday — June 21st, the second official day of summer — and it snowed. Not just a light dusting, either. Snow settled on boats, spars, and beanies. It was beautiful, surreal, and kind of hilarious. The regatta was canceled again, but not before a few of us stood around in our gear wondering what sport we’d accidentally signed up for. I got one of my favorite shots of the weekend: Charlie standing still in the snow, just taking it all in. Pure magic.
Day 3 – Finally Racing (Light and Tricky)
Sunday was go time. The breeze filled in — light and patchy, but sailable. The race committee pulled off a miracle and ran six full races in one day. Light air has never been my strong suit, but I managed to find some flow. I snagged a 3rd, 4th, and 5th, which helped me finish 6th overall in the fleet. I left it all on the water, and honestly? I’m proud of how I adapted to the shifts, the pressure, and the weirdness of the weekend.
Takeaways from Tahoe
This regatta tested everything — patience, mindset, gear layers. But it also reminded me why I’m doing this. It’s not always about perfect conditions. Sometimes it’s about showing up, staying ready, and surprising yourself when the moment finally comes.
Big thanks to the organizers, race committee, and fellow sailors who kept it fun despite the chaos. And as always, to my little “pit crew” on shore — I couldn’t do this without you.
Follow along at @sailingmom2la28 or secondwindracing.com for more regatta recaps, behind-the-scenes updates, and what it’s really like chasing a big dream — one shift at a time.
