Blinker Spring 2021 by Chicago Yacht Club

SPRING 2021

YOUTH SAILING DURING COVID

NO POWER BOAT? NO PROBLEM! Get Ready for a Packed Summer pg. 11

pg. 25

THE RETURN OF THE MAC pg. 24

Blinker | Spring 2021 1

Your Adventure Starts Here

28 Cabin

40 Lake Michigan’s Premier

37 XC

32-Coupe

Service Destination

As a 5-Star Certified Dealership, rest assured everything we do will be done correctly. • Factory Certified Engine Service Experts - Inboard or Outboard, Gasoline or Diesel • Custom Hull, Deck or Interior Repairs and Refits Completed by Factory Trained Yacht Finish Experts

• Standing & Running Rigging Experts • Well Stocked Parts Departments

MAY 28 - 29 CYC

See Us There

Lake Michigan’s Full Service Marina With a Personal Touch

2021 EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Communications Chair, Mike Platzke Skip Harsch Amy Schwartz Rhonda Thomas Tatia Torrey Elizabeth Wolniakowski

MANAGING EDITORS Sara Proctor Abbie Wilson

COMMODORE Nick Berberian

ARTICLE CONTRIBUTORS Nancy Arnold Betsy Barrett Janet Baxter Nancy Berberian Robert Bied Dan Burns Adam Collins Skip Dieball Lindsey Duda Peter Ellis Sonja Elmquist Jerry Gurthet Elizabeth Haley Junior Activities Kurt Lentsch Alice Martin Nick Naber Eric Oesterle Hannah Pustejovsky Amy Schwartz Michael Schwartz Jen Steffler Mark Svoboda Nancy Snyder Jim Williamsen

T A B L E

4 7 9 11 13 16 18 19 21 22 23 24 25 28 30 31 32 33

O F

C O N T E N T S

From the Helm On the Water Calendar New Members No Power Boat? No Problem! Welcome to WOW 2021 Meet the Associate Committee Get Ready to Sail 2021 Power & Sail In-Water Technology Showcase Shield Fleet Stays Afloat DragonForce 65 RTM Safety Committee The Return of the Mac Youth Sailing During COVID Plan Now to Attend the 2021 Chicago Regatta The Commodore’s Cup Regatta Offshore Double Handed Racing This is your CYC Race Committee Calling All Volunteers Sea Scouts

PHOTO/IMAGE CONTRIBUTORS Nancy Berberian Kurt Lentsch Sara Proctor Michael Schwartz

ON THE COVER

2021 MISSA Central Baker PreQualifier Photographed by Abbie Wilson

Blinker | Spring 2021 2

WHEREVER YOU ARE, GO WITH SIKA MARINE. SIKAINDUSTRY.COM/MARINE 800-688-7452

WISHING ALL OF OURĝ CHICAGO YACHT CLUBĝ MEMBERS A GREATĝ 202ó SAILING SEASON

3 Blinker | Spring 2021

2021 CHICAGO YACHT CLUB VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP FLAG OFFICERS

Nick Berberian, Commodore Lisa Curcio Gaston, Vice Commodore Raymond Groble, Rear Commodore Laura Sigmond, Secretary Michael Kovacs, Treasurer

PAST COMMODORES Lou Sandoval Leif Sigmond

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nancy Arnold Elizabeth Barrett William Bloom Steven Dorfman Michael Frerker Matthew Gallagher Steven Knoop Kurt Lentsch James Murray Scott Sims Sam Veilleux

CHICAGO YACHT CLUB STAFF General Manager – Jim Williamsen

MONROE STATION STAFF

Membership Director – Elizabeth Haley Membership Assistant – Alejandra Medina Communications Director – Sara Proctor Graphic Design & Social Media Specialist – Abbie Wilson Controller – Keith Brennan Assistant Controller – Jessica Jacobs Human Resources Director – Eric Hecksel Billing Manager – Sabrina Ahuja Clubhouse Manager – Kristin Aleshire Monroe Executive Chef – Larry Asher Catering & Events Director – Taylor Sparrow Nesbit Sous Chef – Silvestro Salgado Assistant Food & Beverage Manager – Nolan Sanchez Member Services Manager – Betsy Myers

From the Helm Dear Club Members: As I begin my term as the 70th Commodore of the Club, the greatest pleasure thus far has been working closely with my wonderful Flag – Vice-Commodore Lisa Curcio Gaston, Rear Commodore Ray Groble, Secretary Laura Sigmond, and Treasurer Michael Kovacs. All have held significant prior leadership roles in the Club in the past, and our Flag collectively has over one hundred years of membership experience. The passion and commitment all of them have demonstrated is extraordinary and I could not have asked for a better group to work with. We have had weekly Flag meetings since the beginning of the year and rarely does a day go by without emails or phone calls among us. Initially, we focused on hiring a new General Manager, and are very excited about the selection of Jim Williamsen, who was interviewed by the entire Board of Directors. Jim brings us over ten years of top-tier private club management experience and a management style that we believe is an excellent fit with our Club. His initial weeks on the job only underscore the wisdom of his selection. We also are excited about bringing back Skip Dieball in an expanded role as On-the-Water Director and Assistant Manager. Skip has continued to attract world class coaches and revamped the organization of the on-the- water staff as part of his mission to have the Club be recognized as having one of the best on-the-water programs in the country. Thanks to his efforts our activities on the water this summer should be amongst the best ever! The Flag has also worked closely with the Club’s fabulous Staff to make numerous course changes to navigate through the ever-changing Covid related restrictions on operations. Due to the Staff’s hard work, agility and dedication, especially in making our members feel safe in coming to the Club, we have achieved record usage starting in February. The highly successful Nautical Education Series has contributed to that success, and further demonstrated the Club’s enhanced ability to have in person events within Covid capacity limits while livestreaming to others at home at the same time. The bottom line is that there has been enormous excitement thus far and we only expect that to further grow as boats hit the water! Please join us at the Club for some or all of our upcoming events! Nancy and I look forward to seeing everyone on and off the water as we return to what hopefully looks like will be a full season and more normalcy. Please continue to stay safe,

Nick Berberian Commodore, Chicago Yacht Club berberian@chicagoyachtclub.org

BELMONT STATION STAFF

On the Water Director – Skip Dieball Belmont Director of Operations – Candace Towery Belmont Chef – Michael Ramos Keelboat & Adult Education Director – Ivan Sagel Head Coach – Hector Guzman

Blinker | Spring 2021 4

THE 112th RACE TO MACKINAC STARTS JULY 16 & 17, 2021 THURSDAY, JULY 15 Registration Warning Gun Party FRIDAY, JULY 16 Morning Skippers’ Meeting Cruising Division Starts Afternoon Skippers’ Meeting Chicago Mac Race Party SATURDAY, JULY 17 Racing Division Starts SUNDAY, JULY 18 Grand Hotel Porch Party TUESDAY, JULY 20 Sailors’ Celebration WEDNESDAY, JULY 21 Last call for boats to leave Mac Island

2021 VERVE CUP VERVE CUP OFFSHORE:

#CYCRTM

chicagoyachtclub.org | (312) 861-7777

VERVE CUP INSHORE: FRIDAY, AUGUST 27 TO SUNDAY, AUGUST 29

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12 TO SUNDAY, AUGUST 15 DISTANCE RACE: SATURDAY, AUGUST 14

FOR MORE INFO: VISIT CHICAGOYACHTCLUB.ORG 5 Blinker | Spring 2021

Teaching, Challenging, Empowering & Preserving Since 1990 Lasting change starts with you when you donate to the Chicago Yacht Club Foundation. You’ll be meeting critical needs both today and tomorrow by helping youngsters like thirteen year old Leilani Jenkins, recently awarded a CYCF scholarship to Chicago Yacht Club’s summer sailing program. Her interests go well beyond the sea and sailing. Leilani entered the National Artemis Moon Pod Essay contest last year. Congratulations to Leilani on officially becoming an Artemis Moon Pod Essay contest semifinalist! The semifinalists were announced at NASA’s Artemis Moon Pod Virtual Event and on the Future Engineers site. Furthermore, NASA posted a feature about the event. Making it to the semifinals in a nationwide challenge that received approximately 14,000 entries is a huge achievement. In her winning essay, she speaks about her favorite astronaut Dr. Mae Jemison. All semifinalists will receive an Artemis Prize Pack filled with space-themed prizes plus the opportunity to attend a series of Virtual Artemis Explorer Sessions with NASA experts. The nine finalists (3 per 5th - 8th-grade group) will be announced later this spring. Leilani was awarded the CYCF scholarship when she wrote about the “Corinthian Spirit a code of conduct through which we judge our actions and gauge our decisions on the sail racing course and in our personal lives.” She learned about the Corinthian Spirit while taking sailing lessons at Jackson Park Yacht Club when she was eleven years old in 2019. She is excited about learning to sail 420s at the Chicago Yacht Club.”

Help us continue this valuable work by donating to the Chicago Yacht Club Foundation, a 501c(3) charitable organization, 400 E. Monroe St., Chicago, IL 60603 Blinker | Spring 2021 6

7 Blinker | Spring 2021

A NOTE FROM THE ON THE WATER DIRECTOR As I reflect back on the 2020 season, I can’t help but think of the old saying that reminds us to make lemonade from the lemons we are handed. We certainly did that in 2020. We started late, with COVID restrictions and pushed through to help folks get the most out of their season on the waterfront. Youth sailing only missed one session and we had over 400 kids go through the gates at Belmont. Adult sailing in our Sonars was a popular option as we had Thursday night race training, and several learn to sail sessions. Our keelboats get a tremendous amount of use and introduce so many to the joys of sailing. We pushed forward with regattas. They looked and felt different, but still fostered a tremendous amount of competition and camaraderie. For 2021, we have an incredibly packed summer. In addition to our normal programming with Youth and Adult sailing (in both Sonars and Tom 28s), we are expanding our Recreational fleet of kayaks and paddleboards. Members will be able to enjoy these wonderful activities at both stations this summer. In addition, we are expanding our Powerboat education to reflect the demand mastering skills needed to navigate and enjoy the Lake Michigan summer. As always, feel free to reach out to our talented and professional On The Water Staff. Our team shares the same goal of providing Chicago Yacht Club members with positive and memorable experience on the waterfront. Take care, Skip Dieball On the Water Director

Blinker | Spring 2021 8

REGULAR John Davies

Executive Producer, Writer, Director, John Davies Productions, Inc. Chicago, IL and Santa Barbara, CA Spouse: Teresea Sponsored by: Robert Bied Has worked with Capt. Dave Truitt and Bob Bied making Emmy winning documentary films about Chicago history, both maritime and other history. He likes being on the water and is interested in trying various boating opportunities. He has worked with the Chicago Marine Heritage Society on a documentary about boat building in Chicago.

J. Marshall Peck

President, InterPark LLC Chicago, IL Sponsored by: Graham Sauser Power boater with a strong interest in water sports of all kinds.

Alvaro Sandroni

E.D. Howard Professor of Political Economy, Northwestern University Chicago, IL Sponsored by: Nancy Qian Interested in improving his sailing and boat maintenance skills. Enjoys kayaking with his older son, Alec, and his younger son Daniel has attended CYC sailing school programs. Mr. Sandroni has received basic sailing certificates at Chicago Sailing.

R E G U L A R J O I N T M E M B E RS Marc & Susie Feldstein

Attending Physician/ Associate Professor, Northwestern Women’s Health Associates Accountant, Allied Metal Company Chicago, IL Sponsored by: Pete and Rita Cacciatore Recently moved to Chicago after living in Glenview for over 18 years. The water is a main attraction for them. They are eager to utilize the recreational fleet, especially kayaks, and want to participate in cruises, too. They also anticipate hosting events at the Club.

A SS O C I AT E S Michelle & Byron Garoufalis

National Account Director, Miller Family Wine Company Executive Search Consultant/ Principal, Korn Ferry Chicago, IL Sponsored by: Eric Moore Boat Name: Lovin’ Life | Boat Type: Express Cruiser | Boat Length: 38’ | Manufacturer: Regal | Harbor: Monroe Recent boat owners. Their stepfather/father-in-law, Eric Moore is a member. Their engagement party was held at the Club in 2015. As expectant parents, they eager to join a positive family environment where our kids can share our passion for boating and the water.

Laura Holderman

Analyst, Berkadia Chicago, IL Sponsored By: Will Holz Ms. Holderman was co-captain of the Fordham Sailing Team and starting crew with the co-ed, team race, and women’s teams. She has recently relocated from Seattle to Chicago and is eager to return to the water.

9 Blinker | Spring 2021

A Letter from the Membership Director We survived winter! In no time, our harbors will be open, and boats will be back in the water. We have an exciting season ahead with a lot of catching up to do. We are looking forward to seeing you back at the Club and enjoying the water. We are currently in the middle our 2021 Membership Drive. I am happy to report that, with the help of the Membership Committee, we have welcomed 13 new members since January. Please join me in welcoming all our new members on page 9. We celebrate each new member, but we still need your assistance in increasing our membership! Members recruiting members is our best method for growth. Have you reached out to your friends, colleagues, or extended family about joining the Club? We are offering some incredible incentives for you when you sponsor a new member to join Chicago Yacht Club. OUR GOAL Help us reach 45 new regular members by June 1, 2021. Share the CYC fun and sponsor your friends, family members, and your colleagues to join the Club. YOUR INCENTIVES $500 food and beverage credit when your new regular (age 40 & up) member is approved by the Board. $250 food and beverage credit for a new associate (age 21-39) member. Plus, when we reach 45 new regular members by June 1, you will receive an additional $500 (or $250 for your new associate) in food and beverage credit. We benefit when we work together! HOW TO PARTICIPATE Step 1: Invite your friends and family to join. Step 2: Contact me at membership@chicagoyachtclub.org for an application. The application is also available in Dock Lines and Letters from the Commodore. Step 3: Return completed application to membership@chicagoyachtclub.org. Step 4: Collect your reward, and return to Step 1. Here is some helpful information that you can share with those in your life who are considering membership: Chicago Yacht Club provides a unique membership experience on the shores of Lake Michigan with two locations – one near downtown Chicago at the edge of Monroe Street and the other in the Lake View East neighborhood in Belmont Harbor. Both locations offer waterfront dining, parking, and docking for members. Our members enjoy many opportunities to get out on the water, and enjoy peace of mind in a relaxing, fun-filled lakefront environment. CYC has a fleet of over 120 boats and runs a top tier Sailing School, providing expert instruction for both children and adults of all levels. No boat, no problem. We have a range of boats available for rental by our members. We also have paddleboards and kayaks. Year-round activities are planned for the entire family. We are ranked among the top five yacht clubs in the United States by Platinum Clubs of America, and our members enjoy reciprocity at major clubs throughout the world, including a special reciprocal agreement with the Union League Club here in Chicago that provides additional access to downtown dining, a fitness center, and a pool. Limited-time Prospective Member Incentives are: $1,000 off regular initiation fee, plus $500 F&B credit 15% off associate initiation fee, plus $250 F&B credit If you have any questions about the Membership Drive or the membership process, please contact me at any time. Additionally, if you have any other ideas for how we can recruit more people who are passionate about the water to join this wonderful Club, please let us know. One last thing: we are hosting Prospective Member Events each month of 2021. Please check our online calendar for specific dates and encourage your friends to join us to cocktails and conversation about the Club and more. I look forward to seeing you and your friends at the Club, soon!

Elizabeth Haley Elizabeth Haley, Membership Director Chicago Yacht Club Blinker | Spring 2021 10

(M): MONROE STATION

POWER FLEET

(B): BELMONT STATION

2021 CALENDAR OF EVENTS MARCH 24 APRIL 14 MAY 15 MAY 28 - 29 JUNE 4 - 6

EDUCATIONAL HAPPY HOUR - VHF RADIO OPERATIONS WITH IVAN SAGEL (M) POWER FLEET "MEET THE FLEET" (M) CRUISER NAVIGATIONAL RALLY (P-LOG) TRAINING (B) IN-WATER POWER AND SAIL TECH SHOW (M) SHAKEDOWN CRUISE TO KENOSHA, WI - SOUTHPORT MARINA

JUNE 15

SPECIAL NEEDS CRUISE (M) RAIN DATE: JUNE 22

JUNE 17

CHICAGO LIGHTHOUSE FOR THE BLIND YOUTH CRUISE #1 (M)

JUNE 19

CRUISER NAVIGATIONAL RALLY (P-LOG) CONTEST #1 - MONROE OPENER & #2 - SOUTHERN CHALLENGE (M) RAIN DATE: JUNE 26

JUNE 22

CRUISER NAVIGATIONAL RALLY (P-LOG) CONTEST #3 - WEEKDAY CONTEST - BELMONT HAPPY HOUR CHALLENGE (B) RAIN DATE: JUNE 24

JUNE 27

FLEET REVIEW (M)

JULY 10

ALL CLUB CRUISE TO HAMMOND MARINA AND VENETIAN NIGHT

JULY 14

CHICAGO LIGHTHOUSE FOR THE BLIND YOUTH CRUISE #2 (M)

JULY 19

POWER FLEET STAFF APPRECIATION CRUISE #1 (M)

JULY 22

CRUISER NAVIGATIONAL RALLY (P-LOG) CONTEST #4 - WEEKDAY CONTEST - MONROE HAPPY HOUR CHALLENGE (M) RAIN DATE: JULY 27

JULY 23

CYC OLD GUARD CRUISE - POWER FLEET (M)

JULY 24

CRUISER NAVIGATIONAL RALLY (P-LOG) CONTEST #5 - BELMONT OPEN & #6 - CHICAGO BEST (B) RAIN DATE: JULY 31

JULY 30 AUGUST 6 - 8 AUGUST 8 - 15

CYC OLD GUARD CRUISE (M) POWER FLEET ANNUAL CRUISE TO RACINE, WI POWER FLEET EXTENDED CRUISE TO DOOR COUNTY

AUGUST 16

POWER FLEET STAFF APPRECIATION CRUISE #2 (M)

AUGUST 17

ADULT SIGHT IMPAIRED CRUISE (M)

AUGUST 28

CRUISER NAVIGATIONAL RALLY (P-LOG) CONTEST #7 - FINAL CONTEST CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP & GIOVAN TROPHY (RUN CONCURRENTLY) (M) RAIN DATE: AUGUST 29

AUGUST 28

POWER FLEET - END OF SEASON PARTY (M)

SEPTEMBER 11

CHICAGO REGATTA BOAT PARADE (M)

SEPTEMBER 7

ANNUAL MEETING OF THE POWER FLEET (M)

DECEMBER 10

POWER FLEET HOLIDAY PARTY (M)

11 Blinker | Spring 2021

Power Fleet committee meetings are held at Monroe Station on the third Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

NO POWERBOAT? NO PROBLEM!

By: Kurt Lentsch and Randy Schmidt The Chicago Yacht Club Power Fleet Committee is firing on all cylinders preparing for a FULL 2021 Boating Season. With our abbreviated 2020 Season behind us, all of us are ready to get back on the water and enjoy this amazing natural resource we have at our doorstep.

The 2021 Power Fleet Calendar is packed with many Special Events, Charity Cruises, Destination Cruises, Race Committee Support Opportunities, and a competitive Cruiser Navigational Rally (P-LOG) Season, now with 7 contests! WE HAVE SOME GREAT CRUISES ON THE SCHEDULE FOR 2021 Join us by water or by land, stay tuned for more details. • KENOSHA, WI – Friday, June 4 to Sunday, June 6, 2021 • RACINE, WI – Friday, August 6 to Sunday, August 8, 2021 • DOOR COUNTY, WI – Sunday, August 8 to August 15, 2021 The Cruiser Navigational Rally (P-LOG), sponsored by Wintrust, is an exciting growing program at Chicago Yacht Club and for 2021 we have a FULL SEASON of 7 Contests, which qualifies our participants to compete for National Trophy’s. You can compete on any boat with a motor and tachometer! Be sure to join us on Saturday, May 15, 2021 at Belmont Station for Cruising Navigational Rally (P-LOG) training by our own John Vignocchi which will give you all the details on how to get started competing in Cruiser Navigational Rallies this season! The In-Water Power and Sail Technology Show is back for 2021! It will be held on May 28th and May 29th. Watch your email for more details! Completing our season, and new for 2021, is the Chicago Regatta Boat Parade, which will give all our members an opportunity to support the 3 charities supported by the Chicago Regatta and create a fun Boat Parade for the attendees of the Chicago Regatta. The Power Fleet invites you to join us at our events and All Power Fleet events are open to All Members! Blinker | Spring 2021 12

Welcome to WOW 2021 Women On the Water By Nancy Berberian The Women’s Committee of the Chicago Yacht Club has planned a lot of great programs this year focused on your wellness, boating activities, creativity and just having fun. We kicked off the year with a cocktail party and curling presentation from CYC member and curler Lori Tisinai Russell and then threw stones on the CYC curling rink. It was a wonderful evening seeing old friends and meeting new members. Members got a real treat by participating in yoga and meditation classes via Zoom led by Desi Bartlett, as part of our Wellness Series. Desi’s many years of experience and gentle nature made the classes extra special. The WOW Wellness Series will continue with a luncheon on May 5 with Diet Coach Judy. Judy Weitzman is an author and a personal diet coach. She will guide us through how to make healthy choices when ordering off of a menu, tips on eating healthy on land and water and much more.

13 Blinker | Spring 2021

The WOW Sonar Sailing Series will continue again this year on Friday evenings. It’s a great way to improve your skills and have a fun night out on the water with friends. The Series will kick off with a joint session with Crew U. WOW will also be participating in the first World Sailing, Steering the Course, Women’s Sailing Festival. And if that wasn’t enough fun, we are kicking off the WOW Create and Sip Series on April 22 with Succulents and Dinner, led by our very own Sara Proctor. Please review our calendar and Dock Lines for further information and additional events. All members are welcome and we look forward to seeing you at WOW events.

W W

CHICAGO YACHT CLUB

WOMEN ON WATER

2021 CALENDAR OF EVENTS LOCATION: MONROE = (M)

BELMONT = (B)

ZOOM = (Z)

Thursday, February 18 at 6 p.m. Wednesday, February 24 at 6 p.m.

WOW Kick Off (M) WOW Wellness Series: Power Flow Yoga (Z)

Tuesday, March 16 at 6 p.m. Saturday, March 27 at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 31 at 6 p.m.

WOW Wellness Series: Guided Meditation (Z) WOW Wellness Series: Yoga and Strength (Z) Monroe Ladies Night Dinner

Thursday, April 22 at 6 p.m.

WOW Create and Sip: Succulents & Dinner (M)

Wednesday, May 5 at Noon Tuesday, May 11 at 6 p.m.

WOW Wellness Series: Luncheon with Diet Coach Judy (M) Monroe WOW & Crew U: Sailing 101

Friday, Friday, Friday, Friday,

June June June June

4 at 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. 11 at 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. 18 at 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. 25 at 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

WOW WOW WOW WOW

Sonar Sonar Sonar Sonar

Sailing Sailing Sailing Sailing

Series Series Series Series

(B) (B) (B) (B)

Friday, Friday, Friday, Friday,

July July July July

2 at 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. 9 at 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. 23 at 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. 30 at 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

WOW WOW WOW WOW

Sonar Sonar Sonar Sonar

Sailing Sailing Sailing Sailing

Series Series Series Series

(B) (B) (B) (B)

Friday, Friday, Friday, Friday,

August August August August

WOW WOW WOW WOW

Sonar Sonar Sonar Sonar

Sailing Sailing Sailing Sailing

Series Series Series Series

(B) (B) (B) (B)

6 at 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. 13 at 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. 20 at 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. 27 at 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Thursday, October 14 at 6 – 8:30 p.m. Thursday, December 2 at 6 – 8 p.m.

Fall Harvest Dinner (M)

WOW Holiday Party & Ornament Making (M)

More events to come! Please keep checking Dock Lines and the CYC Calendar for additional events. All members welcome. Thank you for your support!

TO REGISTER:

Blinker | Spring 2021 14 CONTACT THE FRONT DESK AT (312) 861-7777 OR FRONTDESK@CHICAGOYACHTCLUB.ORG

LET ME NAVIGATE YOU HOME Buy. Sell. Rent. “In 2019, Dustin assisted my partner and I in both the sale of our Lakeview condo and the purchase of our Southport Corridor greystone. Dustin was able to utilize his network in the city and at CYC and sourced the buyer of our condo, another CYC member. From start to finish Dustin made the whole transaction smooth and seamless, making it a pleasure to work with him. We could not be more pleased with our new home and the help Dustin was able to provide.”

Nancy Snyder

Founder/Principal Designer

Interior Design | Furnishings | Project Management

773.580.0250 | nsnyder@bonbrisedesign.com | bonbrisedesign.com

LIVE THE LIFE

– Nick, CYC Member

Cobalt R35

Homes sold by Dustin for CYC members

Over $1.3 Billion Sold

Dustin Toale CYC Member Since 2016 319.327.0001 dustin.toale@compass.com Compass is a licensed real estate broker with a principal office in Chicago, IL and abides by all applicable Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

Berkshire 22CL LE

Everglades 273cc

Gordy’s Marine | @gordysmarine | #gordyslife (708) 683.9232 • GordysBoats.com

11 E. Madison St., Chicago, IL • 36 S. Route 12, Fox Lake, IL

Boat Sales • Boat Club • Boat Rental • Service & Storage

Meet the Associate Committee While the description of the Associate Committee on the CYC website might seem broad, the Committee is home to some of the most engaged members of the yacht club who help pave the future of boating in Chicago. Made up of CYC members between the ages of 21 and 39, our diverse committee is held together by the common love of on-the-water sports and a passion for giving back to our club. 2020 was a year that defied all odds, but the Associate Committee represented the Yacht Club in a variety of ways. Of the 49 new members who joined during 2020, 24 were Associate members. The Associate Committee Board would like to welcome each new face to the club and give you a taste of what this year has in store for our committee!

The Associate Committee aims to bring together our members for events, fundraisers, and regattas throughout the 2021 season. The Committee will kick off the season with a few socially distanced happy hours on the patio at Monroe, including curling and hot chocolate for all. As the weather starts to warm up in April, we hope you will don your best 1920s garb and meet the Committee at Belmont for a Speakeasy happy hour. No CYC season would be complete without a dock party, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for our summer events as well, including the first annual Associates boat raft-up. Can’t wait for the next event to get involved? The Committee meets (either virtually or inperson) on the first Tuesday of every month and we invite you to join in as we plan for our next events or catch up on the latest happenings at the club.

Associate Committee Chair Nick Naber Associate Committee Vice Chair Hannah Pustejovsky Event Chair Kristin Schultes On the Water Chair Taylor Dunphy

Blinker | Spring 2021 16

(M) : MONROE STATION

(B) : BELMONT STATION

CRUISING SAIL FLEET

2021 CALENDAR OF EVENTS APRIL 17

MONROE FIRE PIT NIGHT - JOIN US FOR A NIGHT OF FUN AND CONVERSATION. AFTER THE DAY LONG NAUTICAL EDUCATION SERIES (M)

MAY 22

CASUAL BELMONT BBQ - FIRST SUMMER SOCIAL, SAIL ON OVER FOR A GREAT EVENING WITH THE CRUISING SAIL FLEET (B)

JUNE 26

CSF-WOW LADY SKIPPER RACE - A DAY OF COMPETITIVE BUT RELAXED SAILING FOR THE LADIES (M)

JUNE 27

CYC 75TH FLEET REVIEW - JOIN US ON THE WATER OR IN THE CLUB FOR THE CLUBS’ ANNUAL FLEET REVIEW (M)

JULY 10

ALL CLUB CRUISE TO HAMOND MARINA AND VENETIAN NIGHT - JOIN THE REST OF THE CLUB’S FLEETS FOR A SHORT AND LEISURABLE CRUISE TO HAMOND

AUGUST 6 - 9

POWER FLEET & SAIL FLEET CRUISE TO RACINE ENJOY A GREAT WEEKEND IN BEAUTIFUL RACINE WISCONSIN

AUGUST 16

POWER FLEET & CSF FLEET - STAFF APPRECIATION CRUISE (B)

AUGUST 19

SOS CHILDREN’S VILLAGE CHARITY CRUISE (M)

SEPTEMBER 17

CSF END OF SUMMER CRUISE - NO DESTINATION SELECTED YET BUT STAY TUNED FOR MORE DETAILS

OCTOBER 9

ANNUAL CSF MEET THE FLEET DINNER - FABULOUS NIGHT AT THE MONROE STATION WITH A GUEST SPEAKER (M)

DECEMBER 11

17 Blinker | Spring 2021

CSF ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY (M)

GET READY TO SET SAIL With temperatures reaching sixty degrees, it is easy to imagine setting sail either for a quick round the crib or a short cruise to somewhere. I imagine that some of us are busy preparing our boats for the coming season. Meanwhile, the Cruising Fleet is planning a number of events this year. Early on, we will gather mostly outdoors, and later in the season we should once again be able to get together inside. I would like to highlight just a few events that will be coming up in the next few months. The Club has put together a wonderful Nautical Education Series. On April 17th, please tune into the “Boating Safety” session which will focus on safety for cruising couples, whether power or sail. That evening, members of the Cruising Sail Fleet are invited to an outdoor fire pit “get-together” to launch the season. Following on May 22, we are beginning to organize a casual BBQ and dock party at Belmont. If launched, please bring your boat to the party. We are in the process of planning for 3 cruises this year. More on these later as we firm up the details. The Cruising Sail Fleet is dedicated to the pleasure and beauty of sailing. Please encourage your friends to join us, whether they are racers, day sailors, or long distance cruisers. Also, please plan to join the Annual Fleet Review this June. It is a wonderful celebration to mark the beginning of Summer. Peter Ellis and Jerry Gurtheyt Chairs, Cruising Sail Fleet

Blinker | Spring 2021 18

In-Water Tech Show

10 am – 9 pm

MAY 29

3 – 9 pm

POWER & SAIL

MAY 28

9TH ANNUAL

SATURDAY

SAVE THE DATE

FRIDAY

CHICAGO YACHT CLUB INVITES YOU TO

2021 POWER & SAIL IN-WATER TECHNOLOGY SHOWCASE By Mark Svoboda

Make plans now to join us for the 9th Annual Power & Sail In-Water Technology Showcase. This family-friendly, FREE show will highlight the latest technology, style, design, and construction features from manufacturers of distinctive power and sail yachts in the Great Lakes.

13 dealers, and enjoyed free drinks and appetizers, live music, and indoor exhibits as well as an interactive safe boating demonstration for the whole family. Special thanks go to Wintrust as a major sponsor, for their generous support of this showcase.

Representatives will be present to answer questions and discuss the features of the vessels that are open for touring. In addition, indoor exhibitors will display new boating technology, electronics and accessories.

The show will be Friday, May 28th from 3:00 to 9:00 pm and Saturday, May 29th from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm. Chef Larry and the Club staff will serve a delicious assortment of complimentary hors d‘oeuvres and drinks to all attendees. Visit the Wintrust display while you’re there to check out their offerings. What better way to spend a day or two at the Club!

All members of the CYC are invited; those in the power and sailing fleets are especially encouraged to attend. The Club also invites its prospective members, as well as all boat owners in the Chicago harbors and boaters from the participating dealers. Each year this event has resulted in many new members joining the Club! Last year’s event drew over 900 invitees who toured more than 30 yachts from 19 Blinker | Spring 2021

Mark your calendars today. Talk to your family, friends, dock mates and anyone who you believe would be a good addition to the Club and get it on their calendars. It promises to be even bigger, better and more exciting than ever!

75th ANNUAL FLEET REVIEW by Amy Schwartz Chicago Yacht Club will hold its 75th Annual Fleet Review on Sunday June 27, 2021. The history of a Fleet or Naval Review comes from naval military practices of mobilizing for war and demonstrating the strength of one’s navy. The gathering of ships paraded and reviewed by the heads of state and/or other official civilian and military dignitaries still occurs to this day and many yacht clubs ceremonially honor naval tradition and present their “fleets” in parade past their flag officers of the club. Our 2020 Fleet Review occurred in the midst of the pandemic and one might say that we mobilized and demonstrated our strength as a community to battle COVID. The club had approximately three weeks to organize under government restrictions and CDC guidelines and determine ways to keep our club members safe, while maintaining the protocols of a time honored tradition. The Fleet Review was our first on the water event of the season, after cancellation of many others, and offered hope in the midst of uncertainty and sadness. Chicago Yacht Club’s 75th Annual Fleet Review is a milestone year to commemorate and will also mark one year into the battle against this pandemic. In 2021, we have much to celebrate as victories learning how to gather safely and maintain social distancing, vaccines and new treatments are offering hope for a return to “normal”, our community is still strong and our heads are above water. We have

a Fleet to be proud of in our membership and staff and now, perhaps more than ever, it is important to honor what this really means to our club. Our Fleet Review weekend will begin on Saturday June 26 with the Cruising Sail Fleet’s Lady Skipper Race and continue into the evening with the Associates Dock Party. Sunday June 27 will begin with morning colors and dressing of the participant boats. The Fleet will depart to the rally point and organize for the parade past our Flag Officers for review, while our member spectators enjoy brunch. Upon completion of the review of the Fleet, we will hold our Welcome Aboard toast to the Fleet and an afternoon/evening BBQ. The conclusion of festivities will be signaled by evening colors at dusk as the time to remove the dress flags from boats and prepare for your return to home port. If you plan to participate in the Fleet Review parade; according to the Chicago Yacht Club Fleet Review protocol to preserve the color and pageantry of the occasion, the method to dress your ship is as follows: • United States Ensign • Chicago Yacht Club Burgee (no other will be displayed) • Private signal • The International Code flags • Winners flags and pennants from prior years events may collectively be displayed Look for more details on the club website and via Dock Lines. Save the Dates to participate and/or spectate.

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SHIELDS FLEET STAYS AFLOAT By Michael Schwartz

The Covid 19 crisis has not sunk the Shields Fleet in their efforts to foster one-design sailing competition. On February 16, the National Shields organization and the fleet from Newport hosted the first of a three-part Racing Rules Webinar led by prominent sailor and author Dave Perry. The February topic covered all the significant changes in the International Sailing Rules. Series 2 and 3, on March 3 and April 6, covered rules at the starting line and at the up/downwind legs. The last rule focus was for windward & leeward marks and finishes. In addition to the Chicago fleet, racers from Oyster Bay to the Vineyard and Monterey to Buzzard’s Bay all participated in some spirited and informative discussions. In another giant step forward, the Shields Class Foundation was officially recognized as a nonprofit dedicated “To preserve authentic onedesign yacht racing competition and culture through the introduction and education of new adult and youth sailors to Shields Class sailing

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everywhere”. As a result, CYC’s Fleet 3 hopes to have an extra Shields available for local teams to participate in our great racing. Please contact fleet captain Mike Schwartz at 847-6876400 if you are interested. Congratulations are due to the formation of our newest fleet at Holland, Michigan here on our own Lake. We hope to see them send boats to join in our CYC regattas this season. As many of you may know, the fine “Great Lakes-Ocean Challenge Cup” sits in our showcase at the Belmont Station. This year the competition for the cup will be held at the Beverly YC, Buzzards Bay. The Shields fleet always has room for new team members, so let Mike Schwartz know if you are interesting in joining us for a fun summer of racing as we get back out on the water after a long cold winter and pandemic season.

DragonForce 65 By Dan Burns

Did you know that the DragonForce 65 is the largest one design fleet in Chicago? These little yachts have become quite popular with increasing numbers North of 145 in our fleet. In fact, our fleet is the largest in North America and in the top three around the world. What started out to be a few friends having fun turned into an actual fleet and ongoing fun on the water. Sailors love these yachts for many reasons to include low cost of entry, ease of use, technical yacht adjustments and age does not matter. One can purchase a yacht kit for around $250 with the upgraded remote control. It has everything you need except AA batteries. To support our fleet we have had build clinics to help new yacht owners put their DF65 together. It can take three to four hours if you have never put one together. We have some fleet members

that have learned quite a few tricks to speed up the assembly. We also have repair and tuning clinics to get our yachts back on the water and make them faster. The fleet is great is everyone is happy to share their experiences and knowledge. One really great thing about racing a DragonForce 65 is that there are sailors of all skill levels and ages. These yachts give an opportunity for those who do not normally drive, a chance to take the helm. We have quite a few that would call themselves Power Boaters that want to go to the dark side for some fun by racing a sailboat. With a large fleet anything can happen. Our busy times are the Spring, Fall and Winter. Basically, the less busy seasons for sailing in Chicago. We have our Spring and Fall Frostbite season and our Winter Iceberg Series. In case you were wondering, we sometimes have actual icebergs on the racecourse. During the summer we have races during the NOOD, Verve Cup and the Chicago Regatta. Come to a Spring Frostbite on Saturdays at Belmont to see what it is all about.

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RTM Safety committee announcement by Clark Pellett

The Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac Safety Committee and On-The-Water Director are excited to invite all boaters for on-the-water drills, scheduled for the evenings of May 26 and June 2nd. In coordination with the USCG, boat owners and crew will be able to observe how personal Man-Overboard (MOB) devices alert and display on their radio and navigation equipment. These drills follow the CYCRTM Safety Committee’s webinar on personal MOB devices with Digital Select Call (DSC) and Automatic Identification System (AIS) capabilities. All Chicago-area boaters are invited to test your radio and navigation equipment and observe what signals you hear and what information is displayed during these scheduled drills. In addition to placing a dummy MOB in the water for boats to locate via AIS, a separate All-Ships DSC will be manually activated using the command vessel’s VHF radio that will send a separate emergency Mayday alert to the Coast Guard and surrounding vessels. Participants who register for either event will be given detailed instructions on what to expect and will be able to video-record their experience and navigation to the coordinates being provided by the test dummy’s AIS signal. They will be able 23 Blinker | Spring 2021

to determine at what range the crew can spot the MOB dummy during twilight hours. The May 26th event is scheduled to be conducted outside Belmont Harbor and the June 2nd event will take place past the outer breakwater of Monroe. ALL boat owners are encouraged to participate. Personal MOB devices are increasingly worn by racing sailors and deploy in the event someone goes overboard. The device--if properly programmed with the boat’s MMSI #--instantly sends a DSC to that boat’s VHF radio. That DSC is formatted with a distress alert message. IF your radio is ON (as required by COLREGs) a piercing alarm should sound. In addition, the device will transmit a MOB distress signal via the AIS and supply the latitude and longitude of the device. This AIS signal can be picked up by any boat within line-of-sight. The device’s MMSI# should display on various multi-function devices (like a chart plotter) onboard those boats. Not all equipment and software operate in the same way, so this is an important drill for all boaters. Email safety@cycracetomackinac.com with the “MOB DRILL” in the subject line to receive detailed instructions and additional information. We look forward to seeing you on the water!

The Return of the Mac by Lindsey Duda and Adam Collins

After the cancellation of 2020’s Race to Mackinac for the first time since World War I, this summer the longest freshwater race in the world is back. Like you, we are looking forward to the 112th Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac® presented by Wintrust running this July. Registration for the race opened on February 1, and with over 100 registrants in the first week alone, it is clear that racers are as eager as this committee to get back on the water -- and to the Pink Pony! Like year’s past, returning skippers who have competed in one of the last four Mac races received an invitation for the 2021 race. Competitors interested in entering a new boat in the race may start the process of requesting an invitation via the regatta website. One bit change for the 112the CYCRTM is that we will be scoring this year’s event using the ORC rating rule. If you missed the ORC webinar hosted by the Mackinac Committee, you can find a link to it on the Regatta website. More information about the new rating rule, and information on how to transfer your ORR measurements to ORC can be found at www. orc.org and US Sailing’s Website.

Also returning to the Lake Michigan waters this summer is Wintrust, the presenting sponsor of the Race to Mackinac, Mount Gay Rum, and Team One Newport. We are deeply appreciative of their continued support for the Race and for our sport. “The Mackinac Committee looks forward to organizing a great event for all competitors.” said race chairman, Martin Sandoval. About the Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac®: “America’s Offshore Challenge™” The Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac presented by Wintrust is one of the world’s largest annual offshore races, drawing topnotch sailing talent from around America and the world. Known as ‘The Mac’ to everyone in the region, the ultimate test of Great Lakes navigation starts each July just off Chicago’s Navy Pier. Passing through some of the most beautiful coastal waters in the world on the 333-statute mile (289nm) race route, the fleet faces the storms, reefs, calms and competition that truly make it “America’s Offshore Challenge.” For more information visit www.cycracetomackinac.com

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Youth Sailing During COVID By Junior Activities Committee t every regatta, the first priority for everyone is always safety on shore as well as on the water. This year COVID took precautions to a new level with innovative ways to stay safe and host or attend regattas. Here are a few examples that the youth racers experienced this winter.

FACE COVERING All regattas stated face coverings at all times while on shore, as expected, and this expectation was strictly adhered to by parents, sailors, coaches, and race officials. Some regattas required face coverings at launch time while others allowed sailors to launch without masks. Face covering on the water was usually by sailor choice especially for single-handed boats. A twist was one US Sailing regatta, the February Mid-Winter Championship for double-handed club 420s, required face covering to a certain channel marker in the river when leaving and returning to shore, the regatta organizers advised the sailors to keep their masks in a plastic bag during races and wear buffs during competition. COVID TESTING While some events did not require COVID testing for participation, some did with a requirement that the tests results needed to be available to be reviewed when asked. Parents learned which test sites offered testing appointments or same day drop-in near the event and shared that information widely with their fellow parents to help get the testing requirement completed.

waterway with multiple local clubs or sailing facilities allowed the regattas to add boats to be added to the maximum because those boats could be stored, rigged, and launched from different shore locations where the competitors were safely spaced. The boats would then convene at a centrally located race course. For example, in December at Orange Bowl, in Miami, the host organizers allowed participants to launch from Coral Reef Yacht Club, Shake-a-Leg Sailing Center, Key Biscayne YC, Coconut Grove YC, and US Sailing Center to meet in Biscayne Bay. ONLINE RACE UPDATES An event’s race committee relied on the online website for the regatta Notice Board to post official notices like “Onshore Postponement Up at 10:00” or “Race Committee docked at 4:55 pm ET”. These types of online announcements were useful to keep people away from bulletin boards but especially when multiple locations were used in the regatta.

ONLINE PROTEST FILING COVID safety prompted innovation in the area of protest fillings. Regattas used using apps and websites to reduce the social contact RACE MEETINGS Sailors were able to maintain safe of filling protests, waiting for and sitting in protest protocols through the new innovations used by regatta committee meetings, and waiting for the results. If the organizers including coaches’ and skippers’ meetings sailor had a protest, they filed their protest comments held by Zoom meetings. Some regattas hosted these calls was entered into their online sailor account to a special the night before the first day and others hosted a daily protest location using protest form standards like on Zoom call an hour before first warning. At December’s paper. The race committee reviewed the filing online Lauderbowl, the Laser sailors listened to their skipper’s and replied to the sailor. This approach worked well to meeting standing next to their rigged boats, with phones reduce contact between people and sailors did not need in hand, ready to launch once they stowed their phones in to wait around the club for decisions, they could go to their gear bags. dinner and monitor their account. PARTICIPANT CAPS AND MULITPLE LOCATIONS Several COVID didn’t slow down the fun and learning at regattas regattas capped the number of participants to allow and training in Florida this winter. These experiences for adequate spacing for social distancing. In some prepared the young racers to be adaptable to cases, the geographic location of the event near a large new experiences. 25 Blinker | Spring 2021

Junior Racers continued to safely train and compete over the winter with COVID protocols By Junior Activities Committee

his winter the junior sailors headed south to Florida to continue their sailing using safety-first COVID protocols like wearing face coverings at all times on shore, maintaining social distancing in debriefs and while rigging, and socializing in small groups. Sailors and their families followed those standards in a way that allowed them to train and complete in locations like Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, or Key Largo working with coaches from various yacht clubs to expand the sailing skills. Chicago Yacht Club junior sailors in the Optimist, Laser and club 420 fleets competed in December at Orange Bowl and LauderBowl. The Laser sailors found competition in January and February at two different US Sailing Olympic Class Regatta events in Lauderdale and Clearwater, and March at ILCA Midwinter East in Miami. The Opti sailors competed at Buccaneer Blast in Key Largo and Sunshine State Champs in Jensen Beach. The club 420 sailors enjoyed breezy competition in February at Jensen Beach. Many sailors also were able to stay in Florida for longer periods of time than an occasional weekend or week because remote learning utilized by schools. This allowed the junior racers the chance to enjoy more time on the water to keep their sailing skills sharp while making new friends through Florida yacht club programs. The Chicago Yacht Club sailors proudly showed their CYC pride and their comfort with their winter training club by representing both Chicago YC and their training club on the regatta registration. We are looking forward to seeing the junior sailors return to Lake Michigan this spring to the programs offered by Skip Dieball’s team when the ice clears!

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Bernie Wiczer, Attorney CPA The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated how deeply families experience grief and anguish when a loved one passes and has not planned for the future.

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27 Blinker | Spring 2021

MEMORIAL DAY FLAG RAISING CEREMONY MONDAY, MAY 31, 2021 11:30 A.M. AT MONROE STATION

PLAN NOW TO ATTEND THE 2021 CHICAGO REGATTA presented by Wintrust | Sept. 11, 2021

By Nancy Snyder and Sonja Elmquist ie off your racing, cruising or boating season with the city’s premier celebration of the camaraderie and generosity of Chicago’s lakefront community! The 2021 event includes a new addition – a lighted, sunset power fleet cruise, along with familiar elements such as one-design and distance racing, model sailboat racing and silent auction. The legendary Sweet Home Chicago dock party will include in-person and virtual options to help every reveler feel safe and comfortable.

The Chicago Regatta unites racers, casual boaters and shore-side enthusiasts from throughout our community around a shared passion and purpose. The collective generosity of our waterfront community achieved a new record in 2020. Now our challenge is to do even more. The Chicago Regatta benefits the University of Chicago Comer Children’s Hospital, SOS Children’s Villages of Illinois and the charities supported by the CYC Foundation. FESTIVITIES FOR ALL • one-design and distance racing for competitive sailors • casual racing for occasional racers and beginning sailors • DragonForce model sailboat racing for the growing fleet of remotecontrol enthusiasts • NEW for 2021: A lighted, sunset boat parade

The celebration culminates on land with: • a charitable SILENT AUCTION • the epic “SWEET HOME CHICAGO” virtual and in-person DOCK PARTY To learn more, sign up or donate, visit: www.chicagoregatta.com

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OFFSHORE SAILING YACHT FLEET COMMITTEE 2021 SEASON By Eric Oesterle

The Offshore Sailing Yacht Fleet Committee is planning for a full season of racing this summer. Should Covid-19 interfere however, adjustments will be made. But current plans are for a full season of racing that will include: (a) Wednesday night races at Monroe and Belmont; (b) Thursday night casual races at Monroe; (c) a variety of weekend events throughout the summer; and (d) CASRA’s new doublehanded series. WEDNESDAY NIGHT RACING Monroe Wednesday Night Skyline Series Starting on May 12, 2021, Wednesday night races will take place most Wednesdays on the SA-7 course directly east of Monroe Harbor. Columbia Yacht Club and Burnham Park Yacht racers will race with us. After these races, the Club’s Monroe station will serve hungry or thirsty racers if Covid-19 protocols permit. Season class winners and the overall champion will receive flags, and the overall champion will be displayed on the Monroe Skyline Bell trophy in the Mac bar. Belmont Wednesday Night Skyline Series Starting on May 19, 2021, Wednesday night races will also take place most Wednesdays at the buoy marker just outside Belmont harbor. Beginning in June, racing will alternate between the Belmont course and the Chicago Corinthian YC race circle where we will race with Corinthian YC racers. After all races, the Club’s Belmont facility will be open to serve hungry and thirsty racers (Covid-19 protocols permitting) and weekly awards will be presented. Season class winners and the overall winner will receive flags. Both the Monroe and the Belmont Wednesday night races will be more casual than most weekend races. They will provide excellent opportunities for sailors to train new crew and for those new to racing to learn and practice the art of starting and racing. MONROE THURSDAY NIGHT SKYLINE SERIES This series is the new kid on the block. The inaugural Thursday night series was held last year. There were eleven Thursday night races last year, including several in October when this Series was the only game in town. Like last year, these races will start and end close to Monroe Harbor. “Casual starts” will make for casual racing so true novices can play with more experienced racers. Flags will be awarded to season class and overall winners. Last year, all participants received Mount Gay Rum hats. This year, the overall winner will be noted on the Monroe Skyline Bell trophy. This year Thursday night racing will start on May 20, 2021. If Covid-19 protocols allow, racers will be invited to meet back to Monroe for fun, food and drink. So, if you’re new to, but interested in, sailboat racing, Thursday night racing offers an excellent place to start. WEEKEND RACING CASRA just published its racing calendar for 2021. Races of all varieties (buoy, inshore distance, port-to-port, pursuit, casual and shorthanded races) are listed on CASRA’s calendar which can be found in CASRA’s website (www. chicagosailracing.org/races). CYC OFFSHORE CHAMPIONSHIP Keep an eye out for the notice for the 2021 CYC Offshore Championship Series and be sure to emphasize those regattas on your racing calendar. Win bragging rights over your fellow club members and compete for the coveted blue blazer. SHORTHANDED RACING New this year is CASRA’s five-race shorthanded series. The Club’s offering to this series will be the double-handed class in its Race to Mackinac. This new Series will include the following races: (1) Chicago to Waukegan; (2) Waukegan to Chicago; (3) the Race to Mackinac; (4) the Pursuit of Happiness regatta; and (5) the St. Joseph flyby (in conjunction with the Bi-State/Tri-State regattas). Other regattas, such as the NOODs and the Verve Cup may also offer doublehanded racing. All of this information is in the 2021 CASRA calendar (www.chicagosailracing.org/races). We hope to see everyone out racing, and Covid-19 permitting, back at the club afterwards. Should you have any questions, please contact Eric Oesterle at eoesterle@sbcglobal.net. 29 Blinker | Spring 2021

The Commodore’s Cup Regatta The Commodore’s Cup Junior Night Navigation Race presents a chance for junior sailors to experience big boat racing including safety training, a start, a full race with rules discussion, and competition. Offshore “big boat” skippers volunteer their boats, their expertise and some of their crew to supervise the race and provide training. Family members with experience are welcome to assist. In the past all juniors appear to have a lot of fun, and some are encouraged to consider moving their sailing school skills to Offshore big boats. Each boat must have a Junior at the helm and a Junior navigating the race. If there are more than two juniors per boat, which we hope, other juniors take other crew positions. There is an adult sailor supervising each position, but the helm and navigation must be done by Juniors. To qualify juniors must have some sailing school or comparable experience and must be between 8 and 18 years old. Juniors from all CASRA clubs and sailing school programs are welcome. The 2021 race is at Belmont CYC on Friday August 20. Skippers meet their junior crew usually between 5-5:30 to go over safety rules and boat positions. The start is at 7 PM close to Belmont Harbor entrance and usually ends about 8 PM. There is an awards party immediately after in the Sailing School. The helmsperson and navigator of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place boats get awards, the 1st place helmsperson and navigator get their names on the Commodore’s Cup Trophy. This trophy was donated to CYC in 1933 and is one of the club’s oldest trophies. All junior participants receive a gift useful for sailing. Refreshments are provided. We encourage skippers to contact us to register their boats, and all who know juniors to encourage participation. Details will appear in various CYC and other communications to sailing schools. For information contact alice.martin@btlaw.com

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Offshore Double Handed Racing R

By Janet Baxter

acing offshore with just two people aboard? Are they nuts? Maybe, but there is a growing trend around the world and double handed (two people) sailing is making a splash. We aren’t talking about a dash around the buoys either. This is serious- away from shore and hundreds of miles long. The exact format of the new Olympic event is still being determined, but it will require two people, one of each gender, and a one design boat, maybe 30 feet in length. The race will run overnight with the final course selection determined by hours sailed rather than miles. The idea is to have them go at least overnight, maybe even two nights. Like the Ocean Race or Vendee Globe, the public can tune in

via the internet, with 24 hour streaming video and audio from each boat, as well as drone footage showing the boats sailing in all conditions. It will certainly be the longest duration of any event in the Olympic Games. One idea is to have the finish on a big screen as the marathon is finishing, typically one of the final Olympic events. Boats being considered vary in size and complexity. J/105 and J/88 are good training platforms and the Figaro 3 or Sun Fast 33 are other options. You may see more doublehanded teams in events around Chicago next summer. Look for it in the NOOD, Mac and Verve. Many of sailing’s elite are promoting Offshore Doubles, including Stan Honey, Dee Caffari, Ken Read, Loick Peyron and Knut Frosted. More information can be found at https://offshoredoubles.org/

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“THIS IS YOUR CYC RACE COMMITTEE ON CHANNEL 72 CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS – NO SAILING OR RACING EXPERIENCE NECESSARY! – OVER”

By Jen Steffler

hile the boats were tucked away this winter, your Race Committee has been planning for a great 2021 season with over 80+ days of events! With the hope and expectation that we’ll have a more normal season, we want to invite all CYC members (and your nonmember friends) to come join in the fun and excitement; even if you’re not crewing on one of the race boats! As a CYC Race Committee (RC) volunteer not only do you get to spend a day on the water with friends, but also get the best view of competitive sailboat racing on Lake Michigan and to be a part of some of the most exciting moments on Chicago’s lakefront. Sailboats not your thing; that’s okay because the Power Fleet also needs RC volunteers for their P-Log events. Ride along as an RC member to record & score the power vessels as they navigate the course to be completed in a specified amount of time.

Not up for all day on the water? We’ve got the perfect way for you to be involved as shore crew! Each event needs scores entered into our scoring programs and on shore events planned and coordinated. Be an important part of RC and still get to say hello to your friends as they walk into the club. We hope you will join us at the hybrid (inperson/virtual) RC Refresher on April 24 at Belmont. We’ll have sessions for new RC volunteers with the basics to get you started and excited. For those who aren’t new to RC, we’ll have sessions about the new rule book, the new BuoyZone app for setting courses, and last but not least, the always popular GPS scavenger hunt to knock those cobwebs out! Opportunity is calling! To join the RC team contact Tom Sublewski (tom@sublewski.com) or Jen Steffler (jopginger@gmail.com).

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SEA SCOUTS By Robert Bied he Sea Scout program traces its roots to England where it was developed in 1910 by Warrington Baden-Powell, an older brother of Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of the Boy Scout movement in 1907. Warrington was a master mariner, canoeist and admiralty lawyer. In 1912, Sea Scouts migrated to the United States as program within the Boy Scouts of America (BSA).

For over 100 years Sea Scouting has promoted citizenship and boating skills. The program provides instruction and practice in water safety, boat handling and knowledge of our maritime heritage. Sea Scouts was the first BSA program to become coed in 1959. The current program is open to high school aged (14+) and above youth participants. The four Sea Scout Pillars are – Seamanship, Scouting, Service and Social. Sea Scout units are called ‘Ships’. A Sea Scout Ship has a sponsor or ‘Chartering’ organization. Chicago Yacht Club is the proud charter organization of one of the country’s oldest Sea Scout Ships. Ship 5870 was started in 1923. The ship has exposed youth from Chicago’s various communities to boating and the wonders of Lake Michigan. It’s volunteer-based leadership provides mentorship to youth from some of Chicago’s most underprivileged communities creating life changing experiences that can lead to careers in the maritime industry, military sea services or character development that can last a lifetime. In 2018, the Sea Scout program was designated the official youth program of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. Sea Scouts can also apply for a training sail aboard the USCGC Barque Eagle. The Scouts train alongside United States Coast Guard Academy cadets for one-week legs during the summer training season. 33 Blinker | Spring 2021

Other National and International Sea Scout events are available to Sea Scouts. One such event is the Koch International Sea Scout Cup. Forty teams from the US and International Sea Scout Ships compete in the Koch Regatta which is held every two years. Successful Sea Scout Ships share a common denominator and that is strong adult leadership. We encourage CYC membership to take an active role in the operation of Ship 5870. Please contact our Sea Scout Committee or our Rear Commodore to get involved. The possibilities are endless!

Aura II and the Transatlantic Race 1968 By Betsy Barrett, Club Librarian & Director

e’d been racing in Lake Michigan in B Class and were one of the leaders. An idea bubbled up among our crew: “We do well here, but wouldn’t it be fun to get out of these lakes and give the Bermuda Race a try?” (They added the Transatlantic race to their itinerary and three friends from Chicago, Knight Coolidge, his brother Robert, and Rick Van Mell, joined Wally and three other crew were picked up on the way.) We stayed northwest of the fleet, favoring the west side of the very wide Gulf Stream. When we got further north, we caught the Labrador Current, which flows out of the Arctic and then from the west to the east across the Atlantic Ocean. After about a week (the whole trip was 22 days) a major storm hit. Huge winds made large, high waves, a real ball buster! At some point, the helmsman noticed that when he turned the wheel the boat was not responding. We did the best we could using the sails to help steer, but it was not long until it became abundantly clear that we had a serious steering problem. We finally determined that the bolts which joined the rudder to the post had sheered off due to the tremendous force (of those waves). With the wind coming from ahead of us, we were still able to head in the desired general direction by manipulating the sails. Within a day we decided to try and construct a makeshift rudder. (Wally still has the ersatz rudder in storage.) It was a very small rudder for a 45’ boat. The main steering was still done by trimming the sails— main and jib—and the helmsman would further adjust with the emergency rudder. We made it to the finish line eventually. When we went across the line, a radio command from the finish line boat told us to swing past it for champagne, But we could not turn! The Committee could not believe our condition. (The breakage was not reported on the daily positioning reports.) We were finally towed into our berth. After all 32 boats had crossed the finish line and the race results were determined, we were advised we were 2nd overall! They presented us with a special award for sailing 1,800 miles of the 4,200 mile race WITHOUT A RUDDER. Blinker | Spring 2021 34

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Contact Membership Director, Elizabeth Haley, membership@chicagoyachtclub.org | (312) 861-7761

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GET INVOLVED WITH CYC’s SOCIAL MEDIA ATTENTION ALL CYC MEMBERS! Have a great photo, video or update to share from the water? Send us your member milestones, on the water photos and regatta accomplishments so that we can engage CYC members and fans online! Feel free to send high resolution photos, videos and updates to Abbie Wilson at abbie.wilson@chicagoyachtclub.org or even easier,

TAG US! TAG US AND USE THESE HASHTAGS ON THE FOLLOWING SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS SO THAT WE CAN SHARE ON CYC SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNELS!

FACEBOOK:

INSTAGRAM:

@ChicagoYachtClub

@chicagoyachtclub

#CYCexperience

*Due to the large volume of posts we receive, we may not be able to share all posts, but we will do our best to keep up with all member submissions. Thanks for your help in growing our Chicago Yacht Club online community! Blinker | Spring 2021 36

37 Blinker | Spring 2021