2006 InterClub Nationals

Jim Bowers, sailing with Bridgid Murphy, won the 2006 IC Nationals last weekend in convincing fashion. Bowers and Murphy posted single-digit finishes in 14 of 16 races in the no-drop series to win by a comfortable 30-point margin over Ben and Kim Cesare from Larchmont, NY. The Cesare's won the title back in 2003, but never engraved the perpetual trophy, which now reads "Kim and Ben Cesare" courtesy of 2004 winner Mike Funsch. Such is the commaraderie in the IC Class. With this 5th IC Nationals title, Bowers needs only one more win to tie class legend, Jack Slattery. Asked if he would beat the record, the self-effacing Bowers just smiled and shook his head, saying "I don't know", seemingly belying the ease in which he has won most of these championships. Many figured Slattery's record was unbeatable with so many great sailors competing in the class, but at 37 years old, Bowers has many competitive years ahead of him. Ed Adams can attest to that fact, having posted a third at the event. Adams is a perennial competitor in the IC class, having sailed the last few Nationals with his son, Luke. Adams is just one of many 50-somethings competing well in the IC, and having a great time sailing with kids. "It's tough when they are young because you are essentially single-handing the boat, but then when they turn 11 or 12, and have some experience and size, it all starts coming together. It's been very rewarding sailing with my son and finishing so strong." Steve Benjamin has been chasing Slattery's record for a few decades, amassing three IC National titles, and countless runners-up results. However, consistency evaded Benjamin last weekend, who has a real passion for making the "tubs" go just a little faster. Once look at his tricked-out wooden IC is testament to that fact, and Benjamin owns a "syndicate" of five actively sailed ICs.

Regatta Chairman, Ian Mutnick, was extremely pleased with the regatta. "Sixteen races might just be a record for the IC Nationals, and I'm very thankful to SSA and the regatta staff for working some magic."

At this point, it's been well over a decade since Slattery last made his presence known in the InterClub. Maybe now he'll have a reason to suit up in the frostbite dinghy once again.

Complete Final Results and Check out Jon Deutsch's great photos from the event.