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Each September, hundreds of sailors and spectators gather on or near the Chesapeake Bay, united in a common goal to raise money. This year the annual Hospice Cup regatta cele ates its 30th anniversary. Millions of dollars—eight million to be exact—have been raised through the cooperative effort of an all volunteer board of directors, executive director, participating area hospices, plus hundreds of volunteers.
The challenge of providing services to the terminally ill crosses generations, the old and the young. Three years ago, the event added a Junior Regatta, enabling youth to join in the effort to raise money for medical expenses not covered by Medicare or private insurance. The monies raised enable hospices to provide skilled, compassionate care to patients, regardless of their ability to pay.
The Hospice Cup Junior Regatta promotes awareness of the greater mission of the Hospice Cup—including youth hospice care—to an audience who might not have experience with palliative care. Last year’s 2010 youth team raised $14,000 for the cause, but more importantly they learned much more. As Karen Morgan, the mother of one junior racer wrote, “Racing for a purpose, rather than just chasing points, was a life-lesson that will forever remain with my son, Ian. He had a ball and both he and his 11-year-old other Aidan are determined to be on the team next year.” The Hospice Cup Junior Regatta promotes awareness of the greater mission of the Hospice Cup—including youth hospice care—to an audience who might not have experience with palliative care. Last year's 2010 youth team raised $14,000 for the cause, but more importantly they learned much more. As Karen Morgan, the mother of one junior racer wrote, “Racing for a purpose, rather than just chasing points, was a life-lesson that will forever remain with my son, Ian. He had a ball and both he and his 11-year-old other Aidan are determined to be on the team next year.”
“Promoting youth sailing and racing on the Bay while raising awareness about hospice care is a win-win situation for these talented racers,” says Brien Jones-Lantzy, Hospice Cup, Inc., President. “Their impressive fundraising efforts reaffirms that the next generation of philanthropic sailors is blooming in Annapolis in support of hospice care and services,” adds Jones-Lantzy.
To participate in this event, kids, age nine to 12, are qualified by the Chesapeake Bay Yacht Racing Association (CBYRA) to compete. Adults who wish to participate have two levels of racing options. As novice racers, they can race in the HOSPICE CLASS, a non-spinaker class where participants are given additional instruction by Shearwater Sailing Club, or they can race in CYBRA CLASS. The regatta is held on the Bay, off the mouth of the Severn River, and is considered a highlight of the area's racing season, counting for the CBYRA season-long High Point competition.
Sponsors, donors, and invited guests have the option of enjoying the races from the decks of a luxury charter boat, complete with open bar and catered lunch. They can enjoy their refreshments while listening to race commentators.
After the race, the big party, known as the Shore Party, begins on Back Creek at Annapolis Sailing School. Highlights include a live and silent auction, along with a catered buffet, full bar, live music, and awards ceremony. For more information on how you can participate in this or future events, visit hospicecup.org.
