In 1972, a friendly conversation among friends at Baxter?s Boathouse in Hyannis, MA escalated to a challenge to see who could sail their boat to Nantucket the fastest over Memorial Day weekend. This was the inception of Figawi Race Weekend, a Nantucket and Cape Cod tradition that has grown considerably in popularity since it?s informal […]The post Figawi, The Story Behind the Annual Boat Race Between Hyannis and Nantucket appeared first on Pursuitist.

In 1972, a friendly conversation among friends at Baxter?s Boathouse in Hyannis, MA escalated to a challenge to see who could sail their boat to Nantucket the fastest over Memorial Day weekend. This was the inception of Figawi Race Weekend, a Nantucket and Cape Cod tradition that has grown considerably in popularity since it?s informal start in 1972 thanks to names like Kennedy and Koch joining the competition in the 80s and beyond.Originally billed as a fun race across Nantucket Sound over Memorial Day weekend, Figawi grew by leaps and bounds during the 70s?so much so that a lay day was added in 1978 along with a race back to Hyannis, as the race committee, now formerly organized, turned the Figawi from a one day race into a three day weekend event. Since it?s inception, the race and 3-day festivities have drawn thousands of sailors, sailing enthusiasts and those who just want to be part of this fun tradition to Nantucket for Memorial Day weekend.The annual race, which raises money for various charities, is sponsored by ...