Boat Race Day
By: Pete DeVito
We all remember race days on Memorial Day, the 4th of July and Labor Day, but how big was it in Florida? It started me thinking about the rich history of boat racing throughout our state. I researched the State of Florida archives just to see how far back I could find race boats on our waters. I was amazed!. I was always a spectator at the races, but never had the chance to experience the thrill behind the wheel. It was one of the highlights of summer on the lake for me.
I thought it would jog some good memories of spending time with the family and watching the races while viewing some of these early boats and venues. One of my memories is the smell alcohol fumes and the high pitch sound of those little outboards every time race day comes to my mind.
What is your memory of race day?
Orange Lake 1916
Jacob Wilson Miami 1920’s
Miami Regatta 1924 Fishbaugh Collection
Tampa Bay Regatta 1926 R.G. Marshall designer & builder Apalachicola
Miss England 1929 Henry Segrave – driver, Jimmie Chai – riding mechanic
“Copperhead” 1949 Orange Cup Regatta, Lakeland
Mount Dora Regatta 1948, Donald Lamon won the race
Labor Day Boat Races 1951 Sarasota Pit Operations
Labor Day Boat Races 1951 Sarasota Pit Operations
Memorial Day Boat Race 1962 Lake Alfred
Shell Point Boat Club 1968 Tallahasse
Photos from the State of Florida archives
