Before the Race
The rain smattered and pattered right up until the starting horn blew at yesterday’s Oysterville Regatta. From then on, it remained dry (mostly) and was suitably windy (actually, more than) for the nine competing boats and their redoubtable skippers.
Judy and Charlie – Photo by Vicki
There were some gnarly gusts, though, catching a number of the sleek laser sailboats just wrong and over they’d go. Exciting for us shoreside spectators, difficult for the stalwart sailors, and cause for the rescue jet skier (Doug Knutzen) to zip hither and thither throughout the race. Thankfully, the event was disaster-free, though there was one problem that caused a skipper to drop out after the first heat and another boat lost its rudder for a few tense minutes. The consensus: easier sailing than last year but enough excitement to last until Regatta 2019!
Admiral of the Fleet – Photo by Vicki
Afterwards, the Awards Dinner, the culminating Regatta event each year since the early 1990s, surpassed all expectations! Orchestrated by Carol Wachsmuth and daughter Lina, and hosted by Lina and Dave, there was a fabulous array of food and beverages (served by our favorite professional Pamela and her friend Lisa) – even a special beer for the occasion, brewed by Carol and Tucker’s son Charley! Music was provided by Judy and Charlie of Double J and the Boys. In addition to the stars of the day, nearly all of Oysterville was in attendance along with friends and relatives from as far away as Germany.
Friends and Family
Tucker, in his capacity as Admiral of the Fleet and Master of Ceremonies, presented the awards – the trophies all crafted by him and taking on more significance with each passing year. The Oyster Cup is adorned with each winner’s name and goes back to 1994! There were tee shirts (also designed by Tucker) for all participants and workers and, to cap it all off, he treated us to his “2018 Regatta Song” – plus a review of past celebratory compositions as well! Wow!
Regatta Pinata Grandkids
The youngest children raced around the periphery, adorned in the colorful remains of an afternoon piñata attack. Old friends renewed acquaintances and new friendships were forged. As it grew dark, a fire was lit in the firepit, various instruments began to appear, and guests gathered ’round to join in on old favorites. As Nyel and I walked home, we talked about our good fortune to live in this lovely place in the company of good friends and neighbors. It really doesn’t get much better than Regatta Day in Oysterville!
I am just sick (well, not literally) that I could not be there. I had so much fun last year, I didn’t think it could be surpassed, but sounds like this was even better. As somebody famous used to say, Wail till next year!