AHOY! MICHAEL TOERGE: NEW MARINEROS BOARD PRESIDENT

The Catalina Marineros, a Conservancy member support group, can often be found sailing their own vessels to and around Catalina. This group, which includes boaters and people who enjoy the ocean, holds events that blend boating and hiking to provide unique experiences on Catalina.

The first time that new Marineros Board President, Michael Toerge, came to Catalina was in 1968, when he was 12 years old. He flew over on a seaplane that landed in the water in Avalon. His love for sailing grew and in 1983, he captained a private sailing yacht throughout the Caribbean.

After joining Balboa Yacht Club in 1987, Michael raced Lido 14s, an Olson 30 and also crewed during various races. Currently, he sails a Jeanneau 40 sailing sloop, Pura Vida. When he’s off the boat, but still in the water, Michael is an avid paddler. He’s paddled in numerous prone paddle board competitions including the race from Two Harbors to the mainland – twice!

When it comes to Catalina, however, Michael’s love goes beyond the water. He’s hiked the length of the Island four times and has participated in the annual BZ Jones hike all but once since its founding in 2009. Biking in the wildlands is another favorite hobby, where permitted, and he’s traversed the Island several times on two wheels.

“I encourage all boaters who visit Catalina to join the Marineros," Toerge said. "It is anyone’s guess what Catalina would look like today if it were not for the Catalina Island Conservancy, but I’m fairly certain it would not be as welcoming to visiting yachters and tourists as it is today,"

Marineros past board president, Brad Avery, passed the torch after a very successful tenure. Brad helped rebuild the Marineros, including playing an instrumental role in starting the Thad and BZ Jones Hikes. The Conservancy recently awarded Brad the Catalina Island Conservancy Marineros Maritime Service Award for his continued commitment to the organization’s mission.