Reach for Hospice sailboat races are Saturday

Published 1:30 am Wednesday, September 20, 2023

Editor’s note: An article in the Sept. 13 edition of the Sequim Gazette listed an incorrect date for the Reach and Row for Hospice sailboat races. — MD

The second weekend of the annual Reach and Row for Hospice, featuring sailboat races, is set for noon Saturday, Sept. 23, concluding by about 4 p.m.

As in past years, the Reach and Row raises funds for respite care for Volunteer Hospice of Clallam County (VHOCC) — a nonprofit, provides compassionate care to the terminally ill, their caregivers and their families. The organization also runs a lending closet, supplying medical equipment to its patients and the community at large.

It offers community education and grief and bereavement programs to anyone who has lost a loved one.

The 2022 races raised $28,240.74 for VHOCC, and helped the nonprofit provide an estimated 1,828 hours of relief, grief and spiritual care.

Since 1991 the fundraiser has supported VHOCC to the tune of $486,905.

The community is welcome to come to view the races at several viewing points at John Wayne Marina, 2577 W. Sequim Bay Road, on race days.

Those wishing to make a contribution by mail can send their tax-deductible donations to: VHOCC 829 E. Eighth St., Port Angeles WA 98362; write “Reach and Row for Hospice” in the subject line.

Initially established in 1991 as a sailboat race, Reach and Row in 2018 was expanded to include a 10-kilometer, open water competition in Sequim Bay for anyone with an oar or paddle, including rowers, kayakers, canoers and paddleboarders.

For more about the event, contact Hawkins at lynnhawkins888@gmail.com. Or, visit sequimbayyacht.club and click on “Hospice Fundraiser” tab.

For more about Volunteer Hospice of Clallam County, visit vhocc.org.