The tough opposition and the possibility of defeat were not enough to deter Patrick Arrington from winning a prestigious international sailing regatta. While most students enjoyed a summer of pressure and demands, Arrington, a sophomore at Palmetto, spent a week of his free time in intense competition.



This past July, Arrington participated in the William I. Koch International Sea Scout Cup. The biannual tournament, in its fourth year, was held in the Chesapeake Bay, near Annapolis, Maryland at the United States Naval Academy. The six day tournament concluded on July 19 with Arrington’s triumph.

Having sailed for several years, the tournament was a milestone for Arrington.



“I started sailing at age 10. I like the competition, but I do it because it’s more fun than other sports I’ve tried,” Arrington said.



While sailing may be unfamiliar to many people, especially teens, it is a dignified sport in most parts of the world. Competitors in the regatta included several teams from the United States, including Arrington’s team, as well as other countries.



Because of the regal nature of the regatta (a regatta is a race or series of races involving rowing or sailing), teams adhered to a strict code of conduct, including elaborate uniforms and types of equipment, throughout the tournament. All teams raced the same type of boat, called the Vanguard 420, as well.



In order to be eligible to participate in the tournament, the competitors had to be a part of the Boy Scouts’ Sea Scout program. Arrington ranks as an “Apprentice” in the program.



Arrington remained focused and determined for the duration of the tournament. Originally, he feared a fierce California team, but the New Zealand team eventually emerged as his toughest opponent. He was greatly challenged, but his determination led to success.



“There were 14 races in the tournament, and I was in all of them. The hardest part was probably keeping tabs on the other teams, and making sure I knew who was behind me,” Arrington said.



While there is not a recognized sailing club or team at Palmetto, Arrington is involved with a nearby club, in addition to the Sea Scouts.



“I sail with the Coral Reef Yacht Club. There are about 10 races in a year. The next tournament is in Ft. Myers in about two weeks,” Arrington said.



Arrington has placed near the top in several other tournaments, including a top-3 finish at the 2008 Boomerang Regatta, and is probable that nothing will compare to his last incredible victory.