This year's Newport-Bermuda Race will include the sailboat Van Ki Pass, whose crew will predominantly consist of St. Barth sailors. The biennial Newport-Bermuda Race sets sail from Newport, Rhode Island, on June 17, marking its 100th anniversary. Van Ki Pass, Creole for Passing Wind, is a 65' wood/epoxy custom-built race boat that has been chartered by Liza Baldwin, a native of Newport who spent the winter in St. Barth sailing almost daily and becoming a member of the Saint Barth Yacht Club. The sailboat will be captained by Randy West and the 14-person crew will include at least eight St Barth natives and long-time residents. Baldwin will also be a member of the crew. The entire crew will be in Newport two weeks before the start of the race to participate in a weekend sailing regatta and to prepare for the race to Bermuda. West has participated in the Newport-Bermuda Race four times, winning once and coming in second another time. You can be sure that many people from St. Barth will be eagerly awaiting the outcome of this year's race!