In the San Diego area, the options for recreation are almost limitless. From learning to surf the waves in Ocean Beach, kayaking the caves in La Jolla or hiking the trails at Cowles Mountain, Sailors have many options to keep busy and develop new interests.

Along with many active-duty service members, Reservists and veterans, Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) Jeremy Mabe found sailing to be his favorite hobby.

"It's healthy, competitive fun that is an alternative to getting in trouble," said Mabe. "You can come out here and have a good time, learn something fun and make some friends who are really good people. Plus, you're not spending a lot of money."

During the annual South Bay Combined Navy Cup Regatta held by Navy Yacht Club San Diego (NYCSD), Mabe and the crews of eight sailboats worked together and raced in the San Diego Harbor July 16-17.

For two days, sailboats of various classes sailed a set out course, turning at checkpoints and using the wind to cross the finish line.

While the boats turned directions or attempted to change speed, the crews used their sailing skill sets to complete tasks such as preparing to tack, rapidly tightening the jib, loosening the main sheet and successfully carrying out the action.

The crews were actively engaged while awaiting their respective skipper's next command.

"Normally we talk about where the other boats are and what they're doing, what we see, whether it's in the wind or in the water, and tactics such as when we should turn and other duties," said Mabe.

Established in 1964, the NYCSD has been operated by volunteers who work hard to provide sailing opportunities for new sailors and experienced ones.

Naval Air Crewman (Helicopter) 1st Class Calder Epes, a Reservist, holds the title of vice commodore of the yacht club as well as the principal race officer.

Epes, an experienced sailor, says the craft of sailing has many factors.

"It's an incredible outdoor activity," said Epes. "It's athletics, academics and very physics-heavy. You're constantly making judgment calls on wind, the effect of the wind on the sails and the other sailboats. It's a big game of working with nature and getting the geometry right in your head to overcome your opponents."

After two long days of sailing, the event concluded with a barbecue cookout celebrating the weekend's hard work and experience.

For those who missed the opportunity to participate in the South Bay Combined Navy Cup Regatta, the race will be held again next year.

The NYCSD is an element of the commanding officer, Naval Base Coronado's Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) program.

For more information on Navy Yacht Club San Diego, visit www.nycsd.org.

For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy.

For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element, visit www.navy.mil/.