RegattaCentral

The Jake Snyder Middle School Regatta

The Jake Snyder Middle School Regatta was founded in 2012 by Daniel Vanegas to honor the memory of Jake Snyder. Before its inception, middle school rowing programs had few racing opportunities, often limited to exhibition events at high school regattas. The creation of this dedicated event was met with enthusiasm, and each year, middle school teams from across north, central, and south Florida travel to participate.

Jake Snyder’s passion for rowing was rooted in the belief that success was about teamwork over personal glory. He once said:

“Remember that this sport is not about personal glorification; instead, it is about making the team faster. Your goal should be to make your boat go as fast as possible. If you’re ever moved from one boat to another, don’t think ‘Why?’ Instead, think about what you can do to make your new boat faster.”

This philosophy guided Jake’s approach to life. He always sought to contribute to the greater good—with joy, humility, and unwavering dedication.

Honoring Jake’s Legacy

The regatta’s logo, featuring the fleur-de-lis, is a tribute to Jake’s time as an Eagle Scout and the values he lived by: honor, loyalty, kindness, friendliness, cheerfulness, and courage. These same principles are celebrated at the regatta.

At the conclusion of racing, the Jake Snyder Award is presented to one boy and one girl from each participating team. This is the regatta’s highest honor, recognizing rowers who exemplify the Eagle Scout ideals of being trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, cheerful, and brave—qualities Jake embodied throughout his life.

About Jake Snyder

Born in 1989, Jake Snyder grew up in Winter Park, Florida, and attended Winter Park High School, where he rowed for four years with Winter Park Crew. He achieved the rank of Eagle Scout and was recognized with Disney World’s Dreamer and Doer Award for his outstanding volunteer service. As a Bright Futures Scholar, Jake attended the University of Florida, majoring in Political Science with a minor in Classical Studies and a certificate in Weather. His academic achievements earned him the prestigious Anderson Scholar Award, the highest recognition given by the university for excellence in the first two years of coursework.

At UF, Jake was an active member of Gator Christian Life, continuing his commitment to service and leadership. He also served as a congressional intern for Congressman John L. Mica, who later honored Jake’s memory by presenting his family with a U.S. flag that had flown over the U.S. Capitol.

Jake passed away in 2010 at the age of 21, peacefully surrounded by family and friends. His legacy of selflessness, teamwork, and joy continues to inspire those who race in his name at the Jake Snyder Middle School Regatta.