February Photo of the Month Winners

This month’s photo contest on Facebook was one of the most closely contested we’ve ever had. With 30 entries for the theme “Cold, Foul Weather, or Winter Sailing,” we had everything from folks breaking ice and sailing on Northern lakes to people sunning themselves in the Florida Keys. We even had a pair of wooden “gutter racers” and a shot of somebody’s hot tub (where they’ll be safely ensconced until spring). Click here to view the entire album. A huge thanks to everyone who contributed, and without further ado, we present the winners:

FIRST PLACE

Even though this photograph, simultaneously dramatic and peaceful, garnered a staggering number of votes, it was barely enough. Congratulations to Sum Chan for besting a strong field and earning publication here and in ASA’s “Sailing with Style” E-Newsletter. Here is the photographer’s description: “Chasing the Sun on Santa Monica Bay – it may not be an easy decision on a cold (relatively speaking in SoCal) cloudy day whether to chase the wind or the sun. Models: Anya Essiounina and Hunter 310.”

RUNNER-UP

This shot was not far behind. Our good friends at SailTime once again stuffed the ballot box showed their enthusiasm for the sailing lifestyle with this cheerful, but chilly, entry submitted by Laura Chapin: “San Francisco to Half Moon Bay on a SailTime boat…oh what fun!” Thanks Laura, and congrats on getting so close to 1st place!

EDITOR’S CHOICE AWARD

This month I want to recognize the two entries that came the furthest to join us. First, this majestic double-rainbow is courtesy of Dick and Karen, crew of the catamaran Butterfly, currently cruising the Caribbean. Not only did they take time out of their busy cruising schedule to send these, but WOW! IT’S A DOUBLE RAINBOW! ALL THE WAY ACROSS THE SKY! You can follow Dick and Karen’s adventures, complete with some great photography, on their blog.

We also have this terrific “driving the boat” shot submitted by Esra Arikan all the way from Turkey. The photo is of winter sailing in the Marmara Sea! Click the photos to enlarge.