On 7 May, the Old Point Comfort YC, located at historic Fort Monroe in Hampton, Virginia, held it’s annual Blessing of the fleet, Sock Burning and Derby Day party, all in one fell swoop. The day started with the ritual blessing of any and all boats in the neighborhood of OPCYC desiring to participate. After a laying of the wreath in remembrance of those who passed from us this past year, each boat filed close by the anchor boat to be appropriately blessed by local clergy.
A short while later, members gathered on the beach for the sock burning affair. After comments and a short poem, read by Commodore Eileen Turner, the ceremony began with folks ripping of their socks and tossing them into the fire causing quite the bonfire.
In conjunction with the 142nd running of the Kentucky Derby, OPCYC members gathered in their clubhouse to party and watch the telecast of the Run for the Roses from Churchill Downs. Everyone enjoyed classic Kentucky dishes, like Burgoo and Hot Brown sandwiches, along with the customary Mint Juleps. Ladies, of course, wore their fanciful broad-brimmed hats as required by the lore of the event. Everyone had a terrific time, whether their chosen horse won or not.
And then, as usual, we ate too much and partied into the night. A great time had by all.
by Michael Turner
