Following a successful beta run in 2001, Summer Sailstice 2002 has officially become the summer sailing holiday for sailors anywhere. Sailstice celebrates sailing on the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. The concept is simple - sign up to register for great prizes at www.summersailstice.com and plan to get out on the water to kick-off the summer sailing season. This year, the solstice falls on a Friday so cruise into Summer Sailstice with the weekend ahead.

Organizer John Arndt states, "Sailing's natural link between the occurrence of the solstice and the elements, the sun, the wind and the oceans, good reason to celebrate and enjoy this annual gift we take for granted. With more sunlight than any other day of the year it's a great day to slip out of work early to enjoy sailing just for the fun of it. Summer Sailstice is simple - there are no rules, no regulations, no start times and no reason not to get out on the water. Registration is web-based and prizes from sailing industry supporters such as West Marine can be won by registering at www.summersailstice.com."

In 2001, more than 200 sailboats signed up for the inaugural Summer Sailstice nationwide and beyond. From Friday Harbor, WA to Cocoa, FL, from Alabama to Wisconsin and the British Virgin Islands, participating boats included a Whitehall sailing dinghy in the Northwest to a Santa Cruz 52 in Hawaii and everything in between. Boats on San Francisco Bay sailed from Richmond, Sausalito, Alameda and the City. Many sailed to Angel Island for a sunset barbecue. Windsurfers met at Crissy Field with boards, a keg and a sunset over the Golden Gate. Oakland Yacht Club members participated by sailing small boats off their docks.

Summersailstice.com is designed so people can find crew, a boat to crew on, announce their individual participation or offer to host a gathering or raft up. Simply, it enables sailors to connect with various Summer Sailstice celebrations in their area. Check out the site to sign up and explore locations near you.

Summer Sailstice is your day to celebrate sailing with other sailors all over the world just as you choose. Sail on your own, with a group, start a Summer Sailstice Regatta - whatever suits your style. Most of all, have fun and prepare for a great season of sailing ahead!