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Navigator’s Log — Final Entry![]()
Final sunup of the race this morning.![]()
All the routing is done now. We have less than 22 nautical miles to go to the finish, followed by about a 1.5-hour motor into the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club. We are sitting in 4th this morning after working hard to hold our place, but there are still miles left to sail and still a chance to see what we can do. It is never over until you cross the finish line.![]()
The crew is mostly up now as the watch system has naturally come to an end. Everyone is sitting on the rail, drinking their morning coffee — thanks, Sharkey — and waiting for the first glimpse of Bermuda. The finish line bears 198° magnetic, and a pleasant 9 knots of breeze from a 219° average is carrying Running Tide toward the end of this race.![]()
A race like this does not happen because of the sailors alone. There are a lot of people who helped get Running Tide to the starting line and through this race: family, friends, coworkers, shore support, vendors, race organizers, dock teams, weather and routing support, and everyone who gave time, patience, advice, or encouragement along the way. From the people who helped prepare the boat, provision the food, cover responsibilities back home, make last-minute runs, keep the tracker refreshed, and send notes of support — thank you. Every mile we sailed had a little bit of all of you in it.![]()
One of the best parts of finishing a race like this is not just crossing the line. It is seeing the families and friends waiting on the dock in Bermuda, and for those not there, knowing we will see them when we return home. These races take us offshore, but they also remind us how much we rely on the people on shore. They are the ones who let us chase these moments, and they are the ones we are most excited to see when the race is done.![]()
It has been a real pleasure to share this race with all of you. On behalf of Beau and the entire Running Tide crew, thank you for following along, cheering us on, and being part of the ride from shore.![]()
One more horizon. One more push. Then Bermuda.![]()
— Jonesy![]()
Navigator, Running Tide![]()
2026 Newport to Bermuda Race
Running Tide Log "Home Stretch" — Entry #14![]()
We have entered Day 3, and while the air is still light, it is no longer the confused mess we were dealing with this morning. The boat is moving again, the fleet is sorting itself out, and everyone is back to working the shifts, the instruments, and the horizon.![]()
At about 5:10 PM, we spotted our first Bermuda Longtail, roughly 91 miles off Kitchen Shoals. That is always one of those special moments offshore — the first real sign that Bermuda is beginning to reach out over the horizon.![]()
For a while today, parts of the fleet also had visitors. A small group of whales moved through the middle to the back of the pack, giving several boats a show and reminding all of us that, even in the middle of a race, we are just guests out here.![]()
The wind is lightening as it continues to trend left, but Bermuda now bears 162° at just over 85 nautical miles. Close enough to feel real, but still far enough that nothing is guaranteed.![]()
As the days add up, these races can be won or lost in the overnight hours. So for now, Running Tide stays vigilant — watching the breeze, watching the fleet, and working every mile toward Bermuda.![]()
— Jonesy![]()
Navigator, Running Tide
Navigator’s Log — Running Tide![]()
Well, we are finally out of the light, mixing air and back to normal sailing.![]()
At about 1000, Running Tide broke free of the soft stuff and settled back into a proper sailing rhythm. We are moving along nicely on the wind at around 6.5 knots, with the breeze holding at 7–8 knots from a 30-minute average direction of 150 degrees. After the last stretch of drifting, searching, and coaxing the boat through the hole, it feels good to have the boat back underneath us again.![]()
The water temperature is sitting at 76 degrees, and while the outside air is in the high 70s, the inside of the boat is closer to 100. Life below feels a little less like offshore racing and a little more like sitting inside a warm engine room with a chart table. Still, the sea state is calm, the boat is moving, and spirits are good.![]()
We are currently working our way to the southwest of the rhumb line. For those following along at home, the rhumb line is the direct compass-line course from Newport to Bermuda — the simple “straight line” reference between the start and finish. Offshore racing is rarely as simple as sailing straight down that line. Wind, current, sea state, and tactical positioning often make it faster to sail above or below it, and right now our best move is to work our way SW of that reference line as we set up for the next phase of the race.![]()
Just after sunup, we added another sighting to our marine mammals list. We saw a whale breach in the distance — always an incredible thing to see offshore — but it was too far away for us to make a positive identification, and we did not get a second look. Because of that, and with no other boats nearby to help confirm the sighting, we were not able to make a useful MMAG / Whale Alert report.![]()
MMAG, the Marine Mammals Advisory Group, and the Whale Alert reporting system are important tools for sailors and race boats. Accurate reports help other vessels know where whales or other marine mammals have been seen, reduce the risk of vessel strikes, and add to the broader understanding of marine mammal movement offshore. The key word is accurate. If we can identify the animal, position, direction of travel, and number of animals, we report it. If we cannot, we log the moment aboard and keep watching.![]()
For now, Running Tide is sailing again, the horizon looks better than it did a few hours ago, and the race is back on.![]()
— Jonesy![]()
Navigator, Running Tide
As of 8:00 AM today the main component of the race fleet has bunched up about 140miles from the finish due to running into less wind. Running Tide maintains her hold on 3rd place in Finnestere 3. It gets even trickier now.1st in her class is a Baltic 47’ Masquerade. Well sailed and she will be hard to catch but catchable. This crew, this boat, have the means and the distance apart is not that much. Tide is currently ahead physically so fingers crossed they can extend.
Navigator’s Log — Running Tide![]()
Well, we found the hole we had been watching for a while.![]()
There was not much of a better option in front of us. With about 165 nautical miles to go to Bermuda, the detour around it was simply too far out of the way, so now we are working our way through it — steady, cautious, and looking for the narrow path back to clear air outside of this mixing bowl.![]()
Running Tide is in her night mode now. The boat is quiet, the watches are settled, and the mood onboard is upbeat but focused. At the nav station, there is plenty of competitor tracking, routing, and weather watching going on — all mixed in with the occasional snores from the off-watch crew trying to steal some sleep wherever they can.![]()
Just before sunset, the crew was treated to a visit from a few porpoises, which always seems to lift spirits at sea. Moments like that are a good reminder that even in the frustrating light-air patches, we are still lucky to be out here.![]()
At the moment we are moving along at 2 to 3 knots in just 3 to 4 knots of wind. The sea temperature has dropped back to about 77 degrees, but the night is still warm. For now, it is all about patience, keeping the boat moving, protecting our lane, and waiting for Running Tide to find her way back into the breeze.![]()
The focus is simple: keep threading the needle.![]()
Mike "Jonesy" Jones![]()
Navigator, Running Tide![]()
2026 Newport–Bermuda Race
Navigator’s Log — Running Tide![]()
Well, we are still in The Hole.![]()
We fought hard overnight, keeping Running Tide moving and doing everything we could to work through the light, unstable air. But as the sun came up, the breeze finally gave up on us. For the moment, it is all stop.![]()
We are not alone out here. A good chunk of the fleet is caught in the same battle, all trying to claw their way to the edge of this hole and find the next breath of air. Looking at the tracker, the instruments, and the horizon, it seems like most of us have come to the same conclusion: 270 degrees is the quickest way out.![]()
Always fun to restart the race with only 130 nautical miles to go.![]()
For now, it is 30% eyes on the computers and 70% eyes on the horizon. The routing, tracker, GRIBs, and competitor positions all matter, but in conditions like this, the real answer may come from a ripple on the water, a cloud line, or the first hint of pressure showing itself before anyone else sees it.![]()
The crew is quiet, focused, and ready. Running Tide may be parked for the moment, but this race is far from over.![]()
— Jonesy![]()
Navigator, Running Tide
Navigator’s Log — End of Day 2![]()
We are coming up on the end of Day 2 aboard Running Tide, now about 228 NM from Bermuda with roughly 241 NM left to sail. We are sitting in some light air, which means we are drawing on years of Chesapeake Bay sailing — keeping the boat moving, staying patient, and making every small puff count.![]()
At the moment, I am sitting at the nav station with lunch cooking and smelling absolutely mouthwatering. Today’s menu is steak, zucchini, and potatoes, which is not a bad way to spend a light-air afternoon offshore.![]()
We are currently sailing under the Genoa, making in the 6–7 knot boat speed range, with Bermuda bearing about 165°. So all things considered, it is a great day. The tracker is up, the route is being watched carefully, and we are continuing to look for the best course to maximize our position as the race unfolds.![]()
Yesterday gave us a great reminder that we are not alone out here. We had baitfish working near the surface, gulls circling and diving, flying fish skipping across the waves, and Atlantic bottlenose dolphins moving through the area. Offshore racing can become a world of numbers, headings, sail changes, and tracker updates, but moments like that pull everyone back on deck and remind us where we are.![]()
As we get closer to Bermuda, we are also starting to look for the first Bermuda Longtail — the beautiful split-tailed seabird that always feels like a sign that the island is drawing near. For now, it is fine light-air sailing, a gorgeous day on deck, and the crew continuing to work Running Tide toward Bermuda one mile at a time.![]()
— Jonesy![]()
Navigator, Running Tide
Navigator's Log![]()
Finally in the Gulf Stream and getting the push we have been working toward since leaving Newport. The sea temperature has climbed rapidly and is now sitting at 82°F, while temperatures aboard Running Tide are pushing into the low 90s. It is a sure sign that we have left the cooler waters of the continental shelf behind and entered one of the most influential features in offshore racing.![]()
The Stream is currently delivering exactly what every navigator hopes for — a favorable ride down the rhumb line with a boost of roughly 4 to 5 knots. Few things are more satisfying than watching the boat speed and GPS speed disagree in your favor. If all goes according to plan, we should reach the far wall of the Gulf Stream in about three hours, where the next phase of the race strategy begins. As always, the challenge will be balancing the current, the forecast wind shifts, and positioning against the rest of the fleet.![]()
The competition in Finisterre Class 3 remains incredibly tight. Every tracker update seems to show the fleet compressed together, with boats trading places as they work different lanes and routing choices. At the moment, the gap from first through third is less than an hour on corrected time — effectively neck-and-neck in an offshore race that still has plenty of miles remaining. Every sail change, every watch handoff, and every routing decision matters when the margins are this small.![]()
For now, Running Tide is making the most of the Gulf Stream's conveyor belt toward Bermuda. The crew is settled into the rhythm of the race, the boat is moving well, and all eyes are on the far wall and the weather beyond it.![]()
Mike "Jonesy" Jones![]()
Navigator, Running Tide![]()
2026 Newport–Bermuda Race
Running Tide currently in 3rd place in Finnnertere 3 with 267 miles to go. Boat speed down a bit to 5.9 knots reflecting the expected drop in wind Sunday. Now it is no longer a drag race and the fleet will probably compress. The earlier boats slowing down first. Blackjack the 100’ supermaxi finished 5 hours ago for line honors. ![]()
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Now it gets even more interesting! Super keen crew onboard and they have their work cut out for them as the lighter winds are not Running Tide’s forte. Comes down to current placement, conditions, crew work, and a bit of luck. The yacht was superbly prepared, crew work has been excellent, now a bit up to the wind gods. It’s sailboat racing!
Tom Maynard took this at 15 minutes after the start. He said they timed their start well and immediately took the lead passing in front of their whole class. As of 7:30 am they were sitting 2nd in the the Finestire 3 class, 4th in the division, and 41 overall out of 146 boats. As Tom said, long way to go, but they are truckin!
Navigator’s Log![]()
As I write this, Running Tide is 437 nautical miles from Bermuda and we are just getting ready to enter the Gulf Stream.![]()
The water temperature has steadily climbed out of the low 60s and is now sitting around 74 degrees. If the forecast and the instruments agree, we should start seeing water temperatures in the 80s within the next hour or so — a pretty clear sign that we are approaching one of the major features of this race.![]()
Right now we are under genoa, footing toward our chosen Gulf Stream entry point. The boat is moving well, the crew is settled in, and the watches are doing what offshore watches do — getting just enough rest before the next sail change happens, usually right after one watch has finally fallen asleep.![]()
The overnight rhythm is now fully underway. Trim, drive, check the numbers, watch the water temperature, check the tracker, look at the boats in our class, and keep asking the same question: how do we maximize this route and start clawing back time?![]()
One thing that deserves special mention is the food. We have had great meals this trip, and that makes a huge difference offshore. Thank you, Chef — a well-fed crew is a faster, happier crew.![]()
For now, we keep watching the tracker release schedule, monitoring the Gulf Stream, and working the routing one decision at a time. There is still a lot of racecourse left between us and Bermuda, and plenty of opportunity ahead.![]()
— Jonesy![]()
Navigator, Running Tide
Navigator’s Log — We Are Racing![]()
We are officially racing.![]()
Running Tide had a really good start today under Chris Lash, with Beau on the wheel and the boat coming up to speed with about 15 seconds to go. We were able to jump slightly out in front, which gave Running Tide the choice we wanted — how to exit the starting area, stay clear, and get ourselves into the ocean cleanly.![]()
We made it through the wind farms without issue and are now just west of the rhumb line, cracked-sheet beating under full main and J3. The breeze has been in the 15–20 knot range, true wind out of the 260s, and the boat is settled in and moving well.![]()
The crew has now worked into the watch system, with everyone still standing by for sail changes as needed. The focus has shifted from getting off the line to managing the first phase of the race — keeping the boat fast, clean, and ready for the next change.![]()
Right now, we are watching for the breeze to begin lightening. As always, the next move matters.![]()
More from the nav station soon.![]()
— Jonesy![]()
Navigator, Running Tide
Navigator’s Log Entry #6 – Race Day Morning![]()
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It is now about five hours until the start of the 2026 Newport to Bermuda Race, and the docks have settled into that familiar calm of race day morning.![]()
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At 0530, the only people moving around seemed to be the navigators, boat captains, and divers — the quiet few making their final checks before the dance begins. There is always something special about this part of the day. The preparation is mostly done, the noise has not yet started, and for a short while the boats sit quietly, waiting for their crews and waiting for the start.![]()
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A few of us went to the final weather briefing this morning, and yes — a route plan has been set. As with any Bermuda Race, the ocean will have the final say, but we have our big-picture plan, our first moves, and the areas we will be watching closely once we get offshore.![]()
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In about an hour and a half, the crew will begin arriving in force. The sails will be put into their final order, gear will be checked one more time, and we will hold the team briefing covering watch rotations, weather, safety, and the overall game plan for Running Tide.![]()
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Until then, it is time for the last-minute calls home, the final calls into work, maybe even one last quick nap if anyone can manage it.![]()
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But the waiting is nearly over.![]()
It is time to get going.![]()
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— Jonesy![]()
Navigator, Running Tide![]()
2026 Newport to Bermuda Race
Navigator’s Log Entry #5 – Running Tide![]()
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Today feels like one of those days when the race becomes very real.![]()
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It is skipper’s meeting day, weather brief day, and final check day. Around the boat, the lists are almost complete, with that being the case activity is dropping off. We are taking on final water, fuel, and provisions — lots of provisions. Every department has its own last-minute details to handle, but the start line is calling. The dock has that unmistakable feeling that comes just before a major offshore race: gear moving, crew checking systems, bags being stowed, and everyone trying to make sure the one thing they forgot is not something important. We are now down to the time where the "extra" gear is being moved off the boat.![]()
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Last night we had the crew dinner, which is one of the great traditions in offshore racing. Long before the start gun, before the watches are set and the sails are stacked, the crew sits down together. These dinners are about more than food. They are a chance to slow the pace for a moment, share a few stories, laugh a little, and recognize that the group around the table is about to depend on each other for the next several days. Offshore racing has always been built around teamwork, trust, and shared responsibility, and the crew dinner is where that really starts to settle in. So once again, Thanks Beau!![]()
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On the navigation front, as many of you may have caught on, the Atlantic forecasts are a bit unsettled. We are working through the latest weather information, Gulf Stream data, and routing options as we finalize our plan. Right now, the goal is to sail the boat cleanly and efficiently, make smart decisions early, and hopefully get as close to Bermuda as we can before the weather transitions to lighter air.![]()
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The preparation is almost behind us. The start is almost here. Soon, Running Tide will leave Newport and point toward Bermuda once again.![]()
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We are in the Finisterre Division, In group 3 - Start Time is 1350hrs EDST![]()
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To follow along you can track us at - YB Tracking Viewer - Newport Bermuda 2026![]()
More to come from the nav station.![]()
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— Jonesy![]()
Navigator, Running Tide
The Team Comes Together![]()
There is always a moment before a major offshore race when the focus begins to change.![]()
For weeks, the conversation has centered on preparation—maintenance lists, equipment checks, weather models, provisioning, sail inventories, logistics, travel plans, and a hundred other details that must be completed before a boat can point her bow toward Bermuda.![]()
Today feels different.![]()
Crew members continue to arrive in Newport from all corners of the country. Some have spent the day in airports, others have logged long hours on the road, and a few have been bouncing between flights trying to make connections. You can usually tell who has been traveling the longest. Before they even ask what needs doing, they're looking for a place to plug in a phone or borrow a charger.![]()
As each crew member arrives, the boat becomes a little more alive.![]()
Under the direction of Captain James, jobs are being assigned and department lists are steadily shrinking. Engineers are deep into final systems checks. The bow and trimming crew are inspecting gear, organizing equipment, and confirming everything is exactly where it needs to be. Safety equipment is being reviewed just one more time. Spares are being inventoried and the crew is finding places to store them. Every department has its own list, and one by one those boxes are getting checked off.![]()
One of today's recurring conversations has been sail storage and organization. Offshore racing is often won and lost on efficiency, and how quickly a crew can locate, move, and change sails can make a significant difference during a race. Discussions about sail order, stacking plans, and access have become increasingly detailed as everyone works toward the same goal—making Running Tide as efficient as possible once the race begins.![]()
The atmosphere aboard is gradually shifting from preparation mode to race mode.![]()
On the navigation side of things, I suspect I am not alone in spending a considerable amount of time studying the weather. A stronger area of weather, including gale-force conditions, appeared in last night's forecasts and has certainly captured the attention of navigators throughout the fleet. Every new weather run brings fresh questions. Does it move? Does it weaken? Does it strengthen? Does it force routing changes? The answers are still evolving, but you can be certain that navigation stations across Newport are glowing late into the night as routing software and weather models are scrutinized.![]()
Meanwhile, one of my favorite parts of race week is unfolding around the docks.![]()
Family members, friends, former crew, supporters, and members of the sailing community have begun stopping by to say hello, share a story, lend a hand, and wish Running Tide good luck. These visits serve as a reminder that while only a handful of sailors will be aboard for the crossing, an entire community stands behind every boat that heads offshore.![]()
The final preparations are still underway, but the feeling is changing.![]()
There is another team behind every offshore race that rarely appears in the finish photos but is absolutely essential to getting a boat to the starting line.![]()
For every sailor aboard Running Tide, there are countless people ashore making this campaign possible. Beau's coworkers and fellow team members are helping shoulder responsibilities while key members of the crew are away. Business partners and colleagues are covering meetings, answering phones, and keeping operations moving so racers can focus on the challenge ahead. Divers have spent time beneath the waterline, inspecting the hull and ensuring Running Tide is as clean and efficient as possible before heading offshore. Family members are running errands, helping with logistics, delivering forgotten gear, and providing the support that allows us to devote our attention to the race.![]()
Perhaps the greatest contribution comes from the families who remain at home. While we are focused on weather models, sail changes, and navigation decisions, they will be following our progress from afar, watching the tracker at all hours of the day and night, celebrating our successes and sharing in the challenges that every offshore race inevitably brings. They may not stand on the podium or appear in the race reports, but they are every bit as much a part of this effort as the crew aboard Running Tide.![]()
As we prepare to leave Newport, we do so knowing that an entire network of supporters is helping carry us to the starting line, and for that we are truly grateful.![]()
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The boat is almost nearly ready.![]()
The crew is coming together.![]()
The weather is keeping navigators busy.![]()
And for the first time, it feels like everyone's attention is beginning to shift from getting ready for the race to actually starting it.![]()
Fair winds,![]()
Mike "Jonesy" Jones![]()
Navigator, Running Tide![]()
2026 Newport to Bermuda Race
Navigator's Log – Running Tide![]()
There comes a point in every Newport to Bermuda campaign when the preparations finally begin to give way to anticipation.![]()
In my world The charts and PC's are spread across the table (Yes, we still use both). The weather models are refreshed more often than they probably should be. GRIB files arrive, currents shift, and every update offers another piece of the puzzle that stretches from Newport to St. David's Head. After one more call to the meteorologist & weather routers.![]()
As navigator, I have the privilege of living in that puzzle, with a lot of help from the crew!![]()
For all of the technology we now have at our fingertips—satellite weather, Expedition routing, ECMWF, GFS, HRRR forecasts, and detailed Gulf Stream analysis—the essence of this race remains unchanged from the first fleet that sailed south in 1906. Success still comes down to judgment, preparation, teamwork, and the ability to make the right decision when the ocean inevitably asks difficult questions.![]()
But enough about my job - Before there is a start line, there is the organized chaos that every offshore crew knows so well.![]()
Our Captain and engineers are deep into the final preparations, checking and rechecking every system aboard Running Tide. From engines and charging systems to communications gear and safety equipment, they're making sure the boat is ready for whatever the Atlantic decides to throw our way.![]()
Meanwhile, the rest of the crew is wrapping up their everyday lives and switching gears into race mode. Regular jobs are being handed off to coworkers, families are being hugged goodbye, sea bags are being packed and repacked. Several crew members are already in the air or on the road making their way to Newport. And if history is any indication, there's probably at least one person frantically searching the house for a passport they swore they put somewhere safe.![]()
Wednesday starts early for many of us. Provisions will come start to come aboard, gear will be stowed, inspections completed, and countless small details checked off the list. The boat transforms from a collection of equipment and supplies into a race-ready team preparing to head offshore together.![]()
Running Tide has her own history in this race, a history written by the crews who have crossed this stretch of water before us and earned their place among the stories told back at the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club. To serve as navigator aboard a boat with that legacy is both an honor and a responsibility that I do not take lightly.![]()
The models will continue to evolve over the coming days. The optimal route on today's chart may not be the one we sail -that's just offshore racing. We study, prepare, adapt, and trust the crew around us.![]()
Soon enough, the shoreline of Newport will disappear astern, Red Bell "2A" near Seal Ledge will have been let behind and the only things that matter will be the wind, the sea, and eighteen pairs of hands working toward the same horizon.![]()
Until the next entry...![]()
— Mike "Jonesy" Jones![]()
Navigator, Running Tide![]()
2026 Newport to Bermuda Race
Navigator's Log Entry![]()
Project Running Tide – The Crew Behind the Crossing![]()
As the days count down to the start of the 2026 Newport to Bermuda Race, preparations are reaching that familiar rhythm that only an offshore campaign can create. To those standing on the dock, it may look like organized chaos—sails moving in and out of the boat, electronics being checked, weather briefings, provisioning runs, and endless conversations around the cockpit.![]()
But every person aboard Running Tide has a role, and every role matters.![]()
The Newport Bermuda Race has been testing sailors since 1906. The "Thrash to the Onion Patch" rewards preparation long before the starting gun ever sounds. Success isn't built on June 19th. It's built in the days and weeks beforehand, by a crew working together toward a common goal.![]()
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This is the team that makes Running Tide go so lets take a look at what each member of the crew is doing.![]()
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Beau Van Metre – Skipper / Helm![]()
The leader of the campaign. Beau carries the responsibility for every decision, every person aboard, and ultimately the outcome of the race. Before the start, he's balancing logistics, crew management, inspections, and making sure everyone is rowing in the same direction.![]()
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James Allsopp – Captain![]()
The operational backbone of the boat. The captain turns the plan into action—coordinating preparations, confirming readiness, organizing the crew, and ensuring that when the dock lines come off, nothing has been overlooked.![]()
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Jocko Allpress – Helm![]()
A steady hand on the wheel. In the days before the race, Jocko refines communication with the trimmers and tacticians, helping establish the rhythm that will carry us offshore. He also aids everyone in not taking themselves too seriously; it’s a hard job some days.![]()
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Jake Doyle – Helm![]()
Another critical driver of the boat. The helmsmen work together developing consistency and understanding how Running Tide feels in changing conditions.![]()
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Mark Fischer – Trimmer / Helm![]()
One of the links between steering and sail trim. Mark helps fine-tune sail combinations and works to maximize performance before we ever reach the starting line.![]()
Rob Pennington – Trimmer![]()
The horsepower behind speed. Rob's focus is sail shape, adjustments, and ensuring that every inch of cloth is delivering its full potential.![]()
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Gina Henderson – Jib Trim![]()
The headsails win races. Gina's preparation includes understanding sail crossover points and making certain the boat accelerates efficiently through changing conditions.![]()
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Mike Komar – Main Trim![]()
The mainsail is the engine room of the boat. Mike translates helm requests and tactical goals into boat speed, refining settings that will be called upon offshore. He also makes sure the “Box” that run all of the systems is working (at least for him).![]()
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Hannah Lovejoy – Kite Trim![]()
Downwind speed can define a Bermuda Race. Hannah prepares for the moments when asymmetrics spinnakers come alive, making sure transitions are smooth and efficient.![]()
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Sean Harr – Bow / Mast![]()
The point of the spear. Sean prepares the foredeck systems, rehearses sail changes, and ensures the organized chaos at the front of the boat stays controlled and safe. He also ensures that the sails are stored in a way that keeps them ready for the next change.![]()
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Steve Pennington – Mast![]()
The bridge between the cockpit and foredeck. Steve coordinates hoists, reefs, and drops while helping maintain the flow that keeps the boat moving.![]()
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Chris Lash – Tactics![]()
Weather, competitors, positioning, and timing. Chris helps transform information into opportunity, constantly asking not just what is happening, but what happens next.![]()
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Cole Allsopp – Tactics![]()
A second set of analytical eyes. Cole challenges assumptions, reviews options, and contributes to the strategic discussions that shape our race.![]()
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Mike Jones "Jonesy" – Navigation![]()
My role begins long before the first waypoint. Reviewing weather models, analyzing Gulf Stream data, refining routes, studying polars, preparing battle boards, and turning thousands of data points into actionable decisions. Once offshore, the navigator is always looking ahead—searching for the next advantage while helping the crew understand why we're going where we're going.![]()
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Bob Sharkey – Engineer![]()
When systems fail offshore, races change quickly. Bob works tirelessly to make sure the machinery, pumps, charging systems, and countless unseen components are ready for whatever the Atlantic delivers.![]()
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Tom Marable – Engineer/Medical![]()
Redundancy saves races. Tom helps inspect, repair, troubleshoot, and prepare the systems we depend upon when there is no dockside assistance 300 miles from land. He also reviews all of the medical supplies are aboard and coordinates with the other medical team members onboard.![]()
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Silvia Tower – Chef![]()
One of the most important jobs aboard. Good food fuels clear thinking, strong bodies, and positive attitudes. Silvia's preparation ensures that when watches change at 0300 and spirits are low, the crew still has the energy to perform.![]()
Together, these roles become something greater than their individual parts. Only together do we succeed!![]()
By the time Running Tide crosses the starting line off Newport, every sail folded, every meal packed, every routing decision debated, and every inspection completed will represent hundreds of hours of effort from this crew.![]()
I consider it an incredible honor to serve as Navigator aboard a boat with such a rich history and alongside a team of this caliber. The Atlantic has a way of reminding you that no one wins these races alone.![]()
In a few short days, the preparation ends!![]()
The dock lines come off, and Running Tide turns toward Bermuda once again.![]()
I'll continue sharing these Navigator's Log entries as we move closer to the start and throughout the race itself.![]()
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— Mike "Jonesy" Jones![]()
Navigator, S/V Running Tide![]()
2026 Newport to Bermuda Race![]()
"Trust the process. Sail the boat fast."
Here is the Running Tide crew roster for the Newport-Bermuda race. Start Date is 4 days from today!![]()
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Beau Van Metre-Skipper/Helm; James Allsopp-Captain; Jocko Allpress-Helm; Rob Pennington-Timmer; Steve Pennington-Mast; Mike Jones "Jonesy"-Navigation; Jake Doyle-Helm; Mark Fischer-Trimmer/Helm; Hannah Lovejoy-Kite/Trim; Bob Sharkey-Engineer; Chris Lash-Tactics; Tom Marable-Engineer; Cole Allsopp-Tactics; Sean Harr-Bow/Mast; Gina Henderson-Jib Trim; Mike Komar-Main Trim; Silvia Tower-Chef.![]()
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Go Tide!
Navigator's Log – Newport to Bermuda 2026![]()
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In just a few days, I will have the incredible honor of taking my place at the navigation station aboard Running Tide as we set out from Newport bound for Bermuda.![]()
I've been fortunate enough to sail with some outstanding programs over the years and to race aboard some truly remarkable boats. Yet this opportunity feels different.![]()
The Newport to Bermuda Race is one of offshore sailing's great traditions. First run in 1906, it is the oldest regularly scheduled ocean race in the world. For 120 years, sailors have gathered in Newport, looked over the horizon toward Bermuda, and accepted the same challenge: approximately 636 miles of changing weather, the unpredictability of the Gulf Stream, sleep deprivation, teamwork, and the constant requirement to make good decisions when conditions are rarely perfect.![]()
Generations of navigators have sat at chart tables wrestling with the same questions we ask today: Do we go east or west? Where do we cross the Stream? Do we sail the shortest distance or chase pressure? Technology has changed, but the fundamental challenge remains the same. The ocean still gets the final vote.![]()
What makes this race especially meaningful is the boat beneath our feet.![]()
Running Tide is not simply another entry on the starting line. She carries with her a history that few racing yachts can claim. Designed by Sparkman & Stephens and built during an era when offshore boats were expected to be both beautiful and capable, she has spent decades proving exactly that. She has competed in countless races, won hundreds of trophies, and has earned a reputation as one of the truly iconic yachts of the Chesapeake.![]()
Most notably, Running Tide etched her name into offshore racing history in 1976 when she won the Newport to Bermuda Race overall. Fifty years later, we have the privilege of bringing her back to Newport and pointing her bow toward Bermuda once again.![]()
Think about that for a moment.![]()
Fifty years ago, another crew stood on this same deck (Sort of) making preparations. Another navigator studied weather charts and Gulf Stream analyses and wanted to get back to his wife as fast as possible. Another group of sailors trusted one another enough to head offshore together. They created stories that are still told today.![]()
Now it is our turn.![]()
We are not just racing to Bermuda. We are serving, for a brief moment in time, as custodians of this boat's legacy. Our responsibility is to sail her well, take care of one another, make smart decisions, and honor those who came before us by adding another worthy chapter to her remarkable story.![]()
I am humbled by the trust placed in me to navigate this extraordinary boat and crew through one of offshore sailing's greatest races. It is a responsibility I do not take lightly and an experience I will treasure for the rest of my life.![]()
Over the coming days, I'll be sharing additional Navigator's Log entries as we prepare for the start, track the evolving weather, make the inevitable routing decisions, and eventually head offshore toward Bermuda. Once the race begins, I'll do my best to continue posting updates and insights from this adventure whenever conditions allow.![]()
Until then, the charts are spread out, the PC's are crunching numbers and optimal routes, forecasts are downloading, and the countdown to Newport is officially underway.![]()
Fair winds.![]()
— Mike Jones![]()
Navigator, Running Tide![]()
Newport to Bermuda Race 2026
Breaking. The crew roster for the Around the Island Newport Race: Beau Van Metre-Skipper/Helm; James Allsopp-Capt.; Jocko Allpress-Puffs; Tom Maynard-Trim; Mike "Jonesy" Jones-Navigation; Will Hundahl-Bow/Mast; Bob Sharkey-Engineer; Chris Lash-Tactics; Tom Marable-Engineer; Sean Harr-Bow/Mast; Dennis Gunderson-Trim; Jake Doyle-Main Trim; Rob Pennington-Trimmer; Steve Pennington-Mast.![]()
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Good luck this Weekend! Go Tide! Watch here for race updates. Or visit the website.
If it's June, it's race season. We will be doing the Around the Island Race in Newport on Friday. Then The Newport to Bermuda Race later this month. Details to follow! Here we go!
Happy Sunday Morning from The Running Tide. Thanks Tom Maynard for the video from the Ida Lewis race.
Subject: Running Tide at the start of the Thomas Point to Oxford race; 8/11/2023![]()
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We have tons of photos and exciting videos of the race. Click here to see all of them!![]()
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runningtide4444.com
Conanicut Around the Island – August 31, 2025Running Tide Wins “First Out of Bay” at AYC to Newport RaceIda Lewis Distance Race – August 15, 2025Conanicut Around the Island – August 31, 2...
The Running Tide participated in the Ida Lewis Race on the 17th. They took first in the Coronet Class and overall PHRF. They placed third overall. Great job crew!
To see all the exciting race photos, click here to view on our website!
runningtide4444.com
Conanicut Around the Island – August 31, 2025Running Tide Wins “First Out of Bay” at AYC to Newport RaceIda Lewis Distance Race – August 15, 2025Conanicut Around the Island – August 31, 2...
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE RUNNING TIDE. Skipper Beau Van Metre led his crew and the Tide to 1st Place ORC 2 class for First Out of the Bay!
6:14pm Today (Tuesday). About 3 hours at current speed. Boat hitting up to 12.2 surfing. We were doing 2 60 minutes ago!
Light air early Sunday morning in the Bay. So tried our hand at some "artsy" shots.
Leaving the Bay 1:00PM Sunday after a night of no or little wind. Dead stopped a few times! But when we left the Bay we were holding onto first place in class. So a great job by the crew and Running Tide in the Bay!
A video from yesterday when they had some of the nicest sailing of the trip before entering the fog of NJ.
Sunday morning was calm. Afternoon clearing out. Made it to the bay after 25 hours!
BREAKING RACE NEWS!![]()
June 7th Annapolis to Newport![]()
August 15th Ida Lewis Distance Race![]()
August 31st Conanicut Around the Island![]()
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Check here for race pics as the come in!![]()
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GOOD LUCK RUNNING TIDE!!!!!
Here is a great recap written by Charis!
Running Tide: Legendary S&S 61 Yacht’s Storied Triumph in Competitive Sailing Just Now News.Press
justnownews.press
Unscripted, Unfiltered, Unmissable. Beyond the Headlines: Feel the Pulse of Raw, Authentic Moments from Entertainments Epicenter and Beyond.
Congratulations to the Running Tide for taking 1st in the Ida Lewis Round the Island Races in Newport. Shown here Beau and Dea Van Metre with the winning trophy. Check back for tons of boat and crew photos all being loaded now! They will, also, be on the website RunningTide4444.com shortly.
Video of the Running Tide from last week. ![]()
Friday was the Annapolis to Oxford Race. Running Tide took 1st in Class and 1st Overall. Great race!
Happy 4th! An action shot of the Running Tide in last year's Newport/Bermuda Race featured on their website today!
Watch this video. Shot with a wide angle lens so it's hard to see how close we came. But if you look at the spinnaker’s reflection it reaches the rocks+. Top of rig was probably over the rocks.
Drone video from Tim Magnus!![]()
m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02u71Qoem2zvK58e3tprBexusi3TBGAgptWd4JsCzyBUvXxhtP8GgucL...
The AYC to Newport Crew roster and crew dinner:![]()
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Beau VanMetre Owner/Captain![]()
Larry Leonard Watch Captain![]()
Mike Toppa Watch Captain![]()
Suzy Leech Navigator ![]()
Barrett Holby WN![]()
Tom Maynard Trimmer![]()
Rob Pennington Trimmer![]()
Simon Davidson WN![]()
Scott Gibbs WN![]()
Ren Bourgault Chef![]()
Chris Lash Bow ![]()
Chris Gibbs Bow ![]()
Thomas Loughborough Bow
Breaking News! Running Tide finished 3rd in their class and 5th in All Boats. Great job! Time 3 days, 4 hrs, 29 min. ![]()
31 sec. Loading tons of photos and videos today. On board photos by Tom Maynard and from shore Mary Whisk. Thanks!
With 147.1 NM left in the race, RT is 2nd in ORC 2 and 9th in all boats. Lots of time left! Let's go RT!
Last nights crew dinner. A storm took out the lights, but dinner by candlelight is always nice!
Race prep has begun! Dockside prep, light air sail taking a look at the new carbon fiber main. Wishing you fair weather!
It's Race Season! Running Tide’s first competitive race is the Annapolis to Newport Race that starts on Saturday, June 3. The Tide should arrive in Annapolis next week. Watch here for updates!
A throwback photo of Beau's oldest daughter, Charis, at age 6 steering the Running Tide!
History
Running Tide was built in 1968 at the Huisman Shiyard by Wolter Huisman. The owner, Jakob Isbrandtsen had her shipped to Kretzers Boatyard on City Island, NY where the interior was installed.
The deck layout was designed to be very close to the 12M layout and in 1970 she was used as a trial horse for Valiant – US-24. Running Tide was an instant success on the Long Island sailing circuit and also won her class in the 1970 Bermuda Race.
After winning the 1971 Southern Ocean Racing Circuit by ¾ of a point over Yankee Girl, the boat was taken back to New York and in 1972, she was put on the market. Al Van Metre and his son Beau went for a trial-sail and Beau said “Dad, we’ve got to buy this boat”. Albert Van Metre was able to outbid Ted Turner and took over ownership after the 1972 SORC.
Running Tide’s success over the years was mainly due to Al Van Metre’s philosophy that good crew work was the key. Al Van Metre attended the US Naval Academy in Annapolis and this experience carried over to his real estate developing business and to his sailboat racing.
Running Tide has undergone changes to try and keep up with the newer designs. In 1983 Al and Beau had Rives Potts and Pilot’s Point Marina add 6 feet to the mast and put on a Bruce Farr designed keel. The results were not great and clearly evident at the 1984 SORC. In 1988, Beau decided to put her up for sale. He and his father were busy growing their business and didn’t have the time for the constant upgrading required to go ocean racing. Not long after the sale, Al called Beau into his office – Beau explained the reasons for selling the boat. Al said, “Son I’m not sorry you sold the boat, I just wish I could have been on board for the delivery to Europe”.
In November of 2018 Beau and Dea Van Metre looked at the boat and while there was a lot of work needed, they decided to bring her back to the USA – Beau felt he owed it to his father and the great legacy he had built.
Running Tide will be sailing again in a few months and will be participating in the Newport to Bermuda race in June, 2020.
Racing Record
Under Captain & Owner Beau Van Metre
2024
1st in Class – Conanicut Yacht Club’s 97th Annual - Around the Island Race
1st in Class – Coronet Division; 1st in Fleet – PHRF; LIMEROCK Perpetual Trophy – best corrected time in PHRF – Ida Lewis Distance Race
2023
1st in Class and 1st Overall – Annapolis to Oxford Race
2022
1st overall – NYYC Around-the-Island Race
Under Al & Beau Van Metre
1984
Her 13th & last SORC; 8th Class A finished mid fleet, NYYC Vineyard Race 1st, but disqualified’ Hospice Cup Race
1983
1st Class A Annapolis to Newport; 2nd overall
1st IOR A AYC Spring Race
1st overall and IOR A VA Cruising Cup
1982
1st 2 of 6 races; 2nd Class A SORC St. Petersburg
1st Class A Wirth Monroe Memorial Raact
1st Class A AYC Spring Race
1st overall AYC Fall Series; Vicking Trophy
2nd Class A Newport to Bermuda Race
1981
1st Miami to Nassau Race
1st Class A CBYR Assoc. Race Week
1st overall & Class A Hammond Memorial Race from Oxford
1st Gibson Island Yacht Squadron’s Spring Series
1st Governor’s Cup Annapolis to St. Mary’s City
Awarded the CBTR Assoc. IOR - High Point Title earned Al Van Metre - Yachtsman of ht Year - Lauderdale’s Yacht Club 81-82 Yearbook
1980
1st Class A Newport to Bermuda Race
1st overall & Class A Governor’s Cup
1st overall & Class A VA Cruising Cup Hampton
1st overall Tred Avon Oxford Race
1979
1st IOR Class A; 4th overall Annapolis to Newport
1st overall & Class A Va Cruising Cup
1st First Race & 1st overall Gibson Island
1978
1st SORC Off Key West
1977
1st Division 1 & Class A SORC swept Chesapeake Bay Fall Series
1st VCC Annapolis to Hampton; Robert M. Raven Trophy
1st Class A Fall Series
1st overall & Class A Ocean Triangle
1976
1st Newport to Bermuda Race Division 1; Latifa Challenge Cup and St. David’s Lighthouse Trophy
1st Class A VA Cruising Cup
1st Class A Chesapeake Bay Series
1975
Overall win VA Cruising Cup; Robert M. Raven Trophy and VA Cruising Cup (broke 1971 record)
3rd in class 1 Annapolis to Newport Race
1974
1st Class A SORC St. Petersburg to Ft. Lauderdale
1st CBTRA High Point in 26 events for the season
1st Annapolic - Oxford Race
1st Ida Lewis Yacht Club Match Race
1st Nassau Cup
1st overall & Class A Indian Harbor
Record Breaker 34th VA Cruising Cup; Upper Bay to Hampton (broke her own record)
1st overall & Class A Corsica River
1st overall & Class A Governor’s Cup St. Mary’s College
1st overall l& Class A NASS to Oxford
1st overall & Class A Skipper’s Race
1st overall & Class A Onion Patch Series
1st overall & Class A Fall Series
1973
1st Storm Trysail Club Week with 3 wins
1st St. Petersburg to Ft. Lauderdale Race
1st Miami to Palm Beach Race
1st Class A Miami - Montego Race Second overall
1st Navel Academy’s Race to Oxford
1st overall & Class A 1st running of Governor’s Cup Race
1st overall Ed McMahon Regatta; Budwiser Trophy; 1st in class
1st overall & Class A AYC Spring Series
1st overall & Class A Gibson Island
1st Block Island Class A; Commodore’s Trophy; Cutty Sark Perpetual Trophy & Island Sail Club
1st Class A NASS Spring Series
1st Class A Astor Cup
1st Class A Corsica River
1st in class NYYC Annual Cruise; Astor Cup and Corsica River
1972
1st AYC Skippper Race
1st in points - NYYC - Henry B. Du Pont Memorial Trophy Series (216)
“Two Grand Slams in a Row” Gibson Island Yacht Squadron’s June Series
Point Winner of the Love Point - Swan Point Perpetual Trophy
1st Overall & Class A - Navel Academy’s Best in Fleet Trophy - Annapolis to Oxford
1st - Class A - AYC Fall Series
Under Ted Turner/Perry Bass
1972
4th overall - SORC
1971
Overall Victory - S.O.R.C.
Overall fleet honors & The Viking Trophy - Annapolis Yacht Club Fall Series
Under Isbrandtsen
1970
Won Class A Bermuda Race
Running Tide 2020
Tom Maynard has known Beau for over 30 years. He raced with and against him, working on the Running Tide for years including as Beau’s Watch Partner in six hour shifts. When Beau decided to try and find the boat that he believed was in France, Tom went to work and they found it in France (San Tropez). Beau and Dea met Tom over there and inspected it. The boat was in rough shape. Beau made an offer to purchase it back. The next obstacle was how to get it to the shipping company for transport back to the states. The first step was getting it from France to Genoa. The current captain only spoke french. Tom randomly stopped in a coffee shop where he “bumped into” Conrad Hunter. Conrad had lived on and off in Italy for over 13 years. He offered to captain the move to Genoa. He jumped on a plane 12/14/18 to San Tropez. The French Captain met him there with his crew (no one spoke Italian or English), and the boat was not provisioned at all. Conrad purchased the necessities. In his words…”it was a nightmare trip!” Wearing foul weather gear the entire voyage, he piloted her from 12/16 to 20th. The trip along the French coast is typically a bear, and this was worse than normal. “I didn’t just want to kill Beau…I wanted to kill him twice!” stated Conrad. The transport ship finally arrived in Genoa on 1/17/19 and we loaded her up on 1/20. Conrad rarely left the RT fearing it would sink, it was in such bad shape.
Upon arrival in Fla. Beau, Dea and Tom took her out for sea trials. In a bit of good luck, Eddie Vee was close by and when they lost the engine during the trial, Eddie was there to tow them back.
Beau hired Billy Black to do the renovation. Most of the upgrades are into state of the art electrical systems and winches…2030 upgrades. Beau went down into he hold and discovered not one thing had been changed. “It was eerie looking at the same upholstery down to the needlepoint cushions,” stated Beau. Considering the Running Tide was one to two years from dying in a french boat yard, her renovation is a miracle. “Maybe dad (Al Van Metre) will forgive me now for selling Running Tide,” mused Beau.
The goal is to have her sailing by May 1st for testing and developing Polars, perimiters before sailing in the Newport to Bermuda Race June 19th.
The Crew
Beau Van Metre
Conrad Hunter
Charis Burrett
Chris Van Metre
Bear Johnston
Tom Maynard
Jocko Allpress
Rob Pennington
Chris Patterson
PJ Schaffer
Jim Marshall
Larry Lenard
Dominique Tangon
Bob Sharkey
News
Newport to Bermuda Race – Navigator’s Log
June, 2026
Running Tide top finisher at Ida Lewis
August, 2025
Running Tide wins the NYYC Around-the-Island Race!
June, 2022Not only did Running Tide win their division, but they placed 1st overall! It’s the first win since the boat was rebuilt and first win since 1984. Al Van Metre is smiling down on them.
“Return of the Tide” by Bill Putnam
July, 20212020 Newport Bermuda Race Cancelled Due to COVID-19 Pandemic
Facebook.com/BermudaRace
March 23, 2020
102 Submit Advance Entries to 2020 Newport Bermuda Race
BermudaRace.com
September 25, 2019
The Boat
The Washington Post Magazine
July 24, 1983
Running Tide Is Victor in Sail
By William N. Wallace Special to The New York Times
June 24, 1976
Yacht Race Won By Running Tide
By Gordon S. White Jr. Special to The New York Times
June 8, 1970
