“Are we going to have enough wind?”  That is what many were thinking when day 1 of the Pelican Lake Regatta began on July 25, 2026. We had 21 boats fill the lake across three fleets including a sailing school fleet of six boats with both students and instructors. There was some bobbing time waiting for the wind.  The school fleet took advantage and had fun swimming back and forth between boats while we waited. Eventually, a little wind filled in accross the lake and we started the race.

As the two days of racing progressed, we were able to get in two races each day despite the low and variable winds.  The last race of the second day finally developed some decent winds in the 10 to 15 mph range and produced some fast boats and resulting times.  It should also be mentioned that both days were hot, above 95 degrees. Sailors were thankful for the drinks and lunch coordinated by Rhonda Loberg on day 1 and the better winds to help cool off on day 2.

This year the regatta was also blessed with a good fleet of chase-boat teams — the Smart and Flatin families plus Ryan Grindeland — who were more busy towing than they were helping rescue tipped boats.  Commodore Tom Frei was the only boat that needed up righting after he tipped his boat on the last race of the day.  The race committee including Gary Ostbye, Teri Lantz, and Roger Stadum set and adjusted courses with precision to keep the racing fair and fun.

Saturday Night brought fun and food at the new clubhouse facility.   Sailors and friends were appreciative of the new building and the shade awning which provided shade for outside seating.  Thanks to Dick Chadinia, the clubhouse was set and ready to go to host its first Regatta Gathering. It is beautiful inside if you haven’t seen it yet!  Sailors brought an impressive spread of homemade dishes, and the warm, humid evening still managed to feel light and lively. Special thanks to Anne Peltier and Teri Lanz for coordinating and providing the great spread of food. The sailing school instructors and students always represent the PLYC Sailing School so well getting dressed up and having fun.