Generations on the water: the Baxter family tradition continues at Block Island Race Week XXXI
by Storm Trysail Club 17 Nov 09:26 PST
22-27 June 2025
Block Island Race Week 2023 © Cate Brown / Block Island Race Week
With 66 entries and more on the way, the 31st Block Island Race Week looks set to be an extraordinary event. Among the names listed, one stands out as a connection to the regatta’s beginnings: the Baxter family.
John and Molly Baxter hold an impressive record in high-level competitive racing and have entered their family cruising yacht, Rascal, a Dehler 38C, in the Performance Cruising Class, preserving a valued tradition. We reached out to John to learn more about the significance of Race Week for him and his family.
“We’re excited to do Block Island Race Week with the entire family,” John revealed. “My friend Anthony Kotoun was [coaching Stark Raving Mad] during the last race week and mentioned the enjoyment the pursuit racers were having. He recommended we gather some sailing buddies from St. Mary’s College, bring our families, and enter the navigator division together.”
To the Baxters, Race Week is not just a competition; it’s a vital aspect of their family legacy. John’s father started attending Block Island Race Week during its formative years in the 1960s and participated in almost every edition until recently, when health issues kept him off the water. “I’m not certain he attended in 1965, but if not then, certainly the following one,” John recalled. “One of my fondest childhood memories is seeing John Thomson of Infinity fame cruising around the harbor in his powerboat Seafood—a nod to Caddyshack—with a Dixieland band playing on board. It truly brought a festive atmosphere to the event.”
John’s sailing journey began post-college, racing on boats like the IMS 40 Sirena and later with the Rima team on the Farr 60 and Reichel/Pugh 55. “Those were some of my best years,” he reminisced. “That was also when I was finally allowed to participate in the legendary Race Week cocktail parties!” After decades of racing at Block Island, John estimates he has taken part in 15 to 20 Race Weeks, sailing with his dad since he was only six years old.
This year, John and Molly will bring their children, aged 8 and 11, to share in the Race Week experience for the first time. “We can’t wait to introduce them to Race Week,” John said. “There’s nothing like it.”
John’s brother, Bill, will also be competing in the PHRF class with his J/111 Fireball, representing their home club of Riverside alongside his wife, Jackie.
Witnessing experienced racers introduce the next generation to Block Island brings us immense joy. It serves as a reminder that although competition is intense, Race Week is also about family, camaraderie, and fun. So, what are you waiting for? Register and become part of this tradition!
