In July, we traveled through Sandpoint, ID, and had the opportunity to meet up with Sandpoint Sailing Association’s Past Commodore, Jim Doudna for a burgee exchange. Their Commodore, Chris Ankney, was not available due to being over on Flathead Lake helping with the Thistle Nationals.
SSA share’s a similar situation to AYC with no physical clubhouse, but they have a mighty fine dock area with several slips and shaded storage space at Windbag Marina. The storage cabinet is securely guarded by a padlock with the code written in magic marker on a 4×4 wood post right above the lock. Sailors!
And there is plenty of water for racing and endless days of cruising because they are located on Lake Pend Oreille (pronounced Lake Ponderay), Idaho’s largest lake – 43 miles long with 111 miles of shoreline. With depths of 1158 feet, only four other US lakes are deeper. We wondered how David Newland might figure out the Mark setting here. But not to worry since Jim explained that the depth around their club is only 30-40 feet deep.
SSA owns a fleet of four 14-foot Hobie Holder sailboats and a Capri 18 for recreational use by all active members who meet a minimum set of requirements. They also host an active juniors program and sailing classes for members and the community.
The location is perfect for club racing, cruising, learning how to sail, and their world-famous Spud Cup Regatta – it is Idaho! Plus, there is a lakeside restaurant with good food, cool drinks, and a city beach only a few steps away! Who could ask for anything more?
