Nifty Fiftieth Mystic Lake Open

by SCIRA Office 11/14/2024

The 50th annual Mystic Lake Open (MLO) was held on September 21-22, 2024 at the Medford Boat Club on the Mystic Lake. With 21 teams registered and 19 boats competing in a total of 8 races, sailors faced challenging conditions on Saturday, navigating rainy weather but enjoying a steady northerly breeze of 8-10 knots. On Sunday, the sun emerged and the wind held, providing a perfect backdrop for racing. The race committee, expertly chaired by longtime Snipe sailor Shan McAdoo and supported by local sailors including Scott Fraser, Art & Sandy Cunningham, Sue Lodico, Kathy White and others, ensuring that the races ran smoothly.

This milestone event paid tribute to the legacy of James Fraser, who not only started the Snipe fleet at the Medford Boat Club but also organized the inaugural MLO. Special recognition also to his son, Martin, who has attended every and chaired most of the 50 MLOs. Their vision and dedication have been the foundation for this longstanding tradition.

Jim Bowers and Julia Marsh Rabin triumphed, finishing with a total score of 11 points (with a throw-out) through 8 races. Bowers, the winningest sailor is Mystic Lake Snipe sailing history, has participated in over 40 MLOs. Also amongst the competitors this year was Fred Hagedorn, who sailed in the inaugural Mystic Lake Open in 1975. Throughout the weekend, college sailors racing a fleet of Larks added to the exciting sailing atmosphere and provided some dramatic moments with mingling fleets on the water.

Unfortunately, the rain led to the cancellation of the traditional Bocce Tournament on Saturday night, but participants enjoyed a hearty Italian dinner that evening indoors. Special recognition goes to the Medford Boat Club for their ongoing support and logistical assistance, including from Club Secretary Jane Mattuchio, and manager Peter Wells

Reflecting on the 2024 Mystic Lake Open, it stands out for the excellent sailing conditions and on overall celebration of community and the enduring spirit of the Snipe fleet. As we look forward to what the next 50 years hold for this storied regatta – many more years of serious sailing, serious fun.