Sunday, March 16, 2008

Ice Boat Regatta



Perhaps unilke any other sport, ice boat racing is a true northern tradition. These photos were taken on Elk Lake on March 16, 2008 as the annual regatta was being held. Though still quite cool the warm sunshine made the day feel very comfortable. The ice conditions were good and the wind was just about right. Some of these boats can easily reach speeds of 80 mph. Ice thickness is at least 18 inches which is a testament to the the cold this winter. Though the ice is thick, in some places cracks form, which can catch the runners on the boats. The races in the regatta are a series of ovals around the coarse and as the boats chatter on by the wind fills their sails. Looks like a good time.

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