PHOTOS: Star Class Vintage Gold Cup

The Star Class Vintage Gold Cup is a regatta reserved for restored, reconditioned, and otherwise lake-worthy wooden Star Class sloops, none with numbers above 6000 (the Class boasts number 8573 as the latest boat built). Launched in 2017, this gathering is a floating museum.

After a pandemic postponement in 2020, the 2021 edition was held September 30-October 2 in Richland, MI. During the six race series on Gull Lake, all the boats get hauled out and cleaned for the Meet the Boats parade which attracts guests from all over the community to see vintage Star boats up close and personal.

More so, the attendees are encouraged to vote for their favorite (early and often, in fact), for a Best in Show prize that is the basis for the half model awards to be presented the following year. The organizers even had Team Ferrari and Team Ford fronted by the land versions of their respective racers added to the show.

A banquet afterward in the Yacht Club was highlighted by a fundraiser for the Geoff Ewenson Foundation. Geoff was a Star (and other boats) sailor taken from us way too early, and his family started the foundation to offer assistance to others who find themselves in need of such help immediately. A good cause, a lot of fun, and a good deed done by the event.

Photos by Walter Cooper.