Thames Yacht Club Launches 93rd Sailing Season

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.