National Model Sailboat Race Coming to Marco

Remote controlled model sailboat enthusiasts will converge upon Marco Island as the Marco Island Model Yacht Club (MIMYC), in conjunction with the City’s Parks and Recreation Department, will host the 20th Annual RC Laser Regatta on March 1 through 3. Its reputation for quality led the Marco facility to be chosen to host the 2024 RC Laser National Championship Regatta.

The Marco Club has hosted the Regional Regatta here on Marco Island for 20 years now, according to Regatta Chairperson Rocky Cale, a longtime member of the MIMYC. The Marco Island Club was formed 20 years ago and saw rapid growth in those interested in the fast-growing sport of Remote Control (RC) Laser Model Racer, which is a scale version of the famous “one design” Laser, the most popular “real boat” sailing class in the world.

The Regatta itself is limited to a total of 30 participants, and the event itself was sold out in four days and currently has a waiting list. The Regatta has attracted top racers from around the nation. Reigning RC Laser National Champion Jim Kaighin from Marsh Harbor, Abacos, Bahamas, a five-time National Champion, is returning to defend his title, as are many of the top competitors such as Barr Batzer (2022 Champion) from Lighthouse Point, Florida, and David Ramos (2014 Champion from Stevensville, MD)

Participants will be exercising their entries on Friday, before the two days of actual racing on March 2 and 3, and a welcome dinner will be held for participants on Friday Evening at the Hilton Spa and Beach Resort.

The Marco City’s Parks and Recreation Department in conjunction with the volunteer members of the MIMYC Membership have been responsible for many of the improvements regarding the race facilities found at Mackle Park. Parking for those wishing to observe the events to be held on March 2 and 3 may be found at the Mackle Park Community Center on Andalusia Terrace.

For more information regarding the event please call Regatta Chairman Rocky Cale at 609-703-4310 or visit their website at www.mimyc.club regarding membership and more information.