“So a bunch of you have been asking and asking for my 2009 schedule,” writes National Race Officer Jeff Zarwell of RegattaPRO. “This was the earliest I could get it together and probably the earliest I've ever had the entire year's dance card filled. It usually takes until March. I guess we're all a bit more organized this year.

“Those who still want to have me manage a regatta for them, go ahead and ask, but it had better be a fun race or you better really need some help, 'cause I'm pretty full.

“For those who wish to work on race committee with me, just let me know. You're more than welcome. In particular, Tahoe Dinghy week (Aug. 1-6) will be a lot of fun. Four days of racing on the lake with El Toros to Thistles. We already have more than 100 dinghies for this first ever dinghy week. It is also the El Toro Nationals. The Melges 24 Pre-Nationals (June 6-7) will be a lot of fun, as will the J/24 District 20 Champs (Aug. 8-9) and J/24 West Coast Champs (Sept. 19-20).

“Two regattas in particular where I could really use some experienced mark set people are the IRC regatta (June 26-27) and the Melges 32 North Americans Labor Day weekend (Sept. 5-8).

“I look forward to seeing all of you out on the water.”

For the complete calendar or to volunteer for race committee, you can reach Jeff by email. Also see his website, www.regattapro.com.