Our final boat show of the season brought the Rocky Mountain Classics chapter high into the Rockies—literally—to Dillon, Colorado, home of Lake Dillon, one of the highest navigable lakes in the country. Nestled among towering peaks and blue alpine skies, it’s a fitting place to close the season, where the thin air makes every engine roar just a bit prouder.
The day began calm, though tinged with smoke drifting in from wildfires burning in western Colorado.
Even under hazy skies, our boats drew early admirers. By 10:00 a.m., all seven of our boats were in the water and tied up at the public docks of the Dillon Marina—varnish gleaming, chrome shining, and not a single leak in sight.
Mike Vannier’s Brigadoon made an early appearance as our eighth boat, before prudence guided her back to safety when the winds would later kick up.
And those winds certainly arrived.
Around 10:30 a.m., Lake Dillon awakened. Gusts whipped up to 40 mph, chasing the smoke away but replacing it with dancing whitecaps and waves slapping hulls. Hats took flight, spray found faces, and not a soul considered calling it quits. This is Rocky Mountain Classics—neither smoke nor chop keeps us off the water.
After a brief and efficient board meeting on the docks, captains and crew turned their attention to visitors. As always, the docks buzzed with curious families, old boaters with stories to tell, and dreamers who paused just to admire the craftsmanship of mahogany and horsepower. Many shared memories—grandfather’s runabout, summers at the lake, engines that coughed like bears and ran like sewing machines.
At noon, with the wind still howling and flags snapping, the captains fired their engines. One by one, the fleet slipped into parade formation and made a slow ceremonial loop through the marina. People on shore waved enthusiastically—cameras were raised, children pointed, and someone shouted, “You’re crazy!” which, in our world, is a high compliment.
Brotherly Love – Jeff Dwight rescues the hat of his brother Greg.
Following the parade lap, the boats ventured beyond the marina to stretch their legs across open water. It was wet. It was wild. It was absolutely wonderful. Photos were snapped of boats at speed, bows thumping waves, spray leaping over decks, captains grinning beneath flapping caps. Most took their time, braving the elements simply for the joy of cruising one last time this season.
After a full day of sun, wind, and wave, the chapter gathered once again on land for dinner—hosted, as tradition holds, by Wayne Spaulding at Uptown on Main in Frisco. Plates of crab claws made their rounds, tall tales grew taller, and the crab po’ boy once again earned this author’s highest praise. There is no better way to end a show day than with good food, strong laughter, and friends who feel like family.
The President’s Award was presented this year by Jeff Waco to Doug and Mary Beth Broderick for their steadfast dedication and the triumphant return of their Chris-Craft Holiday. After two long years under engine repair, she was finally back on the lake—running strong, looking proud, and earning every cheer from the docks. A worthy recipient, and a heartwarming sight.
Always enjoy your interesting articles. Every boat restoration is a true test of patience, determination and of course, affordability. Keep up your good work !