Summer Sailstice on June 21, 2001

Larkspur, CA — A new annual event, Summer Sailstice, will be launched on Thursday, June 21, 2001, celebrating the Solstice, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. The concept is simple — leave work early and go sailing to kick-off the summer sailing season on the longest day of the year. Summer Sailstice is designed to get as many people out on boats sailing anywhere there is water. Go to www.summersailstice.com to learn more about participation and register to win free gear from Summer Sailstice supporters.

"Summer Sailstice is easier to join than falling off the dock," according to Sailstice founder John Ardnt. "Create an excuse, if that's necessary, ditch work for the day or the afternoon to escape the rat race and go sailing. There are no rules, no regulations, no start time, and no excuses not to get out sailing and have some fun. With such a late sunset on the Solstice, it's crazy not to be out on the water sailing anyway!"

"The Solstice signifies the end of the school year, the natural transition to summer sailing and so a great time for the inaugural summer sail," explained Michelle Slade, Sailstice organizer. "We'd love to see hundreds, if not thousands of boats out sailing. Sometimes people just need to be reminded to go sailing for the fun of it, to play hooky from work, take friends, family, co-workers or anyone for an afternoon and evening sail. Sailors have the freedom to make this event anything they want it to be".

The event is ideal for yacht clubs, companies wanting to host summer picnics or incentive days, groups or individuals. The Summer Sailstice website can help sailors join others in their location for a raft-up, sail-by or create their own party on the water in celebration of the spirit of sailing and the longest sailing day of the year. Beyond simply sailing, participants can access the Sailstice website to do the following: