2008 Gorge Blowout!

August 14, 2008

Experience the ultimate thrill in Laser sailing: 18 miles dead downwind from Cascade Locks to Hood River through the magnificent Columbia River Gorge. Big breeze, big waves, and jaw-dropping scenery make this ride a genuine E-ticket! Not for the faint of heart, entries are limited to sailors who have good boat handling skills and are comfortable in winds up to 25+ knots. If that sounds like you, sign up now and get ready for the experience of a lifetime!

Race Format

The Gorge Blowout is a single race, one-way sprint starting off the beach at Cascade Locks and finishing under the bridge at Hood River. The course is 18 miles long, all downwind, with one stop at the halfway point - Viento Park - for lunch and reality check. Assuming typical midsummer conditions in the Gorge, you can expect a building breeze as you sail up river, starting at 10-15 knots and finishing at 20-30 knots (watch out for the wind surfers in Swell City!). The current elapsed time record, set by Brett Davis in 2003, is 2.5 hours (an average speed of more than 7 mph!).

Following the race, competitors and friends are invited to the traditional apres Blowout rendezvous at the famous Full Sail Brewery in Hood River for hydro/carbo replenishment, post race analysis, and awards ceremony.

Fees

Entry fee:                         $30.00
Late registration fee:         $5.00 charged after August 1, 2008

Registration

To register online:  Click Here
To register by mail: Complete the standard ILCA-NA registration form and sending it, with the appropriate fees to: CGRA, P.O. Box 19175, Portland, OR  97280 (checks should be made payable to: CGRA )

Charters:

Charter boats are available through West Coast Sailing. New charter boats (inc. spars and blades) are available for $150 per day or $550 for a 4-day package (stick around for the Laser Masters North American Champs, Aug. 15-17). Some used charter boats may be available (inquire with George at West Coast Sailing if interested).

Visitor Information:

Cascade Locks is located in the heart of the beautiful Columbia River Gorge, 45 minutes east of Portland International Airport on Interstate 84. Cascade Locks and surrounding communities have a wide range of accommodations from camping to four-star resort hotels (see visitor information).