The Cowichan Bay Sailing Association Regatta has survived the test of time through the sheer diligence of its membership.

The 30th anniversary event staged Saturday and Sunday had all the elements of a classic regatta, with more than 90 boats entered, social activities and a Pacific Northwest multi-hull championship, to boot.

A committee of Tim Knight of UK Halsey Sailmakers, one of the event sponsors, Penny and Bruce Cameron, Eric Diller and Jeff Arndt attended to every detail and made the regatta one of the best ever.

“We’re kind of the leaders,’’ said Knight. “There’s a bunch of other people that help out.’’

Knight, the Camerons and Diller were especially busy, doing double duty.

“We’re all racing and doing this,’’ said Knight. “By Sunday afternoon, the people that are organizing and racing are getting pretty tired.’’

Knight paid tribute to Cowichan Bay association pioneer Bill Lloyd for his longstanding contributions. He’s had some health issues recently, but was back to take part in the festivities.

“If it wasn’t for Bill Lloyd, we wouldn’t have made our 30th year,’’ said Knight.

For an organization that doesn’t really have a place to meet, Knight said it does pretty well. The regatta remains a strong draw for a variety of reasons, even though rumours persist almost yearly about its demise.

“It’s a fantastic setting and the constant breeze is another plus to the event,’’ said Knight. “The other thing is people just come from all over.’’

Entries came from as far away as Olympia, Washington and Portland, Oregon.

“It’s got that kind of reputation, if you’re going to do a regatta, this is the one to do,’’ said Knight.

The extras also set it apart from other regattas.

The Northwest Multi-Hull Club helped with the dinner and UK Halsey hosted the margarita party Saturday night at Kilpahlas Beach during the midway point of racing. Music with Rockin’ Robin made the scene complete.

Most categories featured a total of four races during the weekend. Surpassing 90 boats helps Cowichan Bay maintain its status as one of the largest regattas in the Pacific Northwest.

“Considering the economic times that’s an excellent turnout,’’ said Knight.

The 23 multi-hulls made for great racing in that category. The Pacific Northwest title went to Richard Ackrill of the Royal Victoria Yacht Club and the crew of Dragonfly. After finishing in the runner-up spot, Ackrill was elevated to top spot on a disqualification.

Other winners were: Kim Alfreds (A Class Cats); Jeremy Smith (J-80 fleet); Michael Clements (Martin 242s); Alex Fox (Pacific Handicap Racing Fleet Div. 1); Don Gillingham (Div. 2); Dave Richardson (Div. 3); and Larry McFadden (Div. 4).