Sailboats filled San Diego Bay Wednesday for the kickoff of the 34th Annual Beer Can Race Series.
The races first started by a bunch of friends who didn’t want to wait until the weekend according to organizers. They would go out to the bay on Wednesdays, have a few beers and race down to the mark and back.
“Of course now, there’s no drinking. It’s a very serious competition,” spokesperson Stephanie Thompson said. “The drinking is saved for the after-party afterwards.”
Following that tradition, races will take place Wednesdays through Aug. 7 beginning near the center of Harbor Island around 6 p.m. There will be no races July 3.
By the looks of this Flickr gallery, the competition is serious.
The top contestant will earn the coveted Beer Can Trophy. Also, much like the Stanley Cup tradition, the winner in each class will have their boat’s name added to the “Beer Can Winner“ trophy.
Spectators can get a good view from Shelter Island or Harbor Island.
Some of the boats are looking for crewmembers. If you’re interested, you can call the Cortez Racing Association for more information.