Big Blue Sailing Seeks Coach for 2011 Season

Ahoy, sailors! Does the snow make you dream of Martinique? Just itching to get out on the water and enjoy a screaming reach? There’s no need to wait until the floats go in! The Friends of Swampscott Sailing (FoSS) invite you to put your expertise and passion to good use by coaching the Big Blue Sailing (BBS) team this spring.  

The team had a great first year, learning to sail as a team rather than individuals, according to Steve Eckman, newly-elected president of FoSS. “We want to keep the momentum going in 2011 by hiring a paid coach for this one-design yachting experience.” Anyone interested in the position may contact Eckman at 781-596-9337.

FoSS has supported the BBS team by raising money to buy 420 racing boats, maintaining the boats and hiring a coach. At its fall 2010 fundraiser, the group raised nearly $9,000 to secure a new float that will be placed in the harbor off of Fisherman’s beach. The float will allow the fleet of six 420 racing boats previously stored on the beach to float in the harbor. Not only will that create more space on the beach, but it’ll mean less wear and tear on the boats.

At its fall meeting recently, FoSS elected other officers to a one-year term: Ulf Westhoven, treasurer; Amy Sullivan, vice president; and Don Pinkerton, secretary/clerk. Also joining the executive board are Fran Smith, website design; and Laura Smith, communications. The new officers wish to thank outgoing president, Rick Wright, for his leadership and energy.

“Rick and Suzanne [Wright] brought prodigious skills in boating and fund-raising, and focused them on creating huge improvements in the fleet, trailers, and storage,” Eckman said. “The racing program and FoSS would not be what they are today without Rick’s involvement.”

There are many opportunities for other friends to help with meaningful projects, including the administration of a scholarship and building the BBS float. These two goals will further the mission of FOSS to make sailing accessible to everyone.