Lightning #1, built by the Skaneateles Boats Company, was launched on Skaneateles Lake in 1938. The Skaneateles Country Club was granted the charter for Lightning Fleet #1, and in 1939 John Barnes of the Skaneateles Boats Company became the first national Lightning champion. Today, the Lightning has evolved into one of the most popular and competitive one-design racing classes in the world, with more than 500 fleets worldwide and some 15,000 boats. Lightning #1 has been retired to the Mystic (Conn.) Seaport Museum.

The Lightning, which sports a “bolt of lightning” insignia toward the top of its mainsail, has been piloted by some of the world’s best sailors, including America’s Cup defenders Ted Turner and Dennis Connor.

The 70th Anniversary program gets under way Friday, with Lightning Labs and a cookout for Regatta participants. Three races are scheduled for Saturday, and two for Sunday, with additional events for participants held throughout the weekend. For more information, go to http://www.lightning70th.com.

During July, all things boating will be celebrated throughout Skaneateles, marking 100 years of boating tradition—a tradition that encompasses steamboats, rowboats, yachts and canoes; Lightning boat-building and racing; and the preservation, restoration and display of antique and classic boats.

The month-long commemoration will be anchored on one end by the 70th Anniversary Lightning Regatta, hosted by the Skaneateles Country Club, July 4-6, and on the other end by the 30th Annual Antique and Classic Boat Show, hosted by the Skaneateles Area Chamber of Commerce and the Finger Lakes Chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society, July 25-27, 2008.

In between will be educational programs, displays, book-signings and nautical-themed activities, all highlighting Skaneateles’ rich boating heritage.

 “In Skaneateles, boating has always been a big part of our enjoyment of summer,” says Sue Dove, executive director of the Skaneateles Area Chamber of Commerce. “This summer, with its dual anniversaries, presented a unique opportunity for us to share this legacy with visitors from across the country and around the world.”

Jul 04 – Jul 06, 2008  Skaneateles Lake Lightning 70th Anniversary Regatta
Over 150 Lightning class sailboats will converge on Skaneateles Lake to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Lightning. Designed and originally built in Skaneateles in 1938, the Lightnings return every 10 years to celebrate on their home waters. Spectacular views of the races will be possible on and around the north end of the lake.
Date:   July 4, 2008 – July 6, 2008
Location:   Skaneateles Lake
Email:   lightning70th@mac.com
Date/Time Details:   Friday, July 4, 1-4; Saturday, July 5, 10-4; Sunday, July 6, 10-1; weather permitting
Fees/Admission:   Viewing is free