Lightning WJMs and NAs at the Buffalo Canoe Club
Q & A
Buffalo Canoe Club?
The BCC is not in Buffalo. And there are few, if any, canoes. But it is a Club, so 2 outta 3 ain’t bad, right? Located in Ridgeway, Ontario, Canada the BCC is 20 minutes from downtown Buffalo and has canoes in its history. What is important to know about our club is that the membership and staff really support sailing . . . especially Lightning sailing!! The facility and surrounding area provides a great location for sailors and non-sailors alike.
I’ve heard stories of huge waves and big breeze from regattas past . . . is that normal?
We’ve had regattas with big breeze and waves, but we’ve had plenty of events with light breeze and flat water. If there is a “typical” day, it would include a gradually increasing breeze settling in at 240 degrees and 12-15 kts with waves staying under 2 feet. If the breeze comes from any other direction, expect flatter water with more windshifts.
Please explain how decisions will be made concerning whether the conditions are appropriate for racing?
Joining us again as our Principal Race Officer will be Todd Fedyszyn from St. Pete. Todd has been a partner with the Lightning Class for many events over the past 10 years and the communication between Todd, ILCA Class Officers and Local Regatta Administration is excellent. Wind velocity, sea state, air and water temperature, the forecast, and radar will be considered as well as the race schedule to ensure we maximize quality racing and competitor experience both on and off the water. Ultimately each competitor must determine whether their skills and the conditions are a suitable match.
What do I need to cross the border?
If you are a citizen of the United States, you need a valid passport if you are over the age of 16. For anyone under the age of 18, find more information here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/minor-children-travelling-canada.html
For more information on the border crossing: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Canada.html
If you are not a citizen of the United States, check for requirements specific to your country (and if you’re flying into the USA first, what that entails as well). Some will require visas.
Closest/best Airport?
BUF . . Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) is 40 minutes away, pending bridge traffic. Hamilton Airport has limited fights (e.g. WestJet from Tampa or Orlando) and is 75 minutes from the BCC. The Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) has many flight options and is a 90 minute drive from the BCC without traffic. But there is always traffic!
Bridge Traffic–what’s the deal?
The Peace Bridge links Buffalo to the Fort Erie/Niagara region in Ontario, Canada. This is an international border and thus, passports are required for anyone 16 yrs and older. (Anyone under 16 needs a birth certificate and notarized document from their guardian if they are traveling without said guardian). Sometimes there is no wait at the border, at other times you could have an hour or more wait. Typically Friday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons are the busier times. You can check the current wait time at
https://www.peacebridge.com/2012Traffic/index.php
What about bringing my Lightning over the border?
Bring your trailer registration, title to your boat, measurement certificate . . any documentation you have that proves you are the owner. Letting the border agent know you will be competing in a regatta at the Buffalo Canoe Club and will subsequently be taking the boat out of Canada at the regatta’s completion should reduce any hassles.
Any other useful information about the border crossing?
Check this out for information of what you can and cannot bring over the border:
https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/travel-voyage/ivc-rnc-eng.html
To note: While the BCC has a well stocked and reasonably priced bar, we do have at least one event that is BYOB. Beer, especially, is quite pricey in Canada so you may want to bring some with you if that is your preferred beverage. Note the limits per person:
1.5 litres of wine (2 standard bottles) or 1.14 litres (40 oz) of alcoholic beverages or 8.5 litres of beer.(24-12 oz cans)
What do I need to bring to accommodate the mandatory wet-sailing of boats?
Moorings will be provided, with launch service included. Those wishing to anchor nearer to shore should bring their own ground tackle. Please review the Mooring document on YachtScoring for details.
Will there be regatta merchandise for sale at the event?
There will be a very limited amount of merchandise for purchase at the event. Please check out the online store and place your orders before July 1st for pickup onsite at the BCC during the regatta.
https://naregatta.itemorder.com/shop/home/