Backing off boat racers

After years of dissonance between sailboat racers and the sheriff’s Harbor Patrol, it seems the two groups are starting to reach a compromise.

“I believe the two sides have met and they have worked out their issues,” said Newport Beach City Councilman Steve Rosansky.

During the summer, mariners assemble Thursday nights for the so-called “beer can” races. After taking a ride around the harbor, they gather for food and cocktails. It has been a tradition for more than 50 years.

In recent times, however, sailors have complained that their fun has been spoiled by strict law enforcement. Boaters have been pulled over while racing and warned for speeding. Some have been ticketed.

“Our biggest problem is that in order to get these races approved with the Harbor Master we have to implement a 5 mph speed limit,” said Sgt. Mike Scalise of the O.C. Sheriff’s Harbor Patrol. “So there’s a bit of a conflict there. It is kind of difficult to race when there’s a speed limit.”

Debate has ensued as to whether sailboat racing in the harbor should continue.

“We all play in the same water,” said Kevin Hawkins, fleet captain for the Newport Harbor Yacht Club. “It’s a busy harbor, so I can understand the safety concerns.”

Hawkins is involved in a similar event called the Twilights.

“I haven’t been personally cited, and I don’t believe any of the competitors have been cited recently,” he said.

Law enforcement seems to be easing off and allowing the sailors to race, as long as they do it safely, Rosansky said.

“There hasn’t been any directed enforcement other than usual patrolling,” Scalise said. “If someone is blatantly doing something they shouldn’t then we will stop them.

“The only issue would be speed, but that depends on the conditions of the race. If anyone is going way too fast, we will talk to them. This hasn’t been an issue for a while, though.”

Mariners make a good case, which is why the races continue, Rosansky said.

“The boaters are generally safe while sailing in the harbor,” he said. “I think the racers know what they have to do, and the harbor patrol has decided to be a little less interfering.”