The Ythan Raft Races were always a highlight for Lodge St. Olaf members and their families, offering camaraderie and entertainment on race day. However, the lead-up to the event often proved just as enjoyable, filled with laughter, creativity, and a fair dose of mischief. A big part of the pre-race excitement involved the Lodge issuing humorous press releases to local newspapers, such as the Buchanie and the Ellon Times. These publications, always supportive of community spirit, enthusiastically shared the Lodge’s whimsical antics, adding to the buzz around the event.
One particularly memorable year saw the Lodge embrace the spirit of showmanship in full, entering the Raft Race under the banner of the “Cruden Bay City Glitter Band.” Inspired by the bold, flamboyant energy of the 1970s glam rock era, their chosen theme was brought to life with unmistakable enthusiasm. The raft itself became a floating spectacle—adorned with shimmering decorations, vibrant colours, and all the theatrical sparkle one might expect from a decade defined by platform boots, glitter, and larger-than-life personalities. It was more than just an entry; it was a performance on water, capturing both the humour and creativity that had become synonymous with the event.
Not content with simply looking the part, the Lodge added an extra layer of wit to their participation. In keeping with their 1970s theme, they decided that a single race number simply wouldn’t do. Instead, they penned a letter to Bill Smith, the Raft Race organiser, boldly requesting allocation of every number from 70 through to 79. Their reasoning, delivered with tongue firmly in cheek, was that this would allow their craft to be officially recognised as the “70s Raft”—a perfectly fitting title for their glittering creation.
As one might imagine, such an unconventional request did not go unanswered. Bill Smith’s reply was as sharp as it was amusing, meeting the Lodge’s playful audacity with humour of his own. His response struck exactly the right tone—good-natured, witty, and entirely in keeping with the camaraderie and light-hearted rivalry that defined the Raft Race. Over the years, his letter has been fondly preserved as a reminder of that moment, capturing not only the exchange itself but also the spirit of fun, creativity, and community that made the event so special.
Click the images opposite to enjoy Bill’s memorable and entertaining reply in full (including a sense of his humour on the envelope), a perfect snapshot of the humour and character that helped make the Raft Race an occasion to remember.
Result: The Winner of the Most Attractive Raft
