The Sopwith Camel was a British-class fighter plane whose dominance in the air helped the Allies win World War I. Interesting Jeopardy! fact, sure, but what does that have to do with yachting?

The biplane has become the inspiration behind the name and winning ways for “Sopwith Camel Racing,” one of the 3 CSULBSA race teams competing in the Shields Summer Racing Series.

On June 28th, Team SCR brought home first place points in 2 out of 3 races, taking the early lead in the club’s Summer Series Two race standings. 

Led by skipper and apparent WWI history fan Charlie Abbott, Team SCR totaled 5 points in 3 races (1-3-1).

SCR capitalized on an underwhelming performance by Sail Team ‘Murrica, who managed only 7 points (3-1-3) after two last place finishes, and one first. 

Meanwhile Denito Syndicate Racing (DSR) went par for the course, finishing in second place in all three races for a total of 6 points (2-2-2).

Race One was a quick windward/leeward race of 1.75 miles, with spinnakers. But after DSR damaged their only spinnaker, Race Two and Three took the boats on 2 laps, for about 3.5 miles roundtrip. (Click here to see the course map.)

Watch highlights here.

June 28 racing crews:
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Denito Syndicate Racing, sailing Dark Horse

Dennis Trombley (S), Chris Hill, Gwynn Markel, David Woerner
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Sail Team ‘Murrica, sailing Isabelle

Mike Fratantoro (S), Jake Hawkins, Tatiana Misares, Estela Tejidor
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Sopwith Camel Racing, sailing Karen

Charlie Abbott (S), Michele Mar, Amy Shamas, Paul Sorenson
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Shields Summer Racing – Series Two
Current Fleet Points: (as of June 29, 2014)

1. Sopwith Camel Racing: 5 pts (1+3+1)
2. Sail Team ‘Murrica: 6 pts (2+2+2)
3. Denito Syndicate Racing: 7 pts (3+1+3)
   …

Next Race:

The next scheduled race day is Saturday July 12th at 11:00 am. Denito and Sail Team ‘Murrica will be looking to cut into Abbott’s lead and retire Sopwith Camel Racing to the museum, like its aviation ancestors.