The Lake Gregory Yacht Club celebrated its opening day on Saturday, June 5. This year, the club’s 17th, was especially memorable, marking the reopening from the COVID-19 shutdown that had the clubhouse and events closed for most of 2020 and the first part of 2021.

Unlike prior years, this year’s ceremony was limited to members only. Nevertheless, 50 members attended the traditional event.

Opening days are a tradition for those yacht clubs that are in seasonal areas and are closed during the winter. Therefore, opening days are marked with traditional ceremonies, introductions and fellowship, marking the start of a new season of boating and club events.

While most of California’s clubs are open during the full year, the clubs still follow the traditional spring opening day traditions.

The Mountain Fifes & Drums have been an important part of LGYC’s ceremonies for many years. This year, they were especially appreciated by the club’s many new members who were attending an opening day for the first time. Following the Fifes & Drums’ presentation, 2021 officers, committees and new members were introduced.

Before the club burgee (flag) was raised, marking the official opening, Commodore Matthew Philippe and Past Commodore Art Dixon were sworn in as members of the International Order of the Blue Gavel, a worldwide organization of past commodores of yacht clubs.

LGYC is looking forward to an enjoyable and productive 2021!