In this year's Frostbiting there are several father-and-son teams. Andrea Watson interviewed young James Macedonio. What follows are some of the things he said: He is 10 years old. This is the first frostbiting season for both of them. During the summer, he sails an Optimist, likes to go fast and play tag in the boats. He is making a lot of sailing buddies. He also sails an "Ideal 18" with his father which he thinks is easier than the frostbite dinghy because it doesn't tip over easily. He likes to sail, but likes sailing in the summer better because it's not cold if he falls in.

In the same week as the above was submitted, the "Ideal 18" was called to attention. According to last count there were seven at MBYC and three at PWYC. The "Ideal 18" is a keel boat, 18 feet on the waterline. There is enough stability control to make it suitable for a wide range of sailors. With spinnaker, boom vang and other equipment it can be fine-tuned. Yet it can be manned by skipper and one crew. The boat will accommodate four people. Numerous "Ideal 18s" are reported to have been accepted on both sides of the sound.

As a qualified observer said, "This is a boat to watch!"

Of course, many of us are following America's Cup. As this is written, America One with Skipper Paul Cayard is in second place (of seven) standing after the third round robin of the Louis Vuitton Cup. Among the crew are Ralph Steitz, on of our top Frostbite Skippers. So is Joe Belsky, captain on John Thomson' Infinity for two years.

In fifth place is Stars & Stripes with skipper Dennis Conner. Among the crew are Chuck Brown, Robby Myles and Tom Whidden, all regular crew on both Infinity and Solution.

Twelve Frostbite teams sailed last Sunday (12/12). The wind was NW, 10-3 knots.

At presstime only the two top teams had been announced: 1st Doug Clark/Felicity Ryan and 2nd Pedro Lorson/Mimi Berry.

The winners are sailing #537, the boat of Ralph Steitz.