The international Extreme Sailing Series, featuring high-speed catamarans, announced it will return to San Diego Bay on Oct. 18-21 following a successful first year in 2017.
The series visits such world locations as Muscat on the Gulf of Oman, Barcelona on the Mediterranean Sea and St. Petersburg on the Gulf of Finland, and has become a multi-million-dollar tourist event.
“San Diego and sailing go hand-in-hand so we’re excited to have the Extreme Sailing Series return to America’s Finest City,” said Mayor Kevin Faulconer. “This must-see event will bring competitors and fans from around the world for high-speed racing just a few feet from our shores, providing thrills for our residents and an economic boost for our city.”
The San Diego event will feature a free “Race Village” on Harbor Island with the racing action taking place just yards from the shore. A full lineup of professional and brand-backed teams will race a fleet of GC32 catamarans, virtually “flying” in front of thousands of spectators.
San Diego State University estimates that last year’s event generated $2.5 million for the local economy and provided the equivalent of millions of dollars more in media promotion.
“We are thrilled to bring the Extreme Sailing Series back to San Diego again,” said Matt Reynolds, CEO of Extreme San Diego. “We look forward to building on the success of year one and we are confident the event will continue to grow in attendance, media value and hotel room nights. Last year’s collective investment set the foundation for growing an event that can one day be a San Diego premier event.”
