The Squamish Open Annual Regatta (SOAR) is back and soaring to new viewpoints.
Returning for its 43rd year, spectators will at last be able to view the three-day race on the waterfront at the new Feather Park.
A spokesperson for the Squamish Yacht Club told The Squamish Chief that the Sp'akw'us Feather Park would be one of the best vantage points to see the boats in action.
“There has been no waterfront access for the last couple of years; the new park would be a great spot to see the racers finish the race on Friday,” the spokesperson said.
“It's usually an exciting, windy finish!”
The annual regatta, which kicks off at 4 p.m. on Friday, July 26, will see boats from the Lower Mainland and the local area participate.
Launching from Porteau Cove, the boats will race downwind to Squamish and are anticipated to reach the outskirts of the new park at around 5 p.m.
The race picks up again on Saturday, July 27, at Squamish Harbour with the boats’ trajectory set to Kw'émkw'em (Defence Islands) and wraps up on Sunday, July 28, back in Porteau Cove.
“We hope to have 30 keelboats attend the event, each with anywhere from four to 12 crew onboard,” said the spokesperson.
They recommended Porteau Cove, the top of the Stawamus Chief or the Gondola, for impressive viewpoints to watch the race, as well as Sp'akw'us Feather Park.
“Some say that it is the best kept secret on the West Coast, but it is definitely the regatta with the most consistent winds, most spectacular venue, and voted the best party in the Pacific Northwest,” reads the website for SOAR.
“We welcome you with beer at the dock party on Friday night. You party until you can’t take it on Saturday. Why not finish it off with a raft-up party in Porteau Cove after the race on Sunday? It’s hot, you still have the trip home; better stop for a swim!”
The dock party will also host a fundraiser barbecue, with proceeds going to RCM SAR.
Find more information about the event on the SOAR website.
