Victoria, B.C. - September 13th, 2003 - The Vancouver Island sailing community raised their sails today, while raising an incredible $60,332.48 for children with disabilities. The 7th Annual Easter Seals Regatta, a project of the Lions Society of B.C., set another fundraising record in what has become the most anticipated Regatta on Vancouver Island. This unique event is presented by BMO Nesbitt Burns and is hosted by the Royal Victoria Yacht Club.
An unprecedented 50 boats carrying skippers and crew from local sailing clubs including Turkey Head Sailing Association, CFSA (Canadian Forces Sailing Association), Royal Victoria Yacht Club and Sidney North Saanich Sailing Club came out to celebrate their fundraising efforts.
While Skippers and their crew participated in the colourful Parade of Boats and exciting races in 4 racing divisions and 1 cruising division, special guests and children who benefit from Easter Seal services enjoyed the view from spectator boats including HMCS Oriole. Following the race, everyone enjoyed the on shore activities including Dinner hosted by Connoisseur Catering and live entertainment by the West Mont School Wensleydale Marimba Band.
The prestigious Easter Seals Cup, recognizing the top fundraiser was presented to Ed Life of Surt, raising and amazing $5020.00.
In second place, raising $3696.00 was Hans Baart with Imagine.
In 3rd place, raising $3132.00 was Carol Smith with Barzhang.
The winner of best boat décor award was Imagine and crew with their amazing Little Mermaid Theme.
Individual fundraising awards were also presented to:
1st place Ed Life raising $5020.00.
2nd place Don Sargeant raising $1790.00.
3rd place Hans Baart raising $1696.00.
Racing Division winners, who are recognized at the Awards ceremony with Easter Seals Regatta trophies were:
Division 1 - Racing Psyclone - Dave Tolman Division 2 - Racing Hotspur - Mike Turner Division 3 - Racing Lifestyle - Mike Burns Division 4 - Cruising Dark Star - Joanne & Kim Helwig Division 5 - Racing - Cal 20’s Cal-Nao - Neil Counter
Funds raised at the Easter Seals Regatta help fund the Lions Society of BC’s programs and services for children with disabilities on Vancouver Island including Easter Seal Camp Shawnigan and Vancouver Island Easter Seal House. Part proceeds were presented to the Disabled Sailing Association in recognition of their sailing to program for kids at Easter Seal Camp Shawnigan.
Along with BMO Nesbitt Burns the Royal Victoria Yacht Club, the event is also sponsored by Pacific Yachting, Bell World, River End Consulting, Connoisseur Catering, Vancouver Island Brewery, Sandhill Wines and The New VI.
For information contact:
Eileen Torgeson, Lions Society of B.C.
Tel: (250) 386-0668 Cell: (250) 360-6952
