Classic boats return to Keuka Lake

HAMMONDSPORT--The 39th annual Classic Boat Show by Wine Country Classic Boats will return to Depot Park Saturday and Sunday, July 16-17. A living showcase of historic, antique and classic boats will be on display and in the water illustrating the evolution of recreational boating.
"The Wine Country Classic Boat (WCCB) show (a chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society) is an annual event that showcases the boating history of the US," said Dave Bornholdt, Secretary of Wine Country Classic Boats. "Many boats that are classics we remember from our childhood are lovingly restored and displayed for the enjoyment of the public."
Along with bringing a sense of nostalgia and history, the event also brings out visitors to Hammondsport and the greater Finger Lakes region.
"The event is a big boost for the local community," added Bornholdt. "Exhibitors stay at local motels and bed and breakfast lodging and support local restaurants. The Timber Stone Grill is catering an event at the Finger Lakes Boating Museum on Saturday night where the attendees will dine in the trout boat room of the boating museum."
This year the theme will be fiberglass boats in addition to several vintage mahogany runabouts.
"There will be at least one new 28' Gar Wood built with new construction techniques but using classic materials and design," Bornholdt explained. "The 1924 Pat II, a tour boat built in Alexandria Bay and restored by the Finger Lakes Boating Museum in Hammondsport, will be taking boat show participants for rides on Keuka Lake."
For Bornholdt, the boats not only represent something aesthetically pleasing but also something that should be appreciated firsthand.
"The boats are significant because there is nothing like a ride on the water in a classic boat. They represent a day gone by in American history. They make us remember 'the good old days.' This event has been popular because it is a friendly event the whole family can enjoy. The boat builders and restorers love to talk about their work and accomplishments," he said.
The event will kick off at 9 a.m. on July 16 and run until 5 p.m. Boat judging begins at 10 a.m. with a number of award categories. The boat parade is scheduled for 3 p.m. On Sunday there will be a water skiing exhibition at 10 a.m.
"I am looking forward to seeing the latest build from the Gar Wood boat builders in Brandt Lake, NY. It is a 28' Streamliner and it will be stunning," added Bornholdt.