Norwood Regatta Takes Off This Weekend

By LARRY ROBINSON

NORWOOD — After 21 years, the annual Norwood Lake Regatta has become more than just a late summer destination for area families. It has grown into an event that helps bind this bedroom community together, according to Mayor James H. McFaddin.

This year's regatta will be Saturday and Sunday, and Mr. McFaddin said that once again, scores of volunteers are helping to make the annual waterfront festival a success.

"I think the regatta has become a core event here, something that really makes our people realize that there are definite benefits to working together to help out the whole community," he said. "This is important to Norwood because it brings people together and it has lasting effects year-round."

Snowmobiles that travel on the water at high speeds will return to Norwood this weekend, when Eastern Watercross Association racers arrive to compete at Norwood Beach.

The gates open at 9 a.m., and races begin at 11. Admission is $5 for the pro and semipro oval racing in the 600 and 800 class. Parking is free.

Mr. McFaddin said the snowmobile races have proven very popular at the regatta in recent years and draw visitors from throughout St. Lawrence County and beyond. In addition to the races, the event will feature crafts, food and beverages.

Mr. McFaddin said profits from the regatta are used to improve community recreational facilities, address water-quality issues at the lake, stage events that "have a positive effect on local businesses" and help pay for operations at the Norwood Recycling Center.

In addition, Mr. McFaddin said, the public boat dock at the Norwood Lake boat launch was purchased and is maintained with yearly regatta profits.

Other regatta proceeds have been used by the Norwood Lake Association to provide lunches for children during the summer and to make restorations to historic buildings along Norwood's downtown corridor, Mr. McFaddin said.

"Every year, we put the money to the best use we can," he said.

Crafters wanting to reserve space at the arena should call 353-7321 as soon as possible, Mr. McFaddin said. He also said amateur snowsled riders are encouraged to bring their machines and take part in the fun.