Labor Day weekend in Crisfield means one thing—it’s time for the Hard Derby Crab Festival, now in its 71st year. As part of this festival, the Smith Island Crab Skiffs participate in the morning parade, then head over to Wellington Beach and Park for a series of afternoon races.

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Randy Silvers, Joe Strohmer, and Tuffy Garrett approaching the start/finish line as Eric Emely closes in. Photos by Paul Denbow

A record crowd gathered at Wellington Beach to watch some exciting racing from the seven crab skiffs. In the end, Joe Strohmer in Rock My Fish and Eric Emely in After Hours were victors.

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Miss Crustacean 1st runner-up Megan Tull and contestant Madison Diggs presented the Lawson Tyler Trophy to Joe Strohmer for winning the Smith Island Crab Skiff handicap race.

Next up for the Smith Island Crab Skiff Association is the Poquoson Workboat Races October 7 and the Sultana Downrigging Festival in Chestertown, MD, October 27. Find more info at the Smith Island Crab Skiff's Facebook page.

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The Dickie White Memorial Trophy was presented to Eric Emery for winning the Smith Island Crab Skiff Hard Crab Derby.

By Paul Denbow