President’s Cup Regatta practice round underway

The practice races of the 11th President’s Cup Regatta will commence at 2 p.m. today at the Subic Bay Freeport.

Crewmembers of 12 confirmed entries in the Open Division are expected to converge for the roll call near the docks of the Subic Bay Yacht Club’s shoreline.

They will familiarize themselves with the waves, the weather and the winds of Subic Bay and in time for tomorrow’s opening races at 11 a.m.

Inshore races under a steady breeze running from 10 to 15 knots are expected to keep sailors on their toes throughout the four-day event sanctioned by the Philippine Sailing Association.

Jude Echauz’s Subic Centennial is back after a year’s absence and will take on the likes of Rey Ordoveza’s Karakoa, which was second to the Hong Kong-based Stella last year.

Also battling it out for top honors are Claus Karthe’s Green Sleeves, George Hackett’s Jo De Ros, Bobby Benares’ Lethal Weapon, Juan Miguel Zosa’s Margarita, David McKenna’s Raparee II, Richard Morris’ Salina, Allan Burrel’s Sandoway, Doni Altura’s Vivaldi and Martin Tanco’s Yasdip.