Ross and crew on the racecourse last year at Chester Race Week.

July 9, 2024

Chester, Nova Scotia is your picturesque seaside community that welcomes you like an old friend. The community becomes a haven for passionate sailors and volunteers in August for Chester Race Week. The event has a long history of great racing, competitive classes, and legendary social activities. 

In the Bluenose fleet, the 2023 winner Lisa Ross will be back to defend her title in Hot Sauce. Ross shares, “I’m looking forward to racing in the class again for CRW. We had such a fun time learning the boat and being welcomed by the class last year. It’s truly one design racing, and the biggest fleet of such in the province, the type of racing I find the most fun for sure. As a family, really excited to sail Mahone Bay in our Bluenose this summer and instill a love for being on the water in our kids.” 

While Ben Maloney and his rock star crew on Farr 30 Mongoose will be looking to defend their division title also. When it comes to CRW, Maloney shares “This will be our 10th race week on Goose, we started racing the Farr in 2013 and have an awesome young team of people. Personally, I’ve done every race week since 2003 minus 2020 when they didn’t have a race week because of COVID. Looking forward to seeing everyone out there.” 

Chester native, and local legend, Larry Creaser will also return to defend his title with his J/100 Young Blood and dedicated crew. Glen Creaser on his father’s tenacity in racing Young Blood, “It’s safe to say that Chester Race week is simply fuel for his competitive nature and unconditional love for the sport. However, the most joy and satisfaction he gets is from sharing his passion with as many friends and family (and often absolute strangers to him) as possible. His house during CRW reflects the ‘all are welcome’ environment he encourages.” 

While Creaser has MS, he does not let it stop him from enjoying his passion. Mark echoes his brothers’ comments, sharing, “Chester Race Week is more than just a sailing regatta for my family and me. It’s an opportunity to do something with our dad that’s extremely special to him, but even more special for us. His respect and passion for the sport can’t be matched. He has a gift, there’s no question about that. He makes decisions for the minute, not for the day and is always a few steps ahead. For me it doesn’t matter if we win or lose, just being on the water with him is something I will cherish forever.” 

We look forward to seeing everyone out on the start line this year; plus, you can join local North Sails expert, and Nova Scotia native, Drew Mitchell will be giving a sailors talk, with local tips, tricks & weather knowledge, on Thursday morning August 15th at 9am by the flagpole at Chester Yacht Club.