NORTHPORT — Sailors are invited to participate in the popular and low-key annual Around Islesboro Race. In its 27th year, the late-summer sail around Islesboro has classes for all kinds of boats — racers, cruisers, multihulls and single-handers. All are welcome and encouraged to participate, and all funds raised go to supporting the Northport Yacht Club Sailing School. Preregistration is Friday evening, Sept. 6, 6 p.m., at the Northport Yacht Club clubhouse at Bayside.

Racers are welcome to participate in the traditional Friday night complimentary pasta and salad dinner. Join the dinner or stop by to register.

Day-of-race registration begins Saturday morning at 7 a.m. Skippers or owners’ representatives must report to the clubhouse as soon as practical. Coffee, juice, donuts, bagels, muffins will be provided. Race information will be provided at time of registration or call ahead: 207-807-6003; or email Arthall123@gmail.com.

Skippers Meeting will be at 8:30 a.m. sharp. All skippers must be present, inside the club house.Starting sequence begins at 9:50 a.m.

The start is off the Northport wharf. The course is simply to sail around Islesboro Island and finish is off the Northport wharf. Approximate course length is 28 nautical miles.

Post-race awards will be presented by the NYC race committee. Gala post race cookout with plenty of food for all participants.

Requirements: All boats that have a valid PHRF certificate should make copy available for race committee. All others will be assigned a handicap using the guidance provided by PHRF New England. All boats must carry liability insurance, be equipped with required USCG safety gear and carry a functioning VHF Radio.

Moorings: Available on a first come, first served basis. Options include anchoring or nearby Belfast.

Classes: Racing Class A. Sailboats with PHRF designation less than 170 with free flying sails. Racing Class B Sailboats with PHRF designation 170
or greater with free flying sails. Cruising Class. No free flying sails. (Main, mizzen, jibs and genoas, only) Single Handed and Multi-Hull

Fees: Non-sponsored: $40; Sponsored: $100. Fees are assessed to offset the cost of race management, trophies and food.

All funds raised in this year’s event will be used to support the Northport Yacht Club Sailing School, which operate a fleet of eight O’Day Daysailors , two 420 class, two 23-foot Sonar keel boats and three instructor’s powerboats. While we strive to make the program self sufficient, the cost of boat upkeep, labor, insurance and workman’s comp are considerable. In an effort to keep lessons affordable to area children. the club relies on several fund raising efforts in the course of a season. This past season a record of 98 students participated in the program. Trophies will be awarded to first three class positions. Donated prizes will be awarded to sponsored boats in order of overall finish.

For further information, contact Art Hall 207-807-6003 or 207-338-2460 or 207-338-8352; ArtHall123@gmail.com.

Ron Hawkes can be reached at sports@penbaypilot.com