Connecticut Spring Boat Show Raises Record $33,000 for Sails Up 4 Cancer Despite Challenging Weather
PRESS CONTACT
Sarah Wadle
First Position Media
sarah@firstpositionmedia.com
860-559-9198
Essex, CT (August 18, 2026) – Despite challenging weather which made for slightly lower attendance vs previous years, the 2026 Connecticut Spring Boat Show raised a record-breaking $33,000 for Sails Up 4 Cancer (SU4C), surpassing all previous fundraising totals for the event.
The three-day show, hosted at Safe Harbor Essex Island and produced by WindCheck Magazine, once again demonstrated the generosity and commitment of the boating community. Proceeds from ticket sales, donations, merchandise sales, and special fundraising efforts will directly support SU4C's Spinnaker Fund, which provides financial assistance to families battling cancer.
"This year's results are a testament to the incredible generosity of our supporters," said Bob Davis, Founder of Sails Up 4 Cancer. "Even with weather that impacted attendance, our donors, sponsors, volunteers, and guests stepped up in a remarkable way. Raising a record $33,000 means more families facing cancer will receive the financial assistance they need during some of life's most difficult moments. We are deeply grateful to everyone who made this possible."
Special recognition goes to several generous supporters whose contributions helped make this record year possible, including The Grace Family, Miguel Gularte of PC Restoration, and George Whang and the Mindy Whang Foundation. Their generosity, along with the support of countless attendees and donors, played a significant role in achieving this milestone.
The event organizers also extend sincere thanks to Franco's Comedy Show for its fundraising support, as well as the dedicated Safe Harbor Essex Island staff and launch operators, whose hard work and commitment throughout the weekend helped ensure another successful event despite difficult conditions.
"What continues to make this event so special is the incredible community that rallies around it each year," said Ben Cesare, Director of the Connecticut Spring Boat Show and Publisher of WindCheck Magazine. "From our exhibitors and sponsors to the volunteers, Safe Harbor team, launch operators, and every person who purchased a ticket or made a donation, everyone plays an important role. While the weather certainly presented challenges this year, the generosity of our supporters proved stronger than the forecast."
The Connecticut Spring Boat Show is produced by WindCheck Magazine and hosted by Safe Harbor Essex Island, bringing together leading boat dealers, marine businesses, exhibitors, and boating enthusiasts while supporting the mission of Sails Up 4 Cancer. Funds raised help provide financial assistance, education, prevention, and research initiatives for families affected by cancer.
