In an effort to encourage new blood to the match racing scene, the Rolex Women’s Match, which is taking place from 21-24 February at St Petersberg YC, Tampa Bay Florida, will include a match racing skills and rules clinic, headed by Ed Baird.

Baird, who is keen to see as many new faces as possible said: “Match racing is intoxicating, I haven’t met anyone who has tried match racing and not enjoyed it. Even the very best sailors will falter and make mistakes. Everybody gets a chance to have a victory. Even if you don’t win your race, all of your sailing skills improve and that makes it a satisfying experience.”

Known as a world-class regatta venue, SPYC will supply Sonar class keelboats as well as the expertise of Principal Race Officer Tom Farquhar. Farquhar and Pat Seidenspinner are the co-chairs of the Rolex Women’s Match and also serve as co-chairs of the Rolex Osprey Cup, an ISAF grade 1 match race regatta, hosted annually by SPYC.

For details contact: www.spyc.org.