SYC Sailing update for upcoming summer 2011
I am looking forward to a very good SYC Sailing program this summer. To start we have one of our past Head Sailing Instructors returning, Charles Flood III. We will have a complete staff of five instructors to teach group lessons and private lessons. The upgrade in equipment and boats will ensure for a smooth summer.
I would like to review the upgrades and the equipment costs involved with the SYC sailing program. Four new Optimist Sailboats (Optis) were purchased for $10,976. These boats allow a student to sail solo, promoting more confidence. They were very popular last year, and now we have a total of five Optis.
The engine on our Boston Whaler motorboat dated back to the early 80’s. We experienced many mechanical issues and extended down times with this boat. A new Mercury 4 stroke 60hp engine was purchased for $9,437. This boat is ideal for the instructors to teach our students while they are under sail.
Our other powerboat, Grady White 19 ft., had reached the end of its life as it was no longer safe to use. A used 19 ft. Mako power boat was purchased and our 110hp Suzuki engine was installed from the old Grady White. This boat is ideal for starting races, rescuing distressed sailors and towing our team boats to bay regattas. Cost, $5000.
Total expense is $25,408.00
Responding to the popularity of our one Hobie Cat Getaway, we used donations from Club members to purchase a second one. The sailing program is an expensive undertaking. Despite all of the Club's regularly budgeted support, we continue to rely on fundraisers like Caribbean Night and additional donations from members. Please consider joining that generous group.
Windsurfing has upgraded some components and a few new sails are on order.
Lastly, as Vice-Commodore and Fleet Captain, I hope to be elected Commodore for 2012. Due to that expectation and the unscheduled departure of a Board member, the Board asked Patrick McElhone to join the Board with the expectation that he will become the Fleet Captain this fall. Patrick, who learned to sail in the program and served as Head Instructor, has accepted. I look forward to working together with Club members and finding ways to get more SYC members out on the Great South Bay sailing.
Thank you,
Geoffrey Meluso
Fleet Captain
