Block Island Race Week’s final tent party was abuzz with anticipation and excitement, as sailors and spectators awaited the announcement of cumulative awards for the regatta’s 60th anniversary. For the first time in recent memory, BIRW featured racing on all five days of the week, featuring fierce competition and extraordinary sailing June 23-27. “This regatta saw 140 races across 17 classes and multiple championship contests,” said Race Director Dick Neville. “The weather definitely cooperated, allowing our race management team to showcase the very best Block Island has to offer.” The J/105 East Coast Championship featured the regatta’s largest championship fleet, with 17 competing vessels. Bill Zartler’s Deja Voodoo—the Boat of The Week from 2023’s BIRW—captured first place for the third straight Race Week. “There must be something in the water here because the boat really likes it,” said owner Bill Zartler. “We’re happy with how we did, and this was a great, great event.” Deja Voodoo and crew were also awarded the A. Justin Wasley Memorial Trophy as the winners of the largest One Design class. Damian Emery’s Warlock placed second, and Bruce Stone/Nicole Breault’s Arbitrade third. Complete results/event details: https://stormtrysail.org/regattas/blockislandraceweek/. A week that started off with a day one wind delay and three days of scorching heat and humidity, yielded to heavier breezes and a slightly more agitated sea state by the later days of racing. However, sailors across all three marinas hosting the fleet commented on the “champagne” and “Chamber of Commerce” conditions for which Block Island is known.