Rising Tides and Sailing: Navigating Newport’s Challenges and Staying Optimistic for the Future

As a journalist, I have seen my fair share of stories that highlight the challenges faced by Newport, RI in the face of sea level rise. While some have called for collaboration among agencies to find solutions, others have found it difficult to justify spending money on fixing something that is not immediately visible when other pressing issues are present.

Personally, I can relate to this sentiment. When I discovered that my own house was not securely anchored to its foundation, leaving it vulnerable to damage in an earthquake, I was faced with a high cost of repairs and lack of visual satisfaction. However, despite these challenges, I wrote the check and made the necessary repairs.

Similarly, Newport may need to take drastic action in order to address the threat of sea level rise. While identifying problems like rising sea levels can be challenging due to their gradual nature, I remain optimistic about the response within the sailing community. Whether it’s encouraging more sailors to venture offshore or supporting classes to ensure their future, these decisions are crucial for maintaining a strong foundation in the sport.

One area where diversification is needed is in sailing competitions. While windward-leeward racing has been popular for many years, it’s refreshing to see support for events like the Worrell 1000, Race to Alaska, and the Clipper Race. These races provide unique experiences and lasting memories that surpass traditional buoy racing. It’s important for us to continue exploring new types of sailing competitions and events in order to keep our sport exciting and relevant.

As we approach an America’s Cup year, there are always new developments on the horizon. With New Zealand and Italy unveiling their designs for AC75 boats that will navigate challenging waters in Barcelona, Spain, we can expect some thrilling races ahead. However, it’s worth noting that following the 2021 America’s Cup defense in New Zealand