Approximately 160 boats will sail 150 miles south along the gulf coast to Port Aransas. The overall winner will take home the coveted Bacardi Cup Trophy.
“2016 is the 30th Anniversary of the annual Harvest Moon Regatta,” says Bettis. “This annual race runs from Galveston to Port Aransas, and the organizers are looking forward to a competitive, fun race again this year. The Municipal Marina in Port Aransas is making room for us now as we expect over 150 boats. Two safety programs have already been completed this year and were heavily attended.”
The Harvest Moon Regatta is a 150-mile race from Galveston to Port Aransas which will begin on Thursday afternoon, Oct. 13 at 2 p.m. and ends at the race finish in the channel at Port A. “Spectators are welcome to view the start of the race off the Pleasure Pier in Galveston,” says Bettis.
Racers will be arriving in “Port A” at varying times on Friday. The famous Welcome Sailors Rum Party will take place on Saturday, Oct. 15, during late afternoon at the City Pavilion. After a barbecue buffet, an awards ceremony will commence where numerous trophies will be awarded.
The regatta is organized by Bay Access, a charitable organization supporting amateur racing, and it is hosted by Lakewood Yacht Club, the City of Port Aransas and Port Aransas & Mustang Island. Aside from Harvest Moon Regatta founding sponsor Bacardi U.S.A., 2016 sponsors include all Bay Access annual race sponsors, Banks Sails, Windward Sea Ventures, Alliant Marine & Energy Insurance, Boatpix.com, Mantus Anchors, Optima Marine, Faron Daigle Realtor®, Superior Marine Services, True North Marine, Coast Guard Foundation, Little Yacht Sales, North Canvas and Upholstery, Davis Marine Electronics, Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine, Ocean Navigator, Eagle Maritime Services, Inc., Saved by Spot, The Insurance Navigators, Fishbones Safety Solutions & Energy Services, Triumphus, Laguna Harbor, The Yacht Sales Company, Edna Rice Executive Recruiters, Rejex, Oj’s Marine, the City of Seabrook and several others.
“Through the support of these enthusiastic sponsors, we can provide a first-class event for our racers,” Bettis explained.
For further information or an up-to-date list of race sponsors, check the race website at www.harvestmoonregatta.com.