PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. -
The 35th Annual Mayor's Cup Regatta is underway in Plattsburgh. The four-day sailing competition will attract dozens of racing teams and hundreds of onlookers.
The event began Thursday and the festivities included the Parade of Lights.
Some two dozens boats, from kayaks to houseboats, cruised down Lake Champlain. They were decorated with lights and many played music. This was also a competition with prizes based on categories including the number of lights, music, and crew spirit.
While the crew of the "Souvenir" could have fun Thursday and took part in the parade, soon it will be time to compete.
"We're looking forward to it. Should be a nice weekend," says Craig Meyerson, boater.
Meyerson and his team will race and this won't be their first time.
"It's fun. Bottom line, it's fun," says Meyerson.
This year some 70 teams will take part. Organizer Jake DeSnyder says not having flood waters like last year has helped boaters train.
"Most of the people have been in six, seven weeks already. It's been a great season," says DeSnyder.
The concern this year is not enough wind.
"If Saturday is like this the sailors will go crazy. So we're just hoping for 10, 15 mile an hour winds," says DeSnyder.
Right now, the forecast is for much lighter winds. While that's not ideal for the crew of the "Souvenir," Meyerson is not worried.
"Whatever the wind is we'll deal with it. It's better to be out on the water than be on shore," says Meyerson.
The event runs through Sunday and the regatta is Saturday from 9:00am to 2:00pm.
