By Jim Hulen, North Myrtle Beach Online.com

NOVEMBER 27, 2009 NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, SC ― In 1984, Susie Watson and her uncle, Poo McLauchlin created a Christmas Regatta to celebrate the boating community in the North Strand.  The event, under the slogan ‘Yachts for Tots’ has raised money for underprivileged children during Christmas for almost its entire twenty five year history.

The parade began at Tilghman Point at the Little River Inlet at 5 PM and travels south to arriving at Dock Holidays Marina at 7 PM where winners in several categories are announced.

Gather your family and watch the parade as it passes various viewing areas along the waterway from Little River to Dock Holidays Marina.

Many make reservations and watch from waterway restaurants; others line up along the waterway.  In years past the banks of the waterway were filled to capacity. Estimates ran as high as 25,000 people viewed the event. Some families turn it into a party and build giant bonfires that can be seen miles away.

Boats compete in 5 categories.  Overall winner claims $1,200 and cannot compete in the other four categories – 29’ and under, 30’-39’, 40’ to 59’ and 60’ and over. Each category winner gets $300 in prize money.

The Regatta is managed by a committee.  Members are Susie Watson, Harbourgate Marina, Dawn Fowler, Atlantic Realty & Construction, Pam Ban, Property & Association Management, Ginny Maynard, 94.9 the Surf, Penelope Hinson, Horry Electric, Sarah Faulk-Dean, BB&T, Ann Maynard, Jackie Perry-Medlin, Poo’s and Brenda Hulon.