Indian Summer Regatta

Report by Carol Lawler.

It’s hard to believe, but they’ve been racing on Lake Waccamaw in October for half a century! This year’s Indian Summer regatta celebrated it’s 50th consecutive October race with an excellent mix of 26 boats including five Hobie Islands, six Isotopes (their Nationals), seven Wetas, three open monohulls and five open multihulls.

Sailors began arriving mid-day on Friday and many were rigged, ready and enjoying a leisurely sail before the welcome party began at 1800 hrs. The event was once again supported by local Hobie dealer Sail and Ski Connection of Myrtle Beach, SC, who was set up on site demonstrating Hobie kayaks and paddleboards and offering technical and repair support for the Hobie Island sailors.
 
Saturday was a beautiful day, clear skies, 80 degrees, but no wind. The barge and safety boats set up a course mid-lake, and there was just enough wind for boats to get out to the course, but no races were completed. Racing was scrapped after about an hour and boats had to make their way back in any way possible. The Weta group was able to talk the safety boat into a tow and it was quite a comical sight to see them moving across the lake in a straight line like a momma duck and ducklings. Despite the lack of wind everyone enjoyed a delicious dinner and live music Saturday night provided by Crenshaw Trucking Band.

Sunday conditions were better and racing started early to take advantage of an uncharacteristic morning breeze. Three races were completed and sailors were able to get back in and have lunch before having to head back home. Although Mother Nature could have been a little more cooperative, you can’t ask for more than perfect weather, good food and companionship in a beautiful setting. 

Winners for 50th Annual Indian Summer 2025:
Isotopes: 1st place Stephen Chobot, 2nd place Eric Rasmussen
Wetas: 1st Place  Alan Taylor, 2nd Place Chuck Carroll, 3rd place James Serpa
Open Monohull: 1st Place Ande Hencke/Jay Smith, 2nd Place David & Caron McLamb
Open Multihull: 1st Place Philippe & Dee Dee Laurent,   2nd Place Russell Galvin        

SAVE THE DATES 2025 EVENTS FOR WACCAMAW SAILING CLUB:
ALLIGATOR RUN REGATTA: APRIL 25-27
HOBIE ISLAND WACCAMAW WEEKEND: JUNE 6-8
INDIAN SUMMER REGATTA: OCTOBER 3-5
WETA NATIONAL REGATTA: OCTOBER 9-12