The regatta started in 2012, is held twice a year and is sponsored by Chesapeake Region Accessible Boating, NSHOF, the Connected Warrior Foundation, Valhalla Sailing Project, Warrior Events, and Truck’n 4 Troops. The Annapolis Police provided an escort for the bus of warriors and family members from Walter Reed. The weather was perfect for sailing in the Annapolis Harbor even with all of the boat traffic.
The regatta PRO Juliet Thompson directed an experienced race committee on board AJ Whittle’s beautiful MJM 40. Three races were held for the two fleets with the third race finishing off of the NSHOF dock. The warriors were served Sammy’s finest pizza before the awards ceremony.
The winning CRAB Freedom 20 was sailed by Art Savage and crewed by Tyler Owens (USMC) and his service dog Gunnar. The third-place CRAB boat was sailed by Mark Chapin (Army LTC ret.) and Army Captain Karen Roddy-Spikes, and triple-amputee SPC Adam Keys. This boat also claimed the Spirit Award as they streamed one of their “screaming gybes” for the internet. The top USNA Colgate 26 was crewed by Connie Huang (Army) with Midshipmen Nick Gartner at the helm.
VADM Phil Cullom (N4) thanked the warriors for their participation and their courage to do something outside of their comfort zone by going sailing and reinforcing that they were valuable members of a team just like when they were on active duty, only with the added benefit of creating new bonds of friendship with the Midshipmen and CRAB skippers. For more information on how you and your club can get involved and volunteer, visit crabsailing.org.
