Hawg Wild Returns May 2–3 for GMSC’s 42nd Annual Regatta
The Y-Flyers are back on Lake Maumelle for one of GMSC’s long-running spring traditions. The 42nd Annual Hawg Wild Regatta is set for Saturday and Sunday, May 2–3, with sailors gathering at the club for two days of racing, good food, and the kind of camaraderie that keeps this event on the calendar year after year.
Hosted by Grande Maumelle Sailing Club, the regatta is open to Y-Flyers, including sailors from outside clubs. Racing will be governed by the current Racing Rules of Sailing, Y-Flyer Class Rules, and GMSC Centerboard Instructions. As always, the goal is to get in as many races as conditions allow. One race will constitute a series, and five races are needed to allow a throw-out.
The weekend gets underway Friday evening, May 1, with a Welcome Aboard Cajun supper at 6:00 p.m. at the pavilion, along with early registration. On Saturday, registration opens at 10:00 a.m., followed by the competitors meeting at 10:45 a.m. Lunch will be served dockside at 11:00 a.m., with the first harbor gun at noon.
As part of the Hawg Wild Regatta weekend, GMSC’s annual Spring Fling returns Saturday, May 2, at 6:00 p.m. at the GMSC Clubhouse. The evening brings members, visiting sailors, crew, volunteers, and guests together for live music, dinner, and fellowship after a day of Y-Flyer racing on Lake Maumelle.
Racing resumes Sunday morning with a 10:00 a.m. harbor gun, and no races will start after 12:00 p.m. The weekend wraps up with lunch and the awards presentation at the clubhouse. Prizes will be awarded to skippers and crew in first through third place.
The regatta entry fee is $75 and includes racing plus meals for the skipper and one crew. Additional meals are available for $10. Sailors are encouraged to register online by Monday morning, April 20, to help with food planning, even if they plan to pay on race day.
For visiting sailors, limited housing is available on a first come, first served basis. Those needing accommodations may contact Drew Daugherty. Camping is available at Maumelle Park, and nearby lodging options include local Airbnbs and the Aloft Promenade. GMSC notes that camping and swimming at the club are not allowed without a permit.
Hawg Wild has long been more than a race weekend. It is a chance to reconnect with old friends, welcome visiting sailors, and enjoy one of GMSC’s annual social traditions.