"Lewisporte is an excellent location because it has a full service marina and yacht club and the local coastal geography lends itself to fun events such as the Regatta Poker Run," said Mr. Moss.
This year, 21 boats of all shapes and sizes took part in the fundraising initiative and raised $30,000 to fund priority medical programs and services of Central Health via the South and Central Health Foundation and the Central Northeast Health Foundation.
"Considering the number of participating boats, $30,000 was a phenomenal result," said Mr. Moss. "We had fewer boats then 2009, but what we lacked in numbers we made up for in enthusiasm."
Mr. Moss said the participants determine the success of the Regatta.
"People want to participate in a fun event that also raises money for a good cause," he said. "They see that the money raised is immediately turned back to the community in the form of improved health care equipment or practices."
On July 10, Miss Teen Newfoundland and Labrador, Somaria Balram, went aboard the Dreamweaver, one of the 21 boats involved, to view Notre Dame Bay for the very first time.
"I had such an amazing time at the Regatta - I loved every minute of it," said Ms. Balram. "I had the chance to do a lot of firsts. It was my first time on a boat and first time driving a boat. It was such a beautiful trip and I would love to go back next year, hopefully."
The awards ceremony took place the evening of July 10, once all the participants returned from a beautiful day on the bay. A number of people walked away with some great prizes, including life jackets, boating equipment and nautical themed items.
Once again this year, Ann and Dunley Peyton won the award for best-decorated boat. Lloyd Gosse took home a wireless sound system for the early registration draw and Harris Gates, owner of the boat Holly and Girls, was the winner of the treasure hunt.
Mr. Moss took first place in the sailboat division for the poker run, and went on to challenge Lloyd Gosse, winner in the power boat division, for the best poker hand overall. In the end, Mr. Moss took home the grand prize, which included two tickets to anywhere West Jet flies.
Dr. Jody Woolfrey and his crew were presented with the Scotiabank Cup for the third year in a row in recognition of the highest amount of money raised at the Regatta. This year, they were extremely pleased to announce that they raised a total of $6,000.
"It's one of the highlights of our summer," said Joanne Woolfrey, Dr. Woolfrey's wife.
It was evident by the smiles on everyone's face that this year's regatta was once again a tremendous success.
"Every year, I'm absolutely amazed by the dedication and generosity of the people living in central Newfoundland. When it comes to the health of their communities and their neighbours, our supporters will do everything that it takes to make a difference," said director of development Raelene White. "We can't thank our supporters enough. The Regatta chairperson Mac Moss is a role model for those who want to ignite change in their community. The health foundations of Central Health are very appreciative to our corporate sponsors and participants."
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