Tragic News Today From Lake Dora, Florida
We received tragic news today from Lake Dora, Florida of a fatality during the Classic Raceboat Association – Spring Thunder Raceboat Regatta. According to our sources, it happened at the beginning of the Jersey Speed Skiff demonstration race this morning. From the information we have received, unfortunately one of the lead boats flipped, ejecting the driver and passenger in the path of the following boats in the demonstration race – resulting in the tragic fatality.
The races have been cancelled until further notice.
We will continue to update this sad story as information becomes available.
News Update: Click here to see the WESH News report.
Terrifying. My condolences to those involved. I try to stay out of the fast boat’s way.
Saw it on Florida news. Male and female boat flipped over dumping them in the water. The man was hit and died , the 53 year old woman taken to the hospital was ok
Thanks for the update Randy.
It was Mark Van Winkle of Stuart Fl;
Here is a brief report from the Orlando Sentinel web site:
A Martin County man was killed after being struck by a boat during an annual classic boat event in Lake County, officials said.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission spokeswoman Joy Hill said Mark VanWinkle, 53, of Stuart and Lorraine Moody of Lake Placid were ejected from their speeding Jersey Skiff vessel during a heat in the Classic Race Boat regatta on Lake Dora in Tavares.
A rescue boat plucked Moody out of the water but the man was struck by another boat and killed, she said. Race rules require boat operators to wear helmets and stop when someone is seen in the water.
Tavares city spokeswoman Joyce Ross said the incident happened around noon during the sixth annual event which typically attracts 8,000 to 10,000 spectators, vendors and participants to kick-off the beginning of boating season.
We attended the CRA dinner tonight where it was announced that the races will continue tomorrow, starting at 10 am.
Thanks Guys – and Gals