Olmito Lake Regatta attracts thousands

By RENE TORRES
Special to the NEWS

The talk around the Valley in 1927 was about the First Annual Regatta at Olmito Lake.

It was advertised as a spectacular water show by the fastest boats of the era. John Rutledge, who was in charge of the event said, “Citizens who are planning to turn out to the regatta need not be afraid that they will be compelled to see a lot of slow races.”

The mile course was prepared with stakes placed as frequently as possible. The turning skills of the men piloting the boats where tested as the engines and boats themselves were on the straight-aways.

As soon as the sun showed its face over the horizon on Easter Sunday, thousands of people from throughout the Valley were seen making their way to beautiful Lake Olmito.

The three o’clock race attracted 5,000 people. While many were taking their front seats long before the races started, others were taking in the splendor of the shade trees, bathing and picnicking.

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