Sailors from across the country travel to Ocean Springs for annual regatta

Sailors from across the country head to Ocean Springs to compete in the annual regatta.

Sailors were seen warming up for the stiff competition that will take place on Front Beach this weekend.

The Hobie Midwinters East and April Fools Regatta has returned. The Ocean Springs Yacht Club hosts the competition and this year is their biggest ever with 66 boats registered.

Boats start sailing at 11 a.m. on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, weather permitting. Event organizer Krista Vind said, “All the sails are different colors. So, it’s beautiful. You may not understand all the rules and what’s really going on, but still, it’s just beautiful to watch.”

Sailor Bob Curry said, “Half the fun is walking around and listening to all the chatter after the races. The camaraderie, the high fives, people drinking beer together. If you have a question for someone, just come up and ask.”

All boats will be out of the water by 2 p.m. on Sunday and then the awards ceremony will be at 4 p.m.

With eight separate classes, spectators will see rigs of all shapes and sizes competing in the waters throughout the weekend.