Port Waterway and Beach District help Regatta

The St. Augustine Yacht Club reported to Historic City News that the St. Augustine Port, Waterway and Beach District agreed in their meeting yesterday that, over the objection of chairman, Barry Benjamin, they will contribute $7,500 to the 30th annual Holiday Regatta of Lights.

Randy Brunson, who chaperoned the funding request for the Yacht Club to the Port, Waterway and Beach District, told Historic City News reporters, “They have requested that they receive more recognition for their contribution.”

The Tourist Development Council of St. Johns County has also contributed $7,500 to the Regatta.

“We are excited to have a $15,000 head start to promote this spectacular and colorful parade of boats,” Brunson said. “This event reflects the maritime roots of the Oldest City and is in keeping with St. Augustine’s historical seaborne image and rich nautical heritage.”

The Regatta is hosted by The St. Augustine Yacht Club and will take place at 6:00 P.M. on Saturday, December 11th, 2010 on the bayfront — just north of the Bridge of Lions.

Sailboats, sport-fishermen, trawlers, shrimp boats, and many other vessels will take part, decorated with the festive lights of the Christmas season in celebration of the holidays. Entry is encouraged for all powered pleasure craft, both private and commercial, with no limit as to size.

“We invite all boat owners to participate,” Brunson told Historic City News. “A Reception and Awards Ceremony will be held at The St. Augustine Yacht Club for the Captains and Crews of the boats in the parade.”

Awards will be made by a panel of judges. Eighteen trophies will be given in three classes:

Private/Under 25′:
MOST COLORFUL—1st, 2nd and 3rd places
BEST THEME—1st, 2nd and 3rd places
BEST IN CLASS—1st place

Private/25′ & Over:
MOST COLORFUL—1st, 2nd and 3rd places
BEST THEME—1st, 2nd and 3rd places
BEST IN CLASS—1st place

Commercial: MOST COLORFUL—1st place

BEST THEME—1st place

BEST IN CLASS—1st place

Grand Prize: BEST OVERALL—1st place

The annual Holiday Regatta of Lights is always a memorable occasion. Both visitors and local residents will be able to view the event from the bayfront and seawall, Castillo de San Marcos, the Bridge of Lions and from the eastern shore of the bay.

All Historic City News readers are invited to the downtown area to enjoy the City’s “Nights of Lights” and to experience the truly spectacular Holiday Regatta of Lights boat parade, Saturday, December 11th.

Deadline for entry applications is Friday, December 10th.