We are going to Mexico

The Vallarta Race begins this week, which will take the fleet 1,000 miles from San Diego, CA, USA to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. On this race we will join Jim Madden and crew onboard his newly christened J/65 “Brand New Day.” They will be sending Scuttleblog updates of their adventures, bringing us onboard as they slide down the Baja coast in style. Unlike Jim’s recently launched Reichel/Pugh 66 “Stark Raving Mad” - a flat out racer by today’s standards – BND has both wine cellar and media room.

The photos below show BND on christening day, which included a blessing from Father Joe Carroll, likely the most well known Catholic priest in San Diego. Jim Madden knows how to start a program. - Craig Leweck

The new J/65, "Brand New Day"

One of several flat screen monitors for movie viewing when off-watch

A good selection of wines packed for the race

Noted local Catholic priest Father Joe Carroll with Heather and Jim Madden at the christening

Heather getting ready to provide the ceremonial champagne smack (got it on the second try with only minor gelcoat repair needed)

Christening
Day One
Day Two
Day Three
Day Four
Day Five
Day Six