A big thank you to everyone who made our 2025 Holiday Party at Ashbridges Bay Yacht Club a smash hit! Julie MC’d the high energy party vibes with a sing along, delicious dinner, awards, prizes and plenty of dancing.

Stapleton Hall sparkled with holiday cheer including holiday themed rocks collected from the Outer Harbour by Josette and Peter, and beautifully painted by Josette, Yvonne, and Sylvia.

The dance floor stayed warm thanks to the incredible Side Hustle Band—Laine, Brad, Eric, Barry, Robert, and Tim—who absolutely rocked the house. Adding to the musical magic, Willa penned a brand-new Water Rats Sailing Club song, humorously performed by the Ratty Singers: Elizabeth, Yvonne, Michael, Scott, Steve, Peter, Kurt, Marvin, Jennifer, and Willa. Standing ovation worthy!

Throughout the evening, Roy Spencer’s stunning Photo Slideshow of 2025 played on screen, bringing back a year’s worth of memories, laughs, and adventures.

Enjoy some photos from the event on our facebook group.

A special shout-out to John Sá, club member and beekeeper extraordinaire, who generously donated 12 jars of local honey from Bees and Nature Toronto — sweet prizes in every sense of the word .

And of course, the night wouldn’t be complete without our hand painted wood awards and festive Gnomes, celebrating the legends of the year.

Congratulations to:
* Peter Eagar – Best Ambassador
* Beata Sejane – Best Participant (Sailing)
* Marvin Coulson – Most Sportsmanlike
* Yvonne Pennefather – Most Enthusiastic Volunteer
* Ted Kerr – Most Dangerous Boat
* Kurt Pammer – Best Capsize Recovery
* Stuart Northey – Most Likely to Paddle Through Anything (ice, rain, mosquito clouds)
* Shona Chornenki – Human Compass
* Scott Taylor – Best Grill Master
* Heather Broughton – Wildlife Liaison

ILCA / Laser Awards
* Ray Davies - Spring & Summer Series, Fall War & Overall Series
* Nigel Heath - Heinz Gebauer
* Chris van Rossen - Fall Series
* Frank Goldschleger - Most Improved / Best Rookie
* Joe van Rossen - Poona Top Overall Contribution

Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate, sing, dance, laugh, and close out an unforgettable year together. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!