Once again, colorful sails will gracefully litter Lake Dora.  The 70th Annual Mount Dora Sailing Regatta is expected to draw dozens of boats over the two-day event on March 23 and 24.
   
The races are spread over three courses across a portion of Lake Dora to take advantage of the wind and provide ample space for competitive races.   All ages are invited to participate.  

RELATED:  Antique Boat Festival returns to Tavares on March 23 & 24, 2024

The Regatta is open to all classes, including Optis, Lasers, 420s, Flying Scots, Hunters, Open Bics, Sunfish, Hobies, Wayfarers, and Catalinas. 

The first race typically kicks off Saturday in the early afternoon. and the last race usually finishes close to 4 p.m.   Typically, three to four races will be sailed that afternoon, depending on the weather. The 4th Avenue docks, Lighthouse Point, and Palm Island Boardwalk provide excellent vantage points for spectators.  Sunday's first race usually starts around 9:30 a.m. and no races start after 12 p.m.

The regatta, organized by Mount Dora Yacht Club (MDYC) is the  longest running annual event in the city. MDYC, the oldest inland yacht club in Florida, held its first regatta in 1913.    At that time the event featured powerboats and was reportedly such an exciting event that local businesses closed so everyone could attend.  In 1953, the regatta transitioned to sailboats to alleviate a noise issue.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here.  Discover the area's online entertainment calendar here. Also download the area's free mobile app.  ​​​​
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