Rags to Riches Regatta awash in color

July 5, 2009

Local Stacy Hamilton snapped this colorful photo of the Rags to Riches Regatta from Seagrove to Grayton Beach on July 3.
Local Stacy Hamilton snapped this colorful photo of the Rags to Riches Regatta from Seagrove to Grayton Beach on July 3.

Elizabeth Savage, race organizer gives a recap on the race:

“The Hobie’s raced from Grayton to Seagrove Beach on July 3, 2009. The race of mostly 16 ft. Hobie’s started just after 12:30 pm on a beautiful day. Capt Bill Apple (Panama Jack) and his crew, Jeremy, raced to the finish line for first place just ahead of Bryson Stephens (#109366) and his crew, daughter, Madeline Stephens. In third was Karl Renelt (#08) and crew Bridget Precise who grabbed their trophies just in time to head to Oceans Springs, MS for another regatta. Brian Lambert had the only 20 ft Hobie in the race. He had the pleasure of including his entire family (wife and kids) on the boat in a race for the very first time. It was fun to see his kids pick up their hardware.

It truly was a great day and a family affair. Grayton Beach gave us a great send-off and arriving in Seagrove to all the fanfare was amazing. So many old Grayton and Seagrove families, who were a part of this event for 13 years (1981-1994), were among the sailors and spectators. That made it exceptionally special.”