Somers Kempe, is now the Chairman of the 2022 Bermuda Race Organizing Committee.
Kempe in an open letter to the sailors said, “Five months ago, our organizing committee cancelled the 2020 race due to the developing global COVID-19 pandemic. Since that time, an overwhelming number of you have indicated strong interest in participating in the next Newport Bermuda Race, showing that the appeal of the race remains undiminished.
With that in mind, our organizing committee has confirmed June 17, 2022—the third Friday of June—as the starting date for the 52nd Thrash to the Onion Patch, and we have already begun planning for a safe and successful event.
As the incoming chairman, I would like to thank the outgoing chairman, Jay Gowell, for his leadership and hundreds of hours of effort. While the race did not happen, much of the groundwork Jay and his team laid will allow us to stage a stronger, easier-to-enter race than before. I’m also delighted to announce as my vice chairman Mark Lenci, one whose enthusiasm and innovative efforts have already impacted the standards of safety training within our fleet.
As a Bermudian and someone who has participated in nine races, I particularly recognize the importance of safely preparing crew and yachts to take on the crossing to Bermuda. With that in mind, we will again be opening registration a year in advance to allow ample time for skippers to properly prepare their yachts and crew.
Further updates will be provided on a regular basis in the months ahead, including our efforts to make the race more affordable, especially for returning entries. Our Race Ambassador program is also in place already, to assist with questions and guidance for those who are new to the race.”
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