 The Patriot Regatta started in 2012 as an inspiration of Long Beach Yacht Club member,Jon Turigliatto. Jon brought the idea to host a regatta to honor active duty military members to the Sailing Foundation and they jumped "on board." It has grown into a great partnership between LBYC's Sailor Support and Sailing Foundation volunteers.
The even consists of a day of fun and entertainment as a thank you for our heroes who serve our country in the United States Armed Services and US Coast Guard. The Regatta consists of a series of four short races on a course just off the Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier. It is sailed in the Sailing Foundation’s fleet of identically matched Catalina 37 sailboats. Each boat has experienced sailing coaches as well as a team of service people representing the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard and National Guard. Families are invited to view the racing and join in the post racing burger bash and festivities.
A letter received from Major Seth Henderson, US Air Force captures the spirit of the experience:
I wanted to thank you again for what was easily one of the top experiences of my 21+ years. You provided a mental vacation I can take for the rest of my life. Your event has a much deeper impact than you intended.... What I loved about the Patriot Regatta is it pays tribute to our nations unsung heroes, military families... Most people support the military, however, the military families are often overlooked for their supporting role and it is rare when the families are also honored, the Patriot Regatta honored my family and provided them an outstanding, family oriented day and for that you have my deepest appreciation.
|