Sail1Design, in cooperation with McLaughlin, is pleased to announce the winner of the 2019 Optimist Sailor of the Year: Gil Hackel!This year we had some excellent nominations, making it a challenge to determine a clear winner. Remember we only choose from nominated sailors!
Here’s a bit from his nomination letter:

WHAT GIL WINS
Thanks to McLaughlin, Gil will get 3 great awards in addition to the honor of winning:
1. A beautiful, framed & engraved painting to keep forever.
2. What’s more, and in keeping with the philosophy of both Sail1Design & McLaughlin, Gil will have the opportunity to give “the gift of giving”, or give back to sailing, and choose, on his own, an “up-and-coming” Optimist sailor to receive a FREE charter of a McLaughlin Optimist at a major US Optimist event on McLaughlin’s schedule! Sail1Design will help work out details of when and where this great gift is made.
3. Finally, Gil will ALSO receive his own free charter at a major event as well!
Congratulations Gil!!
Winners
2019 – Gil Hackel
2018 – Tommy Sitzmann
2017 – Stephan Baker
2016 – Justin Callahan
2015 – Luke Arnone









On the shore the club has eschewed the traditional pool, tennis court and dining facilities to focus on promoting participation and community. A few years ago the club approved and built an all weather Pavilion to host events. The Pavillion protects events from wind rain and sun and allows for regatta and event parties. Do not be fooled by the laid back modern approach. The club prides itself on an outstanding professional staff that manages all aspects and makes sure the details are taken care of. Not only is the race management superior, you can rest on the modern teak furniture under the pavilion with a cool beverage while watching the boats from the regatta come in during the late afternoon, or dance to the music as the twilight settles in. For its members and guests to relax and enjoy camaraderie with fellow friends and guests after racing or a day of sailing is indeed what the membership cherishes, time on the water and time with family and friends. Members, coaches and sailors alike all know about the dynamic club on the sound that emphasizes sailing, a low key attitude, strong participation and fun without the frills of traditional yacht club.
creative programming, regatta support, member contribution — at regional, national and international levels.
Hudson River Community Sailing is a 501(c)3 non-profit whose main mission is to develop leadership and academic success in underserved New York City youth. The other half of our mission to provide sailing education, instruction and recreation to the community. We have April through November full-time and part-time positions ranging from 4 hours to 40 hours per week. If you are only available for a part of the season that is also acceptable. Apply 

From the beginner to the club racer, single-handed to multi-crew, Topaz sailboats are designed with 4 basic concepts in mind: speed, durability, versatility and quality. With fast-planing stable hulls that are ultra-tough and maintenance free, Topaz delivers a versatile line of boats with multiple rig options geared to bringing fast, exciting sailboats within everyone’s reach.
Regattas. An active social program complements these events.





