Knights Coach Walt Duffy gets the Knights together for a photo. They are, from left, Duffy, Katie McGagh, Cade Morrell, Dutch Byerly, George Masterson, Mathew Morrell, Alexander Hankins, Asher Zittrer with Noah Zittrer front and center.
Lakewood Yacht Club Sailing Director Watt Duffy says the Clear Falls Knights Sailors got off to a great start this year.
Eight Clear Falls High School sailors took part in a two-day regatta in New London, Conn., competing against 19 top high school teams from around the country to win the Lawrence A. White Trophy.
Light shifty winds were the prevailing conditions that proved challenging to keep consistent results posted for most teams. The Clear Falls Knights accepted the conditions and emerged the leaders in both A and B divisions after race no. 2 and maintained that lead throughout day one. This was the first time the Knights competed in this prestigious regatta.
Coach Duffy commented on the win. “The Knights were National Champions two years ago, then last year, the attempt to defend the title came up short. The team has fire in their eyes this year. They are practicing with purpose, with the desire to be the U.S. Nationals Champions again. Lakewood Yacht Club and Bay Access will host the National Championship Regatta next May. The Knights will have the home water advantage.”
The Knights plan to attend more regattas than ever this year in preparation to regain the title. They will compete at College of Charleston, S.C., and the U.S. Maritime Academy in Kings Point, N.Y.
High School Varsity and Junior Varsity Sailing are open to any junior high or high school student interested in the sport of sailing. Bay Access Foundation holds practice at Lakewood Yacht Club for area schools Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. For information, email [email protected]
