It’s not the America’s Cup, but there could be a major sailing competition on San Diego Bay next year.
The Port of San Diego Board of Commissioners Wednesday asked for further vetting of a plan to bring an Extreme Sailing Series event to town.
A group called Extreme Sailing San Diego hopes to organize races in October 2017, according to the port.
The series began in 2007 and currently holds events in eight cities in Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Australia. No races are scheduled in the United States this year.
Competitors raced in 40-foot catamarans until last year, when they switched to 32-foot boats.
According to a staff report, the local organizing group is asking the port for sponsorship and fee waivers. They contend the port will financially benefit by increased business for tenants, such as hotels, restaurants and marinas.
The commissioners asked staff to conduct an economic analysis, hold further discussions with the organizers and return at an Aug. 9 board meeting.
–City News Service