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SHAKE-DOWN REGATTA TO RECOGNIZE THE START OF SAILING SEASON

Midland, Ontario, Thursday, May 12, 2011 - Whether you own a motor boat or a sailing vessel noting says spring is here like warm days and good company enjoying the beautiful vistas in Georgian Bay! 

Join Mayors McKay and Marshall on Saturday, May 21st at 1:00 p.m. at the Midland Town Dock and on Sunday, May 22nd at 2:00 p.m. at the Historic Port of Penetanguishene for a unique a dock to dock event as the two towns officially recognize the 2011 sailing season.

On Saturday May 21st, Penetanguishene Mayor Gerry Marshall will board the HMS Badger at 10:00 a.m. at the Historic Port of Penetanguishene and arrive at approximately 1:00 p.m. at the Midland Town Dock to be officially greeted by Midland’s Mayor Gord McKay.

On Sunday May 22nd, Mayor McKay will make the return trip leaving in the HMS Badger from the Midland Town Dock at 10:00 a.m. arriving in Penetanguishene at approximately 2:00 p.m. to be greeted by Mayor Marshall.

At both landings, the well known re-enactors, the Royal Newfoundland Regiment - Bulger's Company will welcome the HMS Badger while the Midland Legion Pipes and Drums will perform at the Midland landing and the Penetang Pipes and Drums will perform at the Penetanguishene landing.

The fun event also includes a friendly competition with competitive cruises that will the “race” the Badger each day in a timed challenge from dock to dock.  A trophy will be presented by the two Mayors to the winner on Sunday afternoon.

“Shakedown” is a nautical term meaning “to test the working equipment of a new ship, or one that has just been refitted”.

Rain dates (if necessary) are May 28th and 29th.

More about the HMS Badger

The HMS Badger is a one-of-a-kind replica of a historic British Navy gunboat, typical of the small vessels used by the British Navy on the Great Lakes during the war of 1812.  The HMS Badger is 36 feet long tip to tip, a cutter rigged sloop with topsail and square, and armed with a 2 pound bow gun, 6 rowing stations and a crew of 6 to 10. 

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For media requiring additional information, please contact:

Mayor Gordon McKay
Town of Midland
Tel: (705) 526-4275
Email: mayor@midland.ca

Mayor Gerry Marshal
Town of Penetanguishene
Tel:  705-549-7453
Email: gmarshall@penetanguishene.ca