Submitted by the San Juan Island Yacht Club

On May 7, 26 boats participated in the Opening Day Boat Parade. The event heralds the beginning of boating season and, this year, was designed to honor first responders. It was organized by San Juan Island Yacht Club Fleet Captain Burke Critchfield with assistance from Carl Jablonski.

Judges for the event were Marshall Davis, Tami Hayes and Alicia Schoultz. Winning boats, 1st to 3rd place, are as follows by category:

Classic: Batan, Spike Africa, Lilliwaup

Nautical: Cabarowse, Lanna Ann, Grand Nugget

Theme: Rebozo, Centennial, Grand Waltz

Commercial: Pintail, Towline Too, Sentinel

The following businesses contributed gift certificates for the boaters: China Pearl, Kings Market, Ace Hardward, Island Studios, The Hemp Seed, Terry Ogle Painting, Be Chic Boutique, My RC Vision, Deer Hazel, Haley’s, Friday Harbor Pet Supplies, Nash Brothers Sports, Cecil’s Electronics & Photo, Island Roots Salon, Friday Harbor Oar House, Crow’s Nest, Water Works Gallery, Golden Triangle, Pelindaba Lavender, San Juan interiors, Stanley Wheeler, Island Hearing Healthcare.

Thanks to all who participated and supported this community event.

Contributed photo/Bill Waxman, San Juan Island Yacht Club photographer

Contributed photo/Bill Waxman, San Juan Island Yacht Club photographer

Contributed photo/Bill Waxman, San Juan Island Yacht Club photographer

Contributed photo/Bill Waxman, San Juan Island Yacht Club photographer

Contributed photo/Bill Waxman, San Juan Island Yacht Club photographer

Contributed photo/Bill Waxman, San Juan Island Yacht Club photographer

Contributed photo/Bill Waxman, San Juan Island Yacht Club photographer This was the first year the event included information tables from first responders before the parade started.