2009 Nahant Bay Race – by Mike McDonough

The Nahant Bay Race took place yesterday in ocean conditions slightly milder than normal for this time of year. A southeast wind blowing 10 kts and a long-period, almost imperceptible 2′ swell from Hurricane Bill were not enough to create good rides across the open water section, but a solid group of front runners registered fast times. Although the hurricane threat and several top racers attending the US champs suppressed attendance, pleasant weather, intense competition and an fun course made for an enjoyable event.

Swampscott resident Graeme Rockett roared off the starting line and never let up, finishing first in the surf ski division and beating Ken Cooper’s 2008 winning time by 1 minute 13 seconds. Mike Tracy surged into second place while traversing the course’s ocean leg, followed by Wes Echols and Tim Dwyer who rolled into town and raised the field’s heart rates as they sought to burnish their leads in the NE Surf Ski standings. Rich Klajnscek won the overall spot in a sliding seat rowing shell with an impressive display of cool competence. ~Mike