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

In 2007, the women of CYC established an additional sailing group called the Solmates with Judy Widger as captain. Bev Dolezal and Kathy Forde were also among the early organizers. In its very first year of existence, with a fleet of four rag-tag boats, the Solmate Sunfish Team participated in and won its first international regatta in the Bahamas taking both first and second places. The directors and trustees decided to help the fledgling team by purchasing three new Sunfish. In 2010, the team purchased an additional boat. The women on the Solmates Sunfish Team sail regularly in Florida Women’s Sailing Association events. They were also instrumental in forming the CYC Sunfish Team, which is open to both men and women. In 2010, Paula Shur took eleventh place in the Sunfish Nationals. This new team of CYC sailors is clearly on the rise.

“For the Love of Sailing” regatta (2008) organized by CYC’s Solmates and Yachting Committee. Ten Florida Women’s Sailing Association clubs competed. Courtesy of Judy Widger.

Dan Railey with Solmates and Safety Committee Organizers Ann Railey (left) and Judy Widger. Courtesy of Judy Widger.

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