Lake Tahoe Next Weekend, Steve Lapkin Spreads The Visual Cheer

THE LADY GAMBLES AND SNOW WATER

A huge thanks to the tireless efforts Steve Lapkin puts into helping push the classic boat universe out there. Yes, this is the time period where there are a pile of shows all at once. Small ones and some whoppers. Clayton, and Tahoe being the largest. We have gotten in a ton of reports from other shows that have happened and will get those up and out there for you all to see. There is also the news, all be it, not classic boat news. But the Jon Boat Loop guy made it and smashed the world record by 6 hrs. This guy is THE MAN, and has captured the hearts and minds of millions of folks. I predict all sorts of new record attempts in our future. Oldest boat, etc. Anyway, back to classic boats and our little sliver of the boating universe. Hit it Steve, and thanks for what you do.

A birds eye view

More birds eye stuff

“WOODY HEAVEN:” a term ubiquitous with Lake Tahoe
Words and imagery by Steve Lapkin

While not as ubiquitous as phrases like “bird’s eye view,” “woody heaven” appears in various contexts to evoke a sense of natural beauty and tranquility, particular in the descriptions of lakes and forests or places rich with wood and trees. Such a picture could be/very well is that of Lake Tahoe…. especially each August with the now, all too well-known, Concours d’ Elegance, hosted by the Tahoe Yacht Club Foundation and staged at Obexer’s Boat Company on Tahoe’s west shore.

The bird eye? JEFF PETERSONS AQUARAMA PORTOFINO

For three (or more) days, like “birds of a feather,” you and your fellow woody tribesmen congregate for fellowship, the rekindling of years’ of acquaintances, and the exchange of blather of events-gone-by since the last assemblage. You bring family, friends, and your prized veteran runabouts…many to be judged for authenticity and originally…or just to bask and play host to the thousands of patrons who gawk and marvel at (up-to) 100-year-old varnish, chrome, and leather.

Witness here, Mahogany Magic!

You want mahogany, here is your mahogany! BAM

Tahoe is certainly “rich” with wood. At an elevation of 6,200 feet above sea level, it has been home to generations for its God given beauty, and the migration of many mahogany venerables from all points on the planet. In 2025, the venue passes the half-century mark as an annual pilgrimage.

Jesus grab the wheel

I just happen to be one of those who was present at the beginning. Both as a participant, photographer, and the event chairman for decades. And it has been a perennial personal pleasure. The 2025 Concours dates are August 8 – 9.

Oh boy! See that screw right there? No under there, right over here. Its got a scratch on it. And according to the correctness of it, that screw has a deeper root thread than what was made in the early 1950’s, but the crest thread section is correct. And according to this Metal Chemical test, the ZZZZZZZZZZ.

Just.. OH HELL YA

It is not just the grind, or commute, in an attempt to bring home the coveted silver chalice. There’s always the anticipation for reunion at this unrivaled destination. And it’s not numbers, i.e. entries, but the diversity in marques, vintages, and individuality. This year, with Gar Wood having been selected as the “feature” class, no less than twenty-seven (27) triples, split-cockpits, utilities, and speedsters will be in view! Twelve of the twenty-seven are returning, having been previous entrants and/or Concours winners. Of particular note is the return entry of Fred Peterson’s Carolyn, a 2019 Turcotte Brothers’ triple that made arrival from New York and its debut at the Concours six years ago.

In addition to the Gar Wood contingent, of course, will be equally impressive displays including Chris-Craft, Hackercraft, Century, Besotes, Sea Lyon, and Riva.

Now thats an image

If god owns a woody boat. This is the one. Wait, no, he can walk on water? Why would he need a boat? I mean if he wanted a boat, this would be it? Right?

And Thunderbird. Always present; always fabulous! 2025 marks her 85th birthday!! Words fail but the photos will attest. She retains her youthful looks, grandeur, vibe, and popularity.

Some names just nil the owners personality

Will leave it to Mister Smith to decide on content, imagery, his personal taglines and publication to all of you. Force of habit but needless to say, we will upload post-event visuals to share for posterity!!

Any and all Concours details can be had by visiting the website: HERE

Yet?