(July 17, 2002)

U. S. Junior Match Racing Championship

NEWPORT BEACH CA (July 17, 2002) The Balboa Yacht Club, Newport Beach today welcomed the first ever all female crew in the 36-year history of the US Junior Match Racing Championships. The team represents the St Petersburg Sailing Center, Florida.

This world recognized event is being held July 18-21 off the coast of Newport Beach California and features 3 person teams 19 years of age or younger representing top yacht clubs from Australia, New Zealand, the UK and nine US yacht clubs.

The young ladies from Florida, Evan Brown, (16), the skipper and crew members Kristin Britt and Alyson Dagly recently finished tied for first in the celebrated Sears Women's World Championships Team Cup and a closely contested 3rd in the Rolex Women's World Cup.

When asked their strategy for competing with eleven all male teams, skipper Evan Brown said her team's success often results from the male competitors " Not taking us seriously, thinking we are a bunch of dizzy dames. Trust me we'll be in the hunt and have a good chance at winning the Cup! We can't wait!"

For on-site event information call Jack Butefish at 949-874-1099 or the Balboa Yacht Club at 949-673-3515 ext. 133.  For daily race results check the BYC web site at www.Balboayachtclub.com

[Source: Ben Benjamin, Sailing Administrator/Junior Program Director, 949-673-3515 x 133, sailingandjuniors@balboayachtclub.com]