Congratulations Helmut and Evan Jahn and the crew of Flash
Transcription
Congratulations Helmut and Evan Jahn and the crew of Flash
Blinker FALL 2012 A Tra d i t i o n of Yachting Excellence PHOTO BY ROLEX/KURT ARRIGO Congratulations Helmut and Evan Jahn and the crew of Flash Gordon 2012 Rolex Farr 40 World Champions 18th Annual CLASSIC CONVEYANCE. TIMELESS ELEGANCE. AND YOUR INVITATION TO VISIT A LEGENDARY PRIVATE CLUB. OCEAN REEF CLUB THE VINTAGE WEEKEND Thursday, November 29 – Sunday, December 2, 2012 7d [njhWehZ_dWho ]Wj^[h_d] e\ j^ei[ m^e i^Wh[ W fWii_ed \eh l_djW][ l[^_Yb[i" oWY^ji WdZ fbWd[i _d W Yecckd_jo Wi [nY[fj_edWb WdZ hWh[ Wi j^[ Yedl[oWdY[i _j ^edehi$ EXPERIENCE THREE UNFORGETTABLE DAYS IN ONE UNIQUE PLACE. ANTIQUE AND CLASSIC YACHT RENDEZVOUS CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE OF AUTOMOBILES ANTIQUE AND CLASSIC AIRPLANE FLY-IN For information and reservations: )&+$),-$+.-* EY[WdH[[\$Yec%L_djW][M[[a[dZ ;cW_b0 L_djW][M[[a[dZ6EY[WdH[[\$Yec )+ EY[Wd H[[\ :h_l[ Ik_j[ (&& A[o BWh]e" <beh_ZW Contents 8 18 24 4 5 6 7 8 12 15 16 17 18 22 24 28 30 33 35 36 40 45 - Fall 2012 Calendar of Events Commodore’s Comment From the Junior Commodore From the Editor Rolex Farr 40 World Championship - Our Kind of Town: Chicago Farr 40 Worlds from a Junior Perspective "G2 gets the G2" from Westrec's Scott Stevenson On The Water What a day on Lake Michigan The North American Challenge Cup at CYC Huckins - A Living Legacy Race to Mackinac Junior Activities Report Station's Report NAI Contest Let's Dress Up Verve Cup Offshore and Inshore CY-Scene Membership 39 Special Center Insert: 2012 Race Results and On The Water Schedule of Events On Our Cover: The Rolex Farr 40 World Championship at Chicago Yacht Club 40 www.chicagoyachtclub.org 3 Chicago Yacht Club Calendar of Events S M T W T 1 F 2 S 3 S 7 9 10 2 3 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 25 26 27 28 29 30 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 27 28 29 30 31 Nov 4 5 6 8 M T W T Dec 4 5 6 F S 1 S M T 1 W T 2 3 7 8 6 7 8 9 November December January 3 Mac Awards Dinner and Trophy Hug (Hyatt) 1-2 Children’s Holiday Party (Monroe) 24-27 Strictly Sail Show at Navy Pier 4 Frostbiting (Belmont) 9 26 7 Prospective Member Event (Monroe) Commodore’s Open House (Monroe) 9 Kids’ Movie Night - Cars (Monroe) 14 Power Fleet Holiday Party (Monroe) 14 Kids’ Movie Night The Incredibles (Monroe) 10-11 High School Great Lakes Championship (Belmont) 14 Ladies’ Craft Night (Monroe) 17 Michigan Avenue Fireworks River Cruise 17 One Design Awards Dinner (Belmont) 17-18 Timme Angsten Memorial Regatta (Monroe) 18 Frostbiting *final day (Belmont) 20 Annual Membership Meeting (Monroe) 22 Thanksgiving 24 Gingerbread Houseboats Pick-Up 4 Blinker Fall 2012 24-25 Club Closed for the Holiday 31 New Years Eve Party (Monroe) F 4 S 5 10 11 12 Jan Pink Pony Party (Belmont) 2012 CHICAGO YACHT CLUB VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP Flag Officers 2012 Joseph S. Haas, Commodore Gerald Bober, Vice Commodore Gregory Miarecki, Rear Commodore Anthony Close, Secretary Janice Promer, Treasurer Past Commodores John E. Regan David Daul Board of Directors Russ Burke Janet Crabb Jack Day Greg Freeman Nancy Glover Pat Marek Don Maxwell Steve Salk Lou Sandoval Lloyd Sergent Leif Sigmond Mike Sollitt Dave Truitt Lars Wilhelm 2012 CHICAGO YACHT CLUB EXECUTIVE STAFF General Manager Jim Clark Food and Beverage Director Kate Newton Food and Beverage Operations Manager Julie Morrical Controller Kyle Babcock Membership Director Emily Giaimo Communications Director Rachelle Treiber Web Content Manager Krissy Guidici Assistant Controller Patrick Daly Executive Chef Kevin Smith Sous Chef Silvestre Salgado Belmont Chef/Manager John Cummings On the Water Director Lynn Lynch Sailing School Director Martha Pitt Race Coordinator Bridget Bell Keelboat Director Bart Zienda Dockmaster Michael Davey Human Resources Daisy Aponte Parking Coordinator Bill Shaw Commodore’s Comment Greetings fellow members, The sun is setting sooner and the boats are coming out of the harbors. Fall is here. Before we lament the passing of another boating season let’s reflect on what a great season it was. In addition to the members and their guests enjoying lovely afternoons and evenings on the patio overlooking the water and skyline of Chicago at Monroe Station, we were a very active club. The junior sailors attended four events: The 420 North American Championship, the Hyannis Annual Regatta, the CJ Buckley Memorial Team Race National Championship, and the Buzzards Bay Regatta. Our sailors represented the Chicago Yacht Club well with finishes in the top 20 at each event, with fleets exceeding 100 boats. Congratulations to Joe Taylor, Will Holz, and Rose Edwards for being awarded CYC’s 2012 Sollitt Trophy for Sportsmanship, Top Male Sailor, and Top Female Sailor honors. A list of all sailing school awards is on page 31. Our annual regattas and beer can series made for good summer fun. A highlight for me was being the first commodore to be first to finish in the cruising division in the Race to Mackinac. Congratulations to all Race to Mackinac and Verve Cup winners. A complete listing of winners for these events can be found in the race results insert inside this issue. Hosting the Rolex Farr 40 World Championships was fantastic – having fellow member Helmut Jahn win was spectacular. You will find detailed coverage of this international event on pages 8 to 14. Complimenting the sailing events, CYC and the Power Fleet hosted the North American Cruising Associate (NACA) 2012 North American Invitational Predicted Log contest (NAI). Our cruising sailing sail and power fleets were quite active on the water with multiple events that are covered in this issue of the Blinker. Slated for late this fall are Frostbiting, High School Great Lakes and Timme Angsten Memorial Regattas. This fall and through our winter months our work will be indoors. Our leadership, fleets, and committees will come together to plan for next year’s events and activities. I encourage you to volunteer and be involved. Your efforts are what fuel our “tradition of yachting excellence.” I would like to extend my appreciation to all of the members who served on the Club’s many committees. Your support and dedication has made my tenure as your Commodore an honor and pleasure. I would also like to thank Gerry Bober, Greg Miarecki, Jan Promer and Tony Close for contributions and dedication to the Club. They made my job easy. I look forward to my new role as the immediate Past Commodore. I have been told it is the best job in the Club. Have a great holiday season and thanks again for your support. I hope to see you at the club often! JOSEPH S. HAAS, COMMODORE www.chicagoyachtclub.org 5 From the Junior Commodore Fall sailing season, perhaps one of the busiest times in a high school/college sailor’s year. While adjusting to getting back into the grind of schoolwork, practice, and regattas, it is easy to get caught up and let something slide. It is important to find a balance between sailing and school. Time management it key. Just like sailing, it is something that takes practice. While racing, one has to juggle a dozen tasks all while keeping the main task at hand in the front of their mind. Judging wind shifts, laylines, who is an important opponent to keep track of, who is not, and speed, all while keeping the boat moving smoothly and quickly around the racecourse. This is similar to the life of a student who sails. To be able to juggle homework, studying, class, practice, and traveling to regattas is an amazing feat. This fall, the Chicago Yacht Club is hosting its two annual high school regattas, the Jimmy Talbot regatta and the MISSA Great Lakes Championships. Just weeks before the Jimmy Talbot takes place, CYC was host to the Rolex Farr 40 World Championship. It was an experience for CYC to host such an event, but it was an even bigger experience for 21 of our junior sailors, the youngest being an 11-year-old from our Opti race team. During the Farr40 pre-worlds event, our junior sailors from the surrounding area were given the opportunity to sail in some practice races aboard some of the boats. It is such a great experience to sail on a boat of that size, in this event, at such a young age. It gives our juniors a taste of what types of sailing are out there after high school and college. It is important for junior sailors to experience such things, for we are the future of the sport of sailing. To branch out into different classes and styles of racing is important. Juniors Will Holz and Alex Curtiss have branched out into the keelboat side of racing, including match racing at the Chicago Match Race Center, as well as representing CYC at the Sears Trophy at the Chubb Junior Championships for the past two years. Not only were they representing the Chicago Yacht Club, but also showing what our junior sailors are capable of doing and broadening what and where juniors participate in. While in college I always have to make the decision of what I need to do while trying to balance college sailing. Trying to decide on what needs to get done now, what can wait until after practice or be done while traveling, and what is extraneous. By putting all of my classes in the morning, I have freed up my afternoons, which is consumed by practice. I run from class to class to make it on time and squeeze in study time and homework during the hour and a half I have before practice. Time management, besides sailing knowledge, is the single most important skill I have learned from racing boats. In that way, sailing has helped to prepare me for life. MIKE KANARE, CYC JUNIOR COMMODORE 6 Blinker Fall 2012 Editor-in-Chief & Publisher Liz Ware Editorial Board Dave Finlay Matt Nurre Steve Rotfeld Kent Webster Arch Van Meter Managing Editor Rachelle Treiber Communications Committee Chair Matthew Gallagher Commodore Joseph S. Haas Contributors Commodore Joseph Haas Vice Commodore Gerald Bober Greg Freeman Liz Ware Lynn M.Walls-Lynch Martha Pitt Lou Sandoval Susan Maffei Plowden, KPMS Phil Dowd Helmut Jahn Evan Jahn Leif Sigmond William Plovanic Chris Beccaria Aisling Sullivan Sarah Wright Maryclaire Kiernan Jan Kramer Ann Rundle Rachelle Treiber Emily Reich Pat Marek Nick Berberian Lloyd Sergent Rob Hannah Walter G. "Gibby" Vartan Bob Bilhorn Photo/Image Contributions Marc Anderson Jim Clark Chris Simon Julian Zeng Rolex/Kurt Arrigo Sara Proctor Sarah Wright Jan Kramer David Estrada Michele Idstein Emily Reich Martha Pitt Rachelle Treiber Official Blinker Photographer Chris Albanis Publication information. Blinker (USPS 104020), issue number 393, is published quarterly (Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall) by the ChicagoYacht Club Communications Committee, 400 E. Monroe St., Chicago, IL 60603-6493. The subscription rate is $25 annually, available only to Club members. Copyrighted byThe ChicagoYacht Club. Periodicals postage paid at Chicago, IL and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Blinker, Chicago Yacht Club, 400 E. Monroe St., Chicago, IL 60603. Printer. Blinker is printed by Kjellberg Printing, Inc., 805 W. Liberty Dr.,Wheaton, IL 60187. Phone 630-653-2244 or fax 630-653-6233. Publication policy. We publish articles about club activities and members and their participation in competitive and recreational sail and motor yachting. Our purpose is to recognize those who contribute to the organization and operation of the club and its activities, and to promote member interest and participation in club functions as well as civic and military affairs. Members are invited to contribute to the contents of the magazine. Postmaster: Address Change Service Requested, please send to Chicago Yacht Club, 400 E. Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603. From the Editor What a great summer it was for boating and enjoying the benefits of membership at the Chicago Yacht Club. Whether it was on the water, at Belmont, or on the patio at Monroe, we had fun, didn’t we? You know the adage: “A picture is worth a thousand words?” Well then, we have a novel for you. This issue is chock-full of PHOTO BY DAVID ESTRADA the wonderful memories captured during the summer season’s events we’ve shared both on and off the water. These photos tell the stories of friends, families, children, regattas, victories, and traditions that make up our communities within the Chicago Yacht Club. Throughout the pages of this issue you will also find in-depth coverage of the season’s best here at CYC. The juniors, regattas, cruising sail, the many activities of the power fleet, and the fantastic Farr 40 Worlds, here for the first time, are to name a few. Fall is here now, the boats are tucked away for the season, we are wearing sweaters and jackets and before we know it we will be enjoying turkey for Thanksgiving and preparing for the holiday season. Secretly, while I love all of the seasons, I am already yearning for that first crisp April morning when the weather permits to captain the boat back into the harbor and start another wonderful summer on Lake Michigan and maybe beyond. Aren’t you? As this is the last issue of 2012, I, on behalf of the editorial advisory board, want to thank all of the volunteers who have written and contributed to the Blinker in 2012. So many members have given positive feedback on this magazine over the past year. From the reports to the feature stories, volunteers have generously given their time and talent to bring these pages to life. Your work is greatly appreciated. Additionally, many thanks to our loyal Blinker advertisers, many of whom are members. Your support enables us to produce a top-notch communications piece. We invite you back in 2013! Have a healthy and warm holiday season. We’ll have another issue ready for you in January. Sincerely, LIZ WARE, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & PUBLISHER BLINKER MEMBER: POWER FLEET www.chicagoyachtclub.org 7 Rolex Farr 40 World Championship Our Kind of Town: Chicago by SUSAN MAFFEI PLOWDEN, KPMS photos by ROLEX/KURT ARRIGO O ver the past 15 years, the Farr 40 class has hosted their World Championships at top sailing venues around the globe. Previously held in the U.S. two times in Miami, Newport and San Francisco, this year the fleet traveled for the first time to Chicago, with racing taking place on Lake Michigan, one of the five fresh water Great Lakes that form part of the boundary of the U.S. and Canada. This fleet of 40-foot one-designs continues to enjoy close, competitive racing. With 160 boats built since the Farr 40’s inception in 1997, the Worlds always attracts formidable competition and the 2012 Chicago edition was no exception: 20 entries from eight countries including the U.S., Australia, Canada, Germany, Italy, Monaco, Turkey and Mexico. The owner/driver rule and limit of professionals on board is a large part of the Farr 40’s attraction, as are the boats themselves that continue to provide an exhilarating platform for one-design grand-prix racing. Hosted this year at the Chicago Yacht Club, the docks were filled with several prior Farr 40 World Champions including defending champion, Guido Belgiorno-Nettis on Transfusion (AUS), and three-time winner Jim Richardson, on Barking Mad (USA). Long-time class stalwarts mixed with some returning to the class, such as 8 Blinker Fall 2012 Robert Hughes’ Heartbreaker (USA), Stuart Townsend’s Virago (USA), and Alek Krstajic’s, Honour (CAN), as well as first-time Worlds’ competitors: the Turkish boats, Asterisk Uno and Provezza 8, and the team of Flojito y Cooperando (on a chartered boat in Chicago), one of six Farr 40s based in Acapulco, Mexico. As well, six boats from the local Chicago-area fleet represented the class well. ON THE WATER For many competitors – some Americans included – it was their first time in Chicago and the Midwestern city earned high praise for all that it offered both on the water and ashore, including the Chicago Yacht Club’s genuine hospitality. Lake Michigan provided a changeable playing field with a range of conditions for the four race days. The lake, which measures 300 miles long by 118 miles wide, has a maximum depth of 925 feet, that ‘shoals’ up to 35 feet at the southern end, near Chicago. Monday, the first race day, started off with 8-10 knot southwesterly winds. Principal Race Officer Peter Reggio and the CYC race committee exhibited extreme patience and persistence given the light and shifty conditions, postponing for nearly two hours, and moving the start line several times before finding stable breeze to get off two races. Showing impeccable timing befitting the defending world champion, Guido Belgiorno-Nettis’ Transfusion, with Australian 49er Olympic gold medalist Nathan Outteridge as tactician, took the first win in race one and with a fourth in race two, were on top of the leader board after the first day of racing. Alberto Rossi’s Enfant Terrible (ITA) showed consistency with two thirds to trail by a point. After the passing of a strong frontal system Monday night, on day two competitors woke to a brisk northerly wind at 22+ knots with gusts close to 30, big seas, and blue skies with distinct cumulus clouds scudding quickly southward…a significant change from the prior day’s conditions. The race committee ran three windwardleeward races, sending the boats twice around on a six nautical mile course. The conditions were a proper test for a world championship: the ‘big seas’ were in fact 6 – 12 footers created with the northerly breeze blowing along a lake with 300 miles of fetch. The emphasis would be on crew work that was nearly flawless, as the sea state and breeze would punish any ill-timed or botched maneuvers. Wolfgang Schaefer’s Struntje Light (GER) took a bullet in race three, followed it with a 21 (after an early start under a Z-flag gave them a 20% scoring penalty), and then came in second in race five. But, following the pattern of the first day, consistency paid off for Helmut Jahn’s Flash Gordon 6 “More than a year ago the Farr 40 Class approached the Chicago Yacht Club with the idea of hosting this event to honor long-time class member and avid supporter, Helmut Jahn. Immediately we knew this event was a great fit for our club which is dedicated to providing world-class sailing. Being able to host and honor a fellow member, fellow sailor, and now the 2012 Rolex Farr 40 World Champion was very special to all of us.As co-chair of the event, I was delighted with the level of volunteerism and hospitality provided by our members to our guests and competitors. Our club has garnered a lot of accolades and it is because everyone rose to this great occasion.” Leif Sigmond, 2012 Rolex Farr 40 World Championship Co-Chair (USA) which posted a 3-6-3 and moved to the top of the standings, with five race scores all in single digits, and none higher than a sixth place. The third race day featured even more breeze: a northwesterly backing to the southwest at around 18-20 knots, with gusts to 32. While the seas had flattened out somewhat from the prior day, the gusts were treacherous for some, with several spinnakers shredded and boats broaching on the downwind legs. It was not the case, however, for Struntje Light, which seemed to revel in the conditions, going 1-2 to finish the day in third place overall. With the breeze up to 25 – 35 knots by the end of the second race, the Race Committee elected to call racing for the penultimate day of the series. Going into the last race day, Flash Gordon led Transfusion, followed by four teams –Struntje Light, Enfant Terrible, Groovederci (USA), Plenty (USA) – within three points of each other in third to sixth place, providing a high chance for a leader board reshuffle. The final day of racing started off with 12-15 knot westerlies. While the race committee’s plan had been to run three races to reach the ten-race maximum, the breeze proved shifty enough to cause several postponements, resulting in two races contested for the day. Flash Gordon 6 maintained a comfortable lead going continued on next page www.chicagoyachtclub.org 9 Rolex Farr 40 World Championship continued from previous page into the last day, ten points ahead of Transfusion. Capitalizing on their steady performance, Flash Gordon 6 safely finished 6-7 for the day, while behind them a win by Enfant Terrible allowed the Italians to slide by Transfusion to capture second place by one point. The winner of the world championship, Helmut Jahn’s Flash Gordon 6, finished on 41 points after nine races, ten points ahead of the second placed boat, Alberto Rossi’s Enfant Terrible. Flash Gordon 6’s win was notable for their single digit score line: 2-6-3-6-3-5-3-6-7. “We have participated in many Farr 40 World Championships in San Francisco, Newport, Porto Cervo, Copenhagen, Sydney and more.The Worlds in Chicago measured up to the same level thanks to Chicago Yacht Club and the perfect and challenging sailing conditions.That we won has certainly something to do, how comfortably we felt at home.The Chicago Yacht Club should host more of those high level events.” Helmut and Evan Jahn, Flash Gordon 6, winner of the 2012 Rolex Farr 40 World Championship TIMING IS EVERYTHING This was Bill Hardesty’s eighth Rolex Farr 40 Worlds, his fifth consecutive as tactician on Flash Gordon. As for timing, the first right call the team would make would be training at the venue. Hardesty said, “We got here (Chicago) ten days early. No one else was here. It was windy, it was difficult, but worth it.” The game plan on Flash was to be consistent. Hardesty said, “I told the team ‘the best worst race is what’s going to win this thing. We’re going to make this as boring as possible, we’re going to chip away at it and not win anything, and try to win the overall’. Amazingly it worked for us, there usually always seems to be a bad race here or there that can get you, but we were able to avoid it.” Hardesty had kudos for owner Helmut Jahn, “Helmut’s ultra-committed to the whole sport, serious as can be, he doesn’t put up with anyone not giving 100 percent. Everyone performs well because he’s a joy to work with.” 10 Blinker Fall 2012 FLASH GORDON HIMSELF All of Helmut Jahn’s boats have been named Flash Gordon after the moniker was given to the architect following his postmodern design of the State of Illinois Center in the mid-1980s. Jahn came to Chicago in 1966 for graduate studies at the Illinois Institute of Technology. His plan was to stay for a year, and 46 years later, he’s still there. Chicago struck a chord with him, “the city is very open, made out of natural elements, like the lake,” he explained, “It’s small, easy to get around and I felt very comfortable with the people.” At that point it was also the capital of architecture, Mies van der Rohe was still alive, and Jahn said, “I met some of the best architects and engineers that existed”. It was also around that time that the up-and-coming architect developed a love of sailing, joining a friend on his Lightning on Lake Michigan, and then quickly moving up: he had Bruce Farr design a 39 foot boat, followed by a 43footer. With a move to a Farr 49, Flash Gordon 3, Jahn "The Worlds was like the circus coming to town and you're in it! You may find out that your job is cleaning up after the elephants, but that's OK because you're still in the circus, and it's an absolute blast." Phil Dowd, Inferno, 2012 Rolex Farr 40 World Championship Corinthian Team winner campaigned as part of the U.S. team in the 1997 Admiral’s Cup and won. Soon after, tired of the modifications needed to stay competitive in that class, Jahn bought a Farr 40. It would be the first of three he would own, as he settled into a class with a camaraderie he enjoyed – as well as the opportunity to sail with his son, Evan, who is his co-helmsman. About the class, Jahn said, “It’s a great group of people, we still like each other, we don’t destroy each other like we did in the beginning! We are all competitors and we also have a friendship. There’s not this vicious will for achieving something at someone else’s cost.” THAT’S A WRAP On Thursday evening, the Rolex Farr 40 awards presentation was held at the River East Art Center, a restored warehouse built in 1905 on the north bank of the Chicago River. Two hundred competitors, race committee members, friends and family enjoyed the prize giving celebration, where the Rolex Farr 40 World Championship trophy and a Rolex Yacht-Master timepiece were presented to hometown heroes, Helmut Jahn and his crew on Flash Gordon 6. The 2013 Rolex Farr 40 World Championship will take place in Newport in late August. www.chicagoyachtclub.org 11 Farr 40 Worlds from a Junior Perspective • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • O n Saturday September 15, 2012, I woke up to go to the Farr 40 Pre-Worlds. Once I ate and got ready my mom drove me down to Monroe Harbor in Chicago. As we were driving I was thinking about a ton of random stuff like space unicorns, the Alphabutt, narwhals and George the lucky sail tie. Unfortunately, the night before pre-worlds my friend and I got bored so I drew a Sharpie beard, mustache, and unibrow on my face. I never regret anything, including my Sharpie facial hair. The funny thing was the crew didn’t ask about it until about half way through the day, probably because they were awesome Australians! I got the luck of the draw when we pulled boat names out of a bucket and I got Transfusion. It turned out that two of the guys were gold medalists in the Olympics. The only bad thing about the day was the races were postponed until 12:30. So that meant we had to eat lunch on shore. Fortunately, the lunch was probably the best regatta food I have ever had. Finally the wind picked up to 5-8 mph, and so we got to go out. On the way out of the harbor I got to steer all the way to the racecourse. We did some practice starts for a while, but then they finally called in on the radio saying the start sequence is about to begin. All of the sudden it was 5-4-3-2-1 GO! The race started and we were in a bad position this first race. The start on the second race was a general recall, but on the last windward mark rounding on the last race two boats collided behind us! On the way in, the crew broke out the victory box full of candy and said, “William, would you like some chocolates and lollies?” It was an awesome experience. I even got to keep the hat they gave me and the tactician signed it. I learned a lot, mostly about setting up at the starts. Farr 40’s are like giant Optis, except way nicer. Going home I was super grateful for the opportunity. It was like winning the lottery! -William Plovanic, Age 11, Chicago Yacht Club Opti Race Team • • • • • • My name is Chris Beccaria, I am 16 and I sail at CYC. I sailed on the Farr 40 Plenty. My favorite part of the day was meeting everyone that included some guys who won the America's Cup and other championships; also the entire sailing experience was amazing. I learned a lot about tactics and a lot of things these guys do on the pre-start as well as how the tactician 12 Blinker Fall 2012 PHOTO BY SARA PROCTOR determines which side of the course is favored. I met Vince Brun, Marco Constant, Rosco Halcrow, Alexander Roepers, and Greg Tawaststjerna. Yes, I have sailed on big boats before. This experience has made me want to sail big boats even more now. While we were waiting to go out sailing, I was able to get some sailing gear from the boat and was able to spend some time with the guys before going out. Also as we were motoring out to the race course, just talking to everyone was a great experience and once in a lifetime chance. • • • • • • My name is Aisling Sullivan and I just turned 13 last week on September 13th. Being able to participate in the Farr 40 Pre-Worlds was like getting a fantastic birthday present! When my mom picked me up on Saturday evening, I got in the car and told her, 'I DEFINITELY want a Farr 40!' I love sailing little boats, but being part of such a special event as the Farr 40 Worlds opened my mind to how I could race on a much bigger scale and all over the world. My day started out full of anticipation, since I really didn't know what to expect. Since there was no wind, we sat around, which was really boring. However, we got lucky, the winds picked up and I got to know what it is • like to sail on a big boat with an experienced team. I sailed on Groovederci with an all-male crew. They were very friendly, super nice to me and funny. I love that the same rules of sailing apply to my little Opti regattas as the Farr 40. I understood what was going on, it was all just so much bigger. Like I was amazed at how far we all were from the start of the race. I didn't think we were going to get there on time, but we did. It's fun to hike on an Opti, but it's even more exciting to hike on a Farr 40! The thing that made my heart beat really fast was when other boats got so close to us it seemed like we were going to touch or crash. We never did and I was really impressed with how the crew on Groovederci handled those situations. I learned a lot from them. Sailing in the Farr 40 Pre-Worlds was an experience I will always remember and I am truly thankful to Groovederci for welcoming me aboard so graciously. Sunday, I went back to my Opti race team practice, but I wore the Groovederci team shirt I was given with pride. • • • • • • My name is Sarah Wright, and I am a varsity sailor for New Trier High School. I practice out of the Chicago Yacht Club and that is how I found out about this wonderful experience on Farr 40's. I was on Heartbreaker, racing for the USA. One of my favorite parts about racing that day was when they let me steer the boat before we started racing. It was a really awesome feeling to be in control of a boat that big! I learned many skills that day, but that will be the one that I remember most fondly. I also enjoyed learning about the technology on the boat. The crew was hilarious! I appreciate them for teaching me what to do. Oh, and for not yelling at me when I was in their way. I have never sailed a yacht before, so this was an experience of a lifetime! By far, one of my favorite moments was when Heartbreaker won the last race. It was a fantastic way to end an amazing day! • • • • • • My name is Maryclaire Kiernan. I am a Junior Member at Chicago Yacht Club, a high school sailor, and 420 race team member. I sailed on Flash Gordon, you know the 2012 World Champions. My favorite part of the day was the start. It was cool to see all the competitors close in action. I learned a lot about teamwork on big boats. Every person is responsible for their specific job. It is an impressive group effort. continued on next page www.chicagoyachtclub.org 13 Farr 40 Worlds, a Junior View continued from previous page I have sailed Tom28s at CMRC, but that is as big as I've sailed on. This experience has made me excited to get back into big boats. It was really fun to check up on Flash Gordon online throughout the week. I was cheering for them to win. I wasn't surprised when the finally won. Congrats to the home team! • • • • • • First of all my name is Madeline Wakenight, I'm 16, I'm on the New Trier sailing team, and we sail down at Belmont Harbor. I got the privilege of sailing with the boat Flojito from Mexico, and overall it was such an awesome experience. It gave me a new perspective on sailing, since I was so used to sailing 420's, it opened up a new chapter of sailing for me. Most of the members on my boat spoke Spanish, and I quickly learned that my few years of studying Spanish have not yet paid off. But regardless, it was fun to listen to them and attempt to understand, even though I just nodded and smiled. I haven't sailed big boats before and this experience really made me want to get more involved with them! The Farr 40's made our 420's look so easy, but it was very cool to just watch them race. In the future I hope I will have this opportunity again, it was so much fun! Thank you for this opportunity! JUNIORS AT THE FARR 40 WORLDS William Plovanic, 11 Christopher Beccaria, 16 Chris Myefski, 16 Jackson Hamilton, 16 Elizabeth Foulston, 17 Samantha Foulston, 17 Karun Koppula, 17 Patrick Scherer, 15 Molly Davis, 16 Aisling Sullivan, 13 Charlie Koules, 17 Christian Koules, 15 Madeline Wakenight, 16 Sarah Wright, 15 Siri Anderson, 15 Michael Duncan, 16 Katherine Jones, 16 Maryclaire Kiernan, 17 Rose Edwards, 16 Brendan Kaplan, 15 Colin Richards, 16 PHOTO FROM SARAH WRIGHT 14 Blinker Fall 2012 “G2 gets the G2” from Westrec’s Scott Stevenson by GREG FREEMAN I f you have a boat in the Chicago harbor system you know the name Scott Stevenson. I recently had the chance to spend some time with Scott and got some interesting insights into his work and his background. I admit I thought I knew him from seeing him around for a long time and hearing him give presentations on harbor planning and seeing him at boat shows, but I was quite surprised with what I learned. Scott’s official title is Executive Vice President, Westrec Marinas. Westrec Marinas is the Manager of the Chicago Park District Harbors. Scott and Westrec have been here in Chicago for 16 years. In that time Westrec has added over 4,700 new slips to the harbor system, which now boasts over 6,000 slips and moorings. This has increased revenues to the Chicago Park District which today total about $13 million annually. As you would expect the current economy has hit the marina business as it has all sectors of the economy so keeping up is challenging. And speaking of challenges, let’s not forget the challenges that the NATO Summit placed on the harbor system in general and on Burnham Harbor in particular, which had to delay its opening until after May 21 this year and forced Westrec to temporarily relocate hundreds of boats. Scott said that he thinks people think his job is basically riding around the harbor system in a boat but there is a lot more to it than that. Like any business man he’s really a manager and a problem solver. He manages people, facilities and of course, budgets. People management comes in several forms including managing his staff, working with his customers – the boaters, working with the Park District and working with community groups. And he is always on the lookout for improvements that can be made to the harbor system – both short-term and long-term. Customer management is an interesting part of his job. Each harbor tends to have a distinct characteristic or personality. For example, Montrose Harbor is more of a sailor’s harbor and tends to be quieter than most of the others. Diversey Harbor is all power boats and tends to be more of a party harbor. Larger harbors like Burnham or Belmont may have several distinct communities in them. Some docks are party docks, some docks are more family oriented. One of Scott’s biggest challenges is managing these communities. He has some boaters who have changed docks as many as four or five times, looking for the right fit, the right community. I knew that Scott has a powerboat in the system, a 35foot SeaRay he keeps in 31st Street Harbor, but I was really surprised when he told me, “I’m a sailor at heart.” He grew up on the East Coast in the Washington, DC area, but in his youth he spent summers working as a deckhand on a 70-foot sailboat that was owned by a friend’s father and sailed in the islands. He loved it and thought about making that his life, but fate intervened. He’s raced J/24’s on the Chesapeake Bay and Star boats on Lake George. Now, he regularly vacations on bare boats in the BVIs, having done so seven times in the past 10 years. He also admits to having and loving to spend time with his four grandchildren Managing costs has been extremely challenging for Scott. As a “government agency” he’s continually pressed to do more with less and the last three or four years have been especially challenging. At the same time he needs to look at the longer-term picture and see what long-term gains are ahead, even if further out than he’d like. The new harbor at 31st Street is an example of this. It has a lot of capacity and many great features. Scott sees this as a real improvement for the surrounding area and one that will pay dividends to the city for decades to come. The challenge is to fill it and Scott believes it will be full soon. In the meantime he’s promoting the harbor by having had an in-the-water boat show this spring, offering a free night’s dockage in the harbor to all Chicago boaters so they could take a test drive, so to speak, and he even brought back Venetian Night at 31st Street Harbor. No, there weren’t any fireworks but there were 15 decorated boats and there were thousands of spectators watching; a good start for a brand new facility. We talked briefly about plans for more marinas in Chicago but nothing is in the works right now. Time was running short and we had to wrap things up. I asked Scott what else I should know. He said, “I just want to tell you that I really love my job. I love being able to create opportunities for people to go boating.” I have to say that I think he’s a very lucky man, to be doing something he loves. And I told him just that. www.chicagoyachtclub.org 15 On The Water LOOKING BACK ON FIVE ADVENTUROUS SEASONS It is hard to believe that I am finishing up my fifth season as the On the Water Director with the Chicago Yacht Club. There is no way to quantify how much I have learned and grown during this time or how appreciative I am of the opportunity to have done so. There are times when I catch myself telling a work story to some of my non-sailor friends and I realize how ridiculous I must sound to them. Most people don’t get to start sentences with the phrases, ‘When I was up on Mac Island’ or ‘So I was helping this guy on his 60’ yacht yesterday’ or ‘Traffic was too bad on Lake Shore Drive so we had to go by boat down to Monroe.’ So in honor of all the times I have come off as a lucky duck and my friends have rolled their eyes, here are some of the best memories I have from my time here, in no particular order. • Bow Lingle teaching me how to drive Carrier by making me weave through the moorings at Monroe the day before the start of the 100th Mac Race while all the competitors were tied up along the wall watching. • Staying in the Masco Cottage at the Grand Hotel during the Veuve Clicquot sponsor trip to Mac Island. • Doing Race Committee on the Laser/470 course at Miami OCR last winter. • Receiving the Hanson Rescue Award for a rescue CYC staff performed during the Talbot Regatta in 2010. • The 16-hour ride on Carrier to Manitowoc with 25 knot south winds and huge following seas when we delivered her to get repainted. • Being stranded on the side of the road for 6 hours when the RC bus broke down on the way to Mac Island. • Matt Clark assuming the role of human depth sounder and jumping in the water off the Coal Dock to see if it was deep enough for T10s to fit during the height of the insane rush of boats that arrived during this year’s Mac Race. • Using buckets of hot water to melt the ice and snow off of the RIBs down at Monroe after the Timme Angsten in 2009 so that we could bring them back to Belmont. • Watching the Farr 40s sail and occasionally wipe out in big breeze out of the north during the Worlds in September 2012. • All of the little animals we have rescued – current tally: 3 ducks, 4 seagulls, 1 pigeon that somehow got into the men’s room, 1 baby raccoon, 16 goldfish that were used as table decorations, 2 geese and 1 baby rabbit. Sprinkle in countless numbers of amazing sunrises over Belmont Harbor, peaceful moments delivering boats to and from Monroe, and many hilarious moments on RC boats and you get an idea why none of my friends want to listen to my stories anymore. Here’s to hoping for many more adventures to come! by CAPTAIN LYNN M. LYNCH, ON THE WATER DIRECTOR, CHICAGO YACHT CLUB 16 Blinker Fall 2012 What a day on Lake Michigan text and photos by JAN KRAMER SUNDAY, JULY 1, 2012 The weatherman said the storm blew through in 20 minutes with winds clocked over 30 MPH and gusts nearing 50 MPH! We were out with Victor Chigas on Deep Powder, a Pearson True North 38 cruiser. We knew there was a 'chance of storms' and watched for weather. Not unusual for Lake Michigan, the storm appeared quickly. We made a beeline at 18.8 knots for Monroe Harbor and just made it inside the outer harbor as the storm blew past. We rode it out there. Once the storm passed, all was calm and we had the easiest time returning to the slip. Shortly thereafter, the sun was out and you'd never have known what had just blown through unless you were on land and saw the wind damage to trees down, etc. or had taken photos as I did. It was the strangest thing to be in a storm and not get a bit wet... I suppose I've spent too much time on a sailboat. www.chicagoyachtclub.org 17 The North American Challenge Cup at CYC by ANN RUNDEL, CHAIR, NACC photos by MARC ANDERSON and CHRISTOPHER A. SIMON T he Chicago Yacht Club’s North American Challenge Cup (NACC), was held at Belmont Harbor on August 3 – 6, 2012. The first NACC regatta was in 1992, and while a lot has changed over the past 20 years, the regatta still remains a wonderful opportunity to compete on the race course and to enjoy the camaraderie of seeing old sailing friends and making new friends as well. The NACC regatta has grown over the past twenty years, from its inaugural year in 1992 with racing in only one class, the Freedom 20s, to the addition of two Paralympics class sailboats, the one-person 2.4mR and the three-person Sonar. In past years Chicago Yacht Club’s NACC regatta has hosted competitors from around the globe, including many Paralympics medal winners and US Sailing Team AlphaGraphics members. This event is one of the premier disabled sailing regattas, and is considered to be one of the “must do” regattas in the disabled racing circuit. Chicago Yacht Club is to be proud of initiating this event back in 1992, as it counts as one of the longest running events in the North American disabled sailing circuit. This year’s event had three days blessed with good sailing weather, and the race committee was able to get in a fair number of races each day. The Sonar class, a 3-person 18 Blinker Fall 2012 Paralympics class boat, had seven boats competing, a record number since Sonars first began racing in 2007, and completed a total of 14 races over the three days. Rick Doerr from Clifton, NJ and his team of Brad Kendall & Gerry Tiernan came in 1st place with a total point score of 14 and were awarded the Judd Goldman Trophy. Chris Murphy from Charleston, NC and his crew of Paul Gross and Joe Moore came in 2nd, and Sarah Everhart Skeels from Teverton, RI with her crew of Brian Skeels and Brenda Hopkins came in 3rd. The Freedom 20 class, a disabled class boat sailed by 2-persons with one Able Body for assist, is the class of boat that has been raced in the NACC regatta since the first event held in Chicago. This year’s event had five boats competing with two sailors having been part of the original regatta, Mike Jaffe and Donna Demarest. A total of 10 races were completed over the three-day event. Bob Jones from Issaquah, WA and Ken Kelly captured 1st place with a total point score of 19 and were awarded the American Eagle Trophy. Bob and Ken had previously won the Freedom class in 2010. Mike Jaffe & Dan Danaher from Chicago won 2nd place, and Mike Strahle from Redding, CA & Donna Demarest came in 3rd. The 2.4mR class, a 1-person, Paralympics class boat, had a total of seven entries, and completed 12 races over the three days of racing. The 2.4mR class is the newest class to have been added to the NACC regatta, with 2008 marking the first year in which 2.4mR boats competed. Dave Trude from Oxnard, CA won 1st place with a total point score of 16 and was awarded the Chicago Yacht Club North American Challenge Cup Trophy. Dave also won in the 2.4mR class at the 2009 and 2011 NACC regatta. Giving Dave a run for his money and winning 2nd place was Joseph “Jody” Hill from Seabrook, TX, with Aaron Wong-Sing from Ottawa, Canada coming in 3rd. Rob Klein from St Petersburg, FL was awarded the Marcy Gorov Memorial Rookie of the Year Trophy, and Sarah Everhart Skeels was awarded the Pete Paganis Sportsmanship Trophy. In addition to three solid days of racing, the event was kicked-off by a pre-racing clinic led by Joey Harris and in the water practice sessions and boat tuning. On the water coaching was conducted by Joey Harris and Hunter Ratliff, with post racing debrief sessions held each day. Don Glasell was the PRO for the event, with Bob Johnson serving as DPRO, and Jerry Thomas served as Chief Judge. CYC’s On the Water Director, Lynn Lynch, took Carrier out on each day of racing to allow spectators the opportunity to watch their friends and family members compete on the racecourse. Friday evening the sailors were guests of the Judd Goldman Adaptive Sailing Foundation (JGASF) annual fund raising benefit which was held at Chicago’s Field Museum of Natural History. Sunday evening the Chicago Yacht Club hosted a casual outdoor grill party with the final party of the event on Monday evening at Chicago Yacht Club’s Monroe Street Station, the NACC Winner’s Dinner. Mary Francis Fagan, from American Airlines attended this year’s Winner’s Dinner and reminisced about the planning stages and ideas that helped to launch the NACC regatta over twenty years ago. We were fortunate to have a number of CYC flag and board members in attendance at the Winner’s Dinner, and many of the competitors were pleased to see such a nice turnout of CYC officers. As with every major regatta here at CYC, it takes a lot of behind the scenes activity from wonderful volunteers working and planning throughout the year to make a successful regatta. The NACC steering committee is comprised of Jim Armstrong, Cliff Black, Peter Goldman, Joey Harris, Aaron Levine, Dick Schweers, and Jennifer Wohlberg, with Ann Rundle serving as chair. In addition to the planning and work done by the regatta committee members, the NACC requires a number of volunteers to continued on next page www.chicagoyachtclub.org 19 7KH 6KLS¶V 6WRUH DW &URZOH\¶V Great Gear, Great Prices Great Service x x x x x x x x x x x x x Henri Lloyd Gill Slam Sailing Gear The North Face Zhik Dingy Gear Spinlock Deckvests Kaenon Sunglasses Filters & Oil Engine Parts Running Rigging Sale Mustang Hydrostatic PFDs Sperry Durbarry, Zhik, Adidas sailing shoes Easy to get to²and worth the trip 20 Minutes from the loop Just off the Skyway 2 blocks from the Metra Electric Line 20 Blinker Fall 2012 www.crowleys.com STORAGE SERVICE SHIP'S STORE 3434 East 95th Street Chicago, Illinois 60617 (773) 221-9990 North American Challenge Cup continued from previous page help the sailors rig their boats and put them away at the end of each day’s racing, plus for the Freedom 20 class, each boat sails with an Able-Body (AB) to serve as an additional back-up crew member. The Chicago Yacht Club Sea Scouts rallied to the call for volunteers, thanks in part to CYC member Bettylynn Koules’s recruiting efforts! The NACC event has had a long history of very generous sponsors who continue to support this event over the past twenty years. American Airlines has been a supporter since day one, providing air travel for a number of the sailors. Cook-Illinois Corp. has provided the sailors with bus transportation throughout the four-day event, plus transit both to and from the airport for a total of six days of bus service, which is a tremendous level of support. A big shout-out to CYC member John Benish of CookIllinois for his continued support of this event! Judd Goldman Adaptive Sailing Foundation provides the sailboats for the competitors, as well as the on the water support staff and equipment. Many thanks to CYC member Peter Goldman and all the many CYC members who serve on the JGASF board as well as the many CYC members who support JGASF. Chicago Yacht Club Foundation is another key sponsor for the event, many thanks to Gibby Vartan and the board of the CYC Foundation. Additional sponsors for the 2012 NACC regatta are: Hyatt Regency Chicago, Lands’ End Business Outfitters, Chicago Match Race Center, Chicago Park District & Westrec Marinas, Carol’s Cookies, Helix Camera and Video, Eldnur Consulting, LLC, and Crowley’s Yacht Yard. Chicago Yacht Club members can be proud of being part of an organization that holds such a wonderful and unique regatta for disabled sailing. In addition to the regatta Web site, accessible via www.chicagoyachtclub.org, there is also a Facebook page “NORTH AMERICAN CHALLENGE CUP,” filled with photo albums from the past few years and plenty of fun and informative posts. Take a look at both sites to learn more about one of the best regattas we have here at CYC. www.chicagoyachtclub.org 21 Huckins – A Living Legacy by LIZ WARE photos by DAVID ESTRADA I n August, Cindy Purcell, third generation owner and CEO of Huckins Yacht Corporation - along with her husband Buddy - came to Chicago from Jacksonville, Florida to meet up with Chicago Yacht Club members and Huckins’ owners. There are six Huckins in the Chicago area, four at Belmont Harbor, one at Crowley’s Yacht Yard, and one in New Buffalo, Michigan, each owned by a CYC member. Ray Teborek loves them so much, he has not one, but two of these lovingly-crafted boats, Northern Light and Night Light, a Corinthian 53 and a Sportsman 34 (of which only four were built). Its sister ship, Huck Finn, is at Crowleys Yacht Yard and we are hopeful she will be fullyrestored and on the water. Fremont, a Corinthian 57, is owned Jeff Sharfstein. Rounding out the Huckins at Belmont is my Offshore 65, 402. Lee Stahl has the honor of owning the longest Huckins in the area, Susan Lee, a Linwood 58 which is in New Buffalo. I had a few minutes to sit with Cindy and ask her about Huckins and her family’s history in the yachtbuilding business during her visit. Where did you get the idea to go visit as many Huckins as you could? In the middle 90’s I decided to write a book on the history of Huckins, The Living Legacy. To help cover the expenses, I made the offer to Huckins’ owners that for a small fee I would write an interview and put a picture of 22 Blinker Fall 2012 their boat in the book. I got so many takers that I had to cut it short. That’s what got me started going around to meet the owners. I had a wonderful time doing it. Since so many of our boats have changed hands since then, I thought it was time to meet our new owners, and now like before, Buddy and I are having a great time doing it. We are also seeing owners that we already know and catching up on their cruising experiences and answering any questions that they have about their boats. How many have Huckins you seen recently? So far we have united and reunited with 15 owners from Florida, Connecticut, New York, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, The Bahamas, and now Chicago, Illinois. How many boats has Huckins built? How many are still around? Huckins has built 457 boats and we think that about half are still around. As we track our boats down and visit their owners we will have a better count. What prompted your grandfather to start Huckins and build boats? My grandfather built his first powerboat in 1907 at the age of 22 in his father’s barn in Duxbury, Massachusetts. He built his second boat in 1914 and then a 60-footer in 1919, which he cruised to Florida and decided to stay and start a millwork business there. For several years he dreamed of designing a sea-going yacht with a planing hull. At that time there was no such thing. When the Florida building boom died and my grandfather’s millwork business dried up, he decided to go into the boat-building business and formed the Huckins Yacht Corporation in 1928. What makes a Huckins special? My grandfather invented one of the first true planing hulls. He used his quadraconic hull design on the first boats that he built in 1929. Along with their innovative lightweight construction he built boats that were fast and planed on top of the water, not plowing thru it. When WWII came along his boat with the quadraconic hull won the most points in the Navel Trails (the Plywood Derby) and he secured the design contract from which PT boats were built. Today Huckins still uses the quadraconic hull design. Huckins yachts come up on plane at speeds approximately 12 knots sooner than other boats and with less horsepower, and run at speeds faster than other boats. They are also extremely fuel-efficient. What in your opinion what differentiates a Huckins from others? The hull form and the way she rides through the water. People who are knowledgeable about Huckins say the same thing. What is the history on the PT boats? PT 69 was Huckins’ first PT boat, and after her participation in the Plywood Derby of July 1941, Huckins was accepted into the fold of PT boat manufacturers, which included Elco, Higgins, and the Philadelphia Naval Yard. In turning over PT 69 to the Navy, Huckins had given permission for others to use his laminated keel, and on the quadraconic hull, Frank said, “We affected a contract with the Secretary of the Navy, dated July 10, 1941, licensing the use of the quadraconic form of hull in consideration for payment…” Huckins subsequently produced 18 boats – only a fraction of hundreds made by Elco and Higgins. The Huckins PT captains and crews swore by them and they were known in the navy as “the yachts.” You took over the company from your father, who took over from his father. When? Why? Are other members of your family involved in the company? After the war in 1946 my grandfather, Frank Huckins, invited both his sons to come back to work for Huckins Yacht corporation. His son Pembroke declined. He later became a very renowned yacht surveyor and Huckins used him exclusively. My father Kenneth Archibald, Frank’s stepson, moved back from California to join the company. In 1952 my grandfather died. My father along with my grandfather’s partner ran the company. Buddy and I joined the company in 1970 and 1973 respectively. I was the breadwinner for two years while Buddy made a modest salary learning the business. Also at that time Henry Baldwin, my grandfather’s partner, was in poor health and we were able to purchase his stock. My father and I shared an office for many years (what better way to learn the business). Buddy became the understudy of George Pillsbury. George was the carpentry foreman and in charge of new boat construction. Buddy and I have two daughters. One has her own business and the other is a full-time mother. They both have been involved with the business previously but we are working on other plans for the continuing of the company. Is it true that being a part of Huckins is like being a part of a cult? All Huckins owners love their boats and love talking about their boats. Because a Huckins yacht is distinctive, when a Huckins owner is cruising on his or her boat, invariably people will come up to the dock and comment on their boat. This alone creates the cult. What is your most proud moment running the company? I have no one proud moment. Every time I ride on a Huckins or run a Huckins I am proud. If you had an unlimited budget, how and what would you build? The yacht market since the economic downturn is very difficult to read, but to be certain what we do next will be very innovative. Huckins for 84 years has been all about innovation. As we stated in one of our ads, “If you’re looking for a pedestrian yacht, keep on walking.” What will be your legacy with Huckins? I don’t know. I’m not finished yet. www.chicagoyachtclub.org 23 2012 Race to Mackinac! photos by CHRIS ALBANIS, JIM CLARK and MICHELE IDSTEIN Making the always-thrilling trek across Lake Michigan to the quaint Mackinac Island for the 104th Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac, presented by Veuve Clicquot, were 326 boats and 2,683 sailors! The 333-mile race is known for bringing diverse wind conditions and this year it did not disappoint. It was a fast race that allowed the fleet of boats to compress several times, with the bigger boats going into hull while the smaller boats caught up. The winds allowed the sailors to arrive about 12 hours earlier than usual, with Chicago Yacht Club Commodore Joseph Haas’s brand new Hanse 630e Infinite Diversion being first to finish in the cruising division, crossing the line Sunday evening with an elapsed time of 55:27:17! Winning the Mackinac Trophy was Providence, an Ericson 35 MK II owned by former Mac Chairman and CYC Rear Commodore Gregory Miarecki and Jerry Miarecki. Providence won its 146-boat division with a corrected time of 37:28:47. This year’s Mac also brought in Peter Thornton’s Il Mostro, a Volvo 70 that caught a lot of attention and won the Royono Trophy – awarded for first to finish in the racing division. Il Mostro finished the race in an elapsed time of 35:38:19. Thornton’s win brings this trophy back to the CYC after four years. Another boat representing the Chicago Yacht Club, Cheekee Monkee, won the multi-hull division, taking home the Martin D. Rieck Trophy. Cheekee Monkee, a trimaran owned by Ron White, also won the prestigious Clark DeRoy Trophy. The Trophy is awarded to the yacht with the lowest combined corrected time for the Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac and the Bayview Yacht Club Race to Mackinac. The boat sailed the same courses for the two races with a corrected time of 89:52:17. Monohull racers should look out, as that’s 31 minutes faster than the winning monohull! This year 20 Chicago Yacht Club members received brag flags in their divisions! Others taking home awards this year include Realt Na Mara, winning the Mackinac Cup. The J109, owned by Tom Londrigan Sr. and Joe Londrigan, finished with a corrected time of 38:28:45. The Londrigans represent Island Bay Yacht Club and are based in Springfield, Ill. Winning overall in the Doublehanded division was George Petritz and Scott Petritz’s TFWB Relentless, with a corrected time of 39:14:38. Relentless is a J29 and represents the Grand Traverse Yacht Club. Triceratops, owned by Jonathan and Lori Alvord of Mount Pleasant, Mich., won in the Multihull division with a corrected time of 40:41:51. Triceratops is a Corsair 31 and represents the New England Multihull Association. Plan to join us for the 2012 Mac Awards ceremony presented by the Chicago Yacht Club Foundation on November 3, 2012. We look forward to seeing you on the water next year for the 105th Race to Mackinac, which begins on Saturday, July 13th, 2013. 24 Blinker Fall 2012 CONGRATULATIONS TO FELLOW CYC MEMBERS ON THEIR MAC WINS: Chicago-Mackinac Trophy 1. Providence - Greg Miarecki CYC Mackinac Cup 2. Northstar - David Gustman CYC 3. Kashmir - Mike Mayer CYC Beneteau 36.7/Chicago-Mackinac Trophy Division 1. As You Wish - John Heaton CYC 2. Tried & True - Robert Foley CYC 4. Karma - Lou & Martin Sandoval CYC Beneteau 40.7/Mackinac Cup Division 2. Das Boot - Jay Muller Cruising 1/Cruising Division 4. Serenity - Jack Marks CYC Cruising 2/Cruising Division 5. Intangible - Tom Falck CYC Doublehanded Division 3. Jump - Hank Graziano CYC Farr 40/ Mackinac Cup Division 1. Flash Gordon 6 - Helmut Jahn CYC 2. Hot Lips - Christopher Whitford CYC J/105/Chicago-Mackinac Trophy Division 3. Sealark - Clark Pellett CYC J/109/Mackinac Cup Division 2. Northstar - David Gustman CYC J/111/ Mackinac Cup Division 1. Kashmir - Mike Mayer CYC Multihull Division 2. Caliente - Michael Steck CYC Section 01/Mackinac Cup Division 1. Pororoca - Gene McCarthy CYC Section 04/Mackinac Cup Division 4. Eagle - Shawn O'Neill CYC Section 05/Chicago-Mackinac Trophy Division 1. Vanda III - Jack Toliver CYC Section 06/Chicago-Mackinac Trophy Division 2. Challenge - Ray Teborek CYC Section 08/Chicago-MackinacTrophy Division 1. Providence - Greg Miarecki CYC Tartan 10/Chicago-Mackinac Trophy Division 1. Retention - Mark Croll CYC Turbo/Mackinac Cup Division 1. Imedi - Mark Hauf CYC 4. Defiance - Dale Smirl CYC Race to Mackinac continues on page 27 Save-the-Date! Product Development Prototypes & Manufacturing Sunday, February 3rd, 2013 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Belmont Station Continental Breakfast, lunch and Rule Book included Limited to 100 members and member’s guests only Cost: $60 Contact Arch Van Meter 847-985-1900 Ext 11 arch@megacorporation.com www.megacorporation.com Bigger is Good. Smarter is Better. The new quadrennium of the Racing Rules of Sailing starts January 1st. Dick Rose, a US representative to the ISAF and one of the drafters of the racing rules will be here to describe the changes to CYC members and member guests. Dick will kick off the day by explaining the changes in the rules that take effect in 2013. Following this review there will be breakout sessions and a mock protest. Limited Q and A to follow. sm Business Litigation Ian Fisher – CYC member, solves business disputes, including: Class Action Defense Non-compete & Trade Secrets Policyholder Insurance Coverage Ian Fisher ƒ fisher@sw.com ƒ 312.701.9316 26 Blinker Fall 2012 RACING RULES OF SAILING SEMINAR Presented by rules authority Dick Rose About Dick Rose: Dick began racing sailboats at the age of nine. For most of his life he sailed dinghies –in college, frostbiting on Long Island Sound, and then International 14s and Lasers in Seattle. More recently he has enjoyed PHRF racing and cruising on Puget Sound in his Laser 28. After many years on the faculty of the University of Washington, Dick turned his attention to the racing rules for sailing. Since 1984 he has written a monthly column on the rules in Sailing World. He served as chairman of the US Sailing Racing Rules Committee for 12 years and as a member of that committee for over 20 years. For the last 15 years he has represented US Sailing on the ISAF Racing Rules Committee and now, as chairman of the International Sailing Federation’s Racing Rules Working Party, is responsible for publishing the 2013 edition of the racing rules. He is a US Sailing Senior Judge who regularly judges high school sailing championships in the Pacific Northwest. Dick was our Chief Judge of the Mac Race this past summer. To sign up, make a reservation by e-mailing frontdesk@chicagoyachtclub.org or calling the front desk at 312.861.7777. Presented by the Protest Committee. 2012 Race to Mackinac continued from page 25 Juniors Activities Report ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL TRIP TO THE EAST COAST! by EMILY REICH,ASSISTANT HEAD COACH 420 race team visiting and training at Nantucket Yacht Club. The East Coast trip this year was a huge success! With a total of 21 sailors representing Chicago Yacht Club, we had a large presence in the 420 and laser circuits at each event we attended. During the three-week excursion, we attended four events: the 420 North American Championship, the Hyannis Annual Regatta, the CJ Buckley Memorial Team Race National Championship, and the Buzzards Bay Regatta. These events are some of the biggest in the junior summer sailing circuit and attract the best sailors from all over the country. Mike Duncan, a laser sailor, said of the trip, “The level of competition on the east coast compared to the Midwest is much higher and as a full rig laser sailor the challenge was very exciting.” With finishes in the top 20’s at each event in fleets exceeding 100 boats, our sailors showed the junior sailing circuit that Chicago Yacht Club is one to watch out for. The trip is a whirlwind of van time, setting up boats, long days on the water, and fitting in a good meal at the end of the day. While there are certainly opportunities for the team to have some fun, the majority of the trip is dictated by regatta schedules and the work that goes into sailboat racing. The kids leave the hotel by 8 am each day, generally do not return until 9 pm after dinner, try to get 28 Blinker Fall 2012 some sleep, and do it all over again the next day. There are also a lot of back-to-back events that require diligent energy and time management from the sailors so even after a long day of sailing, they must work together in breaking down the boats to get on the road for the next regatta. The chaperones and coaches were very impressed at how well the kids kept their heads up and continued to put the work in on and off the water. Participation in a trip such as this is not something most young sailors can say they’ve done. Traveling halfway across the country to enjoy some of the best sailing on the east coast is something they’ll never forget and it certainly puts them ahead of the rest. These kids meet other junior sailors from all over the U.S. and continue to race against them in high school, college, and so on. With the sailing community being so tightly knit, these relationships always prove to be valuable in the future. Rose Edwards, winner of this summer’s Top Junior Female Sailor award, said, “It was really fun getting to sail with someone from another yacht club and we got to hang out with all the other sailors on the circuit that we never really get to see.” This trip is always a great opportunity for our kids to become familiar with a different part of the country, and 420 Race Team, human pyramid. Kyle Considine, most improved Opti award winner. The van, with our 420 up top and coach boat on trailer. Patrick Herbig (winner of the Beginner Bug Coaches’ Award) and Ethan Van Ha representing Ireland in the CYC Olympic Games. A 420 race team workout. enjoy new places. We explored the downtown areas in both Hyannis and Falmouth on Cape Cod and the kids ate all the fresh seafood they could get their hands on. We also spent some time on Nantucket Island training with the Nantucket Yacht Club Race Team for a few days, and also managed to fit in some shopping in the local stores in town. In between regattas, we try to get in some lighthearted fun so they don’t get too worn down. The team found fun with laser tag, bumper cars, and going to the movies in the evening. This year even marked the first ocean experience for one of our sailors, which was certainly a unique opportunity for her. Between the sailing competition and the sightseeing, the east coast trip is always beneficial to our sailors, coaches, and chaperones alike. Many thanks to those who put forth their time, money, and support to make this trip happen every year. We are looking forward to another successful tour next summer! Junior Activities Report continued on page 31 www.chicagoyachtclub.org 29 Stations Committee Report by GERALD BOBER, VICE COMMODORE Stations' Hospitality Committee is planning a special incentive for members who make dining reservations. Because making reservations is essential to planning and providing excellent dining service, staff will be keeping a record of those who make a reservation for dining at the club. At the end of each month, those who make a reservation will have their name entered in a monthly drawing for a very nice prize. Stay tuned for details. Please make a reservation when you plan to dine at the club. Remember to use the food and beverage parking credit when visiting our Belmont Station! Visit the CYC reading room at Monroe Station. A number of excellent books are on the shelves for your reading pleasure. Stations has a number of continuing maintenance activities underway, one of which aims to improve the efficiency of our lighting throughout both of the clubhouses. Members are encouraged to post their personal signal flag at both stations. Our front desk agents can guide you as to how to get your flag constructed and posted. Please feel free to contact Stations with any concerns/comments at stations@chicagoyachtclub.org. Mark Your Calendars 2013 STRICTLY SAIL SHOW January 24 to 27, 2013 at Navy Pier Real Estate Taxes Too High? Over 30 years of experience concentrating in real estate taxation appeals CRAIG A. BURMAN ATTORNEY AT LAW For owners of Commercial, Industrial or Income Real Estate Phone: 312.228.0000 Fax: 312.228.0027 155 N. Harbor Dr., Suite 6 Concourse • Chicago, IL 60601 Former Deputy Commissioner Cook County Board of Tax Appeals Local and National References Available Upon Request 30 Blinker Fall 2012 The Chicago Yacht Club Flag Officers and Board of Directors cordially invite you to the 2012 Annual Meeting. Join us to hear the state of your club, mingle with your fellow members, and meet your 2013 Slate for Officers and Directors. Attendees are invited to enjoy a complimentary cocktail reception immediately following the meeting. Tuesday, November 20th 6 pm. at Monroe Station RSVP to the front desk at 312.861.7777. SAILING SCHOOL AWARDS Beginner Bugs: Most Improved – Steven Foote Coaches’ Award – Patrick Herbig Intermediate Prams: Most Improved – Reed Rasmussen Coaches’ Award – Nick Taylor Opti Green Team Most Improved – Harry Bearrows Coaches’ Award – Jemima Korbel Claire and Kyle Considine preparing to launch their boats at 2012 Opti in Sandusky, OH. Advanced Opti Race Team Most Improved – Kyle Considine Coaches’ Award – Aisling Sullivan Beginner/Intermediate 420 Most Improved – Alexis Mendelsohn Coaches’ Award – Jason Pratt 420 B Race Team Most Improved – Charlie Koules Coaches’ Award – Margaret Johnston Harry Bearrows, winner of the Green Team Most Improved Award. 420 A Race Team Most Improved – Elizabeth Foulston Coaches’ Award – Alex Vasiliou Sollitt Trophy for Sportsmanship – Joe Taylor Top Male Sailor – Will Holz Top Female Sailor – Rose Edwards Will Holz and crew Wheeler Morris, Alex Wloshyn, and Madeleine Cooney. Jemima Korbel at the 2012 Opti Nationals, Sandusky, OH. www.chicagoyachtclub.org 31 POWER FLEET POWER YACHT IN-WATER TECH SHOWCASE The inaugural Power Yacht InWater Technology Showcase was held on June 16th at Monroe Station. This event, sponsored by the Power Fleet and combined with a Prospective Member Reception, highlighted the latest in design, style, and technology available on new power yachts that typically ply the waters of the Great Lakes. Represented were both American and European manufacturers including a 54-foot Cruiser and a 42foot Princess from Spring Brook Marina, a 34-foot Beneteau (yes, they make power yachts) from Karma Yachts, a 58-foot Azimut, a 58-foot Sea Ray, a 42-foot Marquis and a 38foot Tiara from Skipper Bud's and a 48-foot Sunseeker from Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales.These yachts displayed a range of styles included a trawler, three flybridge bridge models, and four express models. Represented on these yachts was the latest technology such as pod drives by Volvo (IPS) and Mercury Marine (Zeus), joystick control for conventional dual shaft drive/bow thruster equipped yachts (Xenta Systems),Automatic Identification Systems (AIS), RADAR, GPS, electronic engine monitoring and more. A wide variety of design features were displayed including both European and American interiors, electric sunroofs, windows, vents, and shades, built in washers/dryers, various galley arrangements and appliances, sliding/rotating cockpit seating, and a variety of stateroom and helm layouts and furnishings. Attendees were treated to a live "Buffet" cover band, beautiful sunny weather, and complimentary drinks and appetizers. Approximately 100 people attended throughout the afternoon.The event was a resounding success, resulting in new 32 Blinker Fall 2012 POWER FLEET ANNUAL CRUISE TO SOUTH HAVEN, MICHIGAN by Nick Berberian The Power Fleet’s Annual Cruise this year was to South Haven, Michigan from July 13 to July 15, 2012. Sixty-seven members and guests together with 20 boats participated in a fun-filled weekend. The event kicked off Friday night with welcome cocktails at the South Haven Yacht Club, followed by a buffet dinner and dancing to the Kathy Ford Band. It was a wonderful time to renew old acquaintances and make many new ones. It was an energy-filled evening and at the end of the night the entire group was still dancing and singing along with the band! Saturday morning started off with the traditional potluck breakfast at the marina pavilion with the extra added touch of fresh South Haven blueberries, Lloyd Sergent’s waffle grill, and mimosas to accompany the wide assortment of scrumptious dishes everyone brought.That was followed by a private guided tour of the Michigan Maritime Museum, including its special exhibit on how the War of 1812 was fought on the Great Lakes. It was then back to the marina for wood-fired pizzas for lunch and more time to socialize. During the rest of the afternoon some took the opportunity to go on a dinghy ride on the Black River, shop in town, take in a wine-tasting at the Warner Vineyard Tasting Room, or just relax. Dinner Saturday night was at the South Haven Yacht Club with dancing to the band of J.P. and the Cats.Their Commodore was presented with Frango Mints and our Club’s Burgee in appreciation for turning over the use of their facilities to us. It was another high energy evening with a packed dance floor! On Sunday morning, a number of members and guests participated in burgers and bloody marys on the deck of the South Haven Yacht Club before heading for their next port. It was the perfect way to end a fabulous weekend. The event included many long-time members and new ones, both young and old.The weather was beautiful, the lake was calm, and a good time appeared to have been had by all! The event was co-chaired by Chuck and Rita Anderson, and Nick and Nancy Berberian. I members and several very interested prospective members in the queue. Special thanks go to Pat and Nancy Marek for creating, planning and hosting this event, the dealers who participated with their personnel and yachts, the Power Fleet members and Monroe staff who supported it, and every CYC member who participated. I THE 2012 NAI CONTEST, HELD AT CHICAGO YACHT CLUB by Lloyd Sergent Chicago Yacht Club was thrilled to play host to the 2012 North American Invitational (NAI), which took place August 1 -4th at Monroe Station and welcomed contestants from across the country.The field consisted of nine participants, four skippers from California, three from Seattle, one from St. Petersburg, Florida, and one representing CYC. We had some wonderful weather for our event! Everyone arrived Tuesday in time for a cocktail hour at the Hyatt hotel. This was a great time for this very tight group to rekindle old acquaintances and met new contestants. Each boat used in the contest was donated by a CYC member and the assigning of boats is done by a double-blind draw. Wednesday evening was the boat drawing, which usually incorporates a little bit of fun. This year our MC was Dale Irvin, a professional comedian who kept the group entertained. Once the drawing was concluded the contestants met the owners and the planning started. Thursday morning is called “Boat Familiarization,” where the contestant gets to spend up to four hours on the water with the owner, learning how the boat handles, developing a speed curve by running the measured mile and half-mile, and determine timing for turns. Friday is a down day where the contestants can either enjoy Chicago or work on their contest. Saturday morning at 0800 the contestants and crew get ready for pursuit-style start, where the slower boats start first and if everybody does what they say all finish at the same time! The course was 45.2 miles long and took the competitors down past 31st Street Harbor and back up around the various cribs and then back in to shore along North Ave Beach. PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER A. SIMON PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER A. SIMON PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER A. SIMON PHOTOGRAPHY Everyone had a great time; especially Scott Strandjord from the Seattle Yacht Club, who was the 2012 winner! He was captaining John and Peg Vignocchi’s boat RipRap. Scott and crew posted a 1.4649% of error, followed closely by 2011 champion Fred Cole from Port Orchard Yacht Club with a 1.4891% of error. We look forward for the 2013 NAI hosted by the Seattle Yacht Club.We will all be watching to see if Scott and crew will be able to defend the championship on home waters! I Power Fleet news continued next page www.chicagoyachtclub.org 33 POWER FLEET NAI PREDICTED LOG SERIES: A SPONSOR’S VIEWPOINT by Rob Hannah, ChicagoYachtYard This season, the ChicagoYacht Club resurrected the Predicted Log Series and I felt this was a valuable and important opportunity to support the club and the Power Fleet.The Predicted Log Series is a great way to get new and existing members involved in Power Fleet activities. It also provides a competitive venue for power boaters to compliment the club’s sailing regattas. As one of the primary sponsors, I had the opportunity to ride along during the various Predicted Log events and found them to be exciting, challenging and great fun.These events combine intellectual and mental challenges with boat knowledge and captaining skills.The champion is not determined by sheer speed but instead by the skill necessary to predict ones time to complete the assigned course more accurately than his or her competitors. Predicted Log events create the same sense of community, camaraderie and passion that I experienced years ago as a racing sailor. I believe that these events strengthen the Power Fleet and the club as a whole. I look forward to and am excited about the expansion of this program, which will include introductory sessions designed to open participation to boaters who are new to this fantastic sport. I Save the Date POWER FLEET HOLIDAY PARTY at Monroe Station December 14, 2012 More details to come! 34 Blinker Fall 2012 NAI PREDICTED LOG SERIES: AN ORGANIZER’S VIEWPOINT by Lloyd Sergent In September 2011 the North American Cruising Associate (NACA) was searching for a site for the 2012 North American Invitational Predicted Log Contest (NAI). Chicago Yacht Club Member and NACA Vice Commodore John Vignocchi contacted me to see if Buff and I would be interested in resurrecting the predicted logging at the club and chair the NAI 2012 Chicago. I recalled the experience we had in 2002-2004 participating in the yacht clubs predicted logs. It was a great way to get involved in the Power Fleet and also a perfect venue to gain a better understanding of your boat and utilizing the many tools of charting/plotting a course. Buff and I thought this would be a great way to get our newer members involved so we took on the task of chairing the NAI and the CYC Predicted Log Season.We started planning for both in October 2011.The NAI event requires the host club to provide support by having boats for the contestants to use for the contest. I reached out to the Power Fleet members and had overwhelming support, with 12 members offering their boats for the four-day event during prime boating season. During the winter months we planned four CYC predicted log events and determined the results of those four contests would be the club champion and go on to represent CYC at the NAI.The first event was on a Thursday evening where we had five participants where one was a first-time logger.The next contest was held on the Saturday of Fleet Review for the coveted Giovan Memorial Trophy.We had five contests and another first-timer predicted logger.The third contest was run out of Belmont with four contestants, and the fourth contest was canceled multiple times due to weather.The club championship was tightly contested.There is a detailed scoring system based on the amount of boats in each contest. Bob Hough in Top Hatt took a first, with John Vignocchi in Rip Rap taking second in the first two contests.The third contest saw a flip-flop with the first two swapping first and second.The fourth race was going to be the deciding contest.With the fourth contest canceled we decided to send the team of Hough/Vignocchi to represent CYC at the NAI. As we were deciding the club champion, there was a team working diligently on getting everything organized to host a national competition.The week of NAI consists of events Tuesday evening and culminates Saturday evening with an awards dinner.The committee was asked to plan three evening cocktail/dinner events, an awards program, goodie bags for our out of town guests and thank you gifts for the boat donors.The committee was outstanding, planning some great events and goodie bags filled with wonderful items that allowed our guests to enjoy true Chicago hospitality. I want to thank everyone who participated and those who donated items for the bags. I especially want to thank Rob Hannah and the Chicago Yacht Yard for their sponsorship and goodie bag donations. The week was blessed with perfect weather and all the contestants and guests had nothing but complements for the organizing committee. I personally want to thank the staffs at both Belmont and Monroe stations for their support. Both stations represented the Chicago Yacht Club in outstanding fashion. I also want to thank the organizing committee for their hard work in planning and day-of-event support, and a special thanks to all the boats. I Let’s Dress Up! by GIBBY VARTAN Before there was a Blinker the Lake Michigan Yachting News was the voice of the Chicago Yacht Club. The reprint here is an assembly from 1924, some 88 years ago. You can see as a premier club we were concerned about our sartorial splendor, and of course the prices back then were a little different. We have some back copies of the LMYN and from time to time we will reprint some fun and/or informative history about our club and various activities. www.chicagoyachtclub.org 27 2012 Verve Cup Offshore and Inshore photos by JIM CLARK and MICHELE IDSTEIN PHOTOGRAPHY This year 142 boats were part of the 20th annual Verve Cup Offshore Regatta, which took place August 10-12. Participating yachts range in size from 25-feet up to 80-feet in length and carry crew from four to 20 persons. Evolution, a SC 70 owned by Pete Reichelsdorfer and Terry Kohler of Sheboygan, WI, won 1st place in the ORR 1 Division and the overall Verve Cup Trophy, which is determined by calculating the most competitive section in the race. The other trophy awarded - the 8-Mile Buoy Trophy for the winner of the Distance Race – went to SiroccoVI, owned by Chicago Yacht Club members William & Viviana Fanizzo. As the largest course-racing regatta in North America, Verve Cup has developed as a world-class event, attracting national and international sailing competitors to Chicago’s beautiful lakefront. Competitors participate in multiple races, and boats sail either with a rating handicap or a one design so that boats of different size and character can compete against one another in one of the 15 racing sections. Overall prizes are awarded to the top finishers in each section, with one offshore boat winning the perpetual Verve Cup Trophy. The Verve Cup trophy dates from 1893 and is Chicago Yacht Club’s oldest trophy. Overall awards are given for each class of boat. Verve Cup Chairman Martin Sandoval said race organizers put an emphasis on making this regatta one that sailors find challenging, yet a good time. “We would like to thank the racers for participating in this year’s Verve Cup. We strive to make it a sailor-friendly regatta, where we try to provide a venue for fun, competitive racing and camaraderie.” 2012 Verve Cup Regatta was presented by Audi and SLAM. Other sponsors to date include Chicago Yacht Yard, Equinox, Heineken, Karma Yacht Sales, Mount Gay Rum, Karma Yacht Sales, UK Halsey, and West Marine. In addition to the offshore race, 80 boats raced in the 2012 Verve Cup Inshore Regatta, hosted by the Chicago Yacht Club at Belmont Station on August 2526. In this regatta, identical One Design classes compete for two days to determine which boat has the best skipper and crew. For a full list of the Offshore and Inshore winners, see the Race Results insert sheet in this issue of the Blinker. We look forward to seeing you on the water next year for Verve Cup Offshore (August 9 – 11, 2013) and Inshore (August 24 -25, 2013). 36 Blinker Fall 2012 CONGRATULATIONS TO FELLOW CYC MEMBERS ON THEIR VERVE WINS: VERVE OFFSHORE AUGUST 10-12 Circle A Farr 40 2. Heartbreaker J/109 2. Northstar 3. Vanda III J/111 1. Lucky Dubie 2. Mental ORR 1 3. Sin Duda! ORR 2 1. Eagle Circle B Beneteau 36.7 1. Tried & True 3. As You Wish J/105 1. Striking 2. The Asylum T-10 1. Cheap Thrill 3. Tango ORR 3 2. Bozos Circus Distance Race Cruising 3. Albatross Offshore Racing 1 1. Sirocco VI 2. Regardless Offshore Racing 2 1. On Edge 2. Och! VERVE INSHORE AUGUST 25-26 Shields 1. Kristian Martincic 2. Gary Ropski 3. Sam Veilleux Luders 16 1. William Simpson 3. Lawrence Weeks Melges 24 2. Cate Muller J24 1. Eric Charsky Laser 3. Robert Christie continued on next page www.chicagoyachtclub.org 37 2012 Verve Cup Regattas continued from previous page !"#$%&'()%$"*()%+,(#-(.+'/,(*'(011'/1$2( *"%*(32(%+2(1'3(*"2(24$5/-#62(72%52+(( '8(9%#+5#12()%$"*-(8'+(:%;2(<#$"#&%1= Buy or Rent the World’s... • smallest package • lightest weight • least expensive 4-6 MAN 4”x12”x14” 12 lbs. $1370 9-13 MAN 5”x12”x14” 18 lbs. $1785 NEW!!! FAA TSO Approved Life Rafts Emergency Liferaft Contact us for a tour at the Ft. Lauderdale or Miami Boat Show. Call Survival Products, the manufacturer, for customer/distributor/ service information. Made in USA. TSO’d and Non TSO’d Call: 312-666-6670 Email: lakemichigan@fairline.com www.fairline.com www.chicagoyachtyard.com 38 Blinker Fall 2012 Phone (954) 966-7329 Fax (954) 966-3584 5614 SW 25th Street, Hollywood, FL 33023 www.survivalproductsinc.com Email: sales@survivalproductsinc.com We Had The Best Time Cruising Sail Fleet - Summer 2012 by STEVEN B. SALK, CSF CHAIR photos by CHRIS ALBANIS Shake Down” Cruise to Hammond The Cruising Sail Fleet had the best time this summer! We started out with our “Shake Down” cruise to Hammond on Saturday, Father’s day weekend. The weather was perfect for a hearty sail to check out our boats after the long winter lay up. The wind was blowing 20 plus knots and, for once, out of the right direction (southwest) for a quick sail. That evening we enjoyed dinner at the Hammond Yacht Club. While the club is a small, it boasts a lively bar surrounded by tables for sandwiches and pizza. After dinner we laid out plans for the season with discussion of an extended cruise before our Holland trip. Before we knew, it was time to say good night. The next morning the sun was bright, the wind and waves light and we had a leisurely sail back to Chicago in time to enjoy Father’s day with our families. (Thanks to co-chairs Alan and Lisa Haag and Matt Gallagher.) Bilge Auction/Dock Party Before we could turn around it was time for the annual Bilge Auction/Dock Party. The auction is usually held at the Monroe Street station, but was held at Belmont due to a scheduling conflict. It turned out to be an outstanding venue for the auction. As you walked into the Belmont dining room all of the old treasures were spread out on a table for the crowd to review. Not to our surprise, John Cummings had a splendid dinner planned for the group followed by the auction. If you haven’t attended a CSF Bilge Auction, be sure to put it on your schedule for next year. While there are many items of worth to a boater auctioned off, the real treasure is the show provided by the auctioneer. Our auctioneer extraordinaire, Greg Freeman, was in fine form and as usual highly entertaining. The night provided camaraderie and cheer -- as well as so much good for the benefit the Sea Scouts. (Thanks to co-chairs Todd Woelfl, Lisa Haag, and auctioneer, Greg Freeman.) Fleet Review There is no way to explain the pageantry and tradition of the CYC Annual Fleet Review. You just have to participate either on your own boat, or together with others on theirs, to see all the work that goes into making the day memorable and experience why the tradition is important to CYC. Members of CSF honor the tradition by taking part each year. We extend thanks to CSF members Alan and Lisa Haag for their tireless efforts to make improvements to this very special event. Racine and Milwaukee Our next adventure was the Fourth of July weekend. On Thursday we sailed to Racine, a favorite port of the fleet. Much to do, many restaurants --and you don’t even have to cross the lake. We’ve been to Racine several times over the past few seasons and as a result made many good friends with the boaters who harbor at Reef Point Marina. We are always warmly welcomed on Dwain and Lydia Lutzow’s dock at Reef Point and enjoy visiting with their many dock mates. The next morning we sailed to Milwaukee and Summerfest. Milwaukee is always fun. Theirs is a beautiful lakefront, as ours, with much to do. A short walk down the lake from the marina Summerfest explodes with all the bands, food and people watching you continued on page 44 www.chicagoyachtclub.org 39 CY-Scene THE DOCK PARTY - PROM NIGHT photos by CHRISTY BONCZYK 40 Blinker Fall 2012 CY-Scene THE DOG SHOW - photos by RACHELLE TREIBER www.chicagoyachtclub.org 41 CY-Scene SPECIAL NEEDS CRUISE - June 19th photos by JULIAN ZENG 42 Blinker Fall 2012 CY-Scene SIGHT IMPAIRED CRUISE - August 21st photos by JULIAN ZENG www.chicagoyachtclub.org 43 Cruising Sail Fleet - Summer 2012 continued from page 39 could ever want. After Summerfest, art museums, and restaurants over the hill from the harbor on Brady Street it was time to head home. Of course the wind was coming mostly out of the south, and it was a motorboat ride back home to Chicago. (Thanks to chairs Dwain and Lydia Lutzow.) Main Summer Cruise to Holland Next on the agenda was our main summer cruise to Holland, Michigan the first weekend in August. Trish and I, and Alan and Lisa Haag decided to make an extended cruise out of it as we had started planning in Hammond. The weekend before we were to be in Holland, we headed north to Racine where we harbored for the night (yes, back to Dwain and Lydia’s dock). After a brief visit with the Lutzow’s and our many Racine friends we headed northeast across the lake to White Lake. It was a good 11-12 hour crossing under favorable conditions except the day brought more motoring than sailing. We left at first light and arrived at the White Lake Yacht Club by 6:30 PM. The WLYC has limited accommodations. For those who enjoy anchoring, there are many quiet well protected spots close by. The next morning after pancakes on the Haag’s boat we continued (approximately 3 miles) up White Lake to Cross Roads Marina close to town (what there was of it). All in all we loved it. White Lake is pristine, clean, quiet, and beautiful. The lake and shore line is, by and large, untouched with little commercial activity, but enough. Plenty of ice cream, a grocery store, and a couple of good restaurants. To be sure, there is nothing much to do there, but that was exactly what we loved about it. It was a time to relax, put our feet in the water, explore the lake with our dingys, and watch a gorgeous sunset over White Lake as we enjoyed a bottle of wine together. That night we had an intimate dinner at a small restaurant next to the marina over looking the lake. The next night it was a feast enjoyed aboard “Blue Moon” and prepared by chefs Trish and Lisa. The week was way too short and it was already time to move on to the larger metropolis of Holland Michigan. After a pleasant sail south along the east shore we soon saw the Holland Harbor Lighthouse that guards the entrance to Lake Macatawa. The lighthouse, popularly referred to as “Big Red” is a welcome site. Before long we entered the lake, and pulled into our slip at the Eldean Marina. Lake Macatawa is a very picturesque setting with quaint homes along the beach and river with upscale homes along the shoreline leading into Holland. The Eldean Marina is well equipped with a swimming pool, hot tubs, barbeques, and the ever-entertaining Fred Gorr. What else could you possibly want? The first night we had dinner at Piper's Restaurant adjacent to the marina. It is right on the lake with an excellent view and bar not to mention top notch food. The next day was all ours. Dingy rides to the beach, swimming, farmer’s market and shopping in town. We had a blast. After a full day we finished it off with cocktails, shared appetizers in the party room, and a barbeque. We 44 Blinker Fall 2012 were all set to head home Sunday morning when the weather handed us an extra day to hang out. Saturday night the wind picked up, and didn’t stop, It must have been blowing 25-30 knots plus in the harbor. By morning the lake was raging. So Sunday we relaxed, more beach, and fun in Holland. Sunday night was beautiful. The wind slowed, and the weekend regulars went home. We had the place to ourselves. The Macatawa Yacht Club next door has a fine dining room over looking the lake, and many went to dinner there Sunday night. It was a short night. Monday morning the lake had calmed down to waves two to four feet, and the wind was blowing 12-15 out of the west providing a quick sail all the way home. The only thing we would recommend is to make next year’s cruise two weeks instead of one! (Thanks to co-chairs Fred Gorr and Don and Carol Wolniak.) Cruise to Belmont By the time we arrived home we had logged a lot of cruising miles and were getting tired. Yet, within a couple of weeks we were missing each other and the opportunity to hang together on our boats. Yes, it was time for our last cruise of the year to Belmont Station over Labor Day weekend. We left DuSable Saturday around 10:30 AM, and arrived at Belmont by 11:30 AM. The lake was rocking and rolling that day. We were so glad it took less than an hour to cruise this destination. We arrived with friends to help us dock and within minutes we were sharing "Dark and Stormies" on the dock. That night we had cocktails and appetizers on the Barry and Juraine Golin's boat and then traveled nearby on Broadway Avenue for a group dinner at, Melanthios Greek Char House. Sunday morning Barry and Juraine Golin put out a brunch spread on the dock that will long be remembered. We had our fill of smoked salmon, bagels (lightly toasted) fruit, Ann Sather's cinnamon rolls accompanied by expertly prepared Bloody Mary cocktails. What a way to start (and end) the day. That afternoon we flew kites in the park (thanks to Alan Haag) and enjoyed a beautiful day around the Belmont Station. We were all looking forward to Sunday evening dinner at Belmont station. As always, John Cummings was ready for us with an excellent, varied menu and a well-prepared meal. It felt so comfortable to have a relaxing Sunday dinner together at our own Belmont station. We ate, drank, laughed and talked for hours until it was time to close the club. The next morning after more laughs and breakfast together at the club, we departed by noon to return to our home ports with fond memories of a season well spent together. (Thanks to chairs Barry and Juraine Golin.) CSF Chair Gratitude I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your support and friendship during my term as the CSF Chair. It has been and honor and pleasure for Trish and I to work on your behalf. To be sure, we had the best time together this summer! The only way it could have been better, would be if you were with us. We anxiously await the continuing adventures of the CSF next year. Membership New Members: Regular Kevin Bell- Mr. Bell is the President/CEO of the Lincoln Park Zoo and resides in Chicago. Mr. Bell has two children; Joseph, 11 and Charles, 9. Mr. Bell is looking forward to enjoying the Club and meeting our members. Dan DeVos- Mr. DeVos is the President and CEO of DP Fox Ventures. He and his wife, Pamela, reside in Ada, Michigan with their three children; Cassandra, 23, Sydney, 22 and Cole, 16. They own an 86’ powerboat, “Delta Victor” and a 36’ powerboat, “Sterling.” Lisa Scully- Ms. Scully resides in Chicago with her two children; Gordon, 13 and Alastair, 12. Ms. Scully owns 23’ powerboat and a sailboat. Donald Walther- Mr. Walther is the EVP & General Counsel at The Heico Companies, LLC. Mr. Walther and his wife, Dr. Melissa Walther have three children; Mason, 15, Grace, 14 and Katherine, 10 and reside in Hinsdale. The Walther’s are looking forward to the family friendly community at the Club and to develop and sharpen their sailing skills. Associate Melissa Junge- Mrs. Junge is an Associate at Drinker, Biddle and Reath, LLC. Mrs. Junge and her husband, Eric reside in Chicago. Mrs. Junge has developed a passion for sailing over the last several years. Cody Kittle- Mr. Kittle is an Analyst at JP Morgan and resides in Chicago. Mr. Kittle has been interested in sailing since his early childhood. Mr. Kittle’s great grandfather, and current member, Mr. Henry Angsten, served as Commodore of the Club in 1954. William MosterMr. Moster is the Sales Manager of the Food Division for Newport Tank Containers, Inc and resides in Chicago, IL. Mr. Moster has fond memories of sailing since he was a child and is looking forward to many years to come at the Club. Engagements: July 19th Race to Mackinac Warning Gun Party – Member Anna Kimball accepts proposal from David Arquilla. Associate (continued) Amy Robertson- Ms. Robertson is an Attorney at Robertson Barnes, PC and resides in Memphis, Tennessee. Ms. Robertson has a strong interest in sailing and is honored to be joining the Club. Junior Bailey Cornog- Bailey is in sophomore at New Trier High School. Bailey is sailing/racing 420s as part of the New Trier team now and is hoping with the experience she gains as a member of the Club to continue sailing competitively through college and beyond. August 15th Associate member Christopher McNicholas proposed to Angela Rogna on fellow member Brendon Docherty’s boat, OCH!. The McNicholas Family celebrates the good news. Member Milestones: Veteran I - 30 Years James Anderson John Beam Allan Cameron Jr. William Dwyer Maury Kravitz William Vitner Veteran III - 40 Years James Considine Barry Sears James Walgreen In Memoriam: September 30th Crew member Matt Reid proposed to Kelly Brown aboard CYC member Jack Toliver’s VANDA III. Eleanor Steinle Blair Vedder Jr Edward Buker Mrs. Otto Grossman (Arline) Mrs. Myron Hopkin Mr. Richard Brennan Mr. Richard W. Peck Mr. Marvin B. Levine Membership continues on next page www.chicagoyachtclub.org 45 Member Birthdays: Happy Birthday to the following members and spouses! OCTOBER Todd Abram Bob Agra MD Glenn Aldinger Ruth Ann Moorman Robert Arzbaecher Douglas Baker Tom Barnard Anthony Beirne John Bell Steven Best David Brown Victor Cacciatore Steven Carlson Kevin Carroll DDS Joseph Caruso Hess Mrs Charles Richard Church Jeremiah Connolly Andrew Crawford Richard Danly Gary DiCenzo W Dooley Martin Dorow Mike Duncan Lee Edwards Michael Elliott Peter Ellis Josef Erlemann Martin Fiascone James Fitzgerald William Fox Jr Albert Friedman Marc Garrison Charles Gerstner Raymond Green III Raymond Groble Walter Hansen Shirley Harris-Martin Donald Henderson John Hirn Dana Hokin John Jacobs Mrs John Campbell James Johnson Fred Joosten Anne Kangles Mrs Karen Donaldson Lloyd Karzen Robert Kelman Alexis Kertsikoff James Kirchschlager Robert Knight Sanfred Koltun William Krucks Conrad L Reickhoff Dale L Smirl Richard Leftwich Mark Levin WarrenLevins Mark Luscombe Jack Marks DDS John Marquardt Kim Marsh Steven Mash MD Lael Mathis Stuart McSweeney Sumner Mead 46 James Meisser M.D. Michelle Melyn, Ann Mendelsohn James Mescall Eli Michaels Jennifer Miller Meyers Mrs Milton Meyers James Mitchell Arthur Murphy Jeff Newman Kelly Newton Lennine Occhino Joseph OLeary Donald Pearson Joseph Perillo Michael Platzke William Plovanic Elizabeth Pollock Robert Rainone William Reed III John Regan James Risher W. Rockwell Wirtz J Ronald Jutkins Gregory Schulson Michael Schwartz David Selig Scott Shellady Richard Stephenson Mox Tan Dylan Taylor Robert Taylor John Trudeau Baron V C Whateley Richard VanMell Nancy Vincent E W Bredemeier Edward Walsh Neil Weiner Kenn Wolf Jeff Wootton Robert Zahorik NOVEMBER Raoul Allesee Keith Alm Hooman Bahmandeji Charles Barkley John Beckstedt Jr Jatinder Bedi John Benish Sandra Bennett Michael Berman Hal Beyer III Mrs. Marsh Blackburn David Brown Marion Cameron Mrs Margaret Carr Carl Chaleff Anthony Close Kenneth Colbert Charles Collopy Robin Copping Robert Corrigan Mrs Dante Aletto James Dashiell Blinker Fall 2012 Mark Davis Corrin Drowica Mrs Edward Gavney Jr Mrs Ernest Bederman Paul Fisher Rich Frain Lea Francissen Thomas Freeman Gregory Freeman David Froberg Fred Gorr Angela Graham Stephen Hamming Mark Hardy Walter Heinichen Jr Malcolm Herzog MD Craig Hess Elzie Higginbottom Stanley Hill Arnold Hirsch Thomas Holmberg David Holt William Holz Stephanie Hudson Evan Jahn Stanley Jarrow Martin Jensen Alexis Joannknecht David Johnston Melissa Junge Raymond Kedzior Dennis Kenny Katherine Kern Whitney Key John Korpics Robert Lane Lynda Lane MD Bruce Larson Nick Leblebijian Richard Lewis Martin Luken MD Mrs. Marvin Levine Michael McGuinnis Craig Mense Robert Merens Rosemary Metzger Edward Morris William Mowry, Jr John Nikoleit MD Leonard Nowak Ken Paulan Richard Prendergast Raymond Green Madeline Reyer Raymond Reynertson Jerome Rich G Robie Briggs Albert Rose Jr Merwin Rosen DDS Joe Salas Nicholas Schmidbauer Roger Schroud Michael Schulson Curtis Sechler Sapan Shahani Richard Simon Charles Sindelar III Michael Smith Paul Snow Jeffrey Swinson Donald Thinschmidt Al Thomas Peter Thornton Stuart Townsend Beverlee Trindl David Truitt Robert VanMell Charles Walgreen George Walker Dennert Ware Elizabeth Ware Robert Washlow James Wells William Wetmore David Wilkinson Mrs William Dannhausen Raymond Winters Richard Witzel Samuel Wm Sax Gerard Wolf David Zachar Laura Zeman-Martin DECEMBER Brian Anderson Nicholas Andrus Cyd Archer George Bennett Nicholas Berberian B Blair Vedder Thomas Boland Terrence Brady Dev Brar John Canning MD Adam Chonich Robert Collins Colleen Coyle Jeffery Cross David Cumming Lisa Curcio Gaston John Cutler David Daleiden Michael Daley Ulrich Danckers MD C Davis Nelsen II Daniel Dillon Mrs Donald Danly Steven Dorfman Phillip Dowd William Doyle Peter Dreher Fritz Duda Catherine Duncan Kevin Dwyer Thomas Filippini Christopher Finlay William Fox Kerry Frey Alice G. Delaney Mark Gannon Jeff Garibotti Mrs. Gary Comer James Goettsch John Gottwald Stanley Gratt Joseph Haas RichardHaggerty William Hannay III Richard Hayes Leland Hutchinson Jr Christine Hutchison Mrs Irene Antoniou Margaret Johnston Edwin Jones Allan Katz James Kelly Anthony Kesman Larry Klairmont Clifford Knowles John L Rogers John Leach Mark Lewicky Elijiah Lindahl Paul Magruder Mark Markarian Nancy Martin Robert McLallen Michael Meyer J Michael Welch Michelle Mills-Niles Madeleine Mitchell George Miz Jane Morgan William Moster Holly Myers Eric Oesterle Andrew Osvalds James P McHugh Julie Papanek Anthony Pasquinelli Charles Phelan Martin Plonus Grant Pollock Charles Pratt Mr Raghu Nayak, D. Ph J Regan Thomas Paul Reilly Mrs Robert Grundin Christopher Rocke Larry Rogers Mark Rosanova MD Jack S Buoscio Michael Shamie Dr. Sharon Sikora Josh Sniegowski Michael Steck Ralph Steinbarth Donna Stevenson Barry Sylvester Raymond Teborek E Thomas Collins Joseph V Cacciatore John Vignocchi Daniel Walsh Harold Warp Jon Weglarz Ronald White Kat White Mrs William Robinson Richard Young David Zampa Wrong way Corrigan? photo by RACHELLE TREIBER A frequent topic of conversation at the Round Table of late has been the Navigation lamps on either side of the ship’s wheel in the Captain’s Cabin. Circumnavigator and longtime CYC member Bob Bilhorn points out that the lights have been backwards for many years. Bilhorn, founder of the CYC Cruising Sail Fleet and Past Commodore of the Lake Michigan Yachting Association, says the reason the error was not fixed earlier is that the Round Table has mostly racing sailors and while navigation lights are essential to all sailors, they are perhaps a bit more important to cruising than racing sailors. Pardon our Reach From our office in Chicago, we provide critical attention and focus for every client and every matter. But we don’t rest in the Heartland. We go wherever your business needs us, nationally or internationally. So you get world-class counsel the world over, without paying for office furniture all over the world. NEAL GERBER EISENBERG One office. Worldwide. www.ngelaw.com follow us: www.facebook.com/veuveclicquot twitter & instagram: @veuveclicquot So Clicquot. So Responsible. Champagne ©2012 Imported by Moët Hennessy USA Inc., New York, NY