SEATTLE — Seattle has one of the highest numbers of recreational boats per capita of anywhere in the United States, and that was on full display Tuesday night on Lake Union.
A sailing race called Duck Dodge has been a staple on the lake since 1974; this year, sailors are celebrating its 50th anniversary. Each Tuesday night of the summer, hundreds take to the waves on dozens of boats, and this week was no exception.
The theme this Tuesday was "Tropical Night," and it was only appropriate that the weather gods played nice. A light breeze, sunny conditions, and hundreds of happy people in leis and hibiscus print filled the lake to compete.
"It’s a perfect day for sailing," said Mike Schiltz, longtime Duck Dodge participant and owner of a J/92 sailboat.
The race prides itself on being a welcoming community, encouraging sailors "to come join" them on the water, "regardless of their age, ethnicity, background, creed, political affiliation, gender identification, or who they love."
Schiltz said part of the fun is introducing new people to sailing and "watching their eyes light up.”
He added, "This is the big event of the year, really, here tonight."
Ullman Sails sponsored the tropical-themed event this Tuesday and supported thirsty sailors by passing out hundreds of Fremont Brewery-provided beers and soft drinks to people on the water. This happened from a floating barge that was tugged out into a central area near the race course.
"We're on cup 300!" shouted one woman who was passing out beverages from the barge.
Chuck Skewes, the owner of Ullman Sails, hosts the sponsored "tiki barge" every year.
Skewes said Duck Dodge's unpretentious nature is what makes the race so popular.
He told KING 5, "It doesn’t count for anything, and there’s no handicap, so you can take any boat and race it. We have windsurfers out here. We have anything with a sail out here.”
Boats of all sizes, speeds, and shapes, and can join the race. There are different start times based on speed advantages.
"The only rule is not to hit a duck. That’s the only rule there is. Other than that, anything goes!" said Schiltz.
The event's ability to endure the test of time and maintain enthusiastic participation is a testament to something bigger than just a love for sailing.
"When boaters get out on the water, it’s just a friendly, happy thing that happens out there," said Schiltz. "It’s fun."
Schiltz also said it represents Seattleites' shared values of finding joy in inclusivity.
"Everybody is nice and friendly to each other," said Schiltz. "You don’t know what anybody’s politics are. You just know they have a boat, they have a big smile on their face, and you’re here doing Duck Dodge as a big community.”