Introduction to PNWO
Saturday, January 17, 2026: 11AM to noon @ Portland Yacht Club (and via Zoom)
This race hits a sweet spot for yacht racers – a true offshore racing experience connecting the coastal fishing town of Ilwaco, Washington as the host city near the start, to the finish that brings you into the historic heart of Victoria, British Columbia. After you start off Buoy 2 of the legendary Columbia River Bar, you’ll navigate north along Washington’s rugged Pacific coastline, round Duntze Rock off Cape Flattery, then finally blast down the Juan de Fuca Strait toward Race Passage and the finish line off the entrance to Victoria - three legs in one race!
This race continues to be a great opportunity to qualify for the Pacific Cup, Vic-Maui, and Transpac, as well as to get your boat north for sailing events and/or summer cruising. PNWO is classified as a World Sailing OSR Category 3 Race.
Admission is free and open to all. Food/beverages will be available for purchase.
Zoom Link:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86818105926?pwd=pOb5Dp6EpSbbrXIaUz7BOxHAyWbCiS.1
Meeting ID: 868 1810 5926
Passcode: 918741
Introduction to ORC
Saturday, January 24, 2026: 11AM to noon @ Portland Yacht Club (and via Zoom)
Introduction to Offshore Racing Congress (ORC)
Pacific NW Offshore will be using ORC as the primary scoring method again this year. Although you can still use your PHRF rating for the cruising category, if you want to be scored in the overall category, you will need an ORC rating. This introduction is open to all who are interested in learning more about ORC or are considering making the transition, whether you plan to race in the PNWO or not. Portland Measurer Doug Schenk will present, and US Sailing Offshore Director Chris Tutmark will join via Zoom.
Admission is free and open to all. Food/beverages will be available for purchase.
Zoom Link:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82622479899?pwd=exONhfly4u2SNKO6PH2U1jFpu9qnDW.1
Meeting ID: 826 2247 9899
Passcode: 429625
Kickoff Party and Registration Deadline
Wednesday, April 29, 2026: 6:00 PM @ Portland Yacht Club (and via Zoom)
Pacific NW Offshore Kickoff Party
This is an open invitation to all PNWO skippers, crews, and race supporters to join us at the Portland Yacht Club for the annual kickoff party. The kitchen and bar will be open. No need to be a member of PYC. It’s an annual ritual and for those of you from out of town see the Zoom link above. Pass the word.
See you in Ilwaco!
Skippers Meeting
The Skippers meeting for the race will be held upstairs at the Salt Restaurant in Ilwaco, Washington at 5:30 on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. Because of capacity limitations, only the skipper and one crew member will be permitted to attend.