Thames Yacht Club Launches 93rd Sailing Season

May 18, 2026  |   | Comment  | Latest News

On a beautiful, summer-like Saturday in May, the Thames Yacht Club officially welcomed the start of the 2026 boating season with its annual commissioning ceremony, bringing members together for an evening of tradition, celebration, and camaraderie.

More than 85 new and longtime members filled both the upper and lower decks in their Sunday best as outgoing Commodore Rebecca Turner passed the helm to incoming Commodore Colin Redhead, who formally opened TYC’s 93rd sailing season.

Norwich Free Academy senior Grace Bouley performed the National Anthem, and James Dickerson played the bagpipes.

Membership Chair Judith Redhead distributed burgees as she welcomed new senior members Greg and Theresa Messner, John Burkhardt and Bettina Olshausen, Spencer Alsup, Prescott and Laura Powers, Alan and Colette Skinner, Kenny and Joanne Dahill, Richard Bolles, Chris and Kiki Silvestri, and Robert Smith and Ines Bassene. 

“This weekend always reminds us what makes this club special,” said TYC Secretary Leigh Reinhart. “There’s pride in our traditions, excitement for the sailing season ahead, and real enthusiasm about the food and dining experience at the club as well.”

Members expressed optimism about the months ahead, looking forward to summer gatherings, dinners on the porch, club cruises, racing, and upcoming events featuring creations from Ozzie’s galley.

“There’s a real sense of momentum around the club right now,” said Doug Arey.

“Between the success of the Mother’s Day brunch, Commissioning Day, and the excitement surrounding the new galley, it feels like this is going to be one of the best summers TYC has had in years,” said Redhead.

Redhead also introduced the winner of the first annual James Avery Youth Sailing Scholarship. Bennie Dover Jackson Middle School fifth grader Jasmine Acosta and a friend will spend two weeks in TYC’s Youth Sailing program learning how to sail and deepening their connection to the water.  

“Everything was beautifully done, the food was delicious, and the music was a wonderful addition to the evening,” said past commodores Wayne Gammo and Rob Amrein.

Musician Jim Macaukey provided live guitar music during dinner, adding to the evening’s festive atmosphere.

With the 2026 season officially underway, the Thames Yacht Club enters the summer with renewed energy, strong traditions, and a full calendar of events centered around sailing, friendship, and good food.

“It was a beautiful evening. The new commodore and executive committee did an excellent job putting it all together and the musicians added a nice touch to the event,” said Brian and Kim Weekley. 

Fair Winds John Sawchuk

May 2, 2026  |   | Comment  | Latest News

John will be fondly remembered for the years he spent at the Thames Yacht Club, where his love of cooking and community came fully to life. As manager of the kitchen for many years, he brought people together not just through meals, but through warmth, humor, and a genuine pride in his work. 

Whether preparing food for longtime members or welcoming new faces, John created an atmosphere that reflected who he was: generous, hardworking, and deeply connected to those around him. 

His time at the club stood as a defining chapter of his life, where friendships were strengthened, memories were made, and his presence left a lasting mark on all who gathered there.  

Please take a moment to read his wonderful obituary.

Donations can be made to the Colchester Federated Church or the Bacon Academy Trustees for building restorations.

Join Us!

April 10, 2026  |   | Comment  | Latest News

Please join us for the Connecticut Spring Boat Show, which will return to historic Essex April 24-26. This year, the show marks its 10th year, and for the first time, the Thames Yacht Club will attend and showcase the benefits of TYC membership at a vendor table.

Purchase tickets here:

With over 2,000 attendees raising more than $17,000 for Sails Up 4 Cancer last year, this year’s event will be even better! Here’s why:

The 2026 show promises expanded exhibit and performance areas, along with a broader selection of boats and marine-related displays. Attendees can expect to board a wide range of boats at the docks, connect with industry experts, and enjoy live entertainment throughout the weekend.

Tickets purchased prior to April 23 are $22 each, available online, and valid for all three days of the event. After April 23, tickets are $26 each. Purchase tickets by clicking here!

Half of the proceeds from each ticket sale go to support SailsUp4Cancer.

Please note that parking is often hard to find, and you may end up walking several blocks to reach the dock.

Thames Yacht Club Members Bring Holiday Cheer to Children Through Annual Toys for Tots Drive

November 25, 2025  |   | Comment  | Latest News

New London, CT — The Thames Yacht Club (TYC) continued its tradition of generosity this holiday season, collecting over 100 toys during its annual Toys for Tots drive on November 22. Now in its fourth year, the event has become a cornerstone of TYC’s commitment to giving back to the New London community and supporting families in need.

“This time of year reminds us that the spirit of our club extends far beyond the water,” said TYC Commodore Rebecca Turner. “Our members are deeply rooted in the New London community, and to giving back—especially during the holidays. Their efforts are a reflection of the camaraderie and compassion that define the Thames Yacht Club. We’re proud to play even a small role in making the season brighter for children who might otherwise go without.”

The Toys for Tots program at TYC was started by David and Kimber Degling, Granby residents and longtime TYC members, who were inspired to turn the club’s strong sense of fellowship into meaningful action.

“We realized there were so many children in our area who weren’t waking up to gifts on Christmas morning,” said Kimber Degling. “We wanted to change that, even in a small way.”

Her husband added, “Every toy collected is a reminder that kindness matters. Our members have embraced this drive with such enthusiasm—it’s become a true club tradition of hope and generosity.”

TYC members of all ages participated in this year’s collection, bringing everything from board games and dolls to puzzles, sports gear, and stuffed animals.

“As parents, we know how magical the holidays can be,” said TYC member Kim Weekley of Groton. “If donating a few toys can bring that same joy to another family, it’s something we should all do.”

Fellow member and New London resident Mary Ann Root agreed, saying, “There are too many families struggling right now. Giving a toy or a gift might seem small, but for a child who wouldn’t otherwise receive one, it means the world. It’s an act of love—and that’s what this season is all about.”

The Toys for Tots program was founded in 1947. The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation now partners with local organizations like TYC to help ensure that every child experiences the joy of the holidays.

As the Thames Yacht Club wraps up another successful year on and off the water, its members remain anchored by the values that have guided the club since 1932: friendship, service, and a shared commitment to community.

For more information about TYC, visit https://thamesyc.org/ or contact us at commodore@thamesyc.org.

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