Next week the Sperry Top-Sider NOOD Regatta series rolls into Seattle, and now that the entry late fee is in effect (sorry you procrastinators) the entry list has surpassed the 200-mark (as of today, 208). That's an awesome turnout for a first-time event on the national NOOD circuit, which incidentally started in Newport about this time 20 years ago). But what's more incredible than the boat tally is the diverse cross section of one-designs that stepped up to make it happen. There are few events out there today with a make-up like this one.

"To be honest, I didn't know what to expect," says the NOOD regatta's chief George Brengle, "maybe 130 or so. This is way exceeding my expectations."

That's a good thing, of course, for the regatta, but George is going to be one busy, busy man.

Of the 24 classes formed for the Seattle NOOD, we've got keelboats big and small from J/Boats to Beneteau 36.7s, C&C 115s, 6 Meters, and OD35s. There are sportboats; Melges 24s, Rocket 22s, and Ultimate 20s. Representing the dinghy contingency are Tasars, Thistles, and Lasers. Even the catamaran crowd will be in the house (a first for the NOOD series) with a healthy F-18 class and a handful of A Cats. And, as an East Coaster new to the Northwest, I'm excited to finally get to see firsthand the likes of the venerable Thunderbirds, San Juan 21s, and Moore 24s. Talk about a deep mixing pot. The racing is all on Puget Sound, with exception of the Mini 12 class, which will be racing on Portage Bay, in front of Seattle.

The regatta is co-hosted by both the Seattle Yacht Club and the Corinthian Yacht Club of Seattle, and the nightly parties will be spread between the two. Friday and Saturday night parties will be at Corinthian and the Sunday awards party will be held at Seattle YC. Each post-race gathering will have music, and of course, food and the legendary Mount Gay free pour (from 5:30 to 7:00 on Fri/Sat and 4:30 Sunday). The local Maritime Pacific Brewing company will be serving up its suds. Tickets are $45 for all three nights, so for all you Seattle sailors waking up from your winter slumber, come down and bump that number up. If the boat is still under the tarp, the parties are there for the taking.