Be Involved

As the GSBYRA moves ahead in the new decade, promising signs appear on the Bay. While many yacht racing associations around the country disappear or struggle for survival, the GSBYRA continues as one of the strongest associations on the east coast. For this we owe thanks to our predecessors, who built a stalwart base. However, the continued strength of sailing on the Great South Bay depends on our development and encouragement of young sailors in our area.

While 1990 proved to be another outstanding season for many GSBYRA sailors, one of the brightest points was increased participation in our youth sailing programs. Many yacht clubs reported increases in the number of young sailors in their instructional programs, club races, and at their invitationals. The Junior and Midget Bay Championships, hard fought and well sailed series, with nine yacht clubs represented at each, experienced a major turn around from four or five teams participating a few years back. During this decade, the goal of the GSBYRA and its member clubs should capitalize on the revived interest within our young sailors and should support our youth with sailing schedules, instruction, and seminars.

So, what’s new on the Bay? For 1991, the GSBYRA offers two new opportunities for its youth. For the first time, the Patin Trophy (junior double-handed) has its own championship series, held on the same days as the Gulden races, which allows more junior participation from each club. 1991 also revives the Youth Team Racing Series, where students from club instructional programs spend Fridays competing, learning and socializing with students from up and down the Bay. Talk to your club’s junior advisor for information on this series.

Race Week, with four days of exciting racing and onshore social events planned at Sayville, promises to be a highlight of the 1991 sailing season. Our Class Captains will contact each of their members and urge participation in the regatta. With their efforts and the efforts of the GSBYRA member clubs, the number of boats sailing in our youth classes should be the highest in has been in years. Whether you sail a Sunfish, or a PHRF yacht, take time to involve your family in this great tradition. Believe me, you won’t be disappointed!

Finally, I thank all of the GSBYRA officers, delegates and committee members for their unending efforts over the past two years. Due to their unselfish efforts, we enjoy the caliber of racing for which the Great South Bay is noted. The GSBYRA exists for you, the sailors of the Bay. Participate, voice your opinions, and be involved in any way possible!

Dave MacDonell