four lakes ice yacht club

Welcome to iceboat.org

The Four Lakes Ice Yacht Club is one of the most active iceboat clubs in North America. We’ve been building and racing iceboats for over 100 years in Madison, Wisconsin, USA.

Ice Is Never 100% Safe.

Our ice reports are strictly for iceboat racers. Recreational iceboaters, kite boarders, cross country skiers, and ice fishermen should not rely on our ice reports. We have safety equipment. Do you?

Buy or Sell Your Iceboat

One of the best pages in North America to buy or sell iceboats and their parts. There’s also a complete list of vendors who will supply iceboats, sails, and their components.

Common Questions:

How can I get started? How fast can they go? How much do they cost? Is it safe?

Regatta Watch

Information about the ISA, NIYA, WSSA, Nite, and DN regattas.

Iceboat Classes

Learn about Skeeters, DNs, Stern Steerers, Renegades, Nites, and Ice Optimists.

The purpose of iceboat racing rules is to prevent collisions.

Ice Yacht Clubs

The best way to learn about iceboating and make life long friendships is to join a local club.

Why We Sail.

“If all our ice were glass, slightly wet, and all our air reasonably steady with lifters just where needed, sailing would be perfect. Sometimes we do find this, and it is worth waiting years to have. Meanwhile we must accept the more ordinary ice conditions, ordinary weather and wind, and gracefully accept snow, sometimes for weeks. Our ideal comes from time to time, the Great Maker gives only so much of the very best.” Charles H. Johnson.

Iceboating for Kids

Ice Optimists were created specifically as a youth trainer, designed to be easily built using commonly available materials, and to keep costs to a minimum.

UPCOMING: SOUTHERN WISCONSIN SWAP MEET, MADISON, WI: Sunday, October 27 @ Harken, Pewaukee, WI. Information 4LIYC Meeting : November 2024 4LIYC Shipstore: Order custom iceboat shirts, hats, and gear. More information. BURGEE: Order your 4LIYC Burgee Pay Your Dues Online

Spaight St. Syndicate Update: Daniel 2.0

by Deb Whitehorse | Sep 4, 2024

The Daniel 2.0

If you are not smart like Pat Heppert, I would highly recommend getting yourself a Daniel 2.0. You see, Pat designed this slick sheeting system for our Mini Skeeters. Rather than pulling downward off the boom, our sheet runs underneath the deck, which allows us to trim with the full benefit of our legs and torso. Now Pat is plenty strong enough to sheet the traditional way, but his much older and weaker travel mate is a total wuss. The system was likely designed with this in mind, but Pat is too nice to say so. It also allows us to crouch down deep into the cockpit keeping our elbows in, reducing windage. Even Pat, with his superior musculature, can nearly disappear inside the cockpit.

My first attempted Mini build ended with my mast listing to leeward at about 30 degrees. I told everyone I was testing an on-the-fly adjustable stay system. I said it with such conviction that no one immediately pointed out that the Mini has a stay-less rig. Given the wreckage that was left on my deck, I doubt anyone bought it, but it was worth a try. I have made a living spinning tales for decades, so I just could not help myself. This configuration certainly was not fast!

The playa fact checkers uncovered that the spinmaster’s boat blew up on the second day of racing last May. Regatta Manager extraordinaire, Dennis Bassano, provided the “tow of shame” back to the pits, while interested parties gathered around to survey the wreckage. “That one’s not going to buff out,” one helpful observer offered. “Hardly a scratch I replied,” simultaneously wondering what I was going to do in the desert for the rest of the week? Fortunately, Ironman Renee Fields (for those not in-the-know, the adjective is gender neutral), graciously offered to withdraw from the Mini Class, to allow me to race Pete John’s spare boat. Renee routinely races in every class. Pete is still going fast nearing 90 years old. Two amazing people!

Truth-be-told, the builder was too much of a weight weenie, removing structure he considered unnecessary. Guess we all know how that turned out! Sorry John. Sorry Pat. In my defense, it worked for Senna. At least the hull was still in primer, so the eventual paint would hide my ineptitude.

Since I was performing major reconstructive surgery, I decided to move my ratchet block further forward underneath the deck. This, to give me more un-tapered mainsheet to clutch before reaching maximum block-to-block. And, to still have only the tapered sheet running through all eight blocks at race trim. If I were smart like Pat, I would have left a tracer line in my hull before closing it up. No matter how I attempted to contort my body, there was no way I could reach that far forward. And my access panel underneath, was not quite big enough. Enter Daniel 2.0. Dashel Daniel , my grandson. Among the greatest honors of my life, he was named after me.

Dash was happy to scurry into the cockpit abyss, skillfully rerouting my mainsheet through bulkhead bushings, around my ratchet block in the correct direction and back to my waiting hand. So, if you find yourself with a similar dilemma, let me know, and I will share contact info for his mom. Dash has yet to learn his marketable value, but rest assured he will. His “Pappy” (and his Dad) will see to that! For now, he is most satisfied to work for chocolate!

Iceboating: The Unsung Training Ground for America’s Cup Helmsmen

by Deb Whitehorse | Aug 22, 2024

Link to video. Previous: Ice Sailors to Represent USA in Youth America’s Cup In this interview with Harken Blockheads, Harry Melges IV, one of the helmsmen representing the USA in the upcoming Youth America’s Cup, was asked which boat sails most similarly to the cutting-edge AC40. His answer? “Iceboating is probably the most similar.”

This comes as no surprise for those of us in the iceboating community. Ever since foiling boats began to dominate the America’s Cup, we’ve recognized the parallels between the speeds and control demanded by both foiling and iceboating. Harry’s insight confirms what we’ve known all along iceboating is the perfect training ground for mastering high-speed sailing.

As Harry and his team prepare to compete on the world stage in Barcelona, it’s exciting to see hard water skills being recognized as key to success in the Youth America’s Cup. Iceboating continues to play a role in competitive sailing, and we’re proud to see our sport contributing to the next generation of champions.

Cheers to 50 Years – Nites Celebrates Half a Century of Nationals

Why not make a full weekend out of it? The Southern Wisconsin Iceboat Swap Meet is happening the next day, on Sunday, October 27, so you can enjoy a weekend dedicated to thinking ice. The Nite Class has even reserved hotel rooms at a discounted price to make it easier for you to join the fun.

Come celebrate, swap stories, and gear up for the season. If you plan to attend the cocktail party, RSVP to Nite Commodore Maureen Bohleber at 920-279-1506

HOTEL INFO – Ask for the Harken Party BEST WESTERN WAUKESHA GRAND 2840 N Grandview Blvd Pewaukee, WI 262-524-9300 2 Queens or 1 King $85.00 Book by 9/26

A Sail Slide’s Story

by Deb Whitehorse | Aug 20, 2024

Ruben Snodgress with COLD WAVE. Photo courtesy of Catherine Firmbach

The sail slide that Henry shared belonged to Ruben Snodgress, who owned the stern steerer COLD WAVE, and he sailed it on Mecox Bay in Long Island, New York. While I’m unsure if COLD WAVE was an Evinrude-built ice yacht, it certainly used Evinrude sail slides. Interestingly, there are mentions of ice yachts named COLD WAVE in old magazines, but I’m not sure of the history of Ruben’s boat. I suspect Henry can fill us in.

But the story doesn’t end there. Ruben Snodgress wasn’t just an ice sailor but a true adventurer. His adventures even took him to a Russian DN regatta before the Cold War ended. To learn more about Ruben’s trip to Russia, read the full story here: Siberian Adventure Part One Siberian Adventure Part Two

Mattison – Ripp Week: Celebrating Two Four Lakes Ice Yacht Club Legends

by Deb Whitehorse | Aug 11, 2024

This post features one of my favorite photos of them, capturing a moment before they headed to the 1962 International Skeeter Association (ISA) regatta on Lake Geneva. Jack Ripp entered the regatta as the defending champion, but 1962 was Bill Mattison’s year to shine, winning the ISA just 2 points ahead of Jack.

While the newspapers of that time only offered a little coverage of the regatta, we are fortunate to have Jane Pegel’s excellent day-by-day report in the ISA News and Views. Her detailed account allows us to relive those days’ excitement and celebrate the remarkable achievements of these two sailing legends.

A Good Day On the Ice – 1970 ISA Memories

by Deb Whitehorse | Jul 29, 2024

The recent passing of Gloria Melges reminded Don Sanford of a film clip from Bill Mattison’s collection taken at the 1970 International Skeeter Association Regatta, which was sailed on Lake Mendota from February 27 to March 1. Don shared this clip which shows a happy day on the ice for the Melges family and other assorted characters. It also brought back memories because I was there to watch my dad, Dave Rosten, and Buddy Melges tie for first place in that event. Link to Video

Here’s how the News and Views reported the regatta:

FRUSTRATING REGATTA CAPS OFF FRUSTRATING SEASON For Midwest iceboaters, this was anything but a dream season. Light air, snow on new ice, flurries that drifted into mountains, bitter cold and rain showers all tested the iceboater’s determination to enjoy his “Thing.” When the I.S.A. Championship was finally convened at Madison on February 27, it seemed as though the pain was to continue. The wind was non-existent and when it did come, it was light. As the regatta progressed throughout the three days, some of the races failed to make the time limit. Attempts were made to re-sail the abandoned races. But not all could be completed. Nevertheless, the competition was keen and some deserving champions were crowned.

Ice Sailors to Represent USA in Youth America’s Cup

by Deb Whitehorse | Jul 25, 2024

Remembering Gloria Melges

by Deb Whitehorse | Jul 22, 2024

Gloria Melges with her husband, Buddy, at the 2007 Northwest Regatta at Menominee, MI. Buddy won the Skeeter title that year.

The Four Lakes Ice Yacht Club and ice sailing community extend our deepest sympathies to the Melges family on the loss of their matriarch, Gloria Melges. Via Sailing Scuttlebutt:

Gloria Melges, 93, a beloved member of the sailing community and an esteemed race committee officer, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2024. Born in New Jersey on May 27, 1931, Gloria was raised spending summers aboard a Great Lakes cruising sailboat out of Chicago, where her father served as Commodore of the Columbia Yacht Club. This unique upbringing instilled in her a lifelong passion for the water and sailing. Gloria pursued higher education at Northwestern University Dental School, where she graduated with honors. During her time at Northwestern, she met and fell in love with Wisconsin yachtsman Harry C. “Buddy” Melges Jr. Their relationship blossomed, but their time together was interrupted when Buddy went to serve in the Korean War. Despite the distance, their love grew stronger through the heartfelt letters they exchanged while he was away. Upon Buddy’s return, he proposed to Gloria, and they were married shortly thereafter. Their deep bond and unwavering love for sailing became the foundation of their 69-year marriage, a passion they passed on to their three children: Laura, Harry III, and Hans. During their seven decades together, Gloria was a steadfast supporter of Buddy’s illustrious career, cheering for him both on and off the water. Gloria’s legacy extends beyond her family. She was the first female Commodore of the Lake Geneva Yacht Club on Geneva Lake in Wisconsin, a testament to her trailblazing spirit. Continue reading.

Gloria and Buddy on the plank of Buddy’s Skeeter MICKEY FINN, talking to Bill “Curly” Perrigo and his son Will.

Chi Mac Update: Tales to Tell & Iceboaters Take Section 1

by Deb Whitehorse | Jul 15, 2024

Rick Hennig and crew on DEUCE

Read full report here. In case you missed it, the Chicago to Mackinac race took place over the weekend. First, the good news: Keith Haas checks in with the news that MEDICINE MAN, owned by Rick Hennig—who also owns the world’s largest iceboat, DEUCE—took top honors in Section One. Keith writes, “Rick Hennig took first place in Section 1 of the Chicago MAC race aboard his boat MEDICINE MAN. The crew consisted of notable iceboaters Rick Hennig, Todd Knop, Abby Knop, Jay Yaeso, Eric Sawyer, and Richard Sawyer.” Congratulations, Rick and crew.

However, as Great Lakes sailors know, Lake Michigan can quickly turn dangerous. A storm hit in the dead of night, which resulted in two serious situations: a dismasting (USUAL SUSPECTS – Ron Sherry & Skip Dieball) and man-overboard (CALLISTO – Steve Orlebeke), Skip and Ron have shared photos and stories on their Facebook pages. Skip shared the following story from USUAL SUSPECTS owner Eric Wynsma:

“Tough night for the Usual Suspects as we were dismasted early this morning about 35 miles offshore during the Chicago Yacht Club Race To Mackinac. Ripping along comfortably at 15 knots with an A2 and a Genoa staysail, a small cell popped up and whacked us with an 80-degree wind shift at 30+ knots, knocking us flat and breaking our mast in 3 places. We worked frantically to cut the rig away so it wouldn’t hole the boat as we jumped around in the waves attached by a million halyards and control lines. Everyone kept their act together, and nobody panicked as we just went into what we knew needed to happen. Very proud of our group. Nobody was hurt. I had all three of my kids aboard, and it was my 25th Chicago-Mackinac race! While not as good as our 52-class win last year, I am satisfied that we returned 13 suspects to the dock disappointed but unharmed! Thank you all for the support; this truly sucks for all of us, but we are keeping things in perspective. We consider ourselves fortunate under the circumstances! Sincerest thanks to some amazing sailors on board; the display of teamwork and seamanship in this situation was absolutely outstanding.”

Meanwhile, Steve Orlebeke and crew on CALLISTO had to deal with a man overboard situation that thankfully turned out OK. Phoebe Wall Howard’s excellent reporting about the race stated , “Disaster was averted after Madcap, a Santa Cruz 52 owned and skippered by John Hopkins, responded to a man overboard report from Callisto, a J/125 owned and skippered by Jim Murray. Both boats resumed racing the 333-statute mile (289 nautical mile) race without injury.”

2024 Chicago to Mac – For More Glory

by Deb Whitehorse | Jul 13, 2024

The 115th annual Chicago to Mackinac race is taking place today, and among the competitors are several iceboaters trading the hard water for soft water. While the race’s website makes it challenging to see all boats and crew on one page, we know that ice sailors Steve Orlebeke (DN & A Skeeter), Ron Sherry (DN & Renegade), Skip Dieball (DN & Renegade), Dave Elsmo (DN and A Skeeter), and Ben Witman (DN and C Skeeter) are participating.

Steve Orlebeke is sailing on the J125 CALLISTO, Ron Sherry and Skip Dieball are crewing on the TP52 USUAL SUSPECTS, and Dave Elsmo and Ben Witman are aboard the TP52 LEGACY. All are in the same division and vying for the Mackinac Trophy.

Ron and Steve have a long history of intense competition. Their unforgettable duel at the 2020 DN North American Championship in Montana is one of the greatest battles, beautifully captured in a video by Sean Heavy. As they gear up for the challenges of the Mackinac race, it’s a perfect time to revisit that legendary moment. Watch it here.

Follow the Chicago to Mackinac race here.

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Regatta Dates 2024

DN Western Region Championship Postponed Information
DN Senior Shuffle Postponed Information
International Skeeter Association Regatta Postponed Information
DN Worlds, Europeans, & Junior Worlds February 3 -10, 2024 Information
DN North American Championship February 25 – March 2, 2024 Information
Northwest Regatta Information
Nite Nationals Information
WSSA Championship Regatta Information.

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4LIYC Governing Documents

By Laws & Racing Rules
4LIYC Iceboating Rules Graphic
Racing Rules Animation

4LIYC Race Results

Click for 4liyc meeting dates.

November 8 Zoom
November 22 Elections
December 20
January 3 Honor Roll Nominations
January 17 Deadline for By-Law or Racing Rules Amendment Submission
January 31 – in person, no Zoom
February 15 Business Meeting – Zoom only
March 6 – in person, no Zoom. Last meeting of the season.

Location: In person at Four Lakes Ice Yacht Club or Online using the Zoom App Members please email [email protected] for the link.

Time: 6:30 PM

TO ROUND THE MARK SINCE NOVEMBER 1999.

Iceboat Clubs

Boe-Craft Skeeter Association
Chickawaukee Ice Boat Club, Maine
Connecticut Ice Yacht Club
DN America Forum
DN North America
DN World Portal
Green Lake, WI Ice Yacht Club
Grand Traverse Ice Yacht Club
Gull Lake, MI Ice Yacht Club
4LIYC Ice Optimist Youth Sailing
Hudson River Ice Yachting
Hudson River Ice Yacht Preservation Trust
Ice Boat Foundation – MARY B
International Skeeter Association
Lake Hopatcong, NJ Facebook
Lake Ronkonkoma Long Island, NY
Long Branch Ice Boat Club, NJ
International Renegade Association
Jack Jacobs Northern Michigan Ice Boating
Menekaunee Ice Yacht Club, Menominee, MI Phone 906-290-0047
Minnesota iceboating.net
Montana Ice Sailing Yahoo Group
Montreal, Canada Ice Boating Association
New England Ice Yacht Association
Nite National Organization
North Shrewsbury, NJ Ice Yacht Club
Northwest Regatta
Paul Goodwin IDNIYRA site
South Bay Scooter Club, Long Island, NY
South Side Ice Yacht Club, Oshkosh, WI
Toledo, OH Ice Yacht Club
West Michigan Ice Yacht Club
Wisconsin Stern Steerers Association
Yankee Ice Yacht Association
Remote Control Ice Boats

Facebook Groups

Green Lake IYC
Gull Lake IYC
IDNIYRA Europe
Lake Hopatcong, NJ IYC
MN Ice Boaters
North Shewsbury IYC

Ice Cam Links

Canyon Ferry, Montana
Geneva Lake, Gordy’s Boat Sales, Fontana, WI Look for webcam link upper right corner
Lake Geneva Yacht Club
Lake Mendota Today
Lake Mendota, Center for Limnology
AOS Roofop: Lake Mendota,
Mallets Bay , Lake Champlain
Lake Minnetonka, Minnesota
Lake Winnebago, Neenah, WI
Great Lakes MODIS Satellite
Sentinel Satellite