It gave spectators a chance to see the race boats at close quarters.

But now along comes a race boat dressed up like a Swan.

A noon position report was each race boat's only link to shore.

Another vessel came out of nowhere, a smaller one shaped like a race boat.

Competitors were required to log a 2,000-mile trip alone on their race boats to qualify.

"This is what we have always considered to be our race boat," Read said.

Rules for cup racing require that the final race boats be designed and built in the country they represent.

This does not mean Sunfish isn't a preferred race boat.

Their 40-foot race boat, known in its former racing circles as Celebration, was donated to the group six years ago.

The 'Defender' is the top race boat for the club.