The Smith Island Crab Skiffs Jeff Swanson Memorial Race at Tall Timbers was held on July 17 at Tall Timbers Marina. Skiffs/captains participating in this event were Rick Loheed in Muddy Oyster, Matt Graves in Fiddler on the Bay, Tuffy Garrett in Swamp Rat, John Pepe in Slippery Eel, Joe Strohmer in Rock My Fish, and Bob Wallace in Gone Crab Skiff Crazy. 

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Close racing in the back of the field. Photos by Paul Denbow

It was a very hot day when the crab skiffs took to the water. In Race One, John Pepe in Slippery Eel, making his inaugural start, sped to the front and never looked back as he won his first race. John was followed by Tuffy Garrett in Swamp Rat and Bob Wallace in Gone Crab Skiff Crazy. 

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Joe Strohmer in Rock My Fish leads Matt Graves in Fiddler on the Bay and Rick Loheed in Muddy Oyster around turn four.

In Race Two, Bob Wallace took an early lead and won his first race. He was closely followed by John Pepe and Tuffy Garrett. While the first three sped away from the group, Rock My Fish, Muddy Oyster, and Fiddler on the Bay had a very close and entertaining battle in both races.

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Race One winner John Pepe in Slippery Eel.

Thanks to all the supporters that came out, and special thanks to Tall Timbers Marina and Reluctant Navigator Restaurant for hosting this event. Please check the Events section of The Smith Island Crab Skiff Association Facebook page for future events.

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Race Two winner Bob Wallace in Gone Crab Skiff Crazy.

Recap and Photos By Paul Denbow