Chamber brings back makeshift boat race

SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce is hosting the newly revived Sand Creek Regatta on Saturday.

Sandpoint local, Jon Knepper, brought the idea to the chamber as a fundraiser for both the non-profit and to purchase shared personal floatation devices for Sandpoint’s public boat launches.

All watercraft is handmade and man-powered, no existing watercraft allowed except for floatation devices under a 12-inch diameter. They will launch from under Bridge Street, turn around at the Cedar St. Bridge and finish again at Bridge Street. There will be prizes for Most Recyclable Craft, Most Epic Fail, Race Winner and Most Creative. This year’s theme is simply, “Whatever Floats Your Boat!”

The Chamber encourages locals to come downtown in a physically distanced manner to watch this fun, funky race. There is plenty of spectator room along the sand Creek trail, the public dock and the two bridges. Bob Witte of KPND will be announcing the race on Facebook Live for spectators both in person and at home to follow along.

The 219 Lounge is hosting the official after party with a regatta themed cocktail and live music on the patio.

More details on the event at sandpointchamber.org. Please join the Chamber next Saturday, Sept. 19 at noon for the inaugural Sand Creek Regatta!