The 48th Annual George Moffett Race was held Saturday, Sept. 6, bringing another year of spirited competition and classic Vineyard sailing, honoring the legacy of George Moffett.

Established in 1978 by Lucia Moffett, the event remains a staple of the Vineyard Haven sailing calendar, drawing a strong and eclectic fleet.

One of this year’s standouts was CALABASH, a 44-foot gaff-rigged schooner originally built in 1988 as LANA AND HARLEY. She was the first schooner designed by Nat Benjamin and built at Gannon & Benjamin. After spending 25 years in Bermuda, she returned to Vineyard Haven for a much-needed refit. The restoration included rebuilding the deck and upgrading the plumbing and electrical systems.

Brad Abbott, who rebuilt and now owns CALABASH, has been making steady podium appearances on the schooner circuit this season, skippered CALABASH to first place in the Moffett Cup, following second place finishes at both the Opera House Cup (Classics Division) and the Gloucester Schooner Festival (Schooner Division).

The schooner season continues on Saturday, Sept. 13 with the Pat West Gaff Rig & Schooner Race, hosted by Gannon & Benjamin. This annual event celebrates the life and legacy of Francis (Pat) West, the original “Commodore” and a true Vineyard sailing legend.

The day of racing will be followed by a celebration at the Gannon & Benjamin Beachfront Shop, featuring music from the Dock Dance Band, along with light bites and drinks.