The Leech Lake Regatta – Sailing Since 1971
July 25, 2016
The Leech Lake Regatta, running annually since 1971, will be here soon. As one of Minnesota’s largest Regatta’s it offers two fleets of mono and multi hull sailboats that race in multiple divisions over three days. With dozens of sailboats taking to the water daily it is truly a wonderful sight, as Leech Lake becomes a tapestry of multicolored sails and boats. The race is only one part of the daily Regatta happenings. Come prepared for great times, both on and off the water.
The first day (August 12th) of the Regatta starts at 4PM when racers arrive and check in or register receive their race information, packets, and tickets to the awards banquet, by this time most teams will have their boats in the water and set for the first day of racing. The Shores of Leech Lake Resort offers Regatta participants space to sleep in boats, tents, and other areas for $10 per night and allows boats parked on the grounds for $15 per night, and don’t forget to purchase tickets for the fish fry and BBQ. Once participants are settled in the real fun starts with live entertainment from the Desert Blues Duo on the grounds, starting at 6PM and going to 9PM, all are welcome.
Day Two (August 13th) starts early at 7AM with coffee and donuts on the front lawn of the Shores Resort and then team photos in front of the main lawn, followed by a quick race meeting and the blessing of the fleet. The Leech Lake Regatta then shifts into full swing at 9 AM when the first day of racing begins. This offers racers and viewers the perfect time to see all the different Sailboats gathered to launch from the shores of Leech Lake. The race then continues throughout the day. Finally after a long day of racing there will be a Fish Fry at the Walker Community Church, followed by music and a campfire at the Yardarm. Enjoy the company of fellow racers and friends as you relax under the stars around a large campfire, the perfect way to end the day.
Day Three (August 14th) starts off early again with coffee and donuts and a race meeting. Then day two of the racing begins at 9AM. Enjoy another wonderful (hopefully windy) day on the water racing or watching the race from the shore or your boat as competitors jockey for position around Leech Lake. After you come in from the water (hopefully as the day’s leader), the large BBQ will be up and cooking while the Kellog Duo plays in front of the lodge. Don’t forget to bring your costume to celebrate the Leech Lake Regatta. Judging will start at 8PM. Finally if you’re not too tired, spend some time around the communal campfire again before the final day of racing.
Day Four (August 15th) marks the third and final day of racing. The last chance for teams to jump up in the rankings, while enjoying the wonderful waters of Leech Lake. The final day of Racing will end before 3PM and then participants will make their way to the Northern Lights Convention Center to enjoy their Awards Banquet.
The Leech Lake Regatta has been a tradition since 1971, and will continue to be for many years to come. If you haven’t registered yet there is still time, you can register with The Shores of Leech Lake Resort. For those not racing the Regatta still offers wonderful entertainment both on and off the water. If you need lodging for the Regatta please visit our lodging listings. Otherwise we will see you on the water!