The Hoosier Regatta has been a tradition at Lake Wawasee for 70 years. The starting line often finds over 30 boats lined up. Photo by Jeff Schmahl.
By Jeff Schmahl
Guest Writer
SYRACUSE — Thirty teams are expected to participate in the annual Hoosier Regatta on Lake Wawasee, Sept. 30-Oct. 1. Considered one of the most successful and enduring Lightning class sailboat regattas worldwide, this year marks the 70th anniversary of the event which was first held during the summer of 1954.
Lightnings are 19-feet long and require a crew of three people for racing. Designed in 1938, nearly 16,000 have been built worldwide. The class is governed by the International Lightning Class Association and includes over 100 active fleets worldwide, including the WYC.
Racing teams will travel to Lake Wawasee from across the Midwest, including several representing the Buffalo Canoe Club, home of several top Lightning sailors. The competition will be particularly fierce this year. Participants include several former and current North American champions, the current world champion, the reigning world masters champion, and a three-time Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year. The president of the ILCA will also participate. Three races are planned for Saturday beginning at noon, with two more planned for Sunday morning.
Donna Schmahl and her husband Jeff always prepare a chili lunch to serve after the Hoosier Regatta scheduled for Sept. 30-Oct. 1 at the Wawasee Yacht Club. Photo by Mary Hursh.
Once touted by a former class officer as “the finest regatta in which you will ever sail,” the Hoosier Regatta offers high quality inland lake racing and top caliber competition, but the hospitality of the WYC volunteers is what makes the weekend a can’t-miss experience.
All visiting teams are housed nearby by local hosts, which helps keep the event easy and affordable. The food, including coveted traditions such as hot-buttered cider served after Saturday’s racing, sets the Hoosier Regatta above many others on the racing circuit. Meals are prepared throughout the weekend by an experienced team of dedicated volunteers. Over 120 people will enjoy Saturday night’s dinner, followed by a very entertaining door prize program. After racing concludes on Sunday, awards for the top five teams will be presented. The winner will have their name engraved on the beautiful Hoosier Regatta perpetual trophy.
Acclaimed photographer and digital media professional, Bill Crawford (harborpictures.com), will be on site all weekend capturing the action on and off the water. Stay up-to-date with the latest Hoosier Regatta photos and information by following the Wawasee Yacht Club on Instagram and Facebook.
Sailors will celebrate the 70th sailing of the Hoosier Regatta at the end of the month. Photo by Mary Hursh.