As brisk nights of fall have us closing windows and digging out sweaters, sailors begin thinking about hauling and storing the boat for the winter.

The conditions for the Pat West Gaff Rig and Schooner Race, held on Saturday, Sept. 19, were very like those for the Moffett Race on Sept. 12.

The 27th Pat West Gaff Rig and Schooner Race is this Saturday, Sept. 19. The race honors Francis (Pat) West Jr., and is a benefit for Sail Martha’s Vineyard.

Skipper Stephen Besse in Apres, his J/120, won the 38th Moffett Cup on Saturday, sponsored by the Holmes Hole Sailing Association. A small edge in tactics helped him overcome a stifling handicap, to cross the line first, and score best on corrected time.

Life after Labor Day; it’s the best sailing time in New England. Harbors are emptying, waters are reasonably warm and light northerly winds give us crisp, clear horizons.

The last three 2015 races of the Holmes Hole Sailing Association were held on Thursday, Sept. 3 and Sunday, Sept. 6.