A Message from the Commodore
I would like to thank Eddie and the outgoing board members for their wonderful job and wish them smooth seas and fair winds. This organization builds on the work of those that precede us.
Sailing has been a big part of my life since I bought my first Laser as a teenager. Since then I have lived, sailed, and raced in Central Texas, Lake Norman, Annapolis, and for the last 10 years here in Charleston. My family are also sailors. My daughter Bryndl was on the Bishop England team. My eight year old son, Christian, was in his first Opti camp this summer and now likes to crew with us on Buena Vida. My wife, Rhonda, took to sailing on our first boating date, even though I forgot the food and beer (she was a keeper).
Over the years I have been involved with many sailing and yacht clubs, but CORA stands out. The ability to run so many races, with so many classes, across so many courses, and host Charleston Race Week, takes a lot of work. CORA seems to do it with ease. That has a lot to do with its active members and the camaraderie amongst the skippers. I believe what makes CORA successful is that it is a boat owner’s organization, run by sailors, and is inclusive of those who want to participate in our sport.
In the age of wake boarding and jet skiing, sailing is a dying sport, but not in Charleston. Organizations such as Charleston Community Sailing introduce new lifelong sailors to our waters. Our own Charleston Race Week is a marquee event with participants from across the country and around the world. This coming year, the city will be hosting the Charleston to Bermuda Race and the Velux 5 Oceans Solo Challenge. CORA and its volunteers help make this all happen.
That said, we have a lot ahead of us in 2011. Our mandate is to promote the sport, run great races, and make it fun for our members. I am blessed with a wonderful past board and a new board that is up for the challenge. I feel honored to be your new commodore.
Kirk