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CRAB’s biannual sailing regatta: a powerful display of resilience

Posted on by Vaseline

On June 15, 2024, Chesapeake Region Available Boating (CRAB) hosted its semiannual Recovering Warriors Sailing Regatta at the Annapolis Adaptive Boating Center. The regatta consisted of four races at the mouth of the Severn River. CRAB volunteer Joel McCord kicked off the festivities with a flourish of trumpet tapping. The 18 warriors and family members boarded CRAB’s fleet of Beneteau First 22As and set off. The wind was 15 knots from the north; the waves were 12 inches and higher on the course; and the races provided returning warriors with a chance to showcase their sailing skills while giving novice sailors a taste of competitive sailing.

The first-place team, a crew of former USNA All-Americans and lifelong friends Paul Van Cleve and skipper Tim McGee (RDML b.) at the helm, demonstrated their prowess by winning all four races with ‘Lindy’. The second-place finishers, Jay Streit, his wife Dee Perry and volunteer skipper Michael Manuzak, showed their resilience by finishing second in the last three races with ‘Club Mac’. Their second place in the fourth race of the day secured their second place medal by one point. Following in third place were Keith Johnson, Trisha Johnson, skipper Trey Warman and crew Jenn Shea, who showed determination by sailing ‘Andrea’ to the finish.

Sondra Denise’s family sang and sang as they finished last for most of the regatta, but they took home the “Spirit Award Medal” and many wonderful memories of their first sailing experience.

All images courtesy of CRAB!

The Recovering Warrior Regatta series at CRAB is not just about racing. It is a powerful testament to the strength of the military community and the resilience of its participants. The luncheon and awards ceremony at the Adaptive Boating Center overlooking Back Creek was a heartwarming demonstration of the support and camaraderie that defines our community. We extend our sincere thanks to Move United Sport for their generous sponsorship of the regatta and to the CRAB volunteers and staff who made the event an unforgettable experience for our warriors. We are eagerly looking forward to the Fall RWSR with the Naval Academy Sailing Team in September, which will be another opportunity to come together and celebrate our shared passion.