What would get CYC sailors to the Yacht Club at 8 a.m. in January?

The answer is thoughts of selling older boats, buying newer boats and equipment, learning more and just generally talking and thinking about sailing and warmer weather.

We all appreciated the motor coach amenities, videos and group camaraderie on our way to the windy city. After getting settled in our rooms, some hot tub and pool time. Our driver, Clare, took us to the Chicago Yacht Club. Our evening there was very enjoyable. Their chef did a great job with our tenderloin and salmon dinners. Our speaker was Sid Millman from Harken. He spoke and gave a power point presentation with great enthusiasm and knowledge. We enjoyed him, his stories and got some go-fast, efficient and safety conscience ideas. Thanks to John Taylor for letting us borrow his projector! Lori Gleason was able to join us briefly and answered questions about how the show is put together, etc. It was great to see her there and in action at the show. The show opened at 10 am on Saturday and we were there! We all tried to pack as much into our day as possible, and we did. We were busy with so many boats to see and go aboard, a variety of seminars to attend (Gary Jobson made a last minute appearance despite his serious health problems), sail makers, magazine publishers, hardware and equipment manufacturers, charter and sailing school representatives, radio controlled boats, and various other sailing gear and accessories to see. There were over 250 exhibitors! As a result of the show among our group, a boat was sold (Slapshot), a boat was purchased, a group was formed and commitment made for a ten day Caribbean charter, sailing school commitment made, boat shoes, cushions, books, bags etc. etc. bought…….. That evening we descended upon Sam and Cass Williamson in their lovely 29th floor apartment in the heart of the city and shared stories of our day.

After hearty appetizers there we dispersed for dinner. Reports came from ESPN Zone, Blues Bars to area ethnic restaurants. After our second great Marriott breakfast we headed back east. We had a faster trip home with better weather and traffic conditions. We made the Super Bowl kick-off with several hours to spare.

We all had such fun; we are planning to repeat the CYC event again next year. Keep the last week-end in Jan. 2005 open!

Those who attended the FIRST annual trip to Chicago were: Jim Stewart, Steven Dean, Chris & Autumn Lamb, Hartley Comfort, Judy Comfort, Peter Comfort, Mark & Carol Pirie, Erik & Alicia Sonju, John Kunitzer, Roger Smith, Annette Nesburg, Ron & Brandy DeCosse, Sonny Tindel, Dennis & Karen Joy, Dave & Joan Robinson, Bob & Gay Pung, Joe & Bea Wollam, Bob & Jan D’Alcorn, Gary & Mary Street, Linda & Tom Orlow, Sam & Cass Williamson.

Bring Your Membership Cards
Our volunteer hosts don't always know you, so bring your membership cards to the club. It's a great way to introduce yourself and get to know your fellow members. Use your card! That's why we have them.