On a sizzling hot weekend, young sailors from as far away as Texas kept their cool as they sailed in the 29th running of the New Bedford Junior Regatta out of the New Bedford Yacht Club in Padanaram Saturday, July 13 and Sunday, July 14.

More than 200 sailors ages 19 and younger braved delays on both days because of the weather. Saturday’s stormy conditions and Sunday’s fog pushed off the start of the race on Buzzards Bay out of Padanaram harbor.

The regatta is an annual tradition that will celebrate its 30^th anniversary next year. The regatta was founded by Mary and Peter Kavanaugh to provide young sailors from Buzzards Bay with a chance to compete.

Since then the race has expanded, with participants from throughout the country dropping anchor in the area for the event. Sailors compete in various categories by age grouping.

Fiona Coen from Falmouth enjoyed the chance to sail with her teammates. “It’s fun to be out on the water,’’ she said.

Vicky Van Berkel of Ivoryton, Ct. explained that sailing differs from other athletic pursuits. While most sports involve athletic ability, she said, “this also works your mind. You play it strategically.’’

Liam Donaldson of Annapolis, Md. said he was “excited’’ to get out on the water as he prepared his sailboat for the regatta. “I like the feeling when I do well,’’ he said.

This year's event was co-chaired by Jennifer Vescio and Cindy Brown who begin planning for it in January.

Top area finishers included New Bedford Yacht Club sailors Conner Perry, Alexander Kinsolving, Henry Kinsolvingg and Elizabeth Schwebach, Magnolia Pin, Parker Baker, Cameron Perry, J.D. Lenci and Solomon Fleiss.