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9th Annual Saltwater Challenge – RC Laser Regatta February 20–22, 2026 | Corpus Christi, Hosted by the Coastal Bend Model Yacht Club The 9th Annual Saltwater Challenge is officially in the books — and what a weekend it was. From the first buoy set on Friday afternoon to the final awards photo on Sunday, this regatta showcased everything that makes our event special: competitive racing, demanding conditions, seamless teamwork, and unforgettable camaraderie. Friday – Practice, Preparation & Fellowship Practice day began with steady breeze and C-rig sailing as competitors tuned, trimmed, and reacquainted themselves with Corpus Christi waters. Early check-in ran smoothly, boats were inspected and the tone for the weekend was set — organized, relaxed, and welcoming. That evening, sailors and spouses gathered at Water Street Oyster Bar to kick off the weekend properly. Fourteen competitors filled the table with laughter, seafood, and sea stories — a reminder that this regatta is as much about friendships as it is about finishing positions. Saturday – Shifting Winds & Tight Racing Day 1 delivered classic Texas coastal unpredictability. Light morning air and oversized A-rigs gave way to a mid-race norther that forced quick adjustments and showcased the fleet’s adaptability. C-rigs dominated much of the day, while a mid-day shutdown and wind shift kept the race committee working hard to reset the course. Twelve races were completed, and by the end of the day the standings were razor tight. Gold Fleet positions were separated by mere points, and Silver Fleet featured what was virtually a three-way tie at the top — setting up an exciting Sunday showdown. Saturday evening, the fleet “dropped anchor” at Blackbeard’s on the Beach for a lively pirate-themed dinner filled with music, singing, and plenty of storytelling. Spirits were high — even with heavy air forecast for the morning. Sunday – Heavy Air, High Stakes Day 2 tested sailors in true championship conditions. Sustained 20 mph north winds with gusts into the 30s created a challenging racecourse — especially at the leeward gate where crossing channel waves produced a washing-machine effect that few will forget. D-rigs ruled the early going, with dramatic downwind legs slicing through whitecaps. As the afternoon progressed, the breeze eased, C-rigs returned, and the final races became a strategic battle for podium positions. After 23 hard-fought races, the final overall standings were: 🏆 Final Overall Results Todd Carrico (Sail #09) – 32 Chris Macaluso (Sail #52) – 71 Mark Cooper (Sail #50) – 73 Al Ross (Sail #17) – 76 Ray Seta (Sail #93) – 83 Robert Piper (Sail #65) – 85.6 William Ramlo (Sail #707) – 115 Terry Lindemann (Sail #22) – 159 Vickie Stones (Sail #14) – 166 Matthew Allen (Sail #44) – 181 Tirza Dabdoub (Sail #13) – 198 Richard Delgado (Sail #39) – 227 Karl Harvey (Sail #117) – 232 Michael Causey (Sail #723) – 270 🥇 Gold Fleet Champion: Todd Carrico (Katy, TX) – 32 Runner-Up: Chris Macaluso (Tomball, TX) – 71 Third: Mark Cooper (Houston, TX) – 73 🥈 Silver Fleet Champion: Terry Lindemann (New Braunfels, TX) Second Place: Vickie Stones (Austin, TX) Third Place: Matthew Allen (Corpus Christi, TX) – sailing in his very first RC regatta Gratitude & Looking Ahead This regatta does not happen without dedicated volunteers. Our setup crew braved cold, howling dawn winds to prepare the venue each day. Our race committee team — Sylvia, Denise, and Chauncey — delivered professional, accurate scoring and smooth race management under constantly changing conditions. Most importantly, thank you to every Corinthian sailor who competed with skill, sportsmanship, humor, and heart. That spirit is what defines the Saltwater Challenge. As the sun set Sunday evening, there was a shared feeling among competitors and volunteers alike — pride in a job well done and anticipation for what’s next. Plans are already underway for something even bigger: the 10th Annual Saltwater Challenge in 2027. If this year was any indication, you won’t want to miss it. Until next time — fair winds, following seas, and we’ll see you back on the starting line.