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It was windy and it wasn't. That sums up the conditions at this year's North American Championship held in Jacksonville, Florida.

The beautiful Florida Yacht Club was the venue for the event. Reeling from damage caused by Hurricane Jeanne, the club was concerned about whether they could handle the event. The answer was a resounding yes. The club and regatta officials pulled it together to host a first class, memorable long weekend for the 48 teams who made the trip.

Hot and humid weather gave way to an approaching front Thursday night, leaving some to wonder where the Florida weather had gone. Friday dawned to predictions of winds from 25-40. After the rain showers swept through, the day cleared quickly and the breeze picked up. Fortunately for all, it settled in at 15 to 20, which made for delightful, if exhausting sailing.

The race committee ran three excellent races that day; one Olympic and two double triangles.

The 2004 Snipe North Americans concluded with current world champion, Augie Diaz, and crew, Lisa Griffith winning the competitive event.  Hal Gilreath and James Liebl finished up in second and Henry Filter and Lorie Stout were third.  Forty five crews came from across the U.S., Canada and Brazil to Florida Yacht Club in Jacksonville, Fl.  Friday's sailing started out in 12-15 knots of a shifty westerly breeze.  The breeze built to 15-20 and the fleet enjoyed great reaching and planing in three races.  After the first day, Peter and Sheehan Commette led, w/ Gilreath/Leibl and Filter/Stout tied for second.  FYC served up a great cookout, sponsored by the Suddath Companies and Miller Brewing, as crews recovered from three hard fought races.      more...