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2020 Marblehead Racing Association Season Update #3
May 18, 2020
Dear MRA Members.
Thank you for completing the survey we recently sent to the MRA membership regarding some potential adjustments that might be necessary to race sailboats this season due to COVID-19.
Approximately 58% of the MRA members responded to the survey which is an exceptional response rate. Your response will help guide us in how we develop race management for the early part of the season. While we are dealing with a continuously changing environment, MRA thought that you would like to see the results of the survey. The survey in summary form is included below for your review. Please note that given the ongoing changes in our understanding of the virus and state guidance regarding safety we will most certainly being doing additional surveys this season to help us provide the best racing we can.
In looking at the survey results one of the most important aspects is that people want to go sailboat racing. Next, in the event of certain restrictions, social distancing being the most pressing, the MRA is looking for the sailors to be understanding if MRA takes steps to limit race committee personnel who are conducting the sailboat races. Since most people still want to sail given these limitations, it is the MRA's goal to find viable options to run sailboat races consistent with governmental restrictions.
To help the MRA stay on top of ever-evolving events, the MRA has set up a 'Working Group' to develop types of racing that make sense as we adjust to the governmental restrictions.
It is important to note that we are looking at the sailing season in small increments with the working group adjusting quickly in a proactive manner to the changes presented by governmental regulations. How we run races at the beginning of the season may change throughout the season. Please pay special attention to the MRA e-mails given the fluid nature of the situation.
The MRA is in ongoing communication with the Marblehead Harbormaster to ensure that we are complying with the necessary restrictions to maintain the safety of the sailors, the race committee, and the dock staff.
The working group will be presenting their recommendation to the MRA Board this week, factoring in the Governors announcement for the first three MRA Saturdays in June (June 6th, June 13th, and June 20th).
Stay well and stay safe. We look forward to seeing everyone on the water in the not too distant future.
Regards,
Mark E. Toso
Chairman, Marblehead Racing Association
