The speed potential of a Santa Cruz 50 is pretty well documented, but one story personally stands out. In the 2005 Coastal Cup race off the California coast this boat and two other 50's were locked in a downwind battle after dark off Monterey, and from the previous owner I heard this story: All of them were flying kites in rising seas and wind of about 15' and 30 kts. The lead was exchanged back in forth with basically everyone running neck and neck. For various reasons, like not wanting to be the first to drop the chute, and maybe not thinking it prudent, all competitors pushed and held on reaching documented speeds of 28kts. These days, while cruising, we spend most of our time trying to slow the boat down. For cruising it is much more comfortable, and relaxing to be doing 10-12 knots, but its nice to know we can heat it up at anytime.
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