Mark Twain Lake Sailing Association (MTLSA) celebrated the 2010 SUMMER SAILSTICE in style. Several members of the Rockford (Illinois) Yacht Club joined the MTLSA sailors on the beautiful northeast Missouri Lake for an unforgettable time.
It was planned as a day-long celebration, beginning with the club’s annual Commodore’s Cup race. Winds started out light but built as the race went on. The competition was friendly, enjoyable, and above all, safe! The race was to be followed by an afternoon of sailing and an evening raft-up, but as the race ended the weather closed in and a severe squall forced the party back to the marina. No Matter – sailors are a resourceful lot, and a wonderful at-the-dock raft-up was formed! It was the perfect venue, as each boat was asked to “Come As A Country” to celebrate the international flavor of the SUMMER SAILSTICE!
After dining on wonderful international cuisine from Italy, Austria, Germany, Ireland, Norway, New Zealand, Mexico and several other nations, the MTLSA and RYC sailors moved on to storytelling and song. Finally, the sunset was greeted with a traditional cannon salute.
The squalls had all passed by dusk, and as a fitting end to a wonderful day, a beautiful sunset sail was enjoyed by all. SUMMER SAILSTICE was a rousing success, and not even the weather could dampen anyone’s spirits!