No matter what kind of day you were having, the moment you saw the flash of a worn yellow dad vail windbreaker and the bounce of rich brown curls you knew your day was about to get better! Not only would you receive a much-needed turkey sandwich (that somehow always tasted better river side), but you were also about to receive the warmest hug and biggest smile that could brighten the rainiest of race days. For more than 30 years, Katie Backe was the heart and soul of the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta family. Like most of the volunteers, Katie came into Dad Vail through family. What began as tagging along with her father-in-law, Hank, and husband, Kevin, during race weekends, became a tradition and passion she made entirely her own. From the moment she arrived at the regatta, she enthusiastically took on whatever role needed to be filled and when it was time for her father-in-law, Hank, to step back, Katie stepped in and took on the seemingly simple yet meaningful role of delivering lunches to the regatta volunteers and officials. But Katie didn’t just deliver lunch, she delivered fun, excitement and genuine joy that made even the grumpiest of officials smile. People didn’t just appreciate the brown bag she gave them; they looked forward to seeing Katie and hearing her optimistic outlook for the day. For most of us, seeing her was as much a part of the day as the races themselves. Over time, Katie’s role further evolved and she became the cornerstone of the regatta’s social hospitality; she brought the party- literally and figuratively. She took on the task of organizing the Friday night recognition reception, the VIP tent and the Dad Vail milestone celebrations. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome—whether it was a longtime coach, a volunteer, or a guest, and she made every gathering festive. She understood that while the races brought people together, it’s the sense of community, connection and fun that bring people back year after year. Katie also realized the importance of sharing the regatta with her own family. Katie passed this tradition of service and love for the Dad Vail Regatta on to her children—Gigi, Charlie, and Joseph. Through her example, they have come to understand what makes this event so special: showing up for others, creating a welcoming community, and carrying forward something bigger than themselves. This year without the bouncy curls and radiant smile, lunch and the regatta just won’t feel the same. Katie will be deeply missed; however, her impact on the regatta and all the volunteers will endure. She will forever remain in our hearts, our memories, and our Dad Vail family and we will honor her legacy through the newly named Katie Backe Recognition Reception. So, when you see an official with a brown bag lunch, or when you walk past the VIP tent, think of Katie and smile like she would. Katie Backe A FINALToast
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