US SAILING President Gary Jobson met in January with Long Island Sound commodores, fleet captains and race officials to talk about the future of sailing. The event was sponsored by the Yacht Racing Association of Long Island Sound (YRA of LIS) and hosted by Manhasset Bay YC and Stamford YC/Indian Harbor YC and attracted about 200 interested participants.
Jobson highlighted the importance of yacht clubs, the role of the club manager, issues facing clubs such as aging membership, declining participation on the water and budget deficit. He mentioned the need for clubs to have a signature event, and the importance of communication, hosting charity events and club-owned fleets. He offered suggestions for growing club membership.
Jobson’s plans for US SAILING included visibility and promotion, the need to re-engage yacht clubs (a yacht club summit is planned for early 2011) and making sailing easy.
At the conclusion of Jobson’s prepared remarks was a Q&A that brought forth concerns ranging from sponsorship opportunities for clubs, junior sailing programs, and the cost of sailing.
For a 14-page summary of the January presentation and to review Jobson’s long range planning for both US SAILING and yacht clubs, please visit the YRA of LIS website.
Source: Port Washington News Feb 26, 2010
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