Submitted by the San Juan Island Yacht Club
On May 6, the Opening Day Boat Parade, which is sponsored by the San Juan Island Yacht Club and Port of Friday Harbor, had a record number of boats on display. An enthusiastic set of spectators watched 37 boats on parade from Spring Street Landing.
While 14 prizes were awarded overall, below are some of the top prizes.
Best overall: Rebozo and the Peace Island Medical Center Volunteers
The Rebozo, skippered by Bill and Rebbie Bates, joined the parade from Roche Harbor. She is a 48-foot offshore power boat. Rebozo and her crew are again honoring Peace Island Medical Center. Many of the people aboard are hospital doctors, administrators, nurses and their family members. The uniforms and various medical devices have been provided by our hospital and from previous hospital stays from the crew.
Most creative: Vic-torious
As the 13-foot long Vic-torious prepares to celebrate Vic’s Drive Inn’s 60th year as a local favorite, the unofficial mascot Hammy took to the sea with a chef and captain Brian Carlson on hand to spread community cheer while looking forward to the next 60 years.
Theme (11 entrants)
1. French Curve / San Juan Community Theatre | Luis Colasuonno & Hattie Hatch
2. Charisma / Lions Club | Wally Gillette
Nautical (9 entrants)
1. Skagit Song / Flounder Bay YC | Bill Stinson
2. Key Lime Pie / Friday Harbor Power Squadron | Teddy Gosinski
Human Powered (2 entrants)
1. Xwachxeng & Malama Po’alima | Matthew Wickey
Commercial (12 entrants)
1. Sentinel / Fire & Sheriff’s Depts
2. R/V Centennial / Friday Harbor Labs | Craig Melvin
Classic (3 entrants)
1. Baten / Animal Protection Society | Carolyn Haugen
2. Peniel / All Aboard Sailing | David & Barbara Howitt
Twenty-two local merchants also ontributed prizes for parade participants in a great show of community spirit:
– King’s Market
– Downriggers
– The Bean
– China Pearl
– Blue Water Grill
– Ace Hardware
– Island Studios
– The Hemp Seed
– Deer Hazel
– Friday Harbor Chocolates
– Haley’s Sports Bar & Grill
– Friday Harbor Pet Supplies
– Nash Brothers
– Cecil’s Electronics & Photos
– Crow’s Nest
– Golden Triangle
– Pelindaba Lavender
– San Juan Interiors
– Market Chef
– Hermosa
– Cask & Schooner
Contributed photo/San Juan Island Yacht Club Peace Island Medical Center staff and volunteers won for best overall.
