What America's Cup?

To-date we have failed to see any race action in the 33rd America's Cup. Some of our newer sailors may be wondering what it is we're speaking of, so we're taking some down time as we wait for the action to give a brief history lesson.

The America's Cup is the oldest trophy in international sport. It earned its name in 1857 when the schooner America won the Cup and brought it to the New York Yacht Club (NYYC). For the next 126 years, the NYYC held the cup and managed the America's Cup regatta. The competition is held in a series of match races between two yachts competing for the Cup. The Deed of Gift serves as the governing document for the conducting of the regatta. Read a full history of winners, challengers and other facts here.

The most prestigious race in sailing, the America's Cup has influenced plots at times on the silver screen. In 1992, Jennifer Grey starred in Wind. While the movie has a very simple storyline, the on-the-water action is fun to watch on a cold winter day! In 1967 Sail to Glory was released, chronicling the story of America's win. We're searching the internet for a copy or more information!

This week marks the start of the 33rd America's Cup, which has been mired in a legal confrontation for some time. The race features two of the most technically advanced sailboats in the world, sponsored by some very wealthy gentlemen. Ironically, these super designed sailboats are too fragile for the ocean conditions they are racing in leading to two days of canceled races. Bob Fisher, an America's Cup historian, has an excellent commentary on the lack of action today. Read it here.


Click here for the larger pdf.

As we wait for the action to begin, our wait for the Chicago sailing season draws nigh. You can bet our keelboats will be ready for the conditions on Lake Michigan for our opening April 10th. We hope you're ready to come out and play with us.

Strictly Sail Chicago

It's back. Next week Thursday - Sunday, Navy Pier will be taken over by the largest group of sailing enthusiasts in the mid-West. Nothing beats the winter doldrums like a little glimmer of sailing and connecting with other sailors.

Chicago Sailing will be in residence at Booth #149, just to the right of the center entrance. We'll have copies of our brand new, shiny brochures and Hershey kisses, as a preview of our 25th Anniversary celebrations.

There's a great line-up of free seminars for people attending the show. Scroll down to find the hourly seminars offered.

Throughout the show, we'll post highlight videos from our booth and checking out some of the other exhibitors. Don't be surprised if you see a few friendly faces. Some of our instructors and office staff will be on hand to help introduce people to Chicago Sailing.

This year you can purchase your tickets online or at the door on the day-of the show. Through the end of this week, use "facebook fan" to receive $3 off web ticket orders. This link will take you to a printable coupon for $2 off tickets at the door.

We can't wait to see everyone and start getting ready for our 25th Anniversary.

Staff Update

With the off season halfway through and Strictly Sail coming up, we thought it was time to let you know what our seasonal staff have been up to.

Instructor Scott Meyers has the biggest news to share. He is getting married to his fiancée Brittany in July and setting sail for an around the world adventure in September. They are spending this winter preparing their boat, Rasmus (a Halberg-Rassey 35’ keelboat) for the journey. Check in on their preparations and keep track of the journey on their blog, http://www.windtraveler.blogspot.com.

Brett Doudican is using the off-season to pursue getting his Captain’s license. We’re excited to add another captain to our roster, not to mention having Brett back as an instructor.


Natty Clapp and Mike Burlando celebrated the New Year with a return to Lake
Michigan. They plunged into the water on North Ave Beach with the Polar Bear Club.



Eric Hansen is enjoying the water in a much warmer locale, the British Virgin Islands. He and his brother are bareboating a Beneteau 34.6 for a week of R & R.



Ronan Adams is back in Ireland, just starting to sober up from his 3 month road trip in Canada. He is currently freezing his arse off in a banana republic that has no leadership with the capital city being closed down with less than half of an inch of snow. And, his feckin water pipes are frozen solid, since last Friday. All is good though, as he is off to Spain next week for a week of sun and surf. If anyone has a job for Ronan, he is available!


Magda Gaca has been traveling around Europe since her return to Poland, though she tells us there isn't much to report. We have investigated and know that she has visited Paris and Berlin in the last two months with her boyfriend Dawid.


Beth Ericksen is venturing to the west coast (Seattle) to visit Teryn Bergo and then they are both heading north to catch the Olympics. **Jealous!

Heather Smith is teaching a class on Chicago planning at DePaul. At her day job she is planning an annual conference on planning. This year's focus is the built environment, bicycling and public health. The big news for the concert is they have David Byrne confirmed to come to our conference. If anyone wants more info it is at cnu18.org.



As for your faithful blogger, I've spent my weekends and evenings away from the dock working on my piece of the American dream. After a complete gutting of the kitchen, down to studs and floor joists, and some serious educational opportunities, we get to start unpacking our kitchen this week!

AEL Catering

Ever wonder who is behind those really good food days, like last season's Oktoberfest party, at Chicago Sailing? Chef Andrew Lawrence and his wonderful staff are the creative geniuses!

Just check out some of the food from Oktoberfest.


And look at all the people enjoying it!

There is even a guy from Germany in that picture. He couldn't believe he found food that good in Belmont Harbor.



Check out AEL Catering's sample menus online and get contact information by clicking here.


Chef Andrew Lawrence with Heather at Oktoberfest

Office Tour

I've been quiet for a few weeks, partially because it's a slow time at Chicago Sailing. Donny and Kyle are working on the boats. Alan and I are working on brochures, the website and improving our services for all of our members.

One of our recent additions is a video camera. Our web designer is working on building in video for our site, here's my first try at giving you an inside peek of our operations! (You may have to visit our actual blog to watch the video)



What do you want to learn more about?

Holiday Gift Guide

We know that as the holiday season approaches, everyone struggles with finding the right present! Here is our run-down of the top gear for sailors. We've chosen these items to help maximize your sailing time and comfort while out enjoying the adventure.

1. Foul Weather Gear
If this season's weather continues into next season, we're in for a rainy 2010. Foul Weather Gear allows your sailor to take advantage of those peaceful days out on the water when everyone else is scared away by a little rain. It's especially helpful for taking advantage of the start of the season, when the Lake Michigan water is quite cool. You'll stay warm and dry inside your Foul Weather Gear!

2. Fleece
Jackets, pullovers, pants, and beyond - fleece is a sailor's friend! When you combine it with Foul Weather Gear, you'll stay toasty while you extend your adventure in comfort. Just like with skiing, keeping your core nice and warm is the key to thoroughly enjoying your day.

3. Sailing Gloves
Some of our sailors swear by their sailing gloves, others not so much. For the sailing enthusiast, who isn't out on the water every day, gloves aid you in managing lines and pulling them taught. When you aren't out building up callouses through everyday sailing, gloves are the way to go!

4. Boat Shoes
Specialized shoes exist for every sport we can think of. That's true in sailing as well. Boat shoes feature flexible, gripping soles that are non-marking. Designed to wick away moisture, they also keep your feet drier than regular shoes.

5. Stocking Stuffers
There are many small things that every sailor should have - good lip balm, croakies for your sunglasses, a visor or hat, waterproof sunblock, dry bags etc. Why not put together a sailing themed stocking?

All of these items can be purchased in Chicago at West Marine's 627 W North Ave location. Great sources exist online as well. Sail Magazine has an online guide to help you locate the best source.

What else should be on our list?

Houseboat Fall Delivery

Last week we capped the season with our fall trip down the Chicago River. For those aboard the "Squid," it was a bittersweet voyage.

It was a delightful way to spend an afternoon with friends with a view of one of the most beautiful skylines in the world. Visually stunning, I am genuinely awe-struck each and every time I catch a glimpse of Chicago from the water. And to think, every summer millions of people miss out on this experience.

For everyone this marked the end of the 2009 season, the bittersweet aspect of our voyage. After a surprising season, with variable weather and changes a-foot at Chicago Sailing, it was a chance to look ahead towards next season.

Office Staff member Mike Burlando was along with his camera. These are some of his photos.