2023 Spring Blinker

MANAGING

Stacy Friedman

Communications Chair Mike Platzke

Skip Harsch

Amy Schwartz

Rhonda Thomas

Tatia Torrey

Elizabeth Wolniakowski ARTICLE

William Curtiss

Geoff Davis

Ed Falkenhayn

Bridget Groble

Audrey Mense

Randall Schmidt

Winn Soldani

Whitney Key Towey

PHOTO/IMAGE CONTRIBUTORS

Clyde Ainley

Nick Berberian

Eric Michael Clarke

Lisa Curcio Gaston

Bridget Groble

Chuck Nevel

Lizzie Ramirez

Ivan Sagel

Randall Schmidt

Laura Sigmond

Abbie Wilson

Photo

2023 CHICAGO YACHT CLUB

VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP

FLAG OFFICERS

Lisa Curcio Gaston, Commodore

Charles E. Anderson, Vice Commodore

Laura Sigmond, Rear Commodore

Nancy Snyder, Secretary

Robert O'Brien, Treasurer

PAST COMMODORES

Nick Berberian

Lou Sandoval

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Elizabeth Barrett

Steven Dorfman

Steven Knoop

John Leahey

Eric Oesterle

A. David Radomski

Winn Soldani

Whitney Towey

Samuel Veilleux

CYC PROFESSIONAL STAFF

Jim Williamsen – General Manager

MONROE STATION STAFF

Melissa Czyz – Membership Director

Stacy Friedman –Communications Director

Abbie Wilson – Creative Specialist

Jennifer Muir – Member Relations Manager

Keith Brennan – Controller

Jessica Jacobs – Assistant Controller

Karen Gonzalez – Billing Manager

Larry Asher – Monroe Executive Chef

Michael Blankner – Catering Director

Oscar Barrera – Catering Assistant

Nolan Sanchez – F & B Director

Alana Soogrim – Floor Manager

John Bandel – Monroe Bar Manager

Betsy Myers – Member Services Manager

BELMONT STATION STAFF

Chuck Nevel – On-the-Water Director

Patrick Burks – Regatta Manager

Hector Guzman – Head Coach

Flor Cerutti – Single-Handed Coach

Michael DiPlacido – Director of Adult Education & Performance Sailing

Marc Anderson – Belmont F & B Manager

Aléjandra Medina – Belmont Coordinator

Jackie Evans – Belmont Assistant

Raul Polidario Jr. – Belmont Executive Chef

FROM THE HELM

DEAR CLUB MEMBERS:

Splash! The season has begun and many of us are hearing that welcome sound as we launch our boats.

Please read this spring issue of The Blinker from cover to cover to see the calendar of our regattas, cruiser navigation rallies, and on shore activities. In addition, you will learn what is happening with Belmont 2.0 and see an invitation to participate in an exciting project that will record and report all aspects of the history of our signature Race to Mackinac and create a digital living document for all to enjoy.

Speaking of the 114th Race to Mackinac presented by Wintrust, mark your calendar for the Cruising Fleet starts on Friday, July 21 and Racing Fleet starts on Saturday, July 22. Non-racers should then head up to the island for the Porch Party on Sunday at the Grand Hotel and the Sailors’ Celebration on Tuesday at Mission Point Resort. There is nothing better than welcoming our competitors to the island, celebrating their triumphs, and hearing the stories!

Opportunities abound to get on the water by renting the 25-foot Sea Ray, Sonars, Tom 28s, paddleboards and kayaks. And check out all the classes available for adults and kids to enhance sailing and power boating skills. On shore, Chef Larry at Monroe and Chef Junior at Belmont have great menus planned. What is better than summer with friends and family on the patio at either station?

Finally, as we plan for another fantastic season, invite your family, friends, and colleagues who share your passion for the water to join us in enjoying our home on the water. Membership Director Melissa Czyz membership@chicagoyachtclub.org will be delighted to help them apply.

I look forward to seeing everyone soon on the water, at Belmont, and at Monroe!

Sincerely,

Lisa Curcio Gaston

Commodore, Chicago Yacht Club commodore@chicagoyachtclub.org

NEW MEMBERS

REGULAR

David Heinke

Chicago, IL

Sponsored by Gabrielle Buckley

Dee Robinson

Charleston, SC

Reinstatement

Previous period of membership:

2013 - 2019

ASSOCIATE

Michael Brennan & Ellen Slade

Chicago, IL

Sponsored by Cindy & Blane Boynton

David Finol

Spouse: Amanda Boike

Chicago, IL

Sponsored by Graham Sauser

Jack Godshall & Katherine Later

Chicago, IL

Sponsored by Mike Frerker

Jeffrey Ward

Chicago, IL

Sponsored by Jeff Mills

Marie Vanderford

Chicago, IL

Sponsored by Rosemary Metzger

since April 1, 2023

Joseph Griffin

Chicago, IL

Sponsored by Joey Chiappetta

Christopher & Anne Yellick

Chicago, IL

Boat: EVER, 31.5’ J Boat

Harbor: Belmont

Sponsored by Jon Welgarz

Robert Hrabchak

Chicago, IL

Sponsored by Patrick Colucci

Christopher Lilek

Chicago, IL

Boat: First Light, 45’ Sea Ray

Harbor: 31st Street

Sponsored by Richard Reed

Garrett McIntosh

Spouse: Lauren McIntosh

Chicago, IL

Sponsored by Bill Russell

Conrad Roos

Chicago, IL

Sponsored by Samantha Foulston

Simone Russo

Spouse: Melisa Russo

Chicago, IL

Sponsored by Abigail Winkler

Thi Tran

Chicago, IL

Boat: Strategic Rum

Reserve, 34’ Beneteau

Harbor: Belmont

Sponsored by Jason Winter

JUNIOR

Bryce Boles

Chicago, IL

Sponsored by Jerry Miarecki

Zoe Pileggi

Chicago, IL

Sponsored by Matthew Gallagher

A LETTER FROM THE MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

BY MELISSA CZYZ

Signs of spring are popping up around the Chicago area, and the Chicago Yacht Club is abuzz with new activity. Now that Members are back from the Club’s winter break, we’re working diligently to encourage Members to come out of hibernation and join us at one of our many upcoming Club events. From our Nautical Education Series, Member Mixers, Wine Dinners, or Comedy Nights at Belmont — there's no shortage in activities for Members to stay engaged!

Do you know someone who would benefit by joining the Club? Whether it’s to learn how to sail, spend more time on the water or just meet other people with the same interests — our membership has a lot to offer!

Don't Miss Out

PROSPECTIVE MEMBER RECEPTION

Friday, April 21 | Monroe Station

SUPER HERO BRUNCH

Sunday, April 30 | Belmont Station

CINCO DE MAYO MEMBER MIXER

Friday, May 5 | Monroe Station

GRAND OPENING PARTY

Friday, May 19 | Belmont Station

MEMBER MIXER BBQ & BOATS

Thursday, June 1 | Monroe Station

IN-WATER BOAT & TECH SHOW

June 2 - 3 | Monroe Station

If so, I encourage you to extend an invitation to one of our next Prospective Member Receptions. It's a way to learn about the Club and find out what sets us apart from the rest.

Fun fact: more than half of this year’s new Members joined after attending a Club event!

So far this year, we’ve introduced 16 new Members to the CYC community, and we couldn’t be happier to welcome them! Thank you to everyone who has referred a new Member or assisted in being their Sponsor or Endorser. As you know, membership is key to sustaining your beautiful home on the water.

To the newbies out there, joining a committee is a great way to meet other Members and start making the most out of your Club membership. If there's one or five that interest you, drop Member Relations Manager Jen Muir a note jennifer.muir@chicagoyachtclub.org, and she will connect you with the Committee Chair. It'll be a great way to get your feet wet and dive into membership!

Whether you have questions on how to get involved or have friends asking how to join, please reach out to me at membership@chicagoyachtclub.org. I’ll share our membership brochure and application along with an invitation to join us at an event.

Wishing you all smooth sailing in 2023,

Melissa Czyz Membership Director membership@chicagoyachtclub.org

CHICAGO YACHT CLUB: ROSTER OF THE OLD GUARD 2023

THE OLD GUARD IS COMPOSED OF THE 25 MEMBERS WITH THE MOST SENIORITY

The first date is when the member joined the club. The second is the election into Regular membership.

Wallace J. Stenhouse, Jr.

Gene McCarthy

Charles Bidwill

Lawrence Keogh

Peter Barrett

John Buenz

Deane Tank

James Bouma

Thomas Munizzo

Samuel Wm. Sax

John Mannion Jr.

James Riley

Patrick Ryan

Arthur Atkinson, MD

Jerome O’Neill

Michael Wilke

Richard Van Mell

Donald Bensing

Robert Zeman

Louis Cosentine

John Massey

Peter Thornton

Tom Carr

Barry Sears

James Considine

1944 / 1957

1956 / 1958

1948 / 1959

1954 / 1960

1950 / 1961

1960 / 1964

1963 / 1963

1959 / 1965

1965 / 1965

1966 / 1966

1966 / 1968

1954 / 1968

1968 / 1968

1965 / 1968

1969 / 1969

1969 / 1969

1955 / 1971

1958 / 1970

1969 / 1970

1961 / 1970

1971 / 1971

1971 / 1971

1962 / 1972

1968 / 1972

1972 / 1972 *

2023 CALENDAR − ON THE WATER −

MARCH 25 - 26

APRIL 1 -

MAY 6

MAY 13 - 14

MAY 20

JUNE 8 - 11

JUNE 9

JUNE 15 - 18

JUNE 23 - 25

JUNE 24

JUNE 25

JUNE 27

JULY 5 - 9

JULY 9

JULY 21 - 22

JULY 29 - 30

AUGUST 4

AUGUST 5 - 6

AUGUST 8 - 9

AUGUST 11 - 13

AUGUST 16

AUGUST 17 - 20

AUGUST 25

AUGUST 25 - 27

AUGUST 26

SEPTEMBER 9

SEPTEMBER 16

SEPTEMBER 18 - 24

OCTOBER 22

OCTOBER 28

MISSA ICE BREAKER

SPRING FROSTBITE & DF 65

US SAILING SAFETY AT SEA

NAVIGATIONAL RALLY #1

HELLY HANSEN SAILING WORLD REGATTA SERIES

NAVIGATIONAL RALLY #2

SAIL GP

USMRC QUALIFIER GRADE 3

NAVIGATIONAL RALLY #3 & #4

FLEET REVIEW

CREW U REGATTA

C/420 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

NAVIGATIONAL RALLY #5 & #6

RACE TO MACKINAC PRESENTED BY WINTRUST

TOM 28 CLINIGATTA

NAVIGATIONAL RALLY #7

RED HORSE REGATTA

100 BOATS ON A BEER CAN

VERVE OFFSHORE & J/111 NORTH AMERICANS

OLD GUARD REGATTA

CHICAGO GRADE 2 GRAND SLAM MATCH RACE WORLD TOUR

COMMODORES’ CUP JR. TWILIGHT NAVIGATION RACE

INSHORE VERVE CUP

NAVIGATIONAL RALLY #8

CHICAGO REGATTA

SHELDON CLARK REGATTA

J/70 NATIONALS

INTERCLUB COMMITTEE CUP

HALLOWEEN OPTI & LASER REGATTA

JOIN US ON THE WATER IN 2023

BY ON-THE-WATER DIRECTOR CHUCK NEVEL

JUST LIKE THAT, WINTER IS A MEMORY.

There is no way I can believe that by the time this goes to print, the entire On-the-Water team and the Race Committee will have hosted our first event of the year. It seems like yesterday that we were putting away the boats for winter. Here’s a quick look back at the last few months, which brought many of our youth sailors to events in Florida, from training with Coach Flor, to twoperson regattas with Coach Hector, not to mention that some of our high school teams went out to participate in the Rose Bowl regatta in Long Beach, California, over winter break. And let’s not lose sight of the fact that Flor hosted our first masters training session this winter. I hope everyone enjoyed themselves, had a ball, learned something new, and took away a better understanding of how to go faster!

BE A PART OF IT!

Looking ahead, we have a full on-the-water schedule: regattas, classes, rentals, as well as food, fun and camaraderie all of you bring so well to the Club. Below are some ways to get involved.

Starting with regattas, CYC will host two extraordinary events this summer/fall. First is the C/420 Nationals, which will take place July 5 - 9, with racing from July 7 - 9. Approximately 100 boats are expected to attend the event, and a whopping 200 sailors, along with parents and coaches. Our second event is the J/70 North Americans from September 18 - 24. Race days are the 21st to the 24th. I expect to see around 80 competitors. With two great events for the Club to host, if you would like to get involved in one or both, the Race Committee is looking for volunteers. Give back what you can afford, one day or all. We really appreciate the help!

This winter has been action-packed at the warehouse, where we are rebuilding, fixing, and conditioning the boats for this summer. All the sonars got a good rubdown, new bottom paint, cleaning, buffing, and waxing. They’re ready for Frostbite season. That means many of the Race Committee assets are also in the water. Argo, Mac, KB, and a bunch of Ribs are ready to support the frostbiters. If sailing is not your thing, and you want to get involved, try Race Committee. Not only do they have volunteer positions on the water, they also have assignments off the water. Feel free to contact Patrick Burks, our new regatta manager, and he’ll point you in the right direction.

If you’re a racer, power boater, or just a sailing junkie, there will be plenty for you to do this year on the water. Get involved. That is what makes this Club great! ✶

2022 Yachting Honors Recipients

THE YACHTING HONORS CEREMONY CELEBRATES CHICAGO YACHT CLUB MEMBERS WHO HAVE MADE SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENTS IN BOATING DURING 2022

1st: J/88 North American Championship

2nd: Beneteau 36.7 North American Championship

1st to Finish, 1st in Section, 3rd Overall: Newport to Bermuda the St. David’s Lighthouse (pro-am)

1st to Finish, 1st in Section, 1st Overall: Nassau Cup

2nd: J/70 European Championship

ALICE MARTIN

PETER BARNARD

1st: ILCA 6 Worlds 1st: ILCA 6 Cressy Championship

JIM MURRAY

RICH WITZEL

DON WILSON 1st: M32 World Championship

WILL HOLZ & CHARLIE GALLAGHER 1st: J/88 Charleston Race Week

HELLE GETZ IGSS Freshwater Award

TEAM DUTCH

KENN AND LOREN WOLF 3rd: National Championship Navigational Rally

RICHARD STEARNS, SR.

DON GLASELL Lifetime Contributions to Sailing

VICTOR CHIGAS Lifetime Contributions to Sailing

BELMONT 2.0: CELEBRATING BELMONT'S 100 TH YEAR WITH A FOCUS ON THE FUTURE

BY WINN SOLDANI, CHICAGO YACHT CLUB BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Our Belmont clubhouse turns 100 this year, and we are excited about plans for its future. Replacing the clubhouse and enhancing its amenities is an opportunity to reimagine the role Belmont Campus plays in the on–the–water experiences of every Chicago Yacht Club member.

The current clubhouse has served us and our predecessors well, but, for more than 15 years, marine surveyors have stated it must be replaced. We’ve taken the first step by commissioning a new barge to serve as the base. Now the work of finalizing the design for the future clubhouse is underway.

“Using member feedback to date, we are working to build a modern on-the-water facility that enhances our reputation as a world-class yacht club,” said Commodore Lisa Curcio Gaston.

While the barge nears completion, we are reviewing and revising plans for the structure we will build atop it. One common theme from members’ feedback: Belmont Campus is the site for CYC’s focus on the water. The new clubhouse and sailing school must support that focus by providing:

• Services, amenities, and programming to draw members and their families to the water and make members’ time on their boats and socializing more enjoyable

• Facilities and a layout suitable for hosting sailors and boaters from across the country and around the world for regattas and relaxation

• Space to support our Race Committee

• A place to use our watercraft--sailboats, powerboats, kayaks, and paddleboards

• Access to the water for children to teach them to sail and for learning about on-the-water activities

• Adult sailing and powerboating classes

• Space to support our on-the-water staff

• Food and drink service and spaces for casual member dining and member events

• Resources to fulfill our community outreach goal, bringing the joy of being on the water to Chicago children

The facility we need will require us, as members and owners of the Club, to invest. As we continue the design process, your Flag, Board of Directors, Stations Committee, Finance Committee, and Staff are all focused on getting the most out of the available footprint, and value engineering the structural components to minimize that investment, while maximizing its return. We are also investigating and evaluating various methods of paying for and financing our investment in the Club’s future and will update you on all of this over the coming months.

“Member feedback has been and continues to be crucial in this club-transforming time,” Curcio Gaston said. “Creating a new space that meets members’ needs today and into the future is our ultimate goal. We will continue on that path while being as inclusive of member feedback and as transparent in the process as possible.”

We plan to keep talking with members through “round table” discussions at Monroe and Belmont Stations. Also, all members should feel free to reach out to any member of the Flag or the Board with questions or comments about this club-defining moment. Finally, we monitor a new email address where you can contact us: belmont2.0@chicagoyachtclub.org.

We want your input at as we reimagine Belmont Station for the next 100 years! ✶

THE 31 ST ANNUAL VERVE CUP

BY WILLIAM CURTISS

OFFSHORE VERVE CUP

August 11 - 13, 2023

INSHORE VERVE CUP

August 25 - 27, 2023

Registration is open!

This August, the sailing world will turn its eyes to the Chicago Yacht Club as we host the 31st edition of the prestigious Verve Cup. Spanning two weekends, seven days, and both CYC Stations, this year’s Verve promises to deliver top notch racing and rockin' parties. Last year, the Inshore and Offshore Verve drew more than 160 boats and nearly 750 competitors. Thanks to the Offshore’s overlap with the Air & Water Show, we were able to host the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels at our Saturday regatta party. This year’s itinerary promises to be equally exciting. Capitalizing on the momentum created by the 2019 J/111 Worlds, the fleet returns to compete for its North American Championship. To accommodate this world-class event, the J/111s will enjoy four days of racing, from Thursday through Sunday of the Offshore Verve. On the Inshore side, the J/70s hope to top last year’s impressive turnout, using the Inshore Verve as the perfect training event for the J/70 North Americans, which will be hosted by CYC a short month later. And just like last year, the J/70s will enjoy three full days of racing, from Friday through Sunday of the Inshore Verve. Finally, while the Verve Cup might be dominated by one-design fleets, the Offshore also includes highly competitive PHRF and ORC buoy and distance sections, and we encourage all offshore boats to join the fun!

The Notices of Race for this year’s Verve Cup events are live on Yacht Scoring, and early registration discounts remain in effect through April 30. Additionally, keep your eyes open for a survey regarding possible changes and improvement to the Verve (or if you've already received it, please make sure to fill it out). Our goal is to throw the best Verve Cup possible, but we need your input to get there! Finally, if you know of any companies interested in sponsoring the Verve Cup (be they breweries or coffee shops or apparel companies or anything in between), please reach out to Will Curtiss, Audrey Mense, or Michael Gillian.

We look forward to seeing you on the water and in the rum line! ✶

CHICAGO REGATTA: A DECADE OF WATERFRONT PHILANTHROPY

BY CHICAGO REGATTA COMMUNICATIONS TEAM

We’re excited to ring in 11 years of benefiting the youth supported by the CYC Foundation, SOS Children’s Villages of Illinois, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago, with the city’s premier celebration of the camaraderie and generosity of Chicago’s lakefront community.

The 2023 Chicago Regatta will feature one-design and distance racing, model sailboat racing, and a dockside lighted boat display. New for 2023 will be a raffle benefiting all three charities, this will be a limited sale raffle ticket. First prize will be a one-week stay at a fabulous villa for ten, including chef-prepared meals. Second drawing will be a spectacular piece of jewelry donated by Cookie’s Creations. The third-place prize will be four tickets to a September Cubs game. We also look forward to the return of the popular leaderboard and the robust participation it brings to the event. The legendary Sweet Home Chicago dock party will include live music and a strolling dinner-tour featuring the tastes of our unique Chicago neighborhood cultures.

FESTIVITES FOR ALL

✶ One-design for competitive sailors

✶ Distance racing for occasional racers and beginning sailors

✶ DragonForce model sailboat racing for the growing fleet of remote-control enthusiasts

✶ Dockside Lighted Boat Display

✶ Sweet Home Chicago Dock Party

The Chicago Regatta unites racers, casual boaters, and shore-side enthusiasts from our community around a shared passion and purpose. The collective altruism of our waterfront community achieved a new record in 2022, as the event gave more than $170,000 to three charities.

We’re excited to see participation soar in our 11th Chicago Regatta. We look forward to welcoming one and all – let’s make 2023 our best year yet! To learn more, sign up or donate, please visit www.chicagoregatta.com. ✶

POWER FLEET: SPOTLIGHT ON FLEET CRUISES

BY RANDALL SCHMIDT

Are you looking for more ways to enjoy your boat this summer? The Power Fleet is an active social group in the Club. Each year it offers a variety of on-the-water events and other fun opportunities for everyone. These events include, but are not limited to, the Power Fleet’s Giving Back Cruises, Navigational Rallies, Fleet Cruises, and parties. Right now, the Power Fleet is highlighting its Fleet Cruises.

Each boating season, members of the Power Fleet look forward to Fleet Cruises. The Power Fleet usually organizes three club cruises during the summer. We have an early cruise in June, which we call the Shakedown Cruise, our annual cruise, and then an extended cruise. The annual and extended cruises are usually around the first week of August.

The Power Fleet wants to encourage members, especially new members, and members with children, to join us. Cruising is a fun and safe experience. Moreover, if you are new to this, the Fleet Cruises offer you the opportunity to cruise to the ports as part of a group with experienced cruisers. We get great participation with about 12 member boats and 35 to 40 people.

2023 SCHEDULE OF FLEET CRUISES:

June 9 - 11

Power Fleet Shakedown Cruise Location TBD

August 4 - 6

Power Fleet Annual Cruise Location TBD

August 6 - 13

Power Fleet Extended Cruise Location TBD

2023 SCHEDULE OF GIVING BACK CRUISES:

June 20

Special Needs Cruise 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

June 27

Boys and Girls Club of Chicago Cruise 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

August 21

Staff Appreciation Cruise 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

August 22

Chicago Lighthouse Cruise 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Here is a typical schedule of events for our weekend Fleet Cruises. Most of us leave Friday. Members coordinate with each other so those who want to travel together take off around the same time and are within sight and radio contact of each other.

Once we arrive at our destination, there is usually a welcome party Friday evening. Saturday starts with a potluck breakfast at the marina. That is followed by either individual and/or group events. For example, many of the ports have farmers markets on Saturday mornings. In other ports, we arrange for group tours of museums, lighthouses, submarines, etc. Prior to the cruise, the Power Fleet provides participants with a list of things to do and see in our destination. This list includes activities for both adults (bars, entertainment venues, etc.) and children (zoos, beaches, pools, children’s museums, etc.). We also provide a list of recommended restaurants for lunch, drinks, etc.

Saturday night, we enjoy a group dinner at a local restaurant. That’s when we discuss plans for Sunday and organize our departure times. Sunday morning, some participants have breakfast together before leaving. Others eat on their boat or depart for home (or their next destination).

Finally, we usually establish a group text so everyone can let the group know when they arrive safely back at their harbors.

The Power Fleet encourages and welcomes all members to consider joining our Fleet Cruises. For more information about Fleet Cruises or any of the other Power Fleet events, feel free to contact Randall Schmidt, Chair, r-schmidt@uchicago.edu, or Clyde Ainley, Vice Chair, dcainley@gmail.com.

The Power Fleet Committee meets at 6 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month. Everyone is welcome to attend our meetings. ✶

2023 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

(M) = MONROE (B) = BELMONT

WELCOME TO WOW 2023

BY WHITNEY KEY TOWEY, WOW COMMITTEE CHAIR

The Women on the Water Committee (WOW) is planning a series of programs this year focused on leadership, sailing, creativity and just having fun.

WOW kicked off the 2023 Season, in partnership with the Nautical Education Committee, by hosting a dinner and informative evening with Vice Admiral Sandy Stosz. Vice Admiral Stosz spoke about her time serving on polar icebreakers, conducting national security missions from the Arctic to the Antarctic with the U.S. Coast Guard.

This spring we have a lot of fantastic networking opportunities for all members to attend! Our Women’s Luncheon is Wednesday May 3rd at Monroe Station. We will continue the year celebrating women in leadership by having our own Commodore Lisa Curcio Gaston share her own story of breaking barriers by becoming Chicago Yacht Club’s first female commodore. In addition, we will hear about her personal journey as a senior mediator and arbitrator with almost 30 years of legal and judicial experience as well as her active role in the club. Please join us in hearing her remarkable story. Chef Larry will serve a lunch to complement the atmosphere!

On Wednesday, May 24, there will be a women’s entrepreneur networking luncheon at Belmont Station. This networking event will include a delicious threecourse lunch catered by Chef Junior and an engaging panel that will consist of female entrepreneurs who successfully pivoted careers midlife.

In continuing with female leadership, the WOW Committee will host a dinner with Brenna Preisser, Executive Vice President, Strategy and President, Business Acceleration of Brunswick on Wednesday, June 14 at Monroe Station. This stimulating conversation will focus on how to be authentic in corporate leadership, especially in the marine industry. Chef Larry will provide a culinary pairing. We are inviting alumnae of our leadHERship program as our special guests, generously sponsored by the Chicago Yacht Club Foundation.

The WOW Sonar Sailing Series will resume this year on Friday evenings, hosted by WOW members Sonja Elmquist and Aimee Smith. This is a fantastic opportunity for women of all ages and skillsets to get on the water, improve their sailing skills, and have a fun night out with friends. This year we are splitting the 12-week program into two sessions. You can register for the Early Session, Late Session or BOTH. Registration is now open and will sell out quickly, so sign up now to secure your spot.

In addition to the sailing series, we are offering spinnaker lessons on the sonars, opportunities to learn how to sail on asymmetrical boats (J/70s), and power boating lessons. Please keep an eye out for more information! I look forward to seeing you at the Club. ✶

OFFSHORE FLEET CELEBRATES ANNUAL CHAMPIONSHIP AWARDS

BY GEOFF DAVIS

The Offshore Fleet is looking forward to a new season of racing for 2023 after celebrating 2022’s season during its annual Awards Ceremony. The Offshore Fleet Committee assists with ratings, coordinates with committees, runs the Sheldon Clark Regatta, and helps coordinate the Club’s sponsored races with the races organized by other clubs and groups. The CYC Offshore Championship Series and the Awards Ceremony recognize boats and their teams for their accomplishments across the entire season of buoy and distance races. Be sure to check out this season’s Offshore Championship Notice of Series on the Club’s website in the racing and regattas section.

Let’s take a moment to recognize the winners from last year. The 2022 CYC Offshore Championship Award for the Buoy Division recognizes combined results in the Helly Hansen, Verve Cup, Chicago Regatta and Sheldon Clark series buoy races. The 2022 Offshore Championship Award in the Buoy Division went to James & Kate Murray’s J/109 Callisto, winner of the J/109 section in each of the three buoy races. Taking second in the Buoy Division Championship were Blaine & Cindy Boynton’s LS/10 Minister, followed by Lee Atwater’s 36.7

Program, John Weglarz’s J/105 The Asylum, and the G Miz/Dreher/Hatfield/Neenan group’s J/109 Smee Again. That team also took first in the J/105 Section of the CYC Race to Mackinac.

The Offshore Championship Award in the Distance Division recognizes performance in several offshore distance races, including the CYC Race to Mackinac, the Helly Hansen, the Verve, the Chicago Regatta and the Sheldon Clark races as well as the Chicago-Michigan City-Chicago and Tri-State/Bi-State races. This year’s Distance Division Championship Award was presented to Dave Dickerson’s C&C 115 Paradigm Shift, for a first in the Helly Hansen and Verve Cup races among other great finishes. Second place honors in the Distance Division were Jerry & Shawn O’Neill’s Sydney 38 Eagle, for their first place in Section 5 of the CYC Race to Mackinac. They were followed by Bob Zeman, Laura & Tone Martin’s Nelson Marek 68 Sagamore, Jeff & Susan Barton’s XP-44 Exuberance and Jerry & Greg Miarecki’s Ericson 35 Providence. We also awarded the Hamilton Trophy, for the best corrected finish in the first leg of the Tri-State Regatta, to Gary Feracota & Jim Banovitz - RP 52 Vincitore

The Offshore Awards Ceremony also celebrated the Sheldon Clark Regatta trophy, awarded to John & Jordan Leahey’s J/88 Dutch. The Sheldon Clark Regatta is a full day of distance and buoy racing sponsored by the Offshore Committee. Winners of the Sheldon Clark sections were T-Ten Erica, J/88 Dutch, J/109 Callisto; Beneteau 36.7 Program, PHRF-TOT Buoy Warlock, J/105 Kinship, PHRF 1 Distance Suspect, PHRF 2 Distance Wired, PRHF 3 Distance Amateur II, PHRF Jib/Main Distance Maggie Marie.

We also celebrated the Club’s Wednesday night Skyline Racing series season and sailing winners. This year’s Belmont Skyline Series overall winner was Jerry & Shawn O’Neill’s Sidney 38 Eagle; section winners were: Non-Spinnaker Incommunicado, J/88 Funky Monkey, and Spinnaker Eagle. The Monroe Wednesday Skyline Series overall winners were Dave Dickerson’s C&C 115 Paradigm Shift, Geoff Davis’ Beneteau 10R Gwhiz, and Bill & Viviana Fanizzo’s Beneteau Mumm 36 Sirocco VI. The Monroe Skyline Section winners were:

Non-Spinnaker Sirocco VI, Spin-3 Out of the Blue, Spin 2 Gwhiz, and Spin 1 Paradigm Shift.

We can’t wait for the 2023 Racing Season! You can find more information on both buoy and distance races that count toward the championship in the Notice of Series. A big thank you to our Flag, the CYC Race Committee, our wonderful staff and our new On-the-Water Director Chuck Nevel. See you on the water! ✶

10:00 AM: BRUNCH

12:00PM : PROCESSION OF BOATS

Fleet Review is a time honored tradition and fantastic opportunity to enjoy brunch and meet other Chicago Yacht Club members.

No matter your skill level, we have the program for you!

These programs are available to members and non-members.

CREW U

Learn to crew on members’ offshore racing fleets.

Tuesday Evenings / 8 weeks

LEARN TO SAIL

Learn to sail and earn your US Sailing Basic Keelboat Certification.

WOW: FRIDAY

NIGHT SAILING

Casual & friendly sailing with fellow women sailors.

Friday Evenings

TILLER TIME

Hone what you learned in Learn to Sail and schedule extra practice time with CYC coaches.

LEARN TO RACE

Introduction to fleet racing on Sonars and Tom 28s.

Thursday Evenings

SPRING & FALL FROSTBITING

Extend the sailing season and charter a Sonar in the spring & fall.

SUMMER CLINICS

Elevate your sailing game in our weekend Match Racing and Team Racing Clinics.

WINTER FLORIDA CLINICS

Join us in the winter in Florida for laser, sonar and J/70 clinics.

REGISTER AT CYC.RECHUB.NET

Chicago Yacht Club Members have exclusive access to the following:

Charter Sonars and Tom 28s in regattas

Participate in Interclub Competitions nationwide

Preferred registration and pricing for all CYC sailing programs

Purchase recreational passes to rent sailboats, paddle items and more

Participate in Non-Keelboat Programs

Charter a Sonar for frostbiting

QUESTIONS?

GET OUT ON THE WATER!

BY THE KEELBOAT COMMITTEE

The inevitable forward march of time notwithstanding, we suspect Shakespeare was referring to Chicago's sailing season when he noted that summer's lease hath all too short a date. What does this mean for you and me? WE NEED TO GET OUT ON THE WATER ASAP. Luckily, the Keelboat Committee, along with the Club's OTW staff, have been working hard all winter to bring you a wide range of sailing options this summer. Frostbiting is already in full swing, but we have lots of other programs starting soon. Registration is currently open for Sail Fast Thursdays at cyc.rechub.net, and we're in the process of finalizing plans for various clinics ranging from team racing to match racing to spinnaker work. Keep your eyes peeled for updates.

Additionally, we strongly encourage everyone to check out the Tom 28s this summer! They are a blast to sail but are currently underutilized. Help us fix this by

chartering a Tom for the Inshore Verve, the Chicago Regatta, the Red Horse Regatta, or even an RYF race. We promise you won't be disappointed! And if you ask nicely (or honestly, even gruffly), we can probably help line up some knowledgeable crew.

Finally, make sure to check out all of the other awesome sailing opportunities the Club offers such as Crew U, WOW Fridays, and the Laser clinics to name just a few. If you don't know where to find this info, reach out to Chuck Nevel, Mike DiPlacido, or Patrick Burks. They can all point you in the right direction.

See you on the water!

P.S. Did you notice you can now sign up as an alternate skipper or crew member for frostbiting? It might be too late this session, but we hope to offer a similar option in the fall, so mark your calendars now! ✶

INTERCLUB COMPETITION IN 2023

BY BRIDGET GROBLE

Planning and preparation are in full swing for the 2023 season of interclub regattas. Interclub regattas may be team races, fleet races, or match races where yacht clubs compete against each other.

In preparation for the season, members of the Interclub Competition Committee have been hosting regular team racing seminars to expand the knowledge and skill of all members. Will Curtiss, Ray Groble IV, Ray Groble III, Hector Guzman, Elizabeth Foulston, Samantha Foulston, and I have led these chalk talks throughout the winter. We are excited to keep sharing our knowledge with all interested members!

This year, the Interclub Competition Committee is focused on fielding strong teams for several events to build up Chicago Yacht Club’s resume. We have rostered teams for three events already for the 2023 season.

First, CYC will compete in the Jackson Cup team race in Sonars at the end of April at Boston Yacht Club. This event will showcase a mix of members with college team racing experience and keelboat experience. Four new members: Alec Ruiz Ramon, Emily ShanleyRoberts, Alex Honke, and Adam Schaefer will make their debut at the Jackson Cup.

Chicago Yacht Club also received an invitation to the New York Yacht Club Women’s 2v2 team race, an extremely competitive tier 1 event for which acceptance was resume-based. The team is made up of mainly college sailors and includes two junior sailors: Emery Sularz and Madeline Torrey.

Next, CYC will be represented at the Corinthian Young Guns team race at Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club. Competitors must be aged 21-39, hence the name of the event. Will Curtiss, Malcolm Lamphere, and Will Holz will be the skippers for this highly competitive team race.

We hope to field teams for more events for the 2023 season. The Interclub Competition Committee is trying to broaden the skill level and age range of members who compete.

Our teams also need sailors to practice with and improve our skills here at our home club. Please come to our practices starting in April to see what this activity is all about. Registration is available on the club calendar. Please reach out to me (bridget.groble@gmail.com) or the committee (cycinterclubcompetition@gmail.com) with any questions. ✶

CYCRTM AND CYC FOUNDATION PARTNER TO BRING CHICAGO YOUTH TO LAKEFRONT

BY WINN SOLDANI, CHICAGO YACHT CLUB BOARD OF DIRECTORS

This year, the Chicago Yacht Club Foundation and the Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac presented by Wintrust are joining forces to bring underserved kids to the water before this year’s Mac Race.

From July 14 - 18, the CYC Foundation will offer nine sailing expeditions for kids aboard the 77-foot tall ship Inland Seas. Participants will board at CYC’s Monroe Station. Once aboard, they will become scientists and sailors. Upon return, the goal is for them to feel more connected to the Great Lakes and understand their part in taking care of this important natural resource.

Through this partnership, Mac Race competitors and fans will learn about the Foundation’s program and the difference it makes throughout the race season. “Sailing teaches you important life skills like decisionmaking, teamwork and resourcefulness,” said Sam Veilleux, Chair of the 114th Race to Mac. “We are excited to support and communicate the importance of connecting underserved youth to these experiences and hope our racers will embrace this important initiative.”

“This is one of the CYC Foundation’s most important programs with the ability to bring hundreds of local youths, many of whom have never seen Lake Michigan, to the water,” said Greg Miarecki, Foundation President. “We’re elated to see our Club working together as the Mac race helps the Foundation achieve its vision.”

For more information on the Foundation, go to www. chicagoyachtclubfoundation.org. For more information on the Mac visit www.cycracetomackinac.com. ✶

THE RACE TO MACKINAC HISTORY PROJECT

Invitation to Participate

In 1898, Chicago Yacht Club members initiated our longest standing tradition, the Race to Mackinac. As we approach our 150th Anniversary and the running of the 114th Race, we have launched the effort to present the history of the last 113 races and to establish the platform to document the races of the future.

The advent of digital technology platforms makes it possible to illustrate the Race to Mackinac over the past 113 races and thereafter update the history over the next 113 races. The result will be a single document for CYC members, guests and invited historians to enjoy.

Mission:

Create an Evolutionary Record Dedicated to Preserving the Nautical Heritage of the Race to Mackinac.

Goal:

“Preserve the past to inspire future generations involved in the Race to Mackinac.”

- Commodore Lisa Curcio Gaston

All CYC members are invited to participate in this history-making endeavor. Racing and cruising sailors, power boaters, current and former Mackinac committee & race committee members, nonboaters, old guard, and new members all have something to contribute.

If interested in being a part of contributing to this historical endeavor, please contact:

ROBERT J. WIESEN, MANAGER, RACE TO MACKINAC HISTORY PROJECT

Thank you

Mission Point Resort for a great Sailor's Celebration at the 113th Race to Mackinac presented by Wintrust!

FAIR WINDS AND FOLLOWING SEAS, TEAM TAIPAN