The Vernon Yacht Club’s charity regatta is drawing near, and the goal is to sail towards food security in the Okanagan.
The club is bringing back the Okanagan Charity Regatta on Okanagan Lake in Vernon June 2-4. The sailing event promises to be a fun and engaging opportunity to bring the Okanagan together in support of a vital cause for food security in local communities.
Sailors of all ages and abilities from across the region will compete in a series of races to raise money for a charitable cause.
The regatta will raise funds for United Way BC and Community Foundation North Okanagan, which support many of organizations across the valley.
“United Way BC is deeply grateful to the Vernon Yacht Club and the North Okanagan community for this incredible support. We’re also honoured to share the proceeds with our long-time partner, the Community Foundation North Okanagan (CFNO),” said Jeremy Lugowy, campaign manager for United Way BC. “You’re helping us address challenges within the emergency food sector in the region through our food security initiatives.”
The event kicks off Friday, June 2, with a welcome race part way up the lake from Whiskey Island to Vernon, followed by registration and a barbecue. The fundraiser runs between now and the regatta with many opportunities for sponsors and donors to get involved by sponsoring a boat, donating towards a meal or supporting the online auction in mid-May. All funds go directly to the two charities through their Trellis fundraising platform.
The races begin in earnest on Saturday, June 3, and continue Sunday, June 4, ending with an awards presentation.
Sailors will have the chance to win the top three prizes in various fleets.
On June 1, North Sails is hosting a Sail Trim webinar as a fundraiser for the gold level sponsorship.
“The Okanagan Charity Regatta is excited about this webinar, which will fast track sailors’ skill levels with all proceeds going to charity,” said Pamela Miller, chair of the Okanagan Charity Regatta.
High performance coach Drew Mitchell is looking forward to working with the regatta.
“We at North Sails believe strongly in supporting local sailing and clubs around the Okanagan and always try to jump on a chance to help charities,” Mitchell said.
For more information about the regatta or to donate or sponsor, visit okanagancharityregatta.ca.
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