05/26/2026
⭐️ MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: TREVOR PRIOR ⭐️
This month, we turn the spotlight on one of Susquehanna Yacht Club's most beloved members — the one, the only, Trevor Prior! And yes, because Trevor is far too humble to write this himself, your Commodore is proudly stepping in to sing his praises.
🌍 FROM THE FARMS OF ZIMBABWE TO THE SHORES OF LAKE CLARKE
Trevor's story begins in Zimbabwe, Southeast Africa, where he grew up on his family's farm alongside his three sisters. It was a childhood rich with adventure, community, and remarkable people — most notably his mother, an extraordinary equestrian who founded a riding program to give less fortunate community members the opportunity to experience the joy of riding. She even arranged transportation for students from distant towns and villages so that no one would miss out. A spirit of generosity that, as you'll see, didn't fall far from the tree.
Trevor carries a treasure chest of wonderful stories from those early years — but we'll be honest, no retelling here could do them justice. Want the full experience? Find Trevor at the SYC Riverside fire pit some evening. Oh, and bring a pack of IPA. You won't regret it. 🍺🔥
✈️ A NEW CHAPTER, A NEW HOME
Like many white farming families in Zimbabwe, Trevor's world was upended by the Land Reform Program under President Mugabe, which saw farms confiscated and violence forcing families to flee. It was a painful and defining chapter. The Prior family scattered across the globe — one sister to England, the rest to New Zealand — while Trevor, his wife Heather, and their children made their way to Heather's homeland, the United States, in 2000. A new country, a new beginning, and as it would turn out, the start of a wonderful love affair with sailing.
⛵ BORN TO SAIL (OR MAYBE JUST PERFECTED IT HERE)
While Trevor did sail growing up, we think he'd be the first to agree that his passion for the sport truly blossomed after joining SYC — along with, shall we say, an ever-growing and impressive collection of water toys! Whether he's cruising Lake Clarke, water skiing, or sailing up and down the East Coast, Trevor is most at home on the water. And when he's not out on the waves? You'll find him perfectly content relaxing at his camper, soaking in the breathtaking views of the Susquehanna River. Not a bad life at all!
🥈 SAILING RUNS IN THE FAMILY
Perhaps the apple doesn't fall far from the dock — Trevor's daughter Danielle has carved out an incredible sailing legacy of her own! From crewing on Lightnings to sailing her Laser and competing in East Coast Lightning Regattas, Danielle's talent has taken her far. And far is quite the understatement: in 2015, she and teammates Justin Copland, now husband, and Caroline Patten claimed the Silver Medal at the Toronto Pan Am Games! 🥈We'd say she definitely takes after her dad — in the very best way.
🍼AND THEN THERE WERE THREE GENERATIONS!
The Prior family celebrated an incredible new milestone in 2025 when son Eric and his wife welcomed their first child, making Trevor and Heather proud grandparents! We have a feeling this little one will be out on the water before long.
In the off-season, you might catch Trevor carving up the ski slopes or traveling the world to visit family — because why slow down when you're having this much fun?
THE HEARTBEAT OF SYC
If there's one thing every SYC member knows, it's that when something needs doing, Trevor Prior is already rolling up his sleeves. From lending a hand wherever it's needed, to hauling and operating heavy equipment, to offering thoughtful advice and unwavering support — Trevor shows up, every single time. He has served on the SYC Board for the past four years, bringing a deep institutional knowledge and steady hand that has been an absolute asset to our club.
There's a reason a certain epithet has become synonymous with this remarkable man:
💙 "ALWAYS TRUST IN TREVOR" 💙
Thank you, Trevor, for everything you bring to this club, this community, and this sport. SYC is a richer, warmer, and more adventurous place because of you. Here's to many more seasons on the water together! ⛵🌊
