Snowflake Regatta: From Warm-Up to Awards

The Snowflake Regatta is a fun ski race for sailors and powerboaters. An annual event held in March, it has evolved over the years. Two weeks before the race, a Warm-up Party is held in a restaurant in or near Salem, Massachusetts.

The remaining events take place in or near North Conway, New Hampshire. A Skippers Meeting is held on the Friday evening before the race. Pre-registered racers can pick up their racing materials and, with family and friends, have a festive evening with food and beverage.

The ski race is held the next day, usually at Cranmore Mountain. The race is open to racers of all ages—boys, girls, men, and women. They may compete individually and as part of a team. Frequently, sailboat and powerboat racing teams compete as teams (and as individuals), as do some families. Racers of all abilities are welcome, from experienced racers to those who may be inclined to snowplow. Handicaps are assigned based on age and sex.

An après-ski Awards Party begins late Saturday afternoon. Food is provided, awards for best times are conferred on individuals and teams, and often a 50/50 raffle is held.

A fun ski race to benefit Sail Salem

The Snowflake Regatta is a fundraiser dedicated to the memory of Brad White who was a sailor, a skier, a friend, husband, father, brother, and a sail maker. The proceeds are contributed to a Sail Salem Scholarship fund, in memory of Brad White, and the funds are used to make the summer sailing camps available to children needing financial assistance.

Sponsors and volunteers are always welcome!  Volunteers help organize and run events: selling raffle tickets, securing raffle prizes, event set up and break down, handling registration, taking photos, and scoring the ski race.