09/05/2026
Under the guidance of volunteer advisor Mark Vanni, the CPYC Jr. Big Boat team spent several evenings each week this summer after their ILCA and C420 classes to practice on Mark’s J109, Mochi Fanta. During practices, the sailors honed their crew work, steering, and sail trimming skills to prepare for the Dorade Trophy race hosted by Stamford Yacht Club and the Beach Point Junior Overnight Race hosted by the Beach Point Club in Mamaroneck. On evenings when the weather was uncooperative, the team reviewed navigation skills ashore.
Returning team members Hannah Austin, Madi Brundige, Jack Dalipi, Larkin Dowell, Stone Redniss, John Thompson, and Finn Von der Wense were joined by new team members Isabella Backus, Margaux Dalipi, Graham Morrison, Josh Hordon, and Alison Villanueva. Jr. Sailing instructors Owen Chickering and Colin Verrengia were also onboard as advisors.
Before competing, the team passed the Jr. Sailing Association of Long Island Sound’s Basic Navigation test and attended the day-long Storm Trysail Club’s Junior Safety at Sea training at Larchmont Yacht Club in July. Three team members also took the JSA of LIS Advanced Navigation Test.
The team was thrilled to end their 2026 season with podium finishes at the Dorade Trophy (3rd in Division) and the Beach Point Jr. Overnight Race (1st in Division). Sailor comments post-racing included, “I thought our teamwork was really good” and “We really came together!”.
Mark’s enthusiasm and steady leadership built camaraderie and memories that will last long past this summer for our junior sailors, and also plays a critical role in mentoring the next generation of racing sailors. CPYC Jr. Sailing is grateful to Mark for sharing his time, experience, and boat, and congratulates the entire team on an awesome summer of learning, bonding, and racing.
