[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 162 (Monday, September 20, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E987]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                    HONORING THE VALLEJO YACHT CLUB

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 20, 2021

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 
Vallejo Yacht Club as they celebrate their 121st Annual Great Vallejo 
Race.
  The Vallejo Yacht Club, originally known as the Vallejo Yachting and 
Rowing Club, was founded in 1900. Twenty-five years later, The Great 
Vallejo Race originated as a cruise from Berkeley to Vallejo followed 
by another race back the following day. This race was organized by the 
Pacific Inter-Club Yacht Association, an organization created to 
promote and improve communication among yacht clubs, encourage boating 
safety, and sponsor regattas. Though starting from humble beginnings, 
this race is now revered as one of the largest inland regattas in the 
United States, drawing an attendance of nearly 200+ boats from around 
the Bay Area.
  Now with the backing of the Yacht Racing Association, an organization 
formed to support competitive racing in Northern California and the 
leadership of the Vallejo Yacht Club, this two-day race traditionally 
marks the official opening of the San Francisco Bay racing season. The 
challenging and scenic course of this race draws hundreds of community 
members while showcasing the beauty of the Vallejo Waterfront to all 
participants and attendees.
  Among the Vallejo Yacht Club's vast contributions to the community is 
the Learn-to-Sail program which is open to both youth and adults. This 
popular program invites all levels of expertise to participate in 
sailing and encourages aspiring sailors to engage in meaningful events 
with the community. Their boating safety programs along with their 
local memberships seek to build a club that is diverse and energetic. 
The Vallejo Yacht Club is both an exceptional example of what it means 
to be a generous and altruistic organization and a role model to many 
aspiring sailors and seasoned professionals.
  Madam Speaker, it is no doubt that the Vallejo Yacht Club's 
achievements and contributions will leave a profound impact on sailors 
and members for generations to come. It is fitting and proper that we 
honor them here today.

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