Spring 2011.indd - Annapolis Yacht Club

18862011Celebrating125 YearsBEACONVOLUME 3, NO. 138°58'25.831N76°29'8.325W

PeersKeith Cooper: Getting InvolvedNathan AdamusKeith Cooper receiving the Arnie Gay Award at the 2010 Annual Meeting.Photo courtesy of Don Dement.Keith Cooper recently joined the ranks of AYC eliteP/C Gaither Scott, P/C Richard Lyttle, P/C RonaldWard, Chip Thayer, Jack Lynch, Knut Aarsand, RodJabin, Dick Schmidtlein, and Gary Jobson by takinghome the coveted Arnold C. Gay Award. The Arnold C.Gay Award is dedicated to recognizing the exceptionalvolunteer efforts of a member. Unlike other AYC awards,the Arnold C. Gay Award is not given out every yearand is only presented to an individual who has providedtruly exceptional service to the Club.Some members may know Mr. Cooper as AYC'sreigning Santa Claus. When he isn't donning a red suit,Keith is delivering gifts in the form of volunteer work onthe water and in the community. "The thing that mostimpressed me about Keith is the extent of his volunteeractivities for the Club, for his fellow members, and forothers," said Commodore William T. Torgerson. "Keithspends an incredible amount of time on the water onthe Club's behalf, volunteering for both the Race andSpecial Events Race Committees as Committee Boat,Mark Boat, and Safety Boat."Keith grew up in Baltimore and graduated fromUniversity of Baltimore. After, he worked for anunderwater scientific organization at Westinghouse."That's when I started to get interested in racing," saidKeith. "I remember being near the water observing theraces on Wednesday nights thinking, 'I hope I can dothat when I get older and have enough money.'"When his work at Westinghouse concluded, he becameproject manager for an underwater construction company."I seemed to always be around the water," Keith joked.When he first joined AYC in 1983, Keith owneda powerboat and volunteered for the Race Committeeon Wednesdays. Eventually, he sold his powerboat andbought a sailboat. "That's when I really got into the RaceCommittee," said Keith. "One of the biggest thingsabout volunteer work is that you have a chance to givesomething back to this amazing Club. Until you startputting in the time, you often don't realize all the workthat goes into setting up for a race."His unselfish acts, genuinely positive attitude, andpassion for life extend far beyond the docks at theAnnapolis Yacht Club. Commodore noted that "Keithis the 'go to' guy for not only his fellow members butmany others in the community whenever they needhelp, from his neighbors, to local shelters, and even theducks on Back Creek. And he does all of this without theslightest thought of recompense, out of an apparentlyinexhaustible well of helpfulness.""When you walk by that plaque and see your nameup there with names of people that I've looked up tofor so many years… it's really something," said Keith."Those guys know the rules back and forth. Not onlythat, they've seen the sport transform and it's amazingto see my name alongside so many influential people."When it gets too cold to venture out on the water,Keith gets geared up to become Santa Claus at the Club.And after several years, he certainly has some greatstories. "One year there was a little girl who was too shyto come up and talk to me," said Keith. "I sat down nextto her and asked what she wanted for Christmas. Shesaid she missed her father and wanted him around forChristmas. I told her that I knew he loved her and she5 AYC BEACON VOLUME 3, NO. 1VOLUME 3, NO. 1AYC BEACON5

GETTING INVOVLED...(continued from pg. 5)finally started to smile and asked me whatSanta wanted for Christmas. I told her thatI wanted a hug from someone who reallylikes Santa Claus. Well, she gave me thisgreat big hug and I was so touched by thewhole thing that we were both just crying.I'll never forget that moment."Keith's enthusiasm for club activitiesextends far beyond Breakfast with Santa, theAnnapolis to Newport race, and the RaceCommittee. "It's an absolute pleasure beingpart of AYC. It's grown so much that it'snot just a casual club. You can come to theClub and do what you want. You can cruise,you can race, you can socialize. We havequite a diverse membership here and thesocial aspect is intertwined with everythingthat the Club does. During Friday nighthappy hours, you talk about what's going tohappen in the race the next day."But the thing I really want to conveyto our members is to get involved," saidKeith. Make something happen, contribute.Give something back to the Club. Whetheryou offer your boat, write a letter, orvolunteer your time, it makes AYC better.If you don't like the way something works,let someone know. We have an excellentmanagement team here and they've alwaysbeen susceptive to what the membershave to say. If you want to see change andhelp the Club succeed, you have to bepart of this organization rather than just amember. Don't just complain – find a wayto participate. Getting involved greatlyincreases the chance that you're going toenjoy the Club a whole lot more."Get the most up-to-date information aboutwhat's going on at the Club.Visit www.annapolisyc.org.Interested in upcoming events?Try www.annapolisyc.org/eventsVisiting YachtsmenWhen contemplating the theme, "Celebrating AYC," wewondered what impressions our own Club had made on visitingyachtsmen. To answer this question, Mason Chrisman ofCharleston, SC and Richard Matthews of Mersea Island, Essex,UK shared their memories of yachting with AYC.Mason Chrisman,Charleston, SCAs a visiting yachtsman from Charleston,I have many fond memories of AYC;so many, in fact, it is hard to select justone. I love the sailing atmosphere onthe Chesapeake, the refreshment of acold drink from the Skipjack, and thecomfort of a warm meal from the Bridge.I remember looking in on the card roomto see if Ned Shuman was accumulatingmore than his share of poker winnings. Ihave had the good fortune of participatingin many of the regattas hosted by AYC.I was always impressed with the finerace administration exhibited by AYC'sRace Committees – spanning from whenGaither Scott and Ron Ward set thestandard for RC excellence on the eastcoast, all the way to today – AYC is stillequal to the best.When I found myself in Annapolis, Iwould occasionally crew for TommyCloss on his Oyster 43 FUN. I loved races up and down the Bay as they would providenavigational and tactical challenges. The Oxford regatta, as I recall, had a great party atthe Tred Avon Yacht Club afterward. One race about 20 years ago particularly comes tomind because of a problem that developed as a result of my poor navigation skills. Afterleaving the dock, Tommy asked me to take the helm while he assisted the crew in riggingthe spin gears, dragging sails on deck, and stowing gear below. I motored out Spa Creekpast the Naval Academy and decided to follow another race boat toward the starting line.This path took me squarely over an 8-foot shoal between the Horn Point day marker andchannel marker G6. FUN drew 8.5 feet, so need I say more? Thump! Tommy was all overme in an instant, took a look around, and informed me what I already knew. I had screwedup. We were aground.After going through the usual litany of putting our heaviest young studs on the boom,swinging it out for some heel, and motoring hard, we came unstuck just in time for the start.Tommy's words still ring in my ears - "Mason, next time follow the buoys."6 AYC BEACON VOLUME 3, NO. 1I still love Annapolis Yacht Club and look forward to my visits a few times each year.

Richard Matthews,Mersea Island, Essex, UKTed Turner and P/C Sunny Smithat the Fundraiser.Photo Courtesy of John BildahlIt was back in 1983 that we first arrived in Annapolis. I was in an Oyster 43, a StephenJones IOR cruiser racer for the Sailboat Show. This was a follow-up to our campaign in asister ship Storm Bird where we might have been the first Brits to win the SORC (SouthernOcean Racing Conference) if not for our failure to appreciate the strength of the GulfStream current. We were caught port and starboard rounding a mark off Ft. Lauderdale.We went to Jabin's Yacht Yard to launch the Oyster 43 but the water was too shallow forher draft. We asked about high water times and the hoist operator looked at us like wewere from another planet. Lesson learned – not much tide in these parts. At the show, wecaught the break we were hoping for in the SORC Regatta when the publisher of Yachtingmagazine, the late Ed Muhlfeld, liked the 43 and bought one, which helped Oyster getwell and truly kicked off in the US market.Annapolis Yacht Club has been kind to me over the 20 plus years that I have visited. Asa member of the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, the Royal Thames Yacht Club, andRoyal Ocean Racing Club (RORC) in the UK, I enjoy AYC's hospitality on a reciprocalbasis. It's a real sailor's club and you sense that as soon as you walk through the door tosee current entry lists and results for local races. Speaking of the RORC, I have been to afew RORC dinners hosted by the Club for US members. It's surprising how many sailorsthere are with a common bond of having sailed overnight offshore.I really only visit the Club during the Sailboat Show, but it's a great place to relax withlike-minded sailors. There is nowhere better to enjoy the changing light of sunset lookingout over the harbor. On behalf of all your visitors, thank you for making us so welcome.Are you a Visiting Yachtsman?Send your story to communications@annapolisyc.org.We would love to share your adventures.A Special Eveningwith Ted TurnerOn Wednesday, March 23, sailor,businessman, philanthropist, and longstandingAYC member Ted Turnervolunteered his time for a specialfundraising event to support AYC'sNYYC Invitational Race Team. Alongwith being presented with a 40-year servicepin from Commodore Bill Torgerson,Mr. Turner was happy to sit down fora Q&A session with fellow sailor andlong-standing member, Gary Jobson. Theinterview revealed a witty, yet thoughtfuland conscientious side of the media mogulwho chases his ambitions like a young boywith a dream. Among the more interestinganecdotes that were shared during thenight, Mr. Turner revealed that as a child,he was always fascinated by the AmericanBison. Starting with just a bull and a cow,Mr. Turner now owns over 55,000 bison(a bit more than 10% of North America'sbison population) who live on some twomillion acres of ranch land. Anotheramusing fact from his youth was hischildhood nickname, "Turnover" Ted or"the Capsize Kid," earned one summerwhen he repeatedly capsized his Penguin.His determination, however, led him tohone the skills needed to sail in collegeand then to win the coveted America'sCup in 1977.VOLUME 3, NO. 1AYC BEACON7

Tradition: The Burgee Exchange CollectionJack LynchWhen does a tradition start? What changes canbe made to a tradition and it still is the same tradition?I don't know. I do know that displaying other club'sburgees has been a tradition for longer than I havebeen coming to AYC. Pictures of the old clubhouse(1962) show burgees on display. Before the Skipjackwas renovated and the Skipjack bar moved, there wereat least 100 burgees on display. They were not identifiedand were displayed flat against the wall. When the newSkipjack was designed, no accommodation was madefor these burgees. Some time later, a plan was developedto display the old burgees and future acquisitions. Theburgees are again displayed in the Skipjack. Each burgeeis displayed on a staff and under the staff is a brass platewith the name of the club, its home port, and the yearof founding.The burgee program is not intended to be a swappingof burgees for decorative purposes. The burgees representAYC's connection to the sailing community. Each burgeeis a representation of AYC's connection to the individualclub and the display as a whole shows AYC's diverseposition within the sailing community. These burgeesare acquired a number of ways. The primary methodis when an AYC member has a memorable experiencewith a club, to present that club's burgee to AYC. WhenI was racing regularly, I always carried a burgee just inAYC's Burgee exchange collection can be found in the Skipjack, mountedabove the windows and doors. Burgees are displayed on 12-in. hoistsover plaques displaying the name, home port, and founding date of theClub. Photo courtesy of Jack Lynch.Inset above, a burgee exchange with Commodore Elizabeth Jordan ofAntigua Yacht Club. See the June 2010 Smoking Lamp for the full story.case I might win and I would trade with a member ofthat club for his club's burgee. Sometimes a member ofanother club has had a special experience with AYC andpresents us with the burgee of their club. These transfersare usually member to member and not a transferbetween clubs. There are times when Club Managementor the Model Committee at AYC will request burgeesfrom other clubs, such as when reciprocity is established.This is particularly true for foreign clubs.The tradition of acquiring and displaying burgees isa long one at AYC and the method of display does notchange that tradition. So, carry an AYC burgee with youand if you have a memorable experience at another club,trade it with a member of that club. We display burgeeswith a 12-inch hoist and look forward to the membersof AYC continuing this tradition.8 AYC BEACON VOLUME 3, NO. 1

Celebrating 125 Yearsplanning and logistics. In the period of 1987 to 2010, AYCeither hosted or co-hosted 40 major regattas attended by anestimated 4000 boats/teams. These events, and the many likethem, have not only been well received by the competitors, theyhave made substantial contributions to the Club's financialwellbeing. Events included: Volvo Ocean Race, NOODregattas, Annapolis-Newport ocean races, Star Worldsand Western Hemispheres, Rolex International WomensKeelboat, J/22 and J/24 Worlds, MORC Internationals, Farr40 East Coast Championship, and Etchells North Americans.Special EventsSpecial Events activities (Wednesday Night Racing,Frostbite Racing, the Hangover Bowl) were initiated at AYCin the 1950s and 60s. At that time, the racing was very casualwith starts and finishes at the clubhouse and courses aroundgovernment marks. Results might or might not be kept.Participation was enthusiastic but light.In recent years, this scenario has changed dramatically.Special Events races are now conducted at a highly professionallevel. Course options have been increased by using drop markscombined with government marks. Starting options have beenincreased, though finishes are still at the clubhouse. Boatsparticipating cover the full range of craft sailed by Club members,from Herreshoff 12½s to Farr 40s. Participation has balloonedwith roughly 150 boats registering for WNR and up to 100 forFrostbites. For some sailors, this type of racing is their primaryform of sailing competition. The races are complemented by astrong tradition of social activities. It all results in substantial,though still casual, enjoyment for participants and a strongcontribution to the character of the Club.Cruising FleetThe modern day Cruising Fleet was established in1988 by Tom Meyer at the direction of Commodore FrankPeacock. While cruising waters are primarily the ChesapeakeBay, the fleet conducts land cruises during the winter andoccasional cruises to distant waters, including destinations inNew England as well as group charters in Washington's SanJuan Islands, the Caribbean, and Greek Islands. The eventshave grown over the years due to the tremendous effort putforth by the Cruise Leaders and event hosts. All are volunteerswho take on these tasks because they enjoy cruising and thecamaraderie offered by AYC. Summer-themed cruises on theBay can attract up to 200 members and guests on 50 or moreboats. Each year, there is a large "tent event" usually at thehome of a member who lives on the water. The Cruising Fleetwas an early user of email and started sending "Cruise Grams" toits participants in 2000. The list now numbers about 400 families.Junior SailingThe Junior Fleet program has grown significantlysince 1986. It is now one of the most active and successfulsuch programs in the country with on-water activitiesencompassing more than 250 days. AYC's Juniors have sailedat many locations around the country and internationally,including in Optis in South America and Italy beginning inthe 1990s. In 1994, under the direction of Robert Shapiroand supported by Karl von Schwarz, AYC championed highschool sailing in public schools, previously restricted to privateschools. This enabled hiring coaching staff on a full-year basis.Four high schools sail September to November and Marchto May with a total of 100 high school athletes participating.Schools based at AYC have been very successful in nationalinterscholastic events. The AYC Sailing Center is the base forthe 420s and the Club's fleet of coach/support craft while theAnnex accommodates the Optimist fleet.Racing AccomplishmentsWhen the newly incorporated and named AnnapolisYacht Club came into being in the late 1930s, its new,sailing-oriented members made their appearance on theracing scene with authority. Boats like Stormy Weather andAweigh competed successfully off the Chesapeake. Duringthe 70s and 80s, many AYC members successfully sailed inSORC. Such performances by member boats have continuedand been strengthened in the modern AYC. The numberof accomplishments, even when focusing on just the last25 years, is far too great to list, encompassing events fromthe Newport-Bermuda Race to CBYRA Championshipsto Key West. It continues today with performances likeFlying Jenny VI's four-event sweep on the Great Lakes lastsummer (including winning the Chicago-Mackinac Race),Donnybrook's win in the Miami-Montego Bay Race in 2011and the Club's qualification in 2010 for the New York YachtClub Invitational Cup in 2011. A strong indication of theunderlying quality of AYC's sailors and their competitiveabilities is the presence of two members who have receivedsailing's highest honor by being named "Rolex Yachtsman ofthe Year." Chris Larson received his award in 1997 and TerryHutchinson in 2008. It is unlikely the list will end there.Community OutreachAYC has been a strong institutional member of theAnnapolis community since its founding. Its clubhouse is acommanding presence on Spa Creek at the foot of Duke ofGloucester Street. The Club owns three of the four propertiesat the corners of the Spa Creek Bridge, and, consistent withcity policies, it uses these properties for maritime purposes.Since its Centennial, the Club has undertaken several actions10 AYC BEACON VOLUME 3, NO. 1

Celebrating 125 Yearsthat tie it even more closely to its community.AYC Foundation. The Annapolis Yacht Club Foundationwas established in 2000. It is a 501(c)3 charitable organizationdedicated to growing the sport of sailing and giving back tothe maritime community. Contributions fund junior sailorsin their quest to become champions, local organizations thatsupport the sport, and need based-sailing scholarships.Build-a-Boat Competition. This event was startedin 1995 by Alice Neily Mutch with in-kind contributionsof Sikaflex®. The Sika Build-A-Boat Challenge broughttogether AYC members, Eastport YC entries, and many othercommunity based syndicates to a high spirited and hilariouscompetition to build a boat in four hours with Sikaflex 291Adhesive/Sealant, 1/4-inch plywood, six 2x2 boards andthen to race their entries under strict and funny rules ofengagement. It ran for 11 years.Keels and Wheels. This show of classic cars and boats,most AYC member owned, takes place on Club propertyand is open to the public at no charge. An entry fee of $25is charged per vehicle/boat with the money raised going tosupport the AYC Junior Fleet.Environmental Awareness. AYC has worked to operateits facilities in line with sound environmental policies. Inaddition to traditional recycling and similar householdingefforts, the AYC Sailing Center and other dock/storagefacilities have earned Maryland certification as a "Clean Marina."Contributions to the SportFor much of its existence, AYC members have contributedtime and energy to helping promote and administer the sportof sailing. Many members have been leaders of their classes,fleets, and associations. In recent years, this involvement hasbeen particularly strong at the national level. AYC membersJim Muldoon, Jim Capron, and Gary Jobson have beenpresidents of US SAILING, with Jobson currently serving.Many members have been recognized for their work in variousareas of the sport. Especially noteworthy are US SAILINGAssociation awards to P/C Ron Ward, the first recipient ofthe Harman Hawkins Award for his contributions in thearea of judging, and Jack Lynch, the John F. Gardner Awardfor promotion of One Design sailing and class organization.Gary Jobson recently received the Charles Leighton Awardfor promotion of sailing. AYC's roster of Certified RaceOfficials represents 21% of all National Race Officers in thecountry and the Club's International Judges comprise 18% ofthat category. AYC has a total of 14 certified race officers and12 judges. These members participate in race managementassignments nationally and internationally and bring greatcredit to the Club.Going ForwardJust as AYC in 2011 is a different place than it was in1986, in 2036, the Club will be different than it is today. Howdifferent? In what ways? We don't know. But here are a fewthoughts: Club members will agree on a development planfor the Eastport properties and will build new facilities. Clubcommunications will be exclusively electronic. Fitness interestswill align the Club more closely with the rowing and canoeingactivities of its founders. Technology will change the sport onthe water with, for instance, starting lines, and maybe evenmarks, existing only in cyberspace. Boat positions at marksand finishes will be recorded automatically and instantlytransmitted to the world. Races will be recorded by satelliteswith protests being decided by computer. The boats beingraced will be – who knows – wing sail catamarans? But somefeatures of the Annapolis Yacht Club will survive the next 25years just as they have survived the 125 years prior to 2011: theburgee flying from the mast will be the same; the Club will bean enthusiastically boating-oriented organization; memberswill continue to show the same graciousness, camaraderie,and hospitality that have brought them together for decades;they'll still be playing cards in the card room!Material for this timeline, especially into the mid-2000s, wasderived primarily from the histories of the Club prepared by SandyMorse, Walter Downing, and by Maureen Torgerson of the "AYCRemembers" committee. Additional material was contributed byvarious other sources. Compiled by John Sherwood, AYC Historian.1886 A group of young men well-positioned in the communityform a rowing and canoeing Club during a period of greatinterest in these sports. As their boat house, they lease aformer oyster shack located where Duke of Gloucester St.meets Spa Creek from the Redemptorist Fathers at St. Mary's.1887 Two story addition to the clubhouse.1888 Incorporated as the Severn Boat Club of Annapolis. Cardplaying introduced.1897 New clubhouse with pier. (Additions in 1912 and 1916.)1898 Burgee designed and introduced. (Essentially unchanged today.)1904 Thirty members. Active in rowing competitions, swimming,dinners, dances, card parties. Some sailing about 1910.1911 First paid manager (a member, $15 a month.)1925 By-laws revised. Annual dues raised to $12.1929 Redemptorist Fathers sell the Club's land to ChanceMarine. Lease continues.1930-34 Depression negatively impacts activities, membership.1933 Hurricane of '33 demolishes Club's pier, fl oods first fl oor,adds to financial problems.1935-37 Period of transformation from Severn Boat Club toAnnapolis Yacht Club. Up to 125 members permitted.Newer members are "yachtsmen."1935-44 Chance Marine fails. Federal Reconstruction FinanceCorporation (RFC) gets property. Yacht Basin Company(all AYC members) formed. AYC, in association with YBC,VOLUME 3, NO. 1AYC BEACON11

Celebrating 125 Yearsbuys property on which clubhouse sits from RFC.1936 AYC holds a regatta for small sailboats on 50th Anniversary.1937 First Annual Invitational Regatta: small keelboats,Hamptons, Stars. The Labrots host a mint julep partyafter the New London-Gibson Island ocean race settingthe stage for a long relationship between AYC and oceanracing. Jemra (Ridgely Melvin), 37' is only boat to finish awindy Cedar Pt. Race.1938-40 Racing for small boats (Hamptons, Stars, 20', handicapclass). CBYRA sanctioned. 225 entries in 1940.c.1938 Stormy Weather (Bill Labrot) and Aweigh (LawrenceBailliere) win offshore races in SORC.1939 AYC sponsors a well received New London-Annapolisocean race. Bowling team established.1940 First AYC Fall Series.1941 AYC provides members and facilities in support of the AnnapolisPower Squadron chapter of the US Power Squadron.1941-45 Many members' larger yachts are requisitioned formilitary service. Club raises money to support the war effort.Racing curtailed but does occur. Silver trophies are replacedby paper certificates to be redeemed after the War.1940s Heavy social schedule. Slot machines are popular andgenerate good revenue for the Club.1945 Annual Regatta in July for 12 small boat classes. FallSeries for big boats re-established.1946 Strong racing program: Spring Series; Annual Regatta (18classes); Fall Series (50 competitors). Informal Frostbiteracing for Penguins.1947 The Newport to Annapolis Race was first held.1948-60 AYC members win the Hampton National Championshipseven times.1948 Junior Fleet established using Dolphin boats. Replaced byPenguins in 1950s, then 420s in 1974. Optimists addedin 1988, I-420s in 2009. AYC Juniors do very well inCBYRA, national, and international events.1952 Viking Trophy for best overall performance in Fall Seriesdonated by John Trumpy.1956 Finisterre (38' S&S)(Carlton Mitchell) wins first of threeconsecutive Newport-Bermuda races.1957 Due to poor wind in the Chesapeake, the Newport to AnnapolisRace was reversed to run from Annapolis to Newport.1959 Wednesday Night Racing established. Rejuvenated andexpanded in 1965. Club membership reaches 1000.1961 Property transfer agreement reached with AnnapolisYacht Basin Co. enables planning for a new (replacement)clubhouse to proceed.1962 Formal Frostbite racing program for Rainbows. Otherclasses added in 1965. Clubhouse torn down.1963 New clubhouse opens after 5 years of often acrimoniousdebate, discussion, planning, temporary facility, and a yearof construction.1964 Dyna (Clayton Ewing) wins Chicago-Mackinac Race.1966 First Hangover Bowl.1969 Skipjack Lounge finished. Holden property purchased (the Annex).1971 Charlie Scott/Larry Leonard/Ed Holt win USYRU NationalJunior Championship (Sears Cup).1976 Running Tide (Al Van Metre) wins Newport-Bermuda Race1977 Courageous (12/US26) (Ted Turner, Gary Jobson) wins America'sCup. Past Commodore C. Gaither Scott was the chairman of theAmerica's Cup Race committee in the late 70s; Past CommodoreRon Ward was also a member of the committee.1978 Babe (Concordia Yawl) (Arnie Gay) wins Newport-Bermuda Race.1979 Burnside Street properties purchased.1984 Merrythought (Farr 44) (Jack King) wins Newport-Bermuda Race.1985 Smiles (J/41) (Charlie Scott) wins SORC. Parking lotacquired via an exchange with Yacht Basin Co.1986 Club celebrates 100th anniversary with major events.1988 AYC Cruising Fleet revitalized.1989 By-Laws amended to permit women to be members. Aracial restriction had been eliminated 16 years earlier.1990 Failed Harborside project property in Eastport purchasedfrom Federal Resolution Trust Company (RTC) anddeveloped into AYC Sailing Center.1991 J/22 fl eet established at AYC Sailing Center. InterclubChallenge Team Race established.1994 Gaucho (Farr 44) (Peter and Ian Gordon) wins KenwoodCup in Hawaii. AYC hosts J/22 Worlds.1995 Clubhouse undergoes substantial renovation. Outsidedecks on the 2nd Deck were extended, elevator added.1996 Build-a-Boat Competition inaugurated. Jim Muldoonelected president of US SAILING Association.1997 Chris Larson wins Rolex Yachtsman of the Year Award.1998 Chessie Racing (Whitbread 60) (George Collins) completesthe Whitbread Around the World Race.2000 Evening Colors ceremony instituted. AYC Foundation established.AYC hosts largest ever Star World Championship, at 122 boats.c.2000 Boat Parade and Blessing of the Fleet reestablished at theCruising Fleet Ice Breaker, later moved to Memorial Day in 2010.2001 International Etchells fl eet established at AYC. SkipjackLounge renovated. First of three ('03, '05) Rolex Women'sInternational Keelboat Regattas. First held in J/22s.Generates international recognition for the Club.2003 AYC hosts Etchells North Americans. Terrace renovated.2003 Hurricane Isabel fl oods downtown Annapolis and ruinsfirst deck of clubhouse. Reconstruction undertaken quickly.2004 AYC hosts J/22 Worlds. Third deck renovated.2005 Ted Hale, Evan Aras, Joe Morris win Sears Cup, secondtime for AYC.2005 P/C Ron Ward named first recipient of US SAILING'sHarman Hawkins Award.2006 Jim Capron elected president of US SAILING. Jack Lynchreceives US SAILING's John F. Gardiner Award forpromotion of One Design sailing and class organization.2008 Terry Hutchinson wins Rolex Yachtsman of the Year Award.2008 New Junior Fleet building constructed at Annex.2009 AYC hosts J/24 Worlds.2010 Gary Jobson elected president of US SAILING. ReceivesCharles Leighton Award for contributions to promotionof the sport. Flying Jenny VI (J/122) (David Askew) winsChicago-Mackinac Race. AYC qualifies for 2011 NewYork Yacht Club Invitational.2011 Donnybrook (Santa Cruz 73) (Jim Muldoon) winsPineapple Cup race (Miami to Montego Bay).12 AYC BEACON VOLUME 3, NO. 1

Celebrating Annapolis Yacht Club | P/C Stephen HiltabidleIn 1937, my family moved from Washington, D.C.to Edgewater Beach. I was 9 years old. I attended MayoSchool and spent my summers crabbing along theSouth River and Crab Creek. After graduating fromAnnapolis High School (now Maryland Hall), I joinedthe Merchant Marines at Sheepshead Bay and served 2years at sea as an Able Bodied Seaman.As a youth, I sailed only occasionally on borrowedor abandoned boats which required repair and werenever used in competition, but enhanced my sailingexperience. I sailed on the Naval Academy boats, theLuders 44 yawls and Highland Light, a 69-foot cutter.My first ocean race from Newport to Annapolis was ona Luders 44 in 1951.I earned my Bachelor of Science degree fromLafayette College, where I played lacrosse and joined thecollege sailing club. In 1955, I graduated from GeorgeWashington School of Medicine and did 4 years ofsurgical residency there before being assigned by theNavy to the Naval Academy Hospital as staff surgeon.I was fortunate to have the use of many Navy boats forfrostbiting in their intercollegiate 14-foot dinghies andthe Luders yawls. I crewed on Highland Light for myfirst Newport to Bermuda Race.My first boat ownership was a Rainbow that weused to race for Wednesday nights, family weekends,and frostbiting at AYC. I met Commodore Jack Martinand sailed with him on his H23, a Herreshoff sloop. Jackorganized the Alberg 30 class, a popular One Designbased at AYC. He sponsored me for membership in1962 and arranged for a slip at AYC for my Alberg 30.It was a great class for racing and family cruising. I thenowned a Peterson 34, a ¾ ton Carter, and then a Farr 37.After 35 years of successfully racing with my wife Maryand our children, Bart, Nan, Mike, and friends, I retiredfrom racing and now cruise a Sabre 402.I became a regular crew for Arnold Gay and servedas watch captain for ten ocean races. We earned an overallwin on Babe in the 1978 Bermuda race. Charlie Dell, thenRear Commodore, nominated me for Fleet Captain in1968-70 when Arnie Gay was Commodore. I interruptedmy flag status for 10 years to serve as Chief of Surgeryand Medical Board Chairman, plus a very active surgicalpractice at the Anne Arundel General Hospital.I again became a flag officer as Vice Commodoreand then Commodore during a period of majorreconstruction of our clubhouse in 1995, with FredPast Commodore Hiltabidle aboard Highland Light in 1953. Photocourtesy of Dr. Stephen Hiltabidle.Fishback as architect and Skip Gardner in charge ofconstruction; both AYC members.My role as Past Commodore continues as we attendmonthly luncheons with in-depth discussions withCommodore Torgerson and Club Manager Brian Aschregarding Club affairs.Recently, a creative cruising group of enthusiasticmembers has added a new dimension to our Club. Iam impressed by their spirit. I am extremely proud ofthe Annapolis Yacht Club, as a beautiful facility underexcellent management, a superb food service, well runsailing programs, and an excellent reputation for regattamanagement.Whoops! In the Fall 2010 Beacon, Taran Teague's article statedthat she attended UNC-Charlotte. In fact, she attended UNC-Chapel Hill.VOLUME 3, NO. 1AYC BEACON13

Celebrating 125 years ...of memoriesFounded in 1883 as an informal canoe club.Power outage, Commodore Thompson’s era“It was decided to have a Waffle Party. About four or fiveelectric waffle irons were brought down to the Club and placedon the pool table. They were all plugged in to every outletavailable. However, when turned on, the main fuse blew out.After much scurrying around, another main fuse was obtained,and the party proceeded, although at a very retarded pace.”1883Pay Your Dues!The dues at the turn of the century in theold Severn Boat Club were as follows:Senior Members - $10Junior Members - $2.50Swimming & Ice Skating“Most of our older members learned to swim from the floatin front of the old Severn Boat Club. A main considerationwas to swim using the ‘Annapolis breaststroke’ only duringthe incoming tide so that one could avoid the effluentcoming down the river. We also had skating parties fromthe club all the way to the Greensbury Light.”Slot Machines?“The first time I visited Annapolis Yacht Clubwas in the early 1960s. I was in Annapolis asa crew on a Penguin. I clearly remember theslot machines and the warped wooden floor.”-Gary JobsonLester Trott adds:“The machines were kept in metal cabinets (before 1939when they became legal) in case a judge or town officialshowed up so they could be quickly locked away.”Prosperity...sort of“After the war, before the Club became prosperous, onthe morning before a dance, the men would come downearly, bring up the wood, and stoke the two wood stoveon the second floor in order to warm up the building.Later, the women would arrive and sweep, dust, andclean the windows, fix the curtains, etc., so that theClub would be presentable for the party. This effortdidn’t, of course, keep everyone from piling up at oneend during the dance as the floor had a decided tilt.”Fireworks!!“The Severn Boat Club decided to put on a fireworks display on July4th. A float was anchored out in the harbor, and as it began to getdark, all kinds of fireworks and bundles of skyrockets and “devilchasers”were taken out to the float. The pin-wheels, Roman candles,skyrockets and “burst-in-the-air” were beautiful!! ...until an errantwind-carried spark ignited everything!Skyrockets and “devil-chasers” were skidding across the water, and allthe other fireworks were exploding at once. It was a spectacular sightfor everybody except the operators. All jumped overboard and swamfor their lives, except one or two who couldn’t swim. They slid intothe water and clung to the side of the boat until they were rescued.”14 AYC BEACON VOLUME 3, NO. 1Lester Trott and Buddy Ebsen, an avidyachtsman (and actor), October 31, 1970.

“Junior members were not allowed on thesecond floor of the Club, and could only haveuse of the shower when invited to the secondwas regarded as quite a privilege by thejunior members.” *ladies hadparticularlystrict rules...The Junior Fleet has come a longway since its inception in 1948...Sailing is dangerous!Often, the danger was not in thesailing but in the sky. As the newSevern River Bridge was beingbuilt, the height was listed as89’-5”. In 1952, a group from theClub found out that their yawl(Mayhap) with a 83’-1/2”mainmast did not quite fit......and so have ourfemale membership.At left, a clip fromthe 1940 roster.sRegattas of the oldSevern Boat Club“Tub Races: took place in wooden wash tubs, paddling with two paddles.Canoe Jousts: the contestant stood in the bow of the canoe with a polepadded at the end while his partner paddled the canoe toward theiropponent. The object? to knock his adversary out of the other canoe!The Greasy Pole Contest: two contestants sat astride a greased pole aboutsix inches in diameter and ten or more feet in length, elevated about eightfeet above the water. They advanced with a pillow in hand and tried toknock the opponents off the pole. If you missed your target, you would spinaround the pole like a pin-wheel.”Even boats return...Frostbite beginnings“Icebreakers came throughand broke a channel infront of the club; we usedRainbows for the firstFrostbite. We started the races one season ridingon top of each other because there was not enoughroom in the broken channel to pass on the sametack. We were climbing on each other’s transomstill we got out to open water.” (late 40s)Mr. & Mrs. Arnie Gayaboard “Wavedancer,”the same boat purchasedin Florida by currentmember Bill Howellwho, at the time, wasunaware of P/C Gayand his role at AYC.Origin of the name“Smoking Lamp”“On the old sailing vessels, when theword was passed: ‘The smoking lamp islit,’ the crew could assemble and smoke inthe fo’castle. With the word, ‘the smokinglamp is out,’ the lamp was extinguishedand further smoking was prohibited.This controlled smoking was imposed forthe safety of the ship at sea.”Thanks to all who helped with images, memories, countless hours of research and archiving.Special Thanks to Lester Trott. -Jana BrenningVOLUME 3, NO. 1AYC BEACON15

International Racing: Not a Just Boys' ClubThe crew of Barking Mad. Photo courtesy of Dan Phelps, Spinsheet.AYC is fortunate to have a plethora of incrediblytalented and skilled racing sailors amongst its membership.Did you know that we have sailors who have competedand won Farr 40 World Championships, were America'sCup Race Committee in Valencia, coached national andinternational Opti events, served as the US Olympicsailing team spokesperson in Beijing, worked on anddelivered yachts around the world, and competed as oneof the teams in the first Rolex keelboat championship?Did you know that all of them are AYC women?When one thinks of the America's Cup, premiereworld championships in Farr 40s, J/24s or megayachtracing, we typically think of a boat crewed by large,professional guys. What many people don't realize is thatacross the globe, there are AYC members participating inthese prestigious programs. And not just any members,but a handful of very accomplished female sailors who findtheir roots in the AYC sailing community. These womenhave proven that it doesn't always take brute strengthand being 6 feet tall to compete at the top levels of oursport. Rather, as they have learned and demonstrated, it'sdetermination, a love of the sport, great attitude, and thenever-ending drive to always do better that have allowedthem to compete, work, and excel alongside some of theworld's top professional sailors while creating lifelongmemories that combine friends, family, and fun.Throughout its history, AYC's women have beenan active, determined breed of racers and leaders whohave never let gender stand in the way of a good raceopportunity. Whether it is Jennifer Council-Jones andLynn Cook, the very first female members at AYC; theformidable team of Anne and Sonny Smith; the Scheidtwomen aboard Maggie; Melinda Berge; Rene Mullerand their female crews; race committee pioneers GertSpadone, Taran Teague, or Sandy Grosvenor – thesewomen represent only a handful of the many womeninvolved with AYC. These are women who have activelyraced their own or others' boats, lead regattas, and sat onrace committees, proving that gender is no barrier whenit comes to the water, fun, and a passion for yachting.Women sometimes think they can't race on a "bigboat" because they lack the strength, size, knowledge,[insert other excuse here]. Here are the experiences ofa few of our resident female sailing rock stars whosedetermination, constant desire to learn, and love ofthe sport have propelled them into some top racingopportunities here and around the world – DerbyAnderson and the powerful Gosselin clan – momDebbie, and daughters Sarah Russell and Ginny Holt.Early BeginningsIn speaking with Debbie, Sarah, Ginny, and Derby,16 AYC BEACON VOLUME 3, NO. 1

it is quickly clear that each of them got their sailing startthrough their families. Comments Debbie, "I receivedmy start in sailing through my parents. It's what we didevery weekend. Our annual vacation was the SailingClub of the Chesapeake Cruise. I was hooked at an earlyage." Both mom and daughters, Ginny and Sarah, wentthrough the AYC junior program, with Sarah returningto coach Optis at many national and internationalregattas. In encouraging her daughters to favor sailingover horses in their younger years, Debbie pointed outthat "the male/female ratio was much better [on thewater] than in a horse barn."Before moving to Annapolis and joining AYC,Derby grew up in Hampton, Virginia in their juniorprogram. While she started sailing at age 4, she actuallydidn't like sailing at first, though caught the "race bug"at 9 through the continual support and encouragementof her father, Ward Anderson, and after winning a fewOpti events. "Once I won my first event, the competitivespirit was sparked," and Derby has never looked back,having been part of the Barking Mad crew that won theFarr 40 World Championship as well as competing onMumm 30s, Melges 24s, steering J/22s, competing as askipper on Georgetown's sailing team, and InternationalWomen's Match Racing circuit.Transition from Local to "Big Time"Frequently, people wonder, "how does one go froma Wednesday Night Race crew to being involved withsome of the top race programs in the World?" These fourwomen know that it takes determination, a constantdesire to learn about different boats, and a tenacity tokeep asking people for opportunities to sail on new anddifferent boats to expand their skills and experience.Derby had been racing on various Wednesday nightboats such as Ramrod, Stray Dog, and others whilealso steering her own J/22 and trying to find everyopportunity to race. One day, a friend called and saidBarking Mad needed a small person to help with pitand all other "float" duties such as taking down the kite,banding spinnakers, preparing the interior of the boat,and keeping their head in the game in the intense Farr40 Worlds. Derby flew to Italy and became a valuablemember of the World Champion Barking Mad team.What does it take to be an amateur sailing alongsideof pro sailors? The women agree that it is vital to learnto anticipate, always thinking many steps ahead to whatcould happen next on the course and to how you can bestsupport the rest of your team through your crew role –what moves will happen at the next mark, what could gowrong, and how can you remain focused and give 150%to contribute to the success of your team. While it mighthave been a chance phone call or a specific weight thatWomen sometimes think they can't race on a"big boat" because they lack the strength, size,knowledge, [insert other excuse here].was needed that provided some of these women withtheir first opportunities with these top-tier teams, eachwill tell you that it takes a lot of dedication, time, hardwork, a positive attitude, and the ability to work withlots of different people on the boat that have enabledthem to excel in their racing.Debbie and Ginny both emphasize the importanceof preparation, staying focused, and having an intenselove of the sport. And don't underestimate all the "littlejobs" that need to be done that all add up to a lot –getting to the boat early to help pack sails or prep theboat, bailing the boat out before and after racing, hikingout for what feels like days, staying focused throughoutthe race, or asking to try a different crew role on aWednesday night. These are all things that seem like"little things" that can make a good sailor a great one.Derby recommends, "Don't be afraid to ask people foran opportunity to race on a new boat or one you wantto sail on. It also doesn't hurt to develop a thick skin, as[at the top levels of racing] you're going to get criticizedand asked to do things on the boat that are not alwaysglamorous, such as bailing out the boat." However, theseare all things that need to be done by someone andcontribute to the team's success. The women agree thatit takes "high energy all the time, an intense dedication,thick skin, and some common sense, helps."A Lifetime Sport with Lifetime ExperiencesEach of these accomplished women know thatsailing is a sport that offers a lifetime of fun, memorableexperiences. Debbie has many great experiences andmemories that have all been made possible throughsailing. In fact, one of her most favorite racing experiencesVOLUME 3, NO. 1AYC BEACON17

also resulted in meeting her husband, Ed. "I was racingwith the J/24 Twisted Sisters team in Bermuda. It was atone of the Bermuda Race Weeks that I met my husbandand at the next race week, we got engaged."For Ginny and Derby, many of their favorite racingmemories involve fun people, good weather, and exoticlocations. Ginny cites the Mediterranean and Caribbeanas some of her favorite race locales and places she hasspent much time both racing and working on race yachtsas chef and crew.Current EndeavorsEach of these women continue to pursue theirracing passion in many ways; Debbie actively races atevery opportunity with many friends onboard JohnWhite's Many Bad People and volunteers her time insupport of AYC sailing events, whether as housing chairfor a world championship event, supporting the AYCfoundation, or helping introduce new people to thisgreat sport. Though Debbie and her daughters don't getSarah Russell has coachedOpti sailors at manynational and internationalregattas.an opportunity to race together often, she comments,"We have cruised together, and my daughters are amongthe best all-around, level-headed people I know. I wouldget on a boat with them anywhere."Sarah continues to enjoy her favorite racing whichconsists of sailing with her dad and dog every Wednesdaynight on his Etchells. She has created a legacy throughher coaching of some of tomorrow's top sailors throughAYC's junior program. She also has the opportunityto continue the family's sailing tradition with her ownchild who is due very soon.Ginny travels the world to exotic locations havingthe tough role of serving as racing crew, chef, and allaround "Jill of all trades" aboard a Swan 80 throughoutthe Mediterranean, Caribbean, and other magnificentports of call. Ginny has a vast racing background thatincludes race crews competing in too many races tomention, including Nantucket Bucket, Antigua, Hawaii,and the Far East. She has also worked as co-yacht captainof several Farr 40s, including Barking Mad and Opus One.Derby races whenever she can, though she has takena brief hiatus from her full grand prix schedule whilecompleting her MBA at Columbia Business School thisSpring. Derby looks forward to doing something withsailing upon graduation to continue her life adventuresaround her pursuit – with having checked off China andthe America's Cup in Valencia from her list of placesvisited. Who knows what might be next on Derby's list.Final Reflections and AdviceAs the women reflect upon their paths into racingand their collective experiences, each feels incrediblyfortunate to have developed a love for racing at a youngage. Debbie comments, "It's a life-long sport in whichyou can participate on many levels, all of which get youout on the water and help you learn to depend on yourselfand meet great, active people. It's a family legacy that Ifeel lucky to share."What advice would each offer to any women whowant to get involved in racing or raise their race game?"I would encourage women to get involved at any level,"Sarah suggests. "The important thing is to find the rightmentors or teachers. Part of my love of boats and thewater comes from learning and sailing with peoplewho are intelligent, and who know how to anticipate.Learning to assess risk and act appropriately is key toenjoying yourself on the water."Derby recommends "making every attempt to gosailing; make calls to get on boats to learn new roles andget the feel for different boats. Be willing to sail withpeople you don't know and do jobs you don't ordinarilydo and apply that experience on your own boat."Ginny comments that whether racing or working hereor abroad, we are all very lucky to be surrounded by amazingpeople. Sailing provides us with an opportunity to learn aboutteam work and to enjoy being with friends on the water.18 AYC BEACON VOLUME 3, NO. 1

Cruising the ChesapeakeEastern Shore DestinationsOxford, Cambridge, and St. MichaelsPeter ThorntonA log canoe race in Cambridge, Maryland. Photo courtesy of Peter Thornton.Within a day's sail of our Club are three EasternShore towns – Oxford, Cambridge, andSt. Michaels. Cruisers with a decent turn of speedcan visit for lunch, and some of us do! They makea pleasant weekend destination whether you gounder sail or power, and they have a range ofoptions for your entertainment: golf, fine dining,history, shopping, and attractive local scenery.VOLUME 3, NO. 1AYC BEACON19

Below: The backyard and launching area at Cutts & Case, Inc. - a boat builder oflong standing in Oxford, Maryland.Right: "The Patient Fisher," a statue at Long Wharf Park in Cambridge,Maryland. Long Wharf Park is the only spot in Cambridge where no fishinglicense is required.Photos courtesy of John Patmore.Oxford is arguably the smallest and sleepiest of thethree destinations. Situated on the Tred Avon Riverjust off the Choptank, it is about 30 miles away byboat, down the Bay and through Knapps Narrows. TheTred Avon Yacht Club is situated immediately beforethe town dock and ferry crossing. The facilities includenew floating docks which, when available, will accepttransients. Along the town side of the river just northof the ferry is a pleasant anchorage for an afternoon'svisit. Dinghies can be taken in to the beach or the towndock. Beyond this stretch of river is Town Creek, wherea variety of marine-related businesses are situated,including marinas for an overnight stay, yacht brokers,gas docks, restaurants, and repair yards.Oxford is known for its small historic downtownwith its quaint shops. It is proud of the fact that it doesnot have lots of new waterfront condos or noisy bars,and it is pretty quiet in the evening, which is a pleasantchange of pace. It is also worth noting that Oxford issurrounded by many scenic creeks, e.g., Plaindealing,Goldsborough, and Trippe, which provide pleasantanchoring on a summer's eve, and large waterfrontestates for those who want to gape. Fine dining may befound within walking distance from the Yacht Club atthe Robert Morris Inn, which recently changed hands.Both R. Morris Jr. & Sr. were very important to the townand the American Revolution.Cambridge is the largest town of the three, and isa typical mix of older, water-based industries and newdevelopment. The town is trying very hard to develop asa preferred tourist destination, with a good, inexpensivetown marina on the Choptank. The fixed ChoptankRiver Bridge has a height of 50 feet and stops manyyachts from heading further upstream to the new HyattChesapeake Resort and Marina, although it is easilyreached by road from the town marina. The resort istypical of a large conference center with restaurants,pools, golf, etc., and is quite unusual on this part of theBay where destinations tend to be historic and scenicrather than modern and activity-filled. Just before thebridge, Cambridge Creek extends quite a long way intotown and is now lined with new apartments and docks,as well as older marine businesses.Cambridge has shops of all varieties, including amodern shopping center on US 50 near the Hyatt and anolder downtown. A variety of restaurants can be foundalong the creek, downtown, and in various other places.The AYC Cruising Fleet visits the Cambridge YachtClub on alternate years and all vouch for the excellenceof their July 4th Barbecue!The closest town of the three is St. Michaels, wellknownfor its shopping, dining, events, marine facilities,20 AYC BEACON VOLUME 3, NO. 1

Above: The Hooper Strait Screw-Pile Lighthouse in St. Michaels,Maryland.Below: A view from the Maritime Museum in St. Michaels.Bottom: Look out for log canoes when you visit St. Michaels - during arace, they take precedence over regular traffic!Photos courtesy of John Patmore.and the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. Locateda mere 20 miles from AYC up the Miles River, it is aneasy trip by land yacht, sailboat, or cruiser – with theoption of visiting for lunch at the popular Crab ClawRestaurant in the harbor. The Cruising Fleet visits mostsummers, organizing a family-oriented weekend at theSt. Michaels Marina and various places around town.In 2010, the final event of the season was a HalloweenCruise to the St. Michaels Harbour Inn, an upscalefacility on the other side of the harbor. In addition toa fun dinner at the Inn (with optional costumes), weenjoyed the town parade along the main street.The Maritime Museum is a major world-class facility,with the original Hooper Strait screw-pile lighthouse onthe point and a variety of displays and events all year,including a classic boat show, music concerts, hands-onwooden boat classes, etc. They are the last boatyard onthe Bay that can rebuild a wooden boat, return skipjacksto operational status,and supply woodenmasts in emergenciesto visiting yachts.If you join as acontributor, you canbook their slips andactually dock at themuseum for a nightor two, which putsyou right in themiddle of the action.Downtown St.Michaels includesfirst-class dining"Oxford is known for itssmall historic downtownwith its quaint shops. Itis proud of the fact that itdoes not have lots of newwaterfront condos or noisybars, and we can attestthat it is pretty quiet in theevening, which is a pleasantchange of pace."and shopping, greatice cream, and even a winery. On a summer weekend, itcan be packed with visitors arriving by car or boat; in factthe river can get quite congested with boats anchoredoutside the harbor around the riverfront. Events takeplace on the river as well as land – on a weekend withlog canoe races, they take precedence over traffic in themarked channel. Log canoe races are amazing – if youhaven't seen one, check the Chesapeake Bay Log SailingCanoe Association schedule. They are basically ancient,hollowed-out, multiple tree-trunk hulls with exceedinglytall masts and far too many sails – it takes great skill (ora rugby team onboard) to stop them from falling over atthe first breath of wind!VOLUME 3, NO. 1AYC BEACON21

Annapolis to Newport: Race HistoryChip ThayerDonnybrook crossing the finish in the 2009 Annapolisto Newport race. Photo courtesy of John Bildahl.June 3, 2011 will mark the 33rd running of theAnnapolis to Newport Race sponsored by ThompsonReuters. Since its start in 1947, the race has had fourhost yacht clubs – Annapolis Yacht Club (AYC), NewYork Yacht Club (NYYC), Ida Lewis Yacht Club(ILYC), and the Naval Academy Sailing Squadron(NASS). The first five races were run from Newport,RI to Annapolis, MD. However, in 1957 the routewas reversed after complaints of slow trips up the Bayto the finish. Following that change, the popularity ofthe race blossomed and it has been run from Annapolisto Newport in alternating years ever since. NYYC andAYC shared the primary responsibility for running therace until the mid-eighties when New York handedover primary responsibility to AYC. Recognizing thehistory and importance of the race, NYYC reaffirmedits commitment to the race by rejoining AYC as the coorganizingauthority in 2009.The Annapolis to Newport race is one of themost historic and well-known of the US East Coastblue water races. It is so popular, Gary Jobson will beproducing coverage of the race on ESPN Classic thissummer. It links two seaports dating from our Nation'sbirth, Annapolis and her sister city, Newport. The courseheads south down the Bay for 120 miles from Annapolisto the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, then east for 20miles out into the Atlantic to the Chesapeake LightTower, and finally northeast to Newport for a total of473 nm (nautical miles).Each race has its own character. It can be a pleasantpassage under sunny skies or a real gear buster, buteach race generates its own set of stories. The 1967 racecertainly provided a fine set of sea stories as the fleetfaced a nor'easterly gale as they battled up the coast. Ofthe 91 starters, 34 were forced to retire and included threedismastments. The slowest race was 1955 when the firstboat to finish, Niña, a 59' staysail schooner, took almostfour days to finish. The current record time for first tofinish is held by Carrera, a Farr 60 in just under two daysset in 2001. Club member Jim Muldoon's Donnybrookhas been first to finish in five races. Every race brings anew battle for line honors and an opportunity to breakthe first to finish record.The 2009 race featured several boats with a realchance to break the course record. A sleigh ride downthe Bay under spinnakers in 12-14 knots from thenortheast provided one of the fastest trips down theBay in memory. The record seemed sure to fall, however,light air off Long Island intervened and the now 10-year record stands. Quite unlike the boats vying for firstto finish honors was Prim, a modified Owens 41 and aclassic beauty. She first sailed the Annapolis to Newport22 AYC BEACON VOLUME 3, NO. 1

Rambler and Vela Veloce in the 2009 Annapolisto Newport race. Photo courtesy of Don Dement.Race in 1955 and 54 years later the 2009 race was Prim's12th. Prim has been owned and sailed by the Gibbons-Neff family of Easton, Maryland throughout her career,winning her class twice. Among the nine AYC boatsracing were class winners Jim Muldoon's Donnybrookand David Askew's Flying Jenny VI.A race within the race is the Yacht Club Challengefor teams of three boats representing their home yachtclub. Ten teams raced, including three teams representingAYC. The AYC team of David Askew, Flying Jenny VI,Henry Morgan, Dolphin, and Rick Born, Windborn, wonthe trophy.In addition to IRC, PHRF (Performance HandicapRacing Fleet), and Double-Handed Divisions, the 2011race will include a cruiser division for the first time. IRCand PHRF are handicapping systems permitting boatsof different sizes and designs to race against each other.The cruiser division provides a place for the traditionalcruiser/racers and passage makers to race withouthaving to compete with the purpose-built race boats. Ifthe introductory seminar held at the Club in Januaryof 2011 is any indication of participation, this divisionshould provide some great competition. Another factorinfluencing entries in the 2011 Annapolis to NewportRace is the new Atlantic Ocean Racing Series establishedby New York Yacht Club which includes the Annapolisto Newport Race and their Transatlantic Race in lateJune of this year. Three races, one of which must be theTransatlantic Race, are required to qualify for the seriestrophy. A number of the Transatlantic Race boats haveentered the Annapolis to Newport Race. They includeboats from both the UK and Germany, some of whichare clearly capable of breaking the first to finish elapsedtime record. When added to the perennial well-preparedboats from the Bay and elsewhere on the East Coast, weshould see some great racing.Each boat will carry a GPS transponder thattransmits boat speed and position information every 30minutes. The track and current position of each boat willbe displayed on the Racing website. You can watch thetactics unfold in near real time and see the gains and lossesfor each boat and team at http://race.annapolisyc.org. Anexciting addition this year results from the capability toincrease the transponder update rate at critical points onthe course. This will allow us to once again offer trophiesfor first out of the Bay. Many years ago, these trophieswere based on reports from personnel on the ChesapeakeLightship and later the Chesapeake Light Tower off themouth of the Bay. They had to be discontinued when thetower became an unmanned aid. This will surely be anexciting race to follow on the web for all who have aninterest in offshore sailing.VOLUME 3, NO. 1AYC BEACON23

Expanding HorizonsCruising the Coastof MaineGary JobsonIf you find yourself up north followingthe Annapolis to Newport Race, youmay consider heading up to Maine.Here are a few of Gary Jobson's favoriteanchorages when he heads down east.There are countless great cruising areas on the EastCoast of the United States. For those of us in Annapolis,we know a sailor can spend a lifetime exploring thewaters of the Chesapeake Bay. However, beyond ourwaters, there are endless, interesting destinations thatare worth exploring when you find yourself in the area.For me, the best cruising is on the coast of Maine.Many sailors are intimidated by big tides and a rockycoast but with the help of GPS, radar, and commonsense, there is no reason to fear cruising in these magicalwaters. I have made many trips with my family andfriends along the Maine coast over the past 25 years.Here are some of my favorite places to visit.Twenty-five miles east of Schoodic is one of myfavorite spots in Maine, the Mud Hole. In spite of itsinglorious name, I recommend spending one or twonights at this nifty anchorage. This is more of a creekthan a cove on the east side of Great Wass Island about8 miles south of Jonesport. The entrance is tricky tonavigate and closes off at low tide and inside there is 16feet of water at low. More often than not, you will be theonly boat anchored in the Mud Hole and it is a secureanchorage in a storm.Brimstone Island, about 5 miles southeast ofVinalhaven, is a rare, North American volcanic island.A seemingly knowledgeable scientist visiting Brimstonewhile we were there told me there is a similar islandoff Japan. This made me realize that Brimstone is veryunusual. From a distance, the 112-foot hill looks justlike another island covered with shrubs. But on thewest end is a 20-foot high, crescent shaped beach thatis made up of smooth, black rocks. Anchoring off thebeach is possible, but being exposed to the open ocean,the water is prone to swells. This spot is not suitable foran overnight stay.When sailing east or west to any of these harborsalong Maine's midcoast, I highly recommend transitingthe inland channel, Eggemoggin Reach. The glacier didsailors a favor carving Eggemoggin. This 14-mile longstretch is at right angles to the prevailing southwestwinds, hence you can sail in either direction on a reach.And Eggemoggin passage features a combinationof strong wind and smooth water. There are alwaysinteresting boats sailing along Eggemoggin Reach. Weseemed to get into undeclared races with other boats.At the northwest end of Eggemoggin sits Buck'sHarbor and it's a must stop. Buck's Harbor Marina, in thecove, is managed by friendly people who are genuinelyglad you are visiting. Prior to a Sunday stopover, I calledahead to reserve a New York Times. When we arrivedlater that day, the newspaper was waiting. This is one ofthe few harbors that I allow myself to pick up a mooring24 AYC BEACON VOLUME 3, NO. 1

Buck's Harbor Marina in Eggomoggin, Maine. Photos courtesy of Gary Jobson.since it is often too crowded to anchor here. A shortwalk from the landing, one finds a well-stocked generalstore that brings back some nice memories.About 10 miles south of Stonington, Deer Isle,sits Isle au Haut (High Island). It was discovered byFrenchman Samuelde Champlain in1604. The highestelevation is 556 feet,hence the suitingname. Only about 60people live here yearround. Janice and Iregularly stop here.In the Thoroughfareon the northwest sideof Isle au Haut, thereis a post office thesize of a closet. It is anice feeling to sendpostcards from thisremote harbor. Thereis also a general storewhere all the locals gather. They take advance orders forprepared gourmet meals. It is an impressive place to pickKristi Jobson and father, Gary, at the helm of Whirlwind cruising Maine's coast.up some takeout food.During one visit, Linda Greenlaw, made famous inthe book and movie, The Perfect Storm, bounced into theparking lot in a cloud of dust driving her ancient pickuptruck. She was popular with a group of kids eating icecream. Linda seemedmore petite than Iimagined her to befrom the harrowingtale of The Perfect Storm,but she seemed to fitright into the island lifedepicted in her book,The Lobster Chronicles:Life on a Very SmallIsland. I had a brief chatwith her and came awaythinking that Linda wasa very content person.For anyone whofinds themselvesin New England, aleisurely cruise alongthe coast of Maine is the perfect opportunity to slowthings down.VOLUME 3, NO. 1AYC BEACON25

Tim Cusack, Rob Flyod, and Jose Fuentes representing AYC atthe 2010 Corinthian Cup. Photo Courtesy of David Dibble.Bringing the Competition HomeThe Corinthian Cup 2011Jose FuentesOne would think that browsing any dictionary wouldprovide a precise definition of the word "Corinthian."In reality, they point to a city in ancient Greece, housesof ill repute, the classical orders of architecture, andthe New Testament. Some deeper digging uncoversremote references to the spirit of athletics at the GreeceOlympics and amateur participants.During the late 1800s, the term started appearingin local yacht club names. The first, in 1881, becamethe Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club. The historyof this occurrence bears reviewing. Seems foundingCommodore Swan served as the "Corinthian" organistand choir master at the First Presbyterian Church inOyster Bay. Since 1844, the New York Yacht Club hadengaged in velocity sailing races for wagers, on wealthymembers' yachts skippered and crewed by professionals.Commodore Swan coined the concept of Corinthianraces for the racing "sandbaggers" of the time (muchlike Bull & Bear, see Beacon v. 2, no. 2), including therounding of pre-specified points, making it a moretactical game for a specific donated prize, and in hiswords …"the only true and enjoyable kind of yachting."Generally, it is believed and understood that"Corinthian," as it relates to sailboat racing, refers to theconcept of amateur sailors competing under the noblestvalues of fair play, sportsmanship and camaraderie.Following this guise, two legendary yacht clubs haveinitiated an event under the auspices of the Declarationof Trust and Conditions Governing the San FranciscoYacht Club/Annapolis Yacht Club Corinthian Cup. Onlast October 23, 2010, the inaugural event was held inthe waters of San Francisco Bay. The stated "purpose ofthis trophy is to promote spirited sailing competitionand good fellowship between teams of Corinthiansailors representing" SFYC and AYC.This whole concept started with an idea brought backby Gary Jobson from one of his speaking engagementsin San Francisco. After presenting it to CommodoreTorgerson, Fleet Captain Jonathan Bartlett, andWaterfront Director Jay Kehoe, a conference call withmembers of the SFYC ensued and it was agreed thatthere should be a "Corinthian" yachting event thatbridged the gap between east and west yacht clubs andthe Corinthian Cup (CC) was born. San Franciscowould host the first such event and Annapolis the second,alternating years thereafter. Only club members whowere category I sailors would be allowed to represent theclubs. Tim Cusack, Rob Floyd, and I were selected torepresent AYC at the inaugural event.We arrived in San Francisco on October 22 to acold, rainy, blustery day. After some introductions andquick review of one of the Etchells that would be used26 AYC BEACON VOLUME 3, NO. 1

2011: BRINGING IT HOMEThe 2011 Corinthian Cup sponsored by Wells Fargo Advisors from September 23 - 25 will be the second annual event. Hosted lastyear by the San Francisco Yacht Club, this match racing event will include two teams from each Club racing in J/22s. New to thisyear's competition is a Junior Sailing division. Teams are yet to be determined, so please contact Linda Ambrose to learn more aboutthe Corinthian Cup race teams - lambrose@annapolisyc.org.for the event, we went for a practice session with ourcoach Elizabeth Kratzig. Tricky conditions would be anunderstatement, but we were psyched after having spenttime training with AYC Waterfront Director Jay Kehoeand were looking forward to the competition. None ofus had any previous experience match racing.The venue was impressive, a quaint, friendly,excellent sailing facility on the San Francisco Bay witha rich history. Established in 1869 as the Saint FrancisYacht Club, it moved to MarinCounty after the earthquake of 1906destroyed the city. Some membersfound the temporary quarters tobe superior in weather and sailingconditions and hence, the SanFrancisco Yacht Club was formed.Accommodations were providedby the Cusack clan on a gorgeoushome built by Tim's brother, Jeff,high in Tiburon and overlooking theBay. Cocktails, food, camaraderie, and an introduction tothe Cusack family's signature club drink "Sackatini" (2shots of patron silver, splash of fresh lime juice up in amartini glass with salt) concluded the day's events.Race day met us with blustery (20-25 knots), wet,trying conditions as only San Francisco Bay can dishout. The format called for one team from each club tosail in a match race on Etchells provided by the SFYC,assigned after drawing and rotating every second race.Skipper's meeting and formalities took place on Saturdaymorning and off we went to the Berkeley Olympic"The stated 'purpose of this trophyis to promote spirited sailingcompetition and good fellowshipbetween teams of Corinthian sailorsrepresenting' SFYC and AYC."Circle racing area. Race one went to SFYC and racetwo to AYC. The starts were fast, furious, and aggressive,keeping the referees on their toes but, in full Corinthianspirit, relatively few penalty calls. Races 3, 4, and 5 wentto SFYC's team who displayed better boat control andupwind speed. Two very tired and cold crews made theirway back to SFYC for a short rest and shower.Formally represented by Commodore Torgerson,the awards presentation took place during a fabulousdinner event at the SFYC clubhouse.Everyone wore their respectiveClub distinctive; a proud spirit ofrepresentation and camaraderiereigned. The Corinthian Cup Trophywas awarded to the winning SFYCwho will keep it in custody untilAYC is victorious at a subsequentCorinthian Cup event. Led byCommodore Torgerson, the AYCcontingent showed superior depthand stamina during the post-yachting celebrations, settingthe stage for a 2011 showdown on the Chesapeake Bay.The 2011 celebration of the CC will be hosted byAYC on September 23-25 and will follow a similarformat to the one in San Francisco. Boats will be J/22sand a youth team has been added for each club. Additionof a team racing format for 2012 is under consideration.The gauntlet has been laid and AYC is hard at worksetting the stage to bring home the Corinthian Cup!VOLUME 3, NO. 1AYC BEACON27

up close and personalArthur A. Libby,Commodore 2000 - 01Jobson Art, when did you first become a member ofthe yacht club?LibbyIt was 1952 when I first became a junior member.Jobson What was it like around here in 1952?Libby A lot slower, I can tell you that. And I cantell you that the boats were a lot smaller. Therewere some big ones but most of them werevery small.Jobson Were you in the junior program?Libby I was. I was in what they called the JuniorFleet. I came down here from Marblehead,Massachusetts and wanted to get involved insailing. I walked in the door of the Club andran into Past Commodore Sunny Smith. Hegot me in.Jobson That's pretty good. So what kind of racing didyou do around here in the 1950s when youwere in the Junior Fleet?Libby Well, there were mostly small boats Gary.Yes, they did have quite a few larger ones butnot as many as we do today. The small boatswere Penguins – Optis were not around atthat point. I don't think the 420 was aroundat that point either. As a matter of fact, whenI became the instructor here for one or twoyears, the Penguin was the choice boat forteaching.Jobson Do you remember what year you were theinstructor for the Junior Fleet?LibbyI remember very well that it was 1960 becauseit was the same year that the new clubhousewas constructed.Jobson So when you were a young person in thejunior program, did you ever envision that oneday you would become Commodore?Libby No, I sure didn't. I wasn't thinking of that atall at that time.28 AYC BEACON VOLUME 3, NO. 1

Jobson What was it like being Commodore for you?Libby I loved it. It was fun. It was difficult for mebecause I had a full-time job working inNorthern Virginia so if it weren't for emails,I couldn't have done the job. But I was verysuccessful because I believe in proactivecommunication. So that's why, frankly, I wassuccessful during those years. I really did a lotto try to bring the membership into what wasgoing on at the Club.Jobson Do you think it was a defining moment whenwe got the boat yard and established some ofthese One Design fleets like the J/22s?LibbyAbsolutely. I think it was a signature decision.Jobson Tell me a little bit about the process of howthat came about at that time.Libby Actually, it was rather secretive for a whilebecause I don't think anybody wanted to leteverybody know that AYC was interestedin the property. But after it was done, therewas a lot of criticism. I believe the numberwas like $3.5 million in those days ... in factit was a lot of money. Today, I think it wasa very good investment. And as far as theboating is concerned, prior to that we didn'thave a way to get any boats from a trailer intothe creek. We couldn't do it. I happened tobe fleet captain at the time and I talked theBoard into $25,000 to build the first lift at theSailing Center. I also brought a bunch of guystogether to purchase J/22s so that first year wehad 17 of them. It was a wonderful beginningfor us to get into a lot of world and nationalcompetition through the J/22s and now wehave Etchells over there which are certainlythe next level of sailing.Jobson So you can take some pride here having beenfleet captain at a time when the Sailing Centerwas a little controversial and seeing what ithas grown into today.LibbyIt's wonderful Gary. I think that this Club wassitting on oyster shells here up until we tradedour stock, which I think you've already talkedto other people about. But we didn't even havea parking lot at one point. So that over therewith the purchase of the two properties onthe other side of the bridge it really expandedwhat Annapolis Yacht Club can be.Jobson So having been around the Club almost 60years, if you were to look into a crystal ballto the future, what would you say AnnapolisYacht Club should be like in 20 or 30 years?Libby I don't think it's going to be a whole lotdifferent quite frankly. I really don't. I thinkthat we've done all of the advances it can dowith the little properties that we have. Yes, wecould build some Taj Mahal across the creekhere but I'm not sure that is going to happen.Jobson There has been a lot of fine-tuning over 60years, do you think that will continue?Libby I think the fine-tuning will take place. Eventhe new bathhouse over there and what haveyou, the junior building, has been a niceadvance. I haven't seen it yet frankly, but I'velooked at it from the outside. I haven't been init but I've looked at it from the outside and itlooks very nice. I know the kids will be happywith it. And then when we have events likethe NOOD and the Race Week and otherworld and national, regional events, we havelots of things we can do with that property.Jobson So life was a lot slower around here in the1950s, and you look around at this vibrantharbor and the bridge right now, kind of blowsyour mind doesn't it?Libby It does. It really does. I really am proud to beinvolved at one point with the Star Worlds thatwe had in 2000. I thought that was a wonderfulevent. 120 boats and they all went away feelingthat our very professional race committee dida wonderful job on that. Of course that kindVOLUME 3, NO. 1AYC BEACON29

of an event we also need support of SevernSailing Association and Eastport Yacht Club.They both helped out with race committeepersonnel because we have a lot, but we didn'thave enough to handle that kind of activity.And it's also brought, I think, these threeclubs together because when they have worldchampionships they need space so we end upwith a lot of trailers and boats and what haveyou in our Sailing Center. That's kind of fun.Its good, neighborly activity going on.Jobson You know, when you think of it, Annapolis is arelatively small town, 35,000 people or so. Wehave three pretty good yacht clubs that are allvery different. Would you say that is a strongstatement for this town?Libby It is. It really is. I'm not sure the town hadthat much to do with it, but it speaks to thearea. I think there's a sign, at one point it wasup on the main gateway to our town but Idon't think it is there now. It said, "Annapolis:America's Sailing Capital." I think it is rightacross the creek now.Jobson I think America's Sailing Capital is anice moniker.Libby Yes it is. Yes, it is a capital, that's true.State capital.Jobson Does this area deserve the moniker America'sSailing Capital?Libby Absolutely. As somebody who came fromMarblehead which really was a sailing capitalat one time, I think, at least they thoughtthey were. Annapolis just can't be beat forthe way we have the Chesapeake Bay. A lotof these places have ocean front and oceanracing is difficult. But here, I think, yes. I thinkAnnapolis definitely deserves it.WORLD CLASS RACING HISTORY FINE DINING JUNIOR SAILING CRUISING FLEETCOMMUNITY SUPPORT EDUCATION ENTERTAINMENT CHAMPIONS AYC FOUNDATIONMore than a Club. A Community.www.annapolisyc.org30 AYC BEACON VOLUME 3, NO. 1

The Campaign for Excellence exceededour loftiest expectations in 2010.Thank you to the following memberswhose generous donations helped makeour junior sailors' goals become reality.David & Sandra AskewHoward BrooksInternationalGlade FlakeV/C Kevin McNeilPreben OstbergG.L. "Bo" RobinsonRobert ShawDebbie GosselinDavid HouckAtlanticGerald KnappRonald & Bonnie WestJane BowenH. Scott "Chip" CarrRichard CarusoJoyce FenwickJennifer Flake-ComerfordChesapeakeRobert & Laura FloydAnthony ParkerNils & Heidi SalvesenVernon SheenSt. John's EscrowCommodore William TorgersonWilliam TownsendMichael WallaceJohn WhiteF. L. Wilson Jr.Jonathan BartlettDonald BirdStanley BrightMadeleine CartyDavid DabneyBrian DarnellMarino DimarzoJack EllisJohn EricksonL. Frank FieldCharles S. Garber Jr.Basil GreenLaVerne GuckerLawrence HerbsterSevern RiverP/C Stephen B. HiltabidleDavid & Amy HittRobert Holmes IIIWalker & Joan JohnsonRobert KellyAlbert & Kristen KrallMichael KrissoffP/C Arthur LibbySamuel LynessRobert MairsDorothy MaloneMary Frances MarionD. L. MayRoderick McNeilLyle MillanCapt. Richards Miller USN (ret.)Donald MooreE. Joseph MorrisRichard NevilleJohn NorthropJohn PatmoreRichard PettingillMartin PoretskyJames RossFrank SmollonP/C M.B. StallingsChristopher TroneP/C Ronald WardDaniel Whisenhunt

Annapolis Yacht Club2 Compromise StreetAnnapolis, Maryland 21401 USA