On Friday, October 10, the local yachting community is invited to Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard to race and/or spectate at the annual “Pumpkin Regatta” to raise funds for Sail Newport in Newport, RI from 4:00-7:00pm. Food from A Mano Pizza will be served along with beverages thanks to sponsors RC Marine Electric, Newport Yacht Builders, Casey’s Oil & Propane, al fresco Composites, Itchiban Yacht Painters, Newport Rigging Group, Hallam’s Marine Service, and BWA Yachting.

Started more than thirteen years ago, the Pumpkin Regatta is an annual tradition and fundraiser with all proceeds given to a different organization each year. Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard Teammates organize the annual event by painting three fiberglass pumpkins, setting up food and beverages for all to enjoy, and asking local companies to donate items for a silent auction. “Our annual Pumpkin Regatta has become a legendary event for our yacht captains and crew who look forward to it each year and enjoy the friendly, but competitive, nature of the race,” said Michael Millerick, General Manager of Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard.

“It’s a sure sign of fall in full swing when this perennial event comes around and we can’t think of a better way to celebrate before our customers head south for the winter,” Millerick said. “This year’s regatta will benefit Sail Newport, New England’s largest public sailing center located at Fort Adams State Park in Newport, RI. Last year we had over 125 people join us to race and cheer on their friends and fellow crew members, all while raising over $8,000 for the Confetti Foundation,” Millerick said.

"Sail Newport is grateful to have been selected as a recipient of funding from this spirited regatta. Our sailing team is prepared for the challenge ahead. Thank you to Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard, along with all the sponsors and donors, for your generous support in helping Sail Newport create and sustain community sailing programs for all ages. The marine community in Newport is like none other in supporting and building opportunities for all on Narragansett Bay," says Brad Read, Executive Director of Sail Newport.

This year several teams are planning to participate in the relay-style race across Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard’s ‘Main Street’ basin for bragging rights as the fastest team. Many boat crews are planning to beat last year’s winner who will return to defend their title. Teams are allowed to race more than once to best their own time, and there will be prizes for fastest team & best costumes. “The energy around the Pumpkin Regatta is always lighthearted and festive, which is a nice outlet for captains and crew who are often working long days getting ready for their return to warmer climates,” continued Millerick. “We hope to keep this tradition going for many years to come.”

Paddlers and spectators are asked to pay $25 each to enter, and there will also be a silent auction and direct donation opportunities available during the event.

Local Newport businesses who have generously donated products and overnight stays for the silent auction and raffle include: The Brenton Hotel; CK Bradley; Clarke Cooke House; Gold’s Wine and Spirits; Newport Marriott; Monelle Newport; Newport Mansions; Onne van der Wal Photography & Video; Big Weather Gear; and Safe Harbor Marinas. “A big thanks to our donors and sponsors who are helping to make this annual event a huge success,” Millerick concluded.

For more information, contact: Veronica Brown, 401-855-0945 or email: vbrown@shmarinas.com. Click here to register or to make a donation to Sail Newport.

Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard to Host Annual 'Pumpkin Regatta' Friday, October 10, to Benefit Sail Newport