The final event for the 2017 Smith Island Crab Skiff Association season was held on Saturday, October 28 at Sultana Downrigging Weekend in Chestertown, MD. Six skiff teams made their way to Chestertown: Down Necker II, Fiddler on the Bay, Gone Crab Skiff Crazy, Hot Crabs Cold Beer, Muddy Oyster, and Rock My Fish. 

downrigging regatta
Ralph Justice in Down Necker II and Bob Wallace in Gone Crab Skiff Crazy. Photo by Paul Denbow

The docks were full of spectators as the skiffs took to the water in the morning. Muddy Oyster, driven by Rick Loheed, was the class of the field and took the win in both races. Due to high winds coming up the Chester River, the afternoon event was cancelled. Another successful year is in the books! We had two new skiffs added, and Glebe Girl is under new ownership and should be making a return in 2018. Many thanks to the crab skiff owners and captains, as well as their families, friends, and the spectators who made this a great year. 

downrigging regatta
Having already crossed the line in first, Rick Loheed in Muddy Oyster watches Pete Ginocchio in Hot Crabs Cold Beer race Randy Silvers in Fiddler on the Bay toward the finish. Photo by Paul Denbow

By Paul Denbow