The First Hundred Years: Clearwater Yacht Club, 1911-2011

the champion within yourselves… Of course obstacles do not have to be on an athletic arena. One young lady with us tonight inspires all of us with her championship attitude. Some would say the cards that were dealt to her were not that great and they would have folded their hand a long time ago but this person chose not to accept barriers. She shares with us her love of art and photography on a level that many of us cannot appreciate with quote unquote “normal” abilities. Amanda has found her passion and has overcome her own personal obstacles to reach her goals. Amanda set her goals, and with each snap of her camera, Amanda’s championship spirit is displayed. The final champion attitude you can possess is the passion to become involved with a cause that you believe in and support. Three people in this room tonight that have embraced OUR collective effort to “Help Send Zach to China” are Judy Widger, Brenda Hanson and my mom Ann Railey. These three women, with the help of so many other members sitting with us tonight have spearheaded an effort that they are passionate about. They have helped to provide me with the opportunity to sail around the world, while behind the scenes they have undertaken a tremendous amount of planning for local events and fundraising efforts. With the help of Ron Buck and his staff at All About Grills, their dream and goals are being realized at the Celebration Event this Saturday night. I am looking forward to seeing your goals realized. Mom, Judy, and Brenda you are champions. A champion pushes their limits, overcomes obstacles or gets involved in a cause they believe in and support. Finding the champion inside of you is the most rewarding feeling you can possibly experience. Don’t be afraid of defeat. Don’t be afraid of falling down and don’t be afraid of taking risks because believe me, the experience of reaching your goals is oh so worthwhile!! In her first hundred years, Clearwater Yacht Club has had many, many members, athletes, and non-athletes who have embodied Zach’s criteria for championship. Below are brief biographies of a few of the folks who, like Zach, have pushed their limits, overcome obstacles, and supported the cause of representing themselves and Clearwater Yacht Club to the very best of their ability in the sport of competitive sailing.

Chapter 13: A Century of Champions 121