



FEBRUARY 2026
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FEBRUARY 2026

COMMODORE JOHN HAMILTON
Wow — the big chair. OK, here we go!
For those of you I haven’t met, my name is John Hamilton, and I will be the 2026 Commodore for CYC. I have never known life without the California Yacht Club (my parents were members before I was born), so to serve as the 2026 Commodore is a huge honor for me.
In fact, CYC is such a part of my life that I have made this year’s theme “Home.” That may seem a bit ironic, given that the former clubhouse is no longer functional for us and our current digs, P130, are not forever. But there is a thought behind that apparent contradiction. Home is where we are. This Club is chosen family to me, and I can say without irony that, with or without a permanent structure, CYC is home
My wife, Diane, and I were married on the front lawn My daughter went through the same junior program that I did, and now she coaches during the summer
I have made countless friends, shared a million laughs, and stood solemnly to honor the loss of some of our fellow members. To me, that is what home is: a place where we bear witness to the lives of those we love and who love us. OK, no more soppy stuff on to the year ahead.
We will be threading the theme of Home throughout several events this year. I am especially excited about the Commodore’s Cruise around Catalina in August, so be on the lookout for more information coming soon. There will be opportunities to attend by boat, as well as limited opportunities to join as a land-based cruiser. Beyond the Commodore’s Cruise, we will be hosting 14 regattas and nine additional cruises, along with so many events that your calendar could be booked with just what we have happening at the Club.
A highlight of every year is Opening Day — March 7 this year. I strongly encourage all members to attend. The Club is at its absolute best that day: polished and partying. This year, our Fleet Captain, Jonathan Greenburg, has arranged for the fleet to “Med-tie” to the main gangway, creating one giant, continuous outdoor party to follow the ceremonies. Don’t miss it, I suspect it may become a tradition.
In closing, I would like to thank Jr. Staff Commodore Michelle Ondrey. Her leadership, intelligence, and resilience are commendable and enviable. I, for one, had a great time last year, in no small part because of her hard work and effortless grace. Thank you, Michelle. We will continue to be “CYC Strong” — just maybe a little more “at Home.”
The Breeze is published to provide members with announcements of and information about Club activities. Deadline for articles is the first day of the month preceding the publication date. Contact Breeze Editor Lisa Bronitt at breeze@calyachtclub.com for information on submitting articles.

CLUB OWNERS
COLIN SHEPHERD
JEFF WEISS
GENERAL MANAGER
SCOTT FENTON
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
LISA BRONITT
EDITORIAL STAFF
STEVE EDWARDS
CASSANDRA HOUGH
TIFFANY LOK
JULIA RYCHLIK
ANN TURNER
COMMODORE
JOHN HAMILTON
VICE COMMODORE
DENISE GEORGE
REAR COMMODORE
SUZANNE BOONE
FLEET CAPTAIN
JONATHAN GREENBURG
PORT CAPTAIN
MARILYN CASSEDY
ARTICLE CONTRIBUTORS
P/C MARILYN CASSEDY
E/O SARAH FAURA
R/C DENISE GEORGE
CHRIS GOROG
JULIE HARRISON
CASSANDRA HOUGH
GRANT JANOV
SARAH KIRSH
S/C CRAIG LEEDS
BRIDGET MCMEEL
S/C BILL MOORE
HO NGUYEN
FRED RYAN
JULIA RYCHLIK
S/C SUE SERVICE
GARDENIA SPIEGEL
CHASE YOUNG
MARK ALBERTAZZI
DREW BALDWIN
CHUCK BEHRMAN
LISA BRONITT
M. DODGER
ADAM FAURA
E/O SARAH FAURA
CHRIS GOROG
CMMD. JOHN HAMILTON
JULIE HARRISON
SARAH KIRSH
S/C CRAIG LEEDS
TIFFANY LOK
BRIDGET MCMEEL
HO NGUYEN
JULIA RYCHLIK
S/C SUE SERVICE
GARDENIA SPIEGEL
S/C RICK TURNER
ANN TURNER

E/O
California Yacht Club 4469 Admiralty Way
Marina del Rey, CA 90292
310-823-4567
CalYachtClub com
The Breeze is published to provide members with announcements and information about Club activities Deadline for articles is the first day of the month preceding the publication date Next deadline is March 1 BACK
Lipton
2026 Bridge Installation
2026 CYCWA Board Installation
2026 Jr Bridge Installation
Opening Day
Pickleball
Trunk or Treat Toys for Tots
Holiday Parties
Marina del Rey Boat Parade Commodores Ball
Epicurean Society - Chesapeake Bay
Wine Expo
Adaptive Observation Day
Pre-Holiday Market Beacons of Excellence
As 2025 came to a close, it looked much like it began: busy, energetic, and full of life. Together, the CYC team, our incredible member volunteers, and an expanded staff brought more than 300 events to life over the past year—from regattas to brand-new Club offerings and everything in between Pulling that off takes more than a good calendar; it takes commitment, coordination, and a small army of dedicated people Thank you to everyone who made it happen
All of this activity is a clear reflection of the Club’s continued recovery and growth The opening of P130 marked a major milestone, restoring a welcoming and comfortable place for our community to gather once again. As signature events like the Commodores Ball returned, along with our cherished holiday parties and kids events throughout November and December, something special was reignited. With every gathering, P130 feels a little more like home.

MANAGER SCOTT FENTON
While this note could easily focus on where our property is headed—and there is much to be excited about—it’s important to acknowledge the stories already being told. The Breeze does exactly that, and it wouldn’t exist without the incredible efforts of Lisa Bronitt and Cassandra Ticer, who truly create each issue from start to finish. Producing the magazine every quarter is no small feat, and it’s a testament to the energy, pride, and momentum within our Club. Now, they will be producing a magazine every other month— it just keeps getting better and better.
If you’ve spent time walking the property lately, you’ve likely noticed the steady progress. The office trailer is gone, fencing and debris around the old clubhouse have largely disappeared, and new wind screens now line the dry storage area. The dry storage cleanup alone removed years of accumulated materials, while ongoing dock work has helped clear away dilapidated floats, oars, covers, and clutter—restoring a cleaner, more welcoming look throughout CYC.
Looking ahead to February and March, our focus is simple: reconnecting. Let’s all make it a point to enjoy the many amenities now at our service. Better yet, bring some friends to enjoy a property that just keeps getting better and better. We look forward to welcoming members back to P130, spending time aboard the Northwind, and getting out on the water as conditions allow. The coming months are about being together again—and enjoying the Club we continue to rebuild, improve, and call home.
I’m proud to lead the membership and our team and to offer an inspiring voice about our present and future Thank you for your continued support and dedication to the Club
ArticleByJuliaRychlik,PhotosByTiffanyLok


On January 10, members gathered at P130 to install the 2026 Bridge and Fleet Officers It was a night to recognize individuals and boats with distinguished accomplishments over the past year. Installation of the California Yacht Club’s Bridge is a time-honored tradition that reflects the values, leadership, and continuity of the Club. This ceremonial event, this year led by Master of Ceremonies S/C Tim Clarke, marks the formal transfer of authority to newly elected officers typically including the Bridge and other Fleet Officers who are entrusted with guiding the Club through the coming year.
Jr. S/C and SEO Michelle Ondrey gave a speech covering the highs and lows during her tenure. In a year that started with devastating fires across Los Angeles and affected so many in our community, her year did end on one of our highest highs in recent memory, establishing P130 as our temporary clubhouse. Jr. S/C and SEO Ondrey wished incoming Commodore John Hamilton all the best for his commodore year as we continue to find ways to show we are, in fact, CYC Strong
John Hamilton was installed by installing officer S/C Richard Mainland as Commodore for 2026, along with his Bridge John’s Bridge includes Denise George as Vice Commodore, Suzanne Boone as Rear Commodore, Jonathan Greenburg as Fleet Captain, and Marilyn Cassedy as Port Captain Also installed were SEO Laura Greenburg as Fleet Budget Secretary, Tony Festa as Fleet Secretary, Katie Moran as Fleet Judge Advocate, and Dr Tiffany Fischman as Fleet Surgeon
In his speech, Commodore Hamilton took the opportunity to showcase his theme for 2026, Home There are so many ways we make CYC our Home, and John’s speech included stories from his childhood at CYC that might not have immediately demonstrated his fitness for higher office, but did show how thoroughly entwined his life and CYC have been over the years. He closed his speech by thanking his wife and Installation event chair, Diane Hamilton, who he confirmed has played a role in many of the best decisions he has made both personally and professionally.
In addition to installing the Bridge for the upcoming year, this event serves as a chance to recognize members and boats with distinguished accomplishments over the past year. This y achtsman of the Year, Michael F. Braney S s Hathaway Long Distance Cruising Trophy, a

Allie Blecher won the Hal Haenel Yachtsman of the Year. In 2025, Allie, and Team BAAM, represented CYC at the Santa Maria Cup in Annapolis Yacht Club. The Santa Maria Cup is one of the U.S. stops on the Women’s World Match Race Tour.
Allie and her team competed against highly ranked female match racers from around the world in challenging conditions. Competing for Team BAAM in Annapolis were Allie, Beka Schiff, Ali Blumenthal, and Rose Edwards
nship Award. Rory served three years as Sail y every major event run at CYC. Despite has remained an active member of Sail
phanie won the Charles Hathaway Long ther, Charles. Steve and Stephanie took up the their new Oyster XX around the ng.
Rich Festa and his Rogers 46, Groundhog Day, won the Stephen Newmark Transpac Award Stephen Newmarc Transpac Trophy is awarded to the boat with the best overall finish in Transpacific Yacht Club’s biennial Transpac flying under the CYC burgee Groundhog Day finished 37th out of 51 entries and second in Division 4 Groundhog Day has a mix of veterans and new faces as in their second attempt at the race, the first being in 2023
Although he was unable to attend the event, the Yacht of the Year was awarded to Drew Freides’ Cape 31 Pacific Yankee, which he actively campaigned in Europe in 2025


ArticleByE/OSarahFauraandPhotosByLisaBronitt
A large, warm crowd gathered on January 31 for the second big installation event of the year at P130 The California Yacht Club Women’s Association (CYCWA) installed its new Executive Board members under the helm of Installing Officer Jr. S/C and SEO Michelle Ondrey.
This year’s officers include Executive Officer Sarah Faura, 1st Officer Carrie Schat, 2nd Officer Susan Coletti, Secretary Paula Watson, Jr Staff Executive Officer Nicole Harnett.
Also given out at the CYCWA Installation was the Fleet Service Award. The 2025 recipient is S/C Debbie Feinerman, whose amazing accomplishments and dedication to CYC made her an easy and obvious choice
The other award given during this event was the CYCWA Woman of the Year This year’s recipient is Evelyn Gravett Evelyn’s contributions, enthusiasm, and commitment to CYCWA are much appreciated, and we are thrilled to bestow this award on her
The Judy Levi Legacy Award was presented to Leila Landay. Leila is a freshman at the University of Hawaii and sails a C420.




ArticleandPhotosByJuliaRychlik
On January 18th, the Southern California Yachting Association (SCYA) hosted their Installation and Awards Dinner at Los Angeles Yacht Club. California Yacht Club was well represented at the dinner In addition to the awardees, Cmmd John Hamilton and his wife, Dianne, S/C Tom O’Connor, Marylyn Hoenemeyer, and Bill Tan were in attendance

Most notably, Marie Rogers was selected as the 2026 SCYA Honorary Commodore by Jodi Masters-Gonzales, SCYA’s 2026 Commodore. SCYA Commodore Jodi noted Marie was chosen for her “service to SCYA, yacht clubs, and sailing organizations at the local, regional and national level” through being “a trailblazer and glass ceiling breaker, devoted to equity onthe-water and in leadership” in her announcement. In addition to her nomination as Honorary Commodore, Marie was also the recipient of the Warren Ewert Memorial Trophy which recognizes service to SCYA in the true Corinthian spirit.

In addition to Marie, several CYC members were recognized for their service to the yachting community Steve and Miriam Moses were awarded the George & Kay Fisher Memorial Trophy
The George & Kay Fisher Memorial Trophy is awarded to a couple who has rendered distinguished service to yachting in Southern California over a long period of time
Next, Marylin Hoenemeyer presented P/C Marilyn Cassedy the Peggy Slater Memorial Award
The Peggy Slater Memorial Award is awarded to a female who best demonstrates outstanding contributions to the enhancement of women's participation in sailing, or individual achievement in the sport of sailing. P/C Marylin Cassedy was nominated by CYC to SCYA.
Finally, Drew Baldwin was awarded the SCYA Rescue Award for his rescue during the Long Beach Olympic Classes Regatta.
ArticleandPhotosByJuliaRychlik
January was a month filled with Installation and Awards ceremonies hosted throughout the Southern California region. In addition to CYC’s Installation and Awards Ceremony, our members were nominated and honored for awards in Santa Monica Bay and the broader Southern California region for their accomplishments
On January 11, the Association of Santa Monica Bay Yacht Clubs (ASMBYC) held its Awards Ceremony and Installation of Officers CYC was well represented at the event Many of CYC’s members were nominated for and won awards ASMBYC presented for racing and service to the community. Several members of CYC attended the Awards Ceremony and Installation of Officers, including Cmmd. John Hamilton and R/C Suzanne Boone.

The lively ceremony and installation were held at the South Coast Corinthian Yacht Club Both floors of the clubhouse were packed full with representatives, honorees, friends and family from clubs within ASMBYC in attendance
Madeline Clarke was presented with the Diane Armstrong Memorial Trophy For the Diane Armstrong Memorial Trophy, ASMBYC clubs with Junior Programs each nominate an honoree from their club At the Awards and Installation Ceremony, ASMBYC equally recognized the honoree from each club
Drew Baldwin and Mary Stuyvesant were each awarded the Rescue Award, for separate but equally heroic rescues.

After concluding racing for the day at the Long Beach Olympic Classes Regatta hosted by Alamitos Bay YC, Drew and his crew, S/C Christina Tarantola and Rory Mach, rendered aid to a bowrider pleasure boat with seven aboard, which they discovered in peril upon the jetty rocks.
A trained Boat Crew member of the USCG Auxiliary, Drew, instructed his crew on how to tow the disabled vessel to safety. Their quick action and successful efforts saved the lives and property of the endangered boaters.

Mary’s rescue involved helping a young sailor at Opti Nationals hosted by CYC over the summer On the last leg of the race, approaching the finish, a young sailor capsized and struggled to right their boat Mary, covering the finish for social media, noticed the capsized Opti and no coach nearby
Thinking quickly, Mary jumped in the water to help them right their boat, bail their boat out, and get back in The sailor ultimately finished the race thanks to Mary’s recognition and quick thinking.
Allie Blecher and Team BAAM won the Competitive Yachting Achievement Award In 2025, Allie and Team BAAM represented CYC in the Santa Maria Cup at Annapolis Yacht Club The Santa Maria Cup is one of the United States stops on the Women’s World Match Race Tour Allie and her team competed against highly ranked female match racers from around the world in challenging conditions Competing for Team BAAM in Annapolis were Allie Blecher, Beka Schiff, Ali Blumenthal, and Rose Edwards
Also nominated for awards were CYC’s juniors Katlia Sherman and Leila Landay for ASMBYC’s Junior Yachtsman Award and Hayden Zieger for ASMBYC’s Junior Sportsman Award Katlia and Leila sailed C420s and i420s together while in CYC’s Junior Program They competed at regional and national events with great success. Over the summer, Katlia and Leila placed seventh out of 47 at the C420 Women’s North American Championship and placed second out of 34 entries in SCYYRA’s 2024–2025 Perry Series.
Hayden is an Opti sailor in CYC’s Junior Program who has shown strong competitive results at the national level. At the Team Trials, Hayden finished 133rd out of 250 sailors, earning the distinction of being the top CYC boat. Hayden also placed 36th at the Optimist National Championships and finished fourth overall in the Carrie Series, highlighting consistent performance across major regattas.
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ArticleandPhotosByJuliaRychlik

On January 11, CYC installed the Junior Bridge officers Similar to the Bridge for the Club, junior sailors and rowers “go up” the Junior Bridge as they progress through their respective Junior Programs.
For 2026, the Junior Bridge was installed by S/C Tim Clarke. Connor Francisco was installed as Junior Commodore. Connor is joined by Jackson Rushing as Vice Commodore, Kaito Le Tenoux as Rear Commodore, Hayden Zieger as Port Captain, and Madeline Clarke as Team Racing Captain
ArticleandPhotosByS/CSueService
California Yacht Club is well known as a powerhouse of yachting talent, and on November 12, we gathered in the Burgee Bar at P130 to recognize achievements in the sports of rowing and sailboat racing. We saluted juniors and adults who represented our Club in events both at home and abroad.
Previn Chandraratna, CYC’s head rowing coach, accompanied by several junior rowers, told the crowd about recent rowing accomplishments at the Head of the Charles Regatta in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and at our own Head of the Marina Regatta here in Marina del Rey: “The CYC Junior Rowing squad had a tremendous fall, medaling in over 30 events across five regattas. The tightening culture, the cohesion of the group, and the camaraderie that we built in these last few months will have an even longer-lasting impact than the hardware. We are looking forward to spring!”
The 2025 Junior Sailing season was recapped by Coach Thomas Sylvestre. After giving a rundown of season highlights, Thomas gave a special shout out to Opti sailor Hayden Zeiger Hayden had a special honor as Latitude 38 magazine announced that he will be awarded the annual Jake Wosser Trophy (awarded to the winner of the largest one-design regatta in the San Francisco Bay each year), as he was the winner of the 2025 Opti Pacific Coast Championships (which had 51 boats)


We then turned to adult sailing, where we focused on four members who represented CYC at international events this year
Drew Freides is a five-time winner of CYC’s Hal Haenel Yachtsman of the Year, and last year his Cape 31, Pacific Yankee, was CYC’s Yacht of the Year This summer Drew took Pacific Yankee to Europe to compete in the Cape 31 Mediterranean circuit in the four events leading up to and including the Cape 31 European Championship At the lead-up regattas, Drew placed sixth, fourth, and second respectively before placing fourth at the fourth event in Mallorca! In the Championship regatta, Drew placed fourth out of 24 boats, missing first place by just two points
Allie Blecher grew up at CYC Her father, Mike, is a Staff Commodore, and she is an alumnus of our Junior program. She was a four-time All-American collegiate sailor, has won US Sailing’s Women’s National Match Racing Championship four times and is a four-time winner of CYC’s Yachtsman of the Year award. She competed in the Santa Maria Cup, a stop on the Woman’s World Matching Racing Tour in Annapolis, where she faced competitors from around the world. After four days of close racing Allie and Team BAAM emerged victorious.
Grant and Jordan Janov also grew up sailing Optis in CYC’s Junior program. They are currently sailing an Olympic-class boat – the 49er, a double-handed skiff. Grant and Jordan are classified as Olympic Development Program (ODP) sailors, and it is their goal to represent the U.S. at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. They’ve been training all over Europe and competed in the 49er World Championships last October in Sardinia. This was their first World Championship in a very competitive 84-boat fleet, and they placed third out of five American competitors, finishing in the middle of the silver fleet overall They are determined to continue improving, and have an intense training schedule lined up for 2026
Many thanks to all of these athletes for competing under the CYC burgee and congratulations on your achievements
ArticleByChaseYoung,WaterfrontDirector,PhotoByTiffanyLok
This fall, the California Yacht Club’s Junior Sailing Program charted new waters with the launch of an innovative after-school partnership with Westside Neighborhood School (WNS), a local elementary and middle school in our community. The program marked an exciting expansion of CYC’s mission to introduce young sailors to the water earlier, blending education, adventure, and hands-on learning into a weekly experience that connected classroom concepts with realworld exploration in the marina.

The partnership was inspired in part by two of our own junior sailors, Madeleine and Morgan Clarke, who are students at WNS and helped spark conversations between the school and the Club
Working closely with WNS administrators, CYC developed an elective class that students could take for school credit, creating a seamless bridge between academic enrichment and outdoor activity.
Each Friday afternoon, five students were bused directly from campus to CYC, where they joined certified junior sailing coaches for an afternoon on the water Sailing in Optimists as part of CYC’s Green Fleet pathway, students were introduced to the fundamentals of racing, boat handling, and on-the-water decision-making. The small, single-handed boats allowed each sailor to take full responsibility for their own vessel, building confidence while learning how wind, weather, and water work together in real time. Parents picked up their sailors at the end of practice, often greeted by stories of first mark roundings, successful tacks, and the excitement of racing alongside their peers.
The semester concluded with a special mini regatta, giving families a front-row seat to watch their young sailors put their new skills into action. For many parents, it was their first glimpse of how sailing can foster independence, teamwork, and a deeper connection to the natural world. The event celebrated not just progress on the water, but the growing sense of community between the Club, the school, and participating families.
Beyond learning how to sail, the program introduced students to STEM concepts through hands-on experience Lessons naturally incorporated physics, math, and environmental awareness, helping students understand everything from wind angles and buoyancy to problem-solving and leadership
This partnership represents a meaningful step forward in CYC’s long-term vision for youth development By welcoming schools into the Club’s sailing pathway, CYC is creating new access points for families to discover the sport and become part of a community that values curiosity, confidence, and lifelong learning on and off the water If your children attends a local school and you’d like to help our junior sailing and junior rowing programs connect with that school, please reach out to Coach Gabriel Sequeira at gabriel@calyachtclub.com.
ArticleByGrantJanov,PhotobySDYC,MarkAlbertazzi

California Yacht Club’s entry for the 2025 Lipton Cup was led by Jordan Janov At 19 years old, Jordan organized a crew with some of CYC’s best sailors for the event, consisting of Doug McLean (bow), Yumio Dornberg (trimmer), Tony Festa (mast), Allie Blecher (tactician), and Grant Janov (trimmer).
The Lipton Cup is a prestigious yacht club challenge event hosted by San Diego Yacht Club (SDYC) for the past several years. Yacht clubs from around the country, and one team from Mexico, deploy six or seven of their best sailors to represent them in a complete
round-robin series on J/105s that are private boats which are generously donated by their respective owners for this event Lipton Cup is known for its extremely competitive racing, as the boats are all similarly matched in boat speed in the flat water, leaving much of the racing up to the decision-making of the tacticians and team work. The first weather mark of each race was so tight that several teams attempted to round simultaneously, with very little time separating the first and last boats around the mark. The finishes were even closer, as there were several occasions where three or more boats were arriving at the finish at the same time.
This year, sea state also played a role in course management. In addition to regular factors that influence on the water decisions, competitors had to contend with choppy conditions from wake from spectator boats while spectators cheered and honked horns as their home teams rounded marks in a strong position. Another spectacle of the regatta, was the scrambling of sailors to switch boats between races. On a 300-foot-long floating dock just under the starting area, the 12 boats line up while 80 people run around, carrying spinnakers and tools and everything else needed for their next race Boats are often halfway off the dock while the team member responsible for filling water bottles hustle back from the crowded water station
Off the water, teams enjoy San Diego Yacht Club’s hospitality, providing a social atmosphere before and after racing On the second evening of the event, SDYC hosts a banquet celebrating the teams and their prestige in a good-natured manner The playful design of the banquet leaves most competitors hungry (and hungover) for the final day of racing
Jordan’s team started the regatta strong with a third place finish in Race 1, but struggled to find their way for the next four races on the first day Sitting in 11th out of 12 boats after five races, the team had a lot of work cut out for itself. The next day of racing proved to be more favorable for the team, and with a first in Race 7, the team moved up four positions. Sitting in seventh going into the last day, Jordan’s team had another first on the last day, jumping ahead of Balboa Yacht Club, who struggled on the final day of racing.
Jordan’s team finished six out of 12 boats. While it is not how the team wanted to finish the regatta, it was a strong recovery, considering their position after the first day. With important lessons learned about the venue, we’re better prepared going into 2026’s Lipton Cup.
ArticleByFredRyan,CruisingChair;PhotosByE/OSarahFauraandM Dodger
The 2026 Cruising Season is shaping up to be one of our most fun and diverse yet, featuring a great mix of favorite classic cruises and several brand-new adventures Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser, a boat owner who hasn’t joined us yet, or a newer member curious about cruising, there’s something for everyone this year.
We kick things off with a brand-new CYC Dinghy Crawl for All, a lively dinghy cruise with all Marina del Rey yacht clubs invited, ending at P130 an energetic way to start the season. Fan favorites return, including the ever-popular King Harbor / Port Royal Yacht Club Cruise, the always-special Newport Harbor Cruise with the entire harbor reserved for CYC boats, and our festive Fourth of July Dinghy Cruise
New destinations and events include a Seal Beach Yacht Club Cruise, the Paradise Cove Stag Cruise, featuring a swim to Paradise Café and steak dinner Additional new cruises will be the Paddle Craft Chaos Cruise and the Ballona Creek Dinghy Cruise
Our longer adventures include the must-do Catalina Island Commodore’s Cruise, offering relaxation and fun events around the island, and the Santa Barbara Channel Islands Cruise, perfect for those who want to experience cruising north with the support of the Club. We’ll wrap up the year with the Buccaneer Days Cruise at Howlands Landing, moored in a peaceful and scenic setting while experiencing the zaniness of Buccaneer Days at the Isthmus. This is the perfect cruise to close out another great season.
We encourage you to review the schedule and join us for one cruise or many Cruising is about camaraderie, sharing experiences, and enjoying the water together, and we would love to see you out there in 2026
Join us March 26 at P130 for the Cruising and Power Fleet Kickoff to learn more about all of these cruises


ArticleandPhotosByS/CCraigLeeds
On Sunday, November 2, California Yacht Club hosted the annual Head of the Marina Regatta, a 5,000-meter head-style rowing race that brought together athletes, spectators, and volunteers for a memorable day on the water.
The regatta followed the traditional head-race format, with boats starting one after another and racing against the clock. The course ran entirely within the Marina, providing a unique and spectator-friendly setting that showcased both the athleticism of the competitors and the beauty of the venue.
The event drew 75 entries across a wide range of classifications, including women, men, youth, masters, and novice rowers Crews competed in shells ranging from singles to eights, creating a full and dynamic race schedule throughout the morning In addition to CYC’s local rowing community, entries came from clubs and schools spanning the Southern California coast, from San Diego to Ventura
Spectators lined the shoreline at Burton Chace Park, cheering on crews as they powered through the course. The lively atmosphere added energy to the racing and made the event enjoyable for participants and onlookers alike. The Club provided a generous selection of breakfast and brunch offerings, which were warmly received by competitors as they wrapped up their races.
The success of the Head of the Marina Regatta would not have been possible without the dedication of the Race Committee A heartfelt thank you goes to all 18 volunteers whose time, effort, and organization ensured a smooth and well-run event from start to finish
The regatta once again highlighted the strength of the rowing community at CYC and reinforced the Club’s commitment to hosting inclusive, competitive, and community-centered events on the water


ArticleByS/CBillMoore,PhotobyLisaBronitt

Opening Day at California Yacht Club is the day when our Club is officially declared to be in “Commission”, open for the yachting season
This year, on Saturday, March 7, we will welcome dignitaries, guests, and members to enjoy the ceremony, a sumptuous buffet luncheon and festivities arranged by our Opening Day Chairman, F/C Jonathan Greenburg. This year’s theme is “Home.” Home means family, and our club is where you have your friends and family over to relax and unwind.
The day is rich in tradition, some formal and others informal At 0800 hours, yachts “dress ship” by hoisting signal flags and pennants, providing a colorful background for the ceremony Flags in a continuous run from the jackstaff (or waterline) at the forward end of the vessel, to the masthead, and then aft to the ensign at the stern - the vessel is then considered “dressed overall.” Flags can be in any order; the idea is to have a colorful pattern. For those with signal flag bags, that pattern beginning forward at the waterline is, in sequence: AB2, UJ1, KE3, GH6, IV5, FL4, DM7, PO, 3rd Repeater, RN 1st Repeater, ST Zero, WQ8, and ZY 2nd repeater. The sequence is then repeated until it reaches the stern.
Attire is as follows: For men, a white shirt, blue-colored or other official CYC tie, trousers or pants in either white or tan, and dress shoes in white or tan (may be boat shoes or athletic shoes) are appropriate. For women, a white shirt or blouse, a CYC scarf, trousers, pants, or a skirt in either white or tan, and dressy shoes in white or tan (may be boat shoes or athletic shoes) is appropriate The Club has CYC ties, CYC scarves and CYC Gold Bullion Crests (to be worn on the blazer breast pocket) available for purchase A cap or hat is not considered part of the CYC attire; however, you will be in the sun for an hour, so if worn with a blazer, it should be conservative with a brim
Among the formal traditions is how to address club leadership Bridge Officers and Staff Commodores wearing a Service Cap render a military hand salute with the wrist straight and brought to the brim of the cap Veterans wearing a ball cap are also authorized to render a military hand salute For all other attendees wearing a ball cap, sailing hat or no hat, remove your cover (hat) and place it over your heart Render a salute as follows: (1) when the Color Guard passes until the colors are presented; (2) during the playing of the National Anthem; (3) during the Pledge of Allegiance; and (4) as the Color Guard passes retiring the colors.
During blessings and moments of silence for the departed (Eight Bells), rise unless directed otherwise by the speaker, remove your cap and place it under your left arm, bow your head, and bring your hands together. Women should not remove covers or hats, but should bow their head and bring their hands together.

California Yacht Club
ArticleandPhotosByCmmd JohnHamilton
For Cmmd John Hamilton, California Yacht Club is more than a place It is a thread of family, friendships, and memories that spans generations
The Hamilton family’s connection to CYC began in the early to mid-1960s, when John’s father, Tom Hamilton, and uncle, Larry Hamilton, joined during the Club’s Marina del Rey Hotel era. It was a formative time for CYC, and for the Hamiltons, the start of a relationship that would shape decades of family life. After Tom’s passing, John’s mother, Elizabeth Hamilton, became a member in her own right, quickly becoming known as an avid paddle tennis player. John’s brother, Thomas, also joined, ensuring the family’s presence at the Club continued into the next generation.
Long before John would one day serve as Commodore, CYC already felt like a natural extension of the Hamiltons’ sailing life. The family was deeply involved at Lake Arrowhead Yacht Club, and many of the same familiar faces, including Don Cooper and Bob Hunter, were part of the growing CYC community. “It just seemed very natural,” John recalls, describing the easy transition between the two clubs and the sense of belonging that followed


On the water, John found a second home aboard Windfall, sailing for Jan and Richard Mainland for more than two decades. The program, he says, was both life changing and affirming, shaping not only his skills as a sailor but also his sense of community and mentorship within the sport Those years on the water remain among the most defining chapters of his time at CYC
Off the water, the Club made its way into everyday life John’s home is filled with CYC towels, shirts, and hats, along with a growing collection of take-home trophies Most of them, he notes with a laugh, are for third place And while John has traveled far and wide over the years, one tradition has remained unchanged His CYC burgee, despite being carefully packed for many trips, has never actually left home.
Some of John’s most vivid memories come from CYC’s legendary regattas. Cal Cup stands out in particular, when America’s Cup boats were tied to the guest dock and young sailors were allowed to climb aboard and explore Later came iconic matchups like Drifter versus Merlin, and the arrival of Windward Passage The 2002 Star Worlds remains especially memorable, which he recalls as a moment when the very top of the competitive sailing world converged at CYC
Yet not all of John’s favorite stories are tied to racing or trophies Some of the most often retold moments are rooted in youthful mischief and family life at the Club One such tale involves being “busted” aboard Betta Mortarotti’s boat when several juniors were supposed to be in Palm Springs instead. “Luckily for me, Betta still laughs about it,” John says. “And yes, her kids were there too.”
As the years went on, CYC became a place where John created new memories with his wife, Diane, and their daughter, Josie. One holiday moment remains a family favorite. During a Christmas celebration, Craig Purcell stepped in as Santa, and when he called Josie by name, she became convinced he was the real thing When he suggested a pony for Christmas, John spent weeks trying to convince her she had heard “pony ride,” not “pony ” “It was hilarious,” he says, “and terrible at the same time ”
Among all the moments John holds dear, one stands above the rest: getting married on the front lawn of the Club, a milestone that tied his personal story even more closely to the place that had shaped so much of his life.
The loss of the clubhouse was a difficult chapter for the entire CYC community, but for John, one small detail made it especially personal. A sportsmanship trophy his daughter Josie had won was lost in the process. Thanks to fellow member Sue Service, a replacement was created, ensuring Josie can still proudly remind her father that her name is etched on a CYC trophy.
Through decades of sailing, celebrations, challenges, and change, the Hamilton family story reflects what California Yacht Club means to so many It is not simply a place to gather or compete, but a living legacy, carried forward through generations, memories, and the people who continue to call it home
ArticleandPhotosByChrisGorog


We all love our boats That is, until a more beautiful girl catches our eye!
I loved my first boat, California Dream, a Beneteau 37, until my crew and I realized she would limit our racing potential. So what would be next? I test-drove some race boats, some J’s, but I couldn’t get “the Brooklin“ out of my mind. She was simply so gorgeous with her gleaming wood, teak decks, and, in particular, her classic traditional lines. And fellow racer and CYC member Joe Weber was selling her, since he was taking delivery of another Brooklin masterpiece. So I bought Va Pensiero from Joe in the fall of 2022, and rechristened her Spirit of California. We have raced her unmercifully ever since, and her 12 tons of glorious wood have never made a peep.
The 48’ all-wood sloop was designed by Stephens Warring/Spirit of Tradition Yacht Design, and built by Brooklin Boat Yard in Brooklin, Maine, in 2004. The hull is cold-molded, the exterior and interior are Port Orford cedar, with two interior layers of red cedar The spine is Douglas fir, and the interior is cherry and teak, with teak decks It’s super easy to maintain as long as you pretend you’re blind when the monthly bills roll in
My son Hunter, as well as other CYC members Bill Tan and Drew Baldwin, form the core of our crew, most of whom have been with the “Cali team“ for over 10 years
The Spirit and her hard-working crew have earned many Cruising Division perpetual trophies, including; the Millard Rosing, Allan Elliot, Pacific Cup, Harris Cup, Cruising Championship and William Stein Last year we re-learned humility as we pushed ourselves up to the Performance Division in the Sunset Series and, let’s just say, we are working hard not to embarrass our pretty girl, too much!
We consider it a genuine honor to guide the Spirit off the coast of California. And we know she’ll still be here long after we’ve gone. She’s that kind of gal. So when you see her around the marina or off the coast, maybe tip your hat, because the Spirit of California is in all of us.
ArticleandPhotosByHoNguyen
Pickleball has become one of the most social and welcoming programs at California Yacht Club, bringing together players of all ages and experience levels. From first-time players to seasoned competitors, the courts have become a place to stay active, build friendships, and be part of a growing, energetic community that extends well beyond the game itself


Curious about pickleball but not sure where to start? CYC’s Learn to Play Pickleball Clinic is the perfect entry point for anyone interested in the fastest-growing sport in America. Designed for true beginners, this fun, low-pressure session introduces players to the rules, scoring, and essential shots, including serves, returns, dinks, and volleys.
By the end of the clinic, participants leave with the confidence to step into open play and enjoy real games with other members. The clinic is open to both members and non-members, making it a great way to invite friends and family to learn together.
Once you’ve picked up the basics, CYC offers a natural progression through Drop-In Open Play Sessions held throughout the week These relaxed, social games allow players to rotate through matches, meet new partners, and continue developing their skills in a friendly environment Many members find this is where casual lessons turn into lasting routines and new friendships
For those looking to test their competitive edge, the program includes Split Ladder Play and tournaments that group players by skill level, from intermediate through advanced. These sessions provide fast-paced, high-quality matches, as well as opportunities to track progress through rated play and earn medals in special events.
If you’ve been thinking about giving pickleball a try, the Learn to Play Clinic is the perfect place to start Sign up through the Club Calendar, grab a paddle, and come see how quickly a first lesson can turn into one of your favorite parts of life at California Yacht Club

Club’s parking lot transformed into a Halloween ation that had families buzzing with excitement
decorated car trunks each one more creative aunted houses to candy lands and glow-in-thess the trick-or-treaters Kids darted from trunk to showing off their costumes, while parents mingled and admired the imaginative setups.

Adding to the fun, the event featured a bounce house that kept the younger crowd jumping for joy, a Zombie Maze, an interactive photobooth, and a live DJ spinning upbeat tunes that had even the adults dancing. The energy was contagious, with plenty of laughter, friendly competition for “Best Trunk,” and the signature CYC community spirit shining through. Of course, no Club event is complete without delicious bites guests enjoyed festive snacks, warm cider, and Halloween treats to keep the fun going.

By the time the sun began to set over the marina, little ghouls and superheroes were heading home with candy-filled bags and big smiles. It was a truly spooktacular afternoon that reminded everyone why Trunk or Treat at CYC has become one of the most anticipated family events of the year
Here’s to next year’s Trunk or Treat where the costumes will be crazier, the trunks even more creative, and the fun bigger than ever!
ArticleByE/OSarahFaura,PhotosBySecretSanta

On December 3, California Yacht Club proudly hosted its annual Toys for Tots celebration, welcoming members and guests for an evening filled with generosity, music, and holiday spirit in support of a meaningful cause

The evening began with a lovely entrance and flag presentation led by members of the United States Marine Corps from the 2nd Battalion, 23rd Division. Their presence set a respectful and inspiring tone, underscored by a heartfelt address that reminded everyone of the importance of giving during the holiday season.
S/C Bill Watkins offered a meaningful and sentimental invocation, grounding the evening in reflection and gratitude. As the program continued, festive music filled the room. Zoran Segina delighted guests with spirited holiday carols on the piano, followed by a fabulous jazz performance from member Kimberly Haynes, bringing warmth and energy to the celebration.
The generosity of the CYC community was on full display throughout the night. Ten overflowing boxes of donated toys were collected, along with an outpouring of cash donations In fact, the Marines shared that the evening’s monetary contributions surpassed their collection total from a Disney Party, a testament to the Club’s remarkable spirit of giving

Throughout the night, guests enjoyed delicious holiday hors d’oeuvres prepared by Chef Frank and his team and a festive holiday punch that set a cheerful tone from the moment attendees arrived. The event drew a strong turnout, with members coming together to support the cause and one another
The Toys for Tots celebration was a warm and spirited kickoff to the holiday season, reflecting the heart of the Club Through generosity, music, and community, the evening embodied the true meaning of the season and reinforced CYC’s commitment to making a positive impact beyond the harbor










Volunteers gathered to dress Charles Hathaway in this
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ArticleandPhotosByBridgetMcMeel
The 2025 Commodores Ball was a sold-out celebration that transported 150 guests straight to a glamorous, island-inspired escape reminiscent of Palm Royale For one unforgettable evening, the Club was transformed into a Palm Beach fantasy, awash in signature pink and green, glowing candlelight, lush florals, playful pom-poms, and luminaries lining the walkway to set the tone from the moment guests arrived.
The evening began with an island-inspired cocktail reception on the beach deck, where a lively steel drum band set the mood overlooking the water. Guests mingled over curated cocktails, wine, beer, and passed hors d’oeuvres before moving upstairs for dinner. Two long, candlelit tables were adorned with vibrant island florals, creating an elegant yet relaxed dining atmosphere A guitarist played island-themed me c coa

In the Commodores Lounge, guests captured the fun at a 360-degree photo booth, taking home dynamic memories from an already unforgettable evening As a final touch, each guest received a pink and green Turkish towel, a stylish keepsake from the co-hosts and a perfect reminder of a night filled with color, music, and joy

As dinner concluded, the energy shifted into high gear. An LED dancer led guests into the Burgee Bar dance floor, where desserts, dancing, and live entertainment took center stage. A nine-piece band, joined by renowned DJ and CYC member Nikki Shallenberger, kept the dance floor packed from the first song to the final note. The celebration carried on until the clubhouse lights went down, although it was clear the party could have lasted well into the night.
From the vibrant décor and island-inspired menu to the nonstop entertainment and thoughtful details, the 2025 Commodores Ball was truly a night to remember and a shining example of the magic that happens when the CYC community comes together.
ArticleandPhotosByJulieHarrison

Festivities began with Fesstivity sparkling win were accompanied by dual white and red wine perspectives on each wine while tasting along
The evening ended on a high note with a ninecrowd-favorite wine of the evening: Demetria Ynez Valley.

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ByCassandraHough,PhotosByTiffanyLok
On November 13, members gathered for an elegant evening of tasting and discovery at CYC’s Wine Expo, sampling a curated selection of world-class vintages from renowned wineries including Caymus, Jordan, Shafer, Antinori, and Heitz Cellar. The night blended exceptional wines, thoughtful culinary pairings, and great company into a memorable celebration for both seasoned enthusiasts and casual sippers alike




ArticleandPhotosByGardeniaSpiegel

On October 15, California Yacht Club hosted stud Adaptive Observation Day This event welcomed empowering day on the water.
Participants engaged in a variety of hands-on act and a scenic Duffy boat ride around the marina. These experiences not only introduced students to new skills but also fostered connection, confidence, and community.

A huge thank you goes out to our dedicated program heads, Previn Chandraratna, Ho Nguyen, Marie Rogers, and Braedon Baum, for designing a day filled with enrichment, inclusion, and hope.

or passionate volunteers to help bring future please contact gardenia@calyachtclub com

ArticleandPhotosByGardeniaSpiegel
CYC hosted a community holiday market in November 2025. It was a great way to usher in the holiday spirit with live jazz, duffy boat rides, and a little browsing. Members Molly Harner of Ms. Molly Bakes, and Morgan Robinson of Spectra Gems, showcased their wears with pop-ups. It was a beautiful day on the water before the holiday bustle.


ArticleandPhotosByGardeniaSpiegel
Dec. 6 CYC hosted the inaugural Beacons of Excellence, a celebration and fundraising event, honoring two remarkable trailblazers in sailing and motorsports. This year, we recognize Marie Rogers, the first Black woman commodore of the Los Angeles Yacht Club and a member of the U.S. Sailing Board of Directors, and Truly Adams, a 15-year-old American Formula 1 prospect who became the first U.S. driver to reach the podium at the FEED Racing Volant F4 Finals in France. This fundraising event highlighted leadership, mentorship, and opportunity, and all monies raised during the afternoon went to support the BNEVO Foundation, fueling the next generation of rising talent.


ArticleByV/CDeniseGeorge,PhotoByLisaBronitt
The final Yachting Program of the year also marked an exciting milestone for our Club: it was the first presentation held in our brand-new P130 clubhouse. On October 30th, members gathered to welcome Kerjon Lee, Chief of Strategic Communications for Los Angeles County Public Works, who delivered a fascinating presentation on one of the most unusual, and impactful,sights at the mouth of Ballona Creek.
That “funny-looking thing” many of us have noticed is Interceptor™ 007, an innovative trashcollection system launched as a pilot project to prevent trash from Los Angeles flowing into the Pacific Ocean Deployed in October 2022, Interceptor™ 007 was the first system of its kind installed in North America Since then, it has intercepted an impressive 191 tons of trash, keeping it out of our beloved Santa Monica Bay

The Interceptor™ was developed by a Dutch innovator, Boyan Slat, The Ocean Cleanup aims to remove plastic and other trash from the world’s oceans. The Interceptor™ is an autonomous, solar-powered vessel designed to capture floating trash, plastic, litter, and debris before it reaches open water.
The system uses floating booms to guide trash toward the front of the platform, where a conveyor belt lifts floating debris out of the water and deposits it into onboard collection bins
The system adapts to changing conditions in Ballona Creek During and after rain events when trash flow is highest the booms are deployed in a V-shaped configuration that funnels debris directly into Interceptor™ 007. During dry weather, the booms are reconfigured so they do not restrict access to the creek, allowing normal waterway use to continue.
Once the onboard bins are full, the bins are towed to shore, where the debris is offloaded and transported for disposal. While the process may look simple, the results are anything but. Interceptor™ 007 represents a significant step forward removing debris from the ocean by collecting marine pollution at its source
Globally, The Ocean Cleanup has deployed 22 Interceptor™ systems in waterways around the world, each targeting rivers that significantly contribute to ocean pollution, collecting trash before it reaches the ocean Seeing one in action right here at Ballona Creek is a powerful reminder that local efforts to keep the ecosystem clean can have global impact
The evening was an engaging and informative way to close out the year and a strong start for future programs in our new clubhouse.
Organizers and members from across the Club's many groups and committees gathered on January 25th to learn more about the many ways to find "home" at CYC in 2026. But if you missed us, don't worry, it's not too late to get involved in any of the more than 30 organized groups that were represented ByP/CMarilynCassedy,PhotosByLisaBronittandP/CMarilynCassedy

Cmmd. John Hamilton participates with the Sail Committee “ring-toss.”

projects for the CYCWA Art Aficionados.


CYCWA promotes their events for 2026

Etter
up volunteers

Adding new players at the Pickleball booth

Adam Faura exchanges burgees at Miami Yacht Club

CYC red hats rule at Mount Gay visitors center in Barbados S/C Rick and Ann Turner toast 2026! Looking forward to earning our next red hat in June at Cal Race Week.

Sail Committee Chair Drew Baldwin exchanges burgees with Alex Lai, Chairman of the Macau Sailing Association, located at Hác–Sá Nautical Center in Macao, Special Administrative Region of China

Traditionally on a ship, time was announced by ringing a bell and eight bells signified the end of a sailor’s watch duty. Today, we ring Eight Bells to honor members who have ended their watch and crossed over the bar
Frank Ghery (member since 1972) Paddy McEntire (member since 2012)

Paola and Justin O’Brien have the sailing itch, and joining CYC feels like a long-held goal realized After many late finishes in the Sunset Series races on their Catalina 22, they’re eager to upgrade to something faster and more comfortable CYC holds a special place in their hearts They hosted their wedding reception here in 2019 and later honeymooned in the Bahamas on a bareboat charter. Having grown up overseas, they’re excited to embrace the community


Lauren and Nate Wright are raising two energetic boys Mack (8), a third-grader at Short Avenue Elementary, and Kit (3), in preschool at Beach Babies in El Segundo who love to explore and stay active Lauren works in Product Marketing at Apple, while Nate is an attorney for Mitsubishi Electric The family enjoys spending time on and near the water and is seeking a close-knit, family-oriented community where their boys can grow through shared activities and friendships

The McCarthy/Crockett family is thrilled to be joining CYC. Colin, born and raised in Minnesota, hopes to rekindle the sailing skills he developed on lakes and share his love of the water with his children. Cassie, originally from Salt Lake City, looks forward to finding a “village within a city” and building friendships at the Club Their daughters, Sloane and Margot, can’t wait to swim, watch the seals, and spend time with their friends

Joe Mattioli is a longtime leader in motorsports, having served as president of Pocono Raceway and later founding the Music City Grand Prix in Nashville He now consults for sports, beverage, and medical device companies. Terry Weber brings more than 35 years of executive leadership, most recently as CEO of Amen Clinics and Biote Former partners on a 52-foot Lagoon catamaran in St. Thomas, Joe and Terry are excited to begin their CYC journey together
Elizabeth’s career has been in healthcare, and she is looking forward to easing into early retirement in 2026 A lifelong lover of being on and near the water, she is joining CYC to meet new friends and explore water-based activities. She has an adult son who recently completed graduate school and may visit the Club as he begins the next chapter of his journey.

Dave and Carly Strumpf enjoy daily dog walks along the jetties, and visits to the farmers market have long been part of their routine They love the ocean breeze and the relaxed Marina del Rey atmosphere Encouraged by Dave’s brother Brian and his family, they saw CYC as the perfect way to stay connected to the community they cherish


Matt and Carrie live in Venice with their 4-year-old daughter, Virginia, and their dog, Charlie Introduced to CYC through friends at First Year Preschool, they’re excited to spend time with friends and make new ones at the Club. Matt is eager to learn to sail, Carrie plans to enjoy pickleball, and Virginia will likely be a familiar face at the pool
Will McKenna lives in Hancock Park with his wife, Aline, and they have two grown sons, Charlie and Leo A marketing executive at Capital Group for 25 years, Will enjoys CYC’s water activities, pickleball, and the Club’s social events, and looks forward to staying active and engaged in the community









