On Monday, June 6, multiple generations of Husky Sailing alumni and supporters celebrated the collegiate team’s new fleet of Flying Junior sailboats with a christening ceremony in the Sail Sand Point boatyard on the shores of Lake Washington.
The 12 new boats, a huge expansion for the Husky Sailing Team, represent a major achievement for the Husky Sailing Foundation (HSF), a recently formed nonprofit dedicated to supporting collegiate sailing at the University of Washington.
The fleet represents a renewed dedication from the team and its supporters to continue a long and valued legacy of competitive sailing and a well-rounded collegiate athletic experience at Washington. With valuable insight from recent graduates, HSF identified the club sports program’s critical needs, including funding for equipment and coaching. The Jeff Wright family turned these needs into reality with several generous donations
Dozens of other supporters joined the cause, donating at various levels to name or dedicate the boats. As donors christened each boat, inspiring stories of female sailors, strong mothers, deep friendships and silly moments surfaced. More photos of the event available here.
Almost 70 people attended the event organized by HSF vice president Carol Buchan (‘80), which created a welcome crossroads as the current team mingled with donors, alumni and family. Mark Laura (‘75), a college sailing All American and HSF board member spearheading development, welcomed attendees and spoke about the ambitions of this new Husky Sailing partnership.
Husky Sailing team co-captain Sam Delasanta spoke, he will be the team’s fleet manager next year. The event also coincided with Maya Outhred stepping in as the new team captain and the ongoing expansion of the Husky Sailing Foundation’s board, led by president Brian Thomas (‘79).
Ed Note: Cara Kuhlman’s blog Future Tides will be one to watch. She’s covering waterfront news for both recreational and professional mariners.