Start of the Sunrise Regatta

And they're off... So begins the 2007 Sunrise Regatta at Elephant Butte Lake in southern New Mexico. This year, 10- and 25-mile races were offered. When the lake is full, a 50-mile race occurs, with the potential for racers to be out all night. However, this year's strong breeze meant that even the last remaining boat, a participant in the 25-mile non-spinnaker fleet, completed the course before full dark. The Sunrise Regatta is hosted and sponsored by the Rio Grande Sailing Club.

Cougar of the Lake, Imagine, and Kachina take off from the start.

"Cougar of the Lake", a Santana 20, has plenty of get up and go in a breeze.

"Imagine", a Columbia 26 with Mike and Becky.

Dream Catcher, a 30-foot Hunter that was not in the race, got a good look at all the racers.

Scirocco's Song, a J22, heads up the course with Jon, Allan, and Justin on board.

The J-24 Coyote climbs up on the left side of the first beat.