Written by Joanne Aspinall with help from Bob Naylor, Melissa Sutton and AI. Feature photos by Andrew Fulton (TTL), Mellissa Sutton (LP land), and Lynna Holland (LP sailing)
Arizona Yacht Club launched its new sailing season in grand style over two consecutive weekends, proving once again that desert sailing is vibrant, competitive, and backed by an unbeatable community.
From lakeside diplomacy in Tempe to roaring winds and seafood feasts at Lake Pleasant, our double-header Opening Days set an energizing tone for the year ahead!
Part 1: Tempe Town Lake – Community, Growth, and Booming Cannons
Opening Day at Tempe Town Lake delivered brisk competition, welcome new faces, and a powerful showcase of the Arizona sailing community. AYC stands proudly at the vanguard as the voice of Arizona sailing, working in lockstep with our vital partners: the Arizona Sailing Foundation (ASF) and the Arizona State University (ASU) Sailing Team.
Continuing to promote youth and collegiate sailing is essential to the future of our sport, and events like this prove how much stronger we are when we build on our shared synergies.
Welcoming City Leaders and Waterfront Partners
AYC had the distinct honor of hosting Tempe Mayor Corey Woods, whose warmth, energy, and genuine engagement made Sunday, September 27th an unforgettable occasion. Commodore Cedric Lorch was fully in his element, collaborating closely with Bruce Andress (ASF President) and Max Herbreteau (ASU Team President) to escort Mayor Woods on a walking tour of the lakeside facilities and introduce him to club members.
Engaging with Mayor Woods is part of AYC’s ongoing initiative to elevate the club’s profile on the Tempe waterfront as city committees plan development along the North Shore. Joining the mayor was Sue Rigler, owner of Hundred Mile Brewing who has generously hosted AYC’s post-race socials for the past three years. We extend our heartfelt thanks to both Mayor Woods and Sue for their continuous support and advocacy.
On the Water & Race Committee Accolades
The racing brought out an exciting wave of new sailors on the water. The start was punctuated by an earth-shaking blast from the ceremonial cannon that reverberated off the lake basin to the delight of spectators and crew alike.
The wind started off pretty light, but soon got into the spirit of the event and made for some great racing. In fact, the Lasers didn’t want to stop, and convinced the RC (who were itching to get to the bar) to start them on their 6th race at 4:28pm, two minutes before last call – sorry…not sorry! Scores from the racing can be found here.
Speaking of RC, our deepest appreciation goes to the Race Committee volunteers, organized expertly by Roger Pawley. The seamless operation on the water highlighted just how indispensable these volunteers are—THANK YOU!!
After racing everyone headed over to Hundred Mile Brewing for some much-earned appetizers and drinks, and spirited conversation.
Appreciation also to Andrew Fulton and Joe Motil who captured the essence of the day in many great photos, which can be found on our AYC SmugMug.
Part 2: Lake Pleasant – Strong Breezes, SCYA Dignitaries, and a Legendary Seafood Boil
The momentum carried straight into the following weekend at Lake Pleasant, greeted by a steady, powerful easterly breeze that delivered outstanding racing conditions all weekend.
Distinguished Guests from Southern California
AYC was privileged to welcome executive leadership from the Southern California Yachting Association (SCYA):
- Jodi Masters-Gonzales, Commodore, and her husband José
- Elena Yuasa, Vice Commodore
- Judi Glover, Director
Their visit underscored the strong camaraderie, mutual respect, and ties shared across our regional yachting community.
Morning Cheer & The Skipper’s Meeting
The day began bright and early thanks to a setup crew led by Melissa & Peter Sutton and Jessica Zornik, paving the way for a crowd-pleasing Bloody Mary and Mimosa bar hosted by Jo & Mike Grijalva. Nearly 50 skippers, crew, and Race Committee members mingled before the 10:00 AM skippers meeting, led by Lake Captain Roger Pawley.
The meeting featured an instant classic for the club archives: Commodore Cedric Lorch earned an undisputed, unanimous Blunder Bucket nomination after the ceremonial starting cannon misfired not once, not twice, but three consecutive times. The official series-starting boom was finally heard throughout Spring Canyon, and by 10:30 AM, boats were rigged and heading out for a banner day on the racecourse.
An Unmatched Evening Feast
Following a thrilling afternoon on the water, more than 80 members and guests gathered for an extraordinary Seafood Boil dinner prepared by Bonnie & Joe Motil. The meal was a triumph in flavor, presentation, and seamless execution.
Heartfelt thanks go out to Joe & Bonnie and all who made the evening run so smoothly:
- Dinner shift crew: Cat & Eric Bruce, Alexia & Greg Surabian, and Linda & Ralph Vatalaro
- Grounds & cleanup crew: Martin Lorch, Greg Surabian, and our dedicated spontaneous volunteers
- Lake Captain Roger Pawley for his steadfast leadership throughout the event
What’s Next?
With two successful venues, strong municipal and collegiate partnerships, and unmatched volunteer dedication, the season is officially open! Check the AYC Racing Calendar for upcoming race dates, crew opportunities, and social gatherings.
- October 11 – 2nd race weekend at TTL (weather permitting)
- October 13 – October General Membership Meeting
- October 17 – Ruth Beals Cup Regatta
See you on the starting line!
Scores from both weekends can be found here, and additional photos can be found on our SmugMug. Have photos you want to share? Follow these instructions to submit them.
