My friends at Sailing World recently posted a piece I wrote about Pelican Fleet 3 here in the Northwest. It was a lot of fun to research and write, and a good example of how the an organized and dedicated group of sailors can keep a class going and enjoy the heck out of it. I mean, having a Washington State Park named in a boat’s honor? Cruising open boats? Having one of the skipper’s an all-time great hydroplane drivers? A class that doesn’t put a premium on new sails, that can be sailed by young and old alike? Thanks to all those who helped me with this, and especially Sue Weiss who kept reminding me that it was a story that needed writing. Long live the Pelican!
Here’s the story on Sailing World’s website.
Kurt grew up racing and cruising in the Midwest, and has raced Lasers since the late 1970s. Currently he is a broker at Swiftsure Yachts. He has been Assistant Editor at Sailing Magazine and a short stint as Editor of Northwest Yachting. Through Meadow Point Publishing he handles various marketing duties for smaller local companies. He currently is partners on a C&C 36 which he cruises throughout the Northwest. He’s married to the amazing Abby and is father to Ian and Gabe.
Seems like Fleet 3 is virtually impossible to contact. How do they keep the class alive with no online presence, no website, no media, no contact information…geez! You’d think you would want to PROMOTE a group if you want it to grow and thrive. 🤷♂️