Thus, out of this transportation necessity was born the Hampton Class' two distance races, the Norfolk to Hampton and the Hampton to Norfolk races which precede each Yacht Club's Annual One Design Regatta. This race is the mini-Whitbread for Hamptons. It starts off of Old Dominion University and finishes in Hampton Creek off the HYC pier. The race, which covers approximately 10 miles as the crow flies, provides a great opportunity to test one's navigation skills, big picture race strategy, and creativity. In spite of the great distance and wide open race course, the fleet often finishes within inches of each other after converging on Hampton Creek from every conceivable corner of Hampton Roads.
Unpredictability is the only reliable constant.
This race is a marathon and nothing but a real adventure -anything can happen. The race is scored separately from the Annual Regatta. The trophy is a permanent fixture in Hampton Yacht Club. Historically, the Hampton Annual was the very first Hampton One regatta. He was so thrilled by the sight that he continued to sail in and watch Hampton regattas for as long as he lived.