toledo ice yacht club

You can race ice boats on frozen Lake Erie

Published: Jan. 31, 2019, 5:00 a.m.

Laura Johnston, cleveland.com

TOLEDO, Ohio – On an ice boat, you can speed across the expanse of Lake Erie at 60, 70 mph.

“Winter is the best sailing,” said Les Lashaway, a Toledoan who grew up ice boating, like his father and grandfather before him. “You have to take advantage of that when you can.”

Lashaway, 65, is commodore of the Toledo Ice Yacht Club , which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year and hosting Winterfest this weekend.

Ice boating, or ice yachting, dates to the 17th century in Europe. In 1790, the first American ice boat appeared on the Hudson River. And in Ohio, Lashaway says, men began racing ice boats on Lake Erie in the late 1800s.

An ice boat may look like a sail boat. And many ice boaters also sail. You can jibe and tack an iceboat, to change direction. And in racing, you go around a mark, as you do in sailing. But the boats themselves are totally different.

Iceboats are more like an airplane on its side, with a thick, taut sail you only let out if you’re going around a corner, Lashaway said.

Rather than a wide hull to sit inside, an ice boat has a slender steel hull and a perpendicular cross piece called a runner plank. The boat has three skates (or runners), one at each end of the plank and at the front of the hull. Older boats have steering in the stern, or rear, of the boat. Newer boats steer from the bow.

The most popular, and one of the smallest, types of ice boats is the DN, named for the Detroit News, which in 1937 sponsored an iceboat building contest. There are DN races throughout the United States and Europe.

“They’re completely awesome little crafts,” Lashaway said. “You can make these things real real fast. They go so fast you never go downwind.”

Ice boating is popular in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Sandusky has an ice yacht club, too.

Iceboats need snow-free, smooth ice – plus plenty of wind to move. RocktheLake is headed to Toledo Friday to try out the sport.

You never know when and where you’ll get perfect ice. So while ice regattas are scheduled for specific dates, they may be pushed back week by week. You may not know the location of a regatta until a few days before.

“Three days before, they start scouting the country for the best ice,” Lashaway said. “You just don’t know. You’re ready to travel. You get your credit card empty and be ready to go.”

Thankfully, ice boats can travel atop your car.

The Toledo Ice Yacht Club – formed when four ice yacht clubs combined in 1919 – meets regularly, though, Friday nights from November through March. When the Maumee Bay is ice over, like it is this year, like this year, about 75 people come out to hear the plans for that weekend’s racing. And nearly 100 people may end up at Lashaway’s house.

He doesn’t mind.

“It’s a very old sport, so there’s a lot of old codgers that have been doing it all their life,” Lashaway said. “You never ever miss a year of ice boating.”

For more Lake Erie news, like RocktheLake on Facebook.

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2024 DN ICE SAILING NORTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIP REGATTA

2024 dn north american championship february 25 – march 2, 2024.

Hosted by the Eastern Lakes Region, USA

Gold 360 – On-Board Video from Jeff Kent US3535

by Deb Whitehorse | Mar 5, 2024 | 2024 NA , Home Page

Close Quarters – Picture of the Day

by Deb Whitehorse | Mar 4, 2024 | 2024 NA , Home Page

2024 DN North American Wrap Up

by Deb Whitehorse | Mar 3, 2024 | 2024 NA , Home Page

Junior sailor Maggie McGary. Photo: Julie Jankowski

Congratulations to all the competitors who participated in the 2024 DN North American Championship on Lake Waconia in Waconia, MN, from February 26 to March 1. Matt Struble US183 successfully defended his title while Bill Cutting US5430 won the Silver Fleet. Senior Trophy US 183 MATT STRUBLE Masters Trophy US 44 RON SHERRY Grand Masters Trophy US 3 JIM GROGAN Elliot Sharp Trophy, Highest Ranking Junior US 5777 MILO FLEMING B Fleet Trophy US 5430 BILL CUTTING HIGHEST SCORING FEMALE US 5630 KAREN BINDER

A few highlights:

The Brian and Bruce Jones family epitomized the true spirit of the DN class, carrying on the legacy instilled by their parents. While some families plan their vacations around skiing or beach time, this remarkable bunch schedules theirs around the North Americans.
The hard work of the Canadian fleet paid off handsomely in this regatta with 4 top-10 positions. Robin Lagraviere kicked things off with a bang, competing in the Northwest regatta just days before the North Americans and securing victory in the DN class. He also clinched the top Canadian finish in the North Americans, landing in fourth place overall.
We welcomed three first-time racers, including Ben Garber, Peter Nordquist, and Noah Jones. Ben Garber particularly shone as the top placing Novice, with several top-ten finishes in the Silver fleet and an impressive 16th place overall.
It was a special treat to have one of IDNIYRA Junior Sailing Director Sam Bartel’s students, Maggie McGary, join us as a junior competitor. A sincere thank you to Maggie’s mother for her unwavering support to her throughout the week. New England Ice Yacht Club’s Milo Fleming, who drove from Maine with mom and RC member Nina Fleming and RC member Henry Copotosto, emerged as the victor in the junior fleet. Unfortunately, fellow junior Sam Bartel encountered boat damage in Race 4 and could not compete beyond that point.
Minnesota’s Peter Norton KA2, whose day job is president of the award-winning Rum Jungle Media, had been eagerly awaiting the opportunity to unleash his team of professional video production crew at a DN regatta. We are all eagerly anticipating the final product.

Despite the challenging conditions posed by bumpy ice, the daily winds did not disappoint, providing a refreshing change and ensuring exciting racing throughout the event.

A huge thank you is owed to Regatta Chair James “T” Thieler for his tireless efforts in ice scouting and organizing meetings and trophy ceremonies. The dedication of the race committee was genuinely remarkable, and we hope to keep this talented group together for the 2025 World Championship. The race committee was composed of members from various regions who worked cohesively to guarantee the success of the event. Special appreciation also goes to PRO Pat Heppert for his strong decision-making and for ensuring ample sailing opportunities for all participants. The class is fortunate to have such an experienced ice sailor at the helm of these regattas.

Here’s a shoutout to the rest of the RC team:

Mercedes Auger, North Carolina Ice Yachting Association, Cary, NC: Scoring
Beth Corley, Toledo Ice Yacht Club, Toledo, OH: Scoring
Henry Copotosto, New England Ice Yacht Club, Maine: Starting Line, Staging
Nina Fleming, New England Ice Yacht Club, Maine: Scoring
Ann Foeller, Toledo Ice Yacht Club, Toledo, OH: Registration & Scoring
Bob Foeller, Toledo Ice Yacht Club, Toledo, OH: Registration, ATV, Starting Line, Staging, Recovery
Paul Hickman, Toledo Ice Yacht Club, Toledo, OH: Measuring, Starting Line
Julie Jankowski, Green Lake Ice Yacht Club: Weather Mark, Social Media
Dave Ryan, Toledo Ice Yacht Club, Toledo, OH: Measuring
Erica Stange, Toledo Ice Yacht Club, Toledo, OH: ATV and Safety
Fred Stritt, Delavan Ice Yacht Club: ATV and Weather Mark

Ways to Follow DN Facebook New England Ice Yachting Association

2024 DN NA Day 5 – AM- Update – The Last Day

by Deb Whitehorse | Mar 1, 2024 | 2024 NA , Home Page

The frigid 10°F temperature during the morning kept the ice bumpy, leading to some equipment failures. It was a challenging day for the racing marks, as both leeward and windward marks were damaged when hit during racing.

On Day 5, Matt Struble leads the Gold fleet while Bill Cutting holds a strong lead in the Silver fleet as we prepare to head to the lake.

DAY 5, FRIDAY, MARCH 1, 2024 UPDATE FROM THE RACE COMMITTEE Please plan on 9 AM skippers meeting and 10 am first race start. The Race Committee will asses the race-ability of the predicted high winds in the morning.

2024 DN NA Day 4 – AM- Update – Spring Forward Again

by Deb Whitehorse | Feb 29, 2024 | 2024 NA , Home Page

Guy Lovejoy US4638 & Brian Jones US1576. Photo – Kim Hormell Jones

PROVISIONAL RESULTS After a brief two-hour postponement, competitors and the Race Committee faced the sub-zero temperatures and adapted to the ever-changing weather conditions. The shifty winds added an extra element of excitement to the day’s racing, especially when PRO Pat Heppert shortened the course from 1.2 to 1 mile after the fourth Silver race. With lead changes and tight roundings keeping the scoring team on their toes, the competition was as intense as ever.

Jody Kjoller emerged as the dominant force in the Silver fleet, securing victory in all four races. Meanwhile, Matt Struble won the first three races of the day in the Gold fleet, while Ron Sherry won the final race.

Looking ahead to today, the forecast promises more spring-like temperatures accompanied by a 10-15 mph south wind, setting the stage for another day of racing.

DAY 4, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024 UPDATE FROM THE RACE COMMITTEE 9 AM skippers meeting with 10 AM first race. Silver fleet races first. The wind will be form the south, so the starting line will be two miles from the launch. Please plan accordingly.

2024 DN NA Day 3 Update – We’re Not in San Diego Anymore

by Deb Whitehorse | Feb 28, 2024 | 2024 NA , Home Page

Video screenshot of Gold fleet weather mark rounding from Facebook.

PROVISIONAL RESULTS Once again, Mother Nature has surprised us with its ever-changing conditions. What started as slushy ice at Monday’s end hardened overnight, presenting us with a different challenge on Tuesday morning. Under bright, sunny skies, the Race Committee wasted no time setting the course for the day’s races, anticipating the forecasted breeze. Despite a calm start during the skipper’s meeting, the wind gradually picked up, providing more than enough momentum for the Silver fleet’s third race around 10 AM. The Silver fleet race was exciting with the top boats exchanging lead changes. Bill Cutting, David Frost, and Ed Demerest took the top three positions.

As clouds gathered in the northwest, signaling a shift in weather, the winds strengthened throughout the Silver fleet race. By the time the Gold fleet took the course, it was blustery. Matt Struble once again showcased his dominance, describing the day’s sailing as an “Interesting day today with the breeze a little over the boat’s capabilities. Fast forward sailing…” Behind him, Ron Sherry secured a commanding second place, followed by Steve Orlebeke.

Last night, the DN class annual meeting convened at the regatta headquarters. During the session, Junior Sailing Director Sam Bartel took the floor, sharing his innovative ideas on how class members can actively contribute to the advancement of junior sailing.

With temperatures dropping to 3°F this morning, a stark contrast to Monday’s high of 61°F, we await what day three of the 2024 DN North American Championship will bring on Lake Waconia in Minnesota.

DAY 3, WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2024 UPDATE FROM THE RACE COMMITTEE The skippers meeting will be at 9AM. The Race Committee will decide at that point whether or not to postpone for temperature, but be ready! BANQUET: Join us tonight, Wednesday, February 28, at 6 PM at Lola’s Lakehouse, 318 E Lake St, Waconia, MN.

2024 DN North American Day 1 Video Recap

by Deb Whitehorse | Feb 27, 2024 | 2024 NA , Home Page

Ice Sailing – Lake Waconia, MN 2/26/24 from Epic Aerial Productions on Vimeo . We are excited to share a bird’s eye view video capturing the action from the first day of the 2024 DN North American championship. Many thanks to competitor Peter Norton KA2, a professional videographer who brought this opportunity to the attention of his colleagues at Epic Aerial Productions, who flew their drone over Lake Waconia on Monday.

DN NA – Day 1 Update & Schedule for Day 2, Tuesday, Feb 27

by Deb Whitehorse | Feb 26, 2024 | 2024 NA , Home Page

Good Day Sunshine – photo Julie Jankowski

PROVISIONAL RESULTS The 2024 DN North American Championship’s opening day was met with warm weather in Waconia, MN, with the high reaching 61°F. Two races were successfully completed in both the Gold and Silver fleets. However, as the day progressed, the wind began to dwindle, and the ice softened under the unseasonably warm temperatures. The Race Committee called day one a wrap in the early afternoon. Scores are being tabulated and will be posted here . ( Tabulator Ann Foeller has joined us on the ice as part of the scoring team for this regatta and will tabulate at the end of each day. )

San Diego’s Matt Struble US183, the defending champion who won both Gold fleet races, must have felt right at at home in the balmy temperatures. Bill Cutting US5430 and Matt Meyer US5646 each won in Silver. Stay tuned for more updates as the 2024 DN North American Championship unfolds. Follow the DN North American Facebook for live updates.

SCHEDULE FOR DAY 2, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2024 The race committee will reassess the ice hardness on Tuesday morning, and we will try to get some racing done before the wind comes up too much. There will be a 9 AM skippers meeting at the launch, and 10 AM first race start. Silver fleet goes first Tuesday.

2024 DN North American Championship Day 1 Starting Positions

by Deb Whitehorse | Feb 25, 2024 | 2024 NA , Home Page

2024 DN North American Championship Information

by Deb Whitehorse | Feb 21, 2024 | 2024 NA , Home Page

Photo: Catherine Firmbach

AmericInn by Wyndham Chanhassen, MN 612-293-6930

Country Inn & Suites Chanhassen, MN 952-937-2424

Super 8 by Wyndham Chaska, MN 1-952-448-7030

Register: Click here to register online. Schedule of Events: Sunday, February 25, 2024 Online Registration and Check In closes at 8 PM CT at Regatta Headquarters, AmeriVu Inn and Suites Check-in is a must! If you’ve registered, paid, and submitted insurance but can’t make the 8 PM check-in deadline, call Ann Foeller at 1-419-705-0959 or Deb Whitehorse at 1-608-347-2513 by 8 PM on Sunday, February 25. Speak to either Ann or Deb to ensure your stickers are ready for collection in the morning.

Monday, February 26, 2024 9 AM Skipper’s Meeting 10 AM First Qualifying Race

Race Documents Notice of Race Sailing Instructions Official Notice Board

MEDIA INQUIRIES

For all media inquiries, please contact Deb Whitehorse [email protected] +1 608 347 3513

Notice of Race
Sailing Instructions
Official Notice Board
Agenda 2024 Annual Governing Meeting

IMPORTANT DATES

Sunday, February 4, 2024: Registration Deadline for early entry fee.
Wednesday, February 21, 2024, 9:00 pm, CST: Site info to be posted on IDNIYRA website.
Sunday, February 25, 2024, Registration 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm local time: Location to be listed on the IDNIYRA website.
Monday, February 26, 2024 first race at time stated in sailing instructions.
Saturday, March 2, 2024, racing is concluded.

IDNIYRA BY LAWS Racing Rules C) b) When not held in conjunction with the Gold Cup, the North American Championship regatta is held during a specific week, beginning on a Monday and ending on Friday, with Saturday as a reserve day. If 3 races in all fleets have not been completed by sundown on Friday, racing shall be continued until sundown on Saturday.

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PREVIOUS RESULTS

Defending Champion: Matt Struble US183

2023 World Results
2023 North American Results
North American Championship History

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Related members, related boats.

Event Details

15 Meter Plans

The 15 meter (class "C" stern steer) ice yacht was brought about during the mid-to-late nineteen-thirties by the charter members of the King Ice Yacht Club of Toledo, Ohio. The design came about after competing in Detroit, Michigan, and seeing a German or European 15-meter ice yacht at Lake St. Clair. It was pretty radical for the day -- a fuselage style hull with a tandem at the stern, a narrow runner track, and a "cat rig", which is making a big comeback in Europe.

The stern-steering ice yachts of the day were rather large compared to today's designs. They were overshadowed by the 200s and 250s, and, of course, there were much larger, such as the 450s and more. These yachts were huge and cumbersome to transport and assemble.

After much discussion and merit to build a smaller yacht around the European or German style, the members crafted their own version, literally, on a brown grocery bag at King's IYC of what the next generation of ice yachts should look like and how they perform.

In 1936, construction began on numerous "new" yachts. Some 200s were reconfigured to the "new class" and carried the same sail dimensions. Mind you, the DN-60 was born at the same time. Also, someone mentioned that these are not small boats!

The builders consisted of a mixed lot of craftsmen that pooled together their experience such as boat builders and toolmakers for the hardware and patternmakers for the castings. They scored a big hit! Thirty-four were registered (from what research has found) at a cost of 100 to 250 dollars! A large sum for the day.

A long narrow backbone of 24-26 ft., runner track of 16-17 ft., a 28-29 ft. mast, 12-6 "boom", "cat rigged" and a rake of 4 to 5 ft. with 154 sq. ft. of sail with peapod size cockpit. A cable framing system held this all together -- hence, the moniker "cable boats".

This design soon became a big winner with Toledo yachts dominating Detroit's best and capturing the Pouliot Trophy which is still in TIYC's archives. At home, they made legends of several of the local skippers and owners. Also, a smaller version came about the 10 meter.

The war brought much activity to a halt and interest started to wane. The Renegade and DN came to be. But the 15 meter still carries on to this day, a tribute to its design.

Of the original 33 numbers, 10 survive. Still sailing are #5 WILD GOOSE, #10 GREEN HEAD, #11 SPARE TIME, #17 ARCTIC, #27 ARCTIC II, #32 RED BARON (Orig. QUESTION), and newer circa '70s #34 Foolishness (Orig. WINTERLUDE) & #35 ICE-MASTER. The #20 WHAT FUN was last seen at Cass Lake and Lake St. Clair, Michigan is now at Gull Lake area Michigan full restored.

The big drawing point of these yachts is that they can take a rider(s) and introduce countless others to the sport. Set-up time now is about an hour and a half due to improved rigging, hardware, and help. Yep, they're still heavy - around 16 oz. per lb.

These "big" yachts are a handful at times, but are easy to sail but get one "hooked up" and they are still competitive in the "C" class at the Northwest Regatta.

The "WILD GOOSE" is probably the best-known example of this elegant design and is considered the "Queen" of the Toledo Ice Yacht Club. Also the last class "B" ice yacht North Wind of TIYC was recently restored and sailed.

With the dedication and desire, it requires getting to attract new and young interest; hopefully, these Yachts will be around for a long time to come.

If anyone knows the disposition of this fleet or want more information - please contact the TIYC website.

Stern Steerers

The NIYA was originally a stern-steerer regatta organized to determine ice yacht supremacy in the Midwest. A,B,C,& D stern-steerers continue to compete in the NIYA.

Skip Boston of Detroit was the first winner of the NIYA in the DN class in 1954.

First sailed as a seperate class in 1958 and won by “Mr. Iceboat”, Elmer Millenbach.

NIYA Centennial

The NIYA celebrated 100 years of iceboat racing in 2013 on Green Lake in Wisconsin.

Reflections & Resolutions – 4LIYC Meeting Recap

by Deb Whitehorse | Mar 7, 2024 | 2023-2024 , 2024 Northwest Regatta , Home Page , NIYA , Renegade

Despite the shortness of this sailing season, we are always optimistic and are already laying the groundwork for an exceptional season ahead. The club is gearing up to host the Southern Wisconsin Iceboat Swap Meet next fall and brainstorming ways to make it an unmissable event. Video link to Ice Sailors Irish Blessing.

“Goodness Prevails” – A Message from M197

by Deb Whitehorse | Mar 6, 2024 | 2023-2024 , 2024 Northwest Regatta , Home Page , NIYA

GOODNESS PREVAILS. Dear Northwestern Ice Yachting Association Member Clubs, I started racing skeeters in 1970. In 1977 at the age of 26, I was very fortunate to win the Northwest Championship. In 2024 I again was fortunate to win the Northwest championship. Well..that’s almost back to back victories! If you factor out 47 years! TODAY as in the past the Northwest Regatta has the world’s best Regatta Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer, Steve Schalk. We have the world’s best race committee. We have the world’s best volunteer support group. Additionally we have the world’s best boat builders and sail makers. Finally, and of least importance, as in the past, the Northwest has the world’s best ice boat sailors. We all are truly blessed to participate in iceboat racing! Goodness withstands the test of time. Ken WhiteHorse M197

The Neighborhood Just Got Better

by Deb Whitehorse | Feb 29, 2024 | 2023-2024 , 2024 Northwest Regatta , Home Page , NIYA

It was a busy day at the Past Champions Iceboat Shop in Monona, Wisconsin. Ken WhiteHorse captured the Northwestern Class A Skeeter Championship last weekend on Minnesota’s Lake Waconia, 47 years after capturing that same title in 1977(!!!). You do,after all, have to keep things “Current”.

2024 Northwest Regatta – A Note of Thanks

by Deb Whitehorse | Feb 29, 2024 | 2024 Northwest Regatta , Home Page , NIYA

Photo: Shane Lewis – Silverfoxviz

See all of Shane Lewis – Silverfoxviz photos here.

The Northwestern Ice Yachting Association Championship Regatta came to a successful conclusion on Sunday February 25th 2024. As Regatta Chairman and Secretary/Treasurer and competitor, I have many people to thank and acknowledge for the success of the event. My number one support was Pat Heppert who drove all over Minnesota sailing potential ice sheets, and then set marks at the crack of dawn every day and moved them throughout the event as the wind moved around. He started most races and called numbers as well. Thanks to the DN Western Region who let us use their ATV and trailer for the whole event. Thanks to everyone who helped set, pick, move and reset the starting blocks and safety zone markers. Colton Hibbard got to learn the trade at his very first regatta. Thanks to Deb Whitehorse for her usual efficiency in getting the data down right through all the weather changes and course moves, also instantly posting notices of all changes we made. Thanks to Ann Foeller for setting up the tabulating file and Mary Jane for completing that file and tabulating Saturday. Thanks to Julie Jankowski for monitoring the windward mark throughout. Thanks to the rest of the race committee for splitting the workload and making timely decisions. I want to especially acknowledge the participation of Paul Kreuger and John Davis, who are still racing hard in all conditions at the ages of 84 and 80 respectively. They are perfect examples of the competitors who built and maintained this sport that we all love. Steve Schalk NIYA Secretary/Treasurer

Northwest – Across the Ice

by Deb Whitehorse | Feb 26, 2024 | 2024 Northwest Regatta , Home Page , NIYA

Across the Ice | Minnesota 4K from ImageStream Press on Vimeo .

Winter may be coming to an end, but not yet for the 2024 Northwest Regatta on Lake Waconia in Minnesota. Some rough ice for iceboating but good winds and weather. The Northwest is the oldest ice sailing regatta in North America dating back to 1913. The DN Class North American Championship begins on Monday, 2/25/24. Great to have this event in Waconia, Minnesota. Aerial segments filmed with a Mavic 3, edited and color graded with Vegas. Portions of the film have been sped up to compress the time over the vast distances with adjustments to lighting for effect. Flown within visual flight ranges, max altitude 400ft AGL across Minnesota. Music by Christopher Dennis Coleman “Vesper”, CHPTRS “Last Chance, “You Will Find Me” courtesy of the Musicbed.

2024 Northwest Prize Giving

The wind never fully cooperated Sunday morning, leading to a challenging waiting game. The regatta was called complete Sunday at 11 AM by NIYA Secretary/Treasurer Steve Schalk.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who contributed to the regatta’s success, from those who scouted for ice, set courses and starting blocks to those who assisted with off-site tabulating, including Ann Foeller and Mary Jane Schalk.

Northwest DN champion Robin Lagraviere, alongside his fellow Canadians Nicholas Mabboux and Jacek Marzenski, were notably absent as they were out on the course training for the upcoming DN North American Championship, set to begin on Lake Waconia today, Monday February 26. Follow the action here.

Northwest Regatta – Day 3 – AM Update

by Deb Whitehorse | Feb 25, 2024 | 2024 Northwest Regatta , Home Page , NIYA

C Stern Steerer ACE OF SPADES – Photo: Kevin Barta

PROVISIONAL RESULTS EVENT PAGE

Day two of the 2024 Northwest Regatta brought clear, sunny skies, ideal conditions for a day filled with races and camaraderie on Lake Waconia in Minnesota. As the day progressed, the race committee concluded the day’s activities earlier than planned in light of the building winds.

Mike Peters and ACE OF SPADES

Ken Whitehorse tells the story of the when Buddy pulled out a bottle of Cutty Sark out of his jacket at Northwest. John Davis is on the plank. John has been attending the Northwest since 1954.

A highlight of the day was the presentation of the esteemed Bottle Trophy to the deserving crew of the C Stern Steerer ACE OF SPADES, helmed by Mike Peters and Terry Reynolds. In his eloquent speech, Ken Whitehorse shared the rich history of the trophy, first sponsored by the legendary Buddy Melges. Mike Peters and ACE OF SPADES with crew Terry Reynolds carry on the bottle trophy legacy this year.

2024 Northwest: Day 2 – AM Update

by Deb Whitehorse | Feb 24, 2024 | 2024 Northwest Regatta , Home Page , NIYA , Renegade

Renegaders Doug Kolner and Mike Derusha at the one and two blocks.

PROVISIONAL RESULTS EVENT PAGE Update – Post updated to include the real location. The webmaster regrets the error and blames it on not enough coffee. The 2024 Northwest Regatta kicked off on Lake WACONIA in Minnesota on Friday, February 23, the first one held in five years.

The winds remained relatively steady throughout most of the day, ranging from 8 to 12 mph. The Race Committee had to reset the course twice. However, as the day progressed, the winds began to fade. The last Stern Steerer, B Skeeter, and DN races were black-flagged because of the time limit.

The bumpy ice conditions tested each sailor’s skills. After each race, sailors had to check all fittings to ensure they remained secure, noted DNer John Harper (US60) from Michigan.

TIME CHANGE FOR FIRST RACE Saturday, February 24, 2024 Schedule Update 9 AM: First Race. Stern Steerers Race #2 Followed by B & C Skeeter Race #2 Normal rotation then resumes: DN Renegade E Skeeter A,B,C,D Stern Steerer ISA B & C Skeeter

Michigan Renegader Peter Sarelis turns the hotel hallway into a sail loft.

2024 Northwest Update: Stern Steerers Race at 9AM on Saturday 2-24

by Deb Whitehorse | Feb 23, 2024 | 2024 Northwest Regatta , Home Page , NIYA

Photo: Jacek Marzenski

A long day on the ice. I’ll have more early tomorrow morning. A message tonight from NIYA Secretary/Treasurer Steve Schalk:

Day 1:2023 Northwest Starting Positions

Good Morning from Waconia, MN, site of the 2024 Northwestern Ice Yachting Association Regatta. Starting positions will also be posted on the RC trailer on the ice. Skipper’s meeting at the launch at 9 AM. See you on the ice! The last time the NIYA was held was in 2019 on Lake Pepin in MN. The Northwest is the oldest ice sailing regatta in North America and was first sailed in Menominee, Michigan in 1913. It survived two World Wars, a pandemic and it’s great to be back. We are pleased to see such a large DN fleet this year with the DN North Americans having been called on for Waconia as well. The DN North American Championship begins on Monday.

Friday, February 23, 2024 Schedule Skipper’s Meeting at 9 AM at the launch First start 10 AM Rotation DN Renegade E Skeeter A,B,C,D Stern Steerer ISA B & C Skeeter NIYA Annual Meeting at 6 PM at the Holiday Inn, Chanhassen, MN

2024 Northwest Regatta Information

by Deb Whitehorse | Feb 21, 2024 | 2023-2024 , 2024 Northwest Regatta , Home Page , NIYA , Regattas

AmericInn by Wyndham Chanhassen, MN 612-293-6930

Country Inn & Suites Chanhassen, MN 952-937-2424

Super 8 by Wyndham Chaska, MN 1-952-448-7030

Register: Click here to register online. Schedule of Events: Friday, February 23 Registration closes at 7AM Starting positions for the first race in each class will be posted on a Competitor list by 9:30 am at https://www.iceboat.org/regattas/niya/ First start 10 AM Rotation DN Renegade E Skeeter A,B,C,D Stern Steerer ISA B & C Skeeter NIYA Annual Meeting at 6 PM at the Holiday Inn, Chanhassen, MN

Saturday, February 24 First start at 9:30 AM

Sunday, February 25 First start at 9:30 AM

Race Documents Notice of Race Sailing Instructions

Regatta Watch: NIYA Called ON for Waconia, MN Feb 23-25

by Deb Whitehorse | Feb 20, 2024 | 2023-2024 , Home Page , NIYA , Regattas , Renegade

DN Class: Spouses Julie Richards & Dick Wollam draw 1 & 2 for the start at the 2010 Northwest

The Northwestern Ice Yachting Association has called the 2024 championship regatta for February 23-25th at Lake Waconia Minnesota. This is the final call, launch site is Lake Waconia regional park on Paradise lane. Hotel information will be available tomorrow February 21st. The ISA Championship is postponed to March 1st-3rd 2024. Steve Schalk Secretary/treasurer NIYA & ISA

Feb 18, 2024 Regatta Watch: NIYA, ISA & Renegade Championship Called ON for Feb 23-25

by Deb Whitehorse | Feb 18, 2024 | Home Page , ISA , NIYA , Regattas , Renegade

NORTHWEST The Northwestern Ice Yachting Association Race Committee has called the 2024 regatta on for a yet to be determined Minnesota location north and west of St. Cloud. The dates are February 23rd-25th. The lakes are still to be final checked for surface and launch conditions. There are potential lakes in the Alexandria area, where lodging may be an issue, and lakes further north. The final call will be made as soon as possible, but Wednesday February 21st by noon at the latest. ISA The International Skeeter Association Race Committee has made the same call on for February 23rd-25th. In the event the Northwest is held the ISA will defer and postpone. Steve Schalk Secretary/Treasurer NIYA & ISA

A Big Thanks to NIYA & ISA Ice Checkers

by Deb Whitehorse | Feb 15, 2024 | 2023-2024 , Home Page , ISA , NIYA , Renegade

The Race Committees for the Northwest and ISA regattas, would like to acknowledge all the efforts of our ice checkers who have been scouting and sailing potential regatta sites. Pat Heppert and Chris Wiberg spent an entire weekend driving the width of Minnesota setting up their boats and test sailing multiple lakes. Terry Reynolds and Mike Peters sailed Little Bay De Noc, and Jim McDonagh drove up to Lake Osakis on Wednesday at dawn sailed his DN all over the lake, then drove back in a whiteout. We all owe them a big thank you for the huge efforts made to find a place for us to have an event. Many thanks to you guys. Steve Schalk Secretary/Treasurer NIYA & ISA

Feb 14, 2024 Regatta Watch: Postponement for ISA & NIYA

by Deb Whitehorse | Feb 14, 2024 | Home Page , ISA , NIYA , Regattas , Renegade

NORTHWEST The Northwestern Ice Yachting Association Race Committee has postponed the 2024 Regatta to February 23rd, 24th, and 25th. A combination of incoming snow, snowy travel, 5.5 rated surface with high winds forecast led to the postponement. ISA The International Skeeter Association Race Committee has postponed one week to February 23rd-25th. If the Northwest is held that weekend the ISA will defer. Steve Schalk Secretary/Treasurer NIYA & ISA

Regatta Watch: NIYA Or ISA Called ON for Feb 16-18 in MN or WI

by Deb Whitehorse | Feb 11, 2024 | Home Page , ISA , NIYA , Regattas , Renegade

NORTHWEST : The 2024 Northwestern Regatta is on for Lake Osakis Minnesota for February 16th, 17th and 18th. The final call with details on the launch site located off Lake street in downtown Osakis will be made on Wednesday by noon. INTERNATIONAL SKEETER ASSOCIATION & RENEGADE CHAMPIONSHIP The 2024 ISA Regatta and Renegade Championship is also called on for a location to be determined in Minnesota or Wisconsin. If the Northwest is confirmed on Wednesday, the ISA will defer and postpone. NEXT UPDATE: Wednesday, February 14 by 12 PM CT. Steve Schalk Secretary/Treasurer NIYA and ISA

Regatta Watch: ISA & Northwest Postponed

by Deb Whitehorse | Feb 4, 2024 | Home Page , ISA , NIYA , Regattas

Rob Evans sails his A Class Skeeter on Lake Monona, January 15, 2022. Photo: Joe Berger

NORTHWEST: The NIYA is postponed one week to February 16th, 17th, and 18th 2024. Colder weather returning The week of the 12th should provide one or more viable locations. Steve Schalk Secretary/Treasurer Northwestern Ice Yachting Association ISA: The ISA Regatta is postponed to February 16th, 17th, and 18th, 2024. Colder temperatures the week of February 12th will allow for multiple locations to become available. Steve Schalk Secretary/Treasurer International Skeeter Association

Regatta Watch: 2024 ISA & NIYA Postponed to Feb 9-11

by Deb Whitehorse | Jan 31, 2024 | Home Page , ISA , NIYA , Regattas , Renegade

Greg McCormick

The Northwest and International Skeeter Association & Renegade Championship Race Committees have postponed for one week to February 9th, 10th, and 11th, 2024. Both Committees determined that the high temperatures, sun, and lack of overnight freezing will make the ice too soft for acceptable regatta conditions. The presence of plenty of ice that should stay in place until colder weather arrives gives us a good chance coming later in February. Steve Schalk NIYA & ISA Secretary/Treasurer

Regatta Watch: Northwest AND ISA Called ON for Feb 2-4 on Lake Waconia, MN

by Deb Whitehorse | Jan 28, 2024 | 2023-2024 , Home Page , ISA , NIYA , Regattas , Renegade

Ken Whitehorse / Photo: Dave Delap

A Regatta Watch two-for-one tonight:

The Northwest Ice Yachting Association Regatta is called on for Lake Waconia, Minnesota for February 2nd, 3rd and 4th, 2024. The final call will be made by noon on Wednesday January 31st. The International Skeeter Association and Renegade Championship are also called on for the same location and date. If the Northwest is called on Wednesday, the ISA & Renegade Championship will be postponed. If the Northwest postpones on Wednesday, the ISA Race Committee will determine if the ISA & Renegade Championship can proceed or be postponed. That decision will be announced at noon on Wednesday January 31st as well. Steve Schalk Secretary/Treasurer NIYA & ISA

Regatta Watch: Northwest Postponed

by Deb Whitehorse | Jan 21, 2024 | Home Page , NIYA , Regattas

The Northwest Ice Yachting Association Regatta is postponed to February 2nd, 3rd and 4th, 2024. There will be a new update from the Race Committee next Sunday January 28th, 2024. Steve Schalk Secretary/Treasurer Northwestern Ice Yachting Association

NIYA Regatta Archives

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