Lakefest Approaches; another year to celebrate

Texoma Lakefest Regatta began nearly a quarter century ago as the Easter Regatta; Lakefest was the first charity regatta in the United States. Today, it has grown to become one of the nation's premiere sailing events and is still recognized as the largest inland charity regatta in the U.S.

April 16th, 17th, and 18th

Lakefest is not just for Sailors! Everyone can enjoy the event and participate by coming out to watch the fleets battle it out and then party with the rogues at the Shipwrecked Ball! From coming out on the spectator boats to drinking and dancing with a bunch of saucy sailors you are guaranteed to have a blast!

This year, Lakefest will feature two separate racecourses: one for spinnaker and main and jib handicap (PHRF) fleets and one dedicated to Melges 24, J/80 and performance multi-hull One Designs. With a large number of PHRF boats expected, the handicap fleet will be divided into numerous divisions giving everyone from high octane racing sloops to "bimini and BBQ" cruisers ample and fair competition. Keelboats of all sizes, kinds and speeds are encouraged to participate.

Since its inception, Lakefest has raised more than $2 million in support of various children's charities in North Texas. The Texoma Lakefest Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt not-for-profit corporation.

In 2009, the Texoma Lakefest Foundation selected a new beneficiary – the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of North Texas. The sole purpose of the Make-A-Wish Foundation is to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions, in order to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. Their goal is to provide children with the hope for better times, strength through the tough times and the joy to experience the present. The Make-A-Wish Foundation has granted more than 3,000 wishes since its inception in 1982.

With the changing of times comes new life. This new combination of Sailor's Championing a Cause will bring new life to children that desperately need hope and comforting. Sailing has seen many charity events. Sailors as a whole, race for the right to say they challenged an obstacle and won. In this new chapter of Lakefest we challenge you to help Make A Wish come true for these children!

We will see an increasing level of competition and number of sailors participate as we make others aware of the event and as fleets decide to participate and help to make it great. That way we can all get together to enjoy the great competition and the spirit of helping others not so fortunate.

Texoma Lakefest Regatta is sponsored by the hard working volunteers at the Texoma Sailing Club. The club is headquartered at Grandpappy's Marina and Resort on the South East side of Lake Texoma near Highway 75. Texoma Sailing Club is one of the largest and most active sailing clubs in Texas! Our full racing and social calendar provides ample opportunity for all members to be as involved as they wish. As member of US Sailing you can be assured to have both of your needs for a well organizaed and challenging event, fun and adventure will be fulfilled!

As we move forward, looking to bring Lakefest to a new level of support and attendance we hope that all racers whether they are PHRF, First Timers, or One Design remember to mark their calendars and come out each and every year to participate in one of the country's greatest sailing events!

Pirate Mike

Bowman for Second Star Racing Team


Click Here to get your Shipwrecked Ball Tickets

Feel free to contact me here at the blog for more information or follow the links above to make your plans to attend or race...