Clearer skies are in the forecast for this weekend, allowing sailors to enjoy the expected sunny weather in Lake Havasu City. The annual Hobby Cat Regatta awards the coveted McCulloch Cup to the winner and continues 50 years later.
As Lake Havasu Yacht Club member and former director of the event, Rex Miller, said, the sport has been on and off over the past 50 years. This weekend, the race will take place Saturday and Sunday at Lot 2 at Lake Havasu State Park.
As Miller explains, the locally sanctioned race takes racers out on the water on hobby catamarans. The yacht is lighter in style and easier to maneuver for racers. As stated on the event website, only current members of the Hobby Class Association of North America are permitted to race.
Four classes of boats will participate in the race weekend: Hobby 16, Hobby 18, Hobby 20 and Hobby Wave. Miller adds that about 17 boats should be in attendance for the weekend’s competition.
Spectators will be able to pick their viewing spots after the race starts at 10am, Miller said, and the race will start around 11am. The start time will depend on the wind and weather during his two days of competition, he continues.
Lot number 2 is where Miller says spectators will need to park on the day of the event. For a $3 admission fee, spectators can drop off at the beach area before the competition begins.
The race will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily, weather permitting, Miller says.
“If anyone is interested in sailing, the Hobbycats is a good place to start,” said Miller. “Welcome to ‘The Hobie Way of Life!’ A big thank you to the Lake Havasu Yacht Club.”
