Everyone from international disc golfers to world-class puddle duck racers to southwestern Pennsylvanian families will come together at this weekend’s Regatta at Lake Arthur in Moraine State Park.
The regatta, now in its 17th year, is a “two-day outdoor celebration of Moraine State Park,” according to event director Holly Muchnok. She said many people feel the Butler County park is underused, so the event is a way to showcase all Moraine has to offer year-round to park-goers.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to get out and have some fun with families and friends and really understand what this resource is in our community,” she said.
A car cruise, yoga on Lake Arthur, sailing races, a vendor marketplace and a mountain bike group ride with Trail Pittsburgh all begin Saturday. The main stage will offer live performances all day, including music, storytelling, and dancing.
Returning for a second year is the SummersCool program which offers free mini-courses in archery, windsurfing, fishing, camping and kayaking to folks of all ages. Muchnok said the regatta’s mission is to promote “eco-recreational” activities within Moraine that minimize pollution and conserve energy.
“Part of our desire and our vision is to showcase things that you can do at the park that aren’t a hindrance or a harm,” Muchnok said.
Pittsburgh is hosting this year’s PDGA Pro Disc Golf World Championship, and the first round will take place Sunday at Moraine's Lakeview course. Professional disc golfers will offer demos and short lessons on the basics of the sport.
The Puddle Duck Racer World Championship will also be held Sunday. Puddle duck sailboats are small, box-shaped boats made from plywood and are typically easy to make for folks without boat construction experience, according to organizers. This is the second time Lake Arthur’s hosted the race in the past five years.
Because of these events and the Pennsylvania Standup Paddle Boarding Competition, Muchnok estimates 15,000 people will attend this year if the weather holds out. The 2014 regatta saw a record-breaking 9,500 attendees despite a rainy weekend, she said.
The event is family-friendly, with children’s areas throughout for face-painting, arts and crafts and hula hoop instruction. The SummersCool program also offers lessons for kids, such as family fishing. State parks prohibit alcohol, so the environment will be safe for all ages, Muchnok said.
