CHARLESTON, SC (April 4, 2008) Bucking the downward participation trend at major regattas across the nation, Charleston Race Week is headed toward a third straight record-setting year for 2008. Event Director and Round-The-World racer Brad Van Liew is excited to host more than 150 teams for another year. “We are incredibly happy to see so many folks supporting this great event,” said Brad. “Despite higher fuel prices and an unsure economy, our out-of town competitors and local fleets are showing us just how much they enjoy racing in Charleston.”

TIDE AND CURRENTS SEMINAR LEVELS PLAYING FIELD
The most challenging part of racing in Charleston is the ever-present tidal current, which can run at up to 3 knots in places – giving a big advantage to local teams. To help visiting teams on both the harbor and ocean courses better compete at Charleston Race Week, organizers have asked top racing coach Michael Miller to give a short “chalk talk” to competitors as they prepare for the event. “Everyone wants great competition, and a little knowledge of how and when the tidal streams flow will go a long way towards improving results,” said Miller. The seminar will be held at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina at both 4:00 PM and 4:30 PM on Thursday, April 17th, immediately before the Skippers Meeting, and is sponsored by Pinnacle Sailing.

TALL SHIP JOINS RACING ACTION
While South Carolina’s own Tall Ship won’t be competing at Charleston Race Week, the beautiful schooner got into the “Spirit” of racing last weekend, joining the PHRF handicap fleet for the Charleston Ocean Racing Organization’s first offshore race of the year – the Spring Ocean Race. “Seeing the Spirit of South Carolina on the course with dozens of modern race boats was just amazing,” said Meredith Block, a local sailing photographer. “I think visitors will really enjoy having her on the water during Charleston Race Week, even if she’s a spectator boat instead of a competitor.”

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