Sailors Go on the Lamb at Angel Island
A bunch of sailors escaped the ordinary hustle and bustle of a Bay Area Saturday to gather at Angel Island for the annual “Lambstravaganza.” Paul Kamen reports.
“Lambstravaganza” is a lamb-themed potluck and cooking contest that began as a family picnic. Event Energy Center Michael Moradzadeh explains, “We started 20+ years ago with a leg of lamb on a drizzly day on the grill. A few more the next year. Eventually electronic invitations allowed us to expand easily.” Michael is also two-time past commodore of Pacific Cup Yacht Club, so the Lambstravaganza has become a kind of unofficial event on the Pac Cup social calendar.
Sadie McAlina was the winner in the lamb dish category this year, with a classic lamb-ball entry. Honorable mention to Bob and Betty Gray for a spectacular lamb roast, Lorianna Kastrop for a delightful Earl Grey and lavender cookie, and Tom Lovering for his perennial blueberry surprise cocktail.
Participation was lambentably light this year, not approaching the 300+ at previous ‘ganzas, but more than made up for it in quality. Remember for next year: Angel Island, day before Mother’s Day, Platform picnic site. If you find out about it, you’re invited!
Many thanks to Michael for continuing to facilitate this fun gathering! Neither the feasting nor the competition is limited to lamb. Vegetarians find plenty to satisfy their palates, including delicious desserts. A hike or bike ride around the island helps to work off the calories consumed. And yes, it was possible to dock in Ayala Cove. Though more sailors and landlubbers came by way of the very convenient Tiburon ferry, several ‘ganzers brought their own boats. Paul’s Merit 25 Twilight Zone (easy to spot in her yellowness) occupied a position of honor in a slip.