Race, Cruise, Eat and Laugh

Under a cloudy spring sky, the Redondo Beach Yacht Club (RBYC) held its Opening Day ceremonies and declared the beginning of its 49^th racing season at King Harbor on Sunday morning. 

Emceed by Ron Cotta, RBYC junior staff commodore, the event was the first of three yacht club opening day ceremonies Redondo Beach hosted Sunday. Dressed up in white pants, navy jacket and nautical-themed ties, high-spirited members of the RBYC gathered and enjoyed the comradeship.

Although the RBYC offers various activities and races year-round, Sunday was the day the clubhouse officially opens its door to members and the new and past staff commodores are introduced. 

"What draws me to the Redondo Beach Yacht Club is that it's a right fit with my heritage," said Kathi Sheridan, RBYC commodore.

Sheridan comes from an Italian background and was raised on the East Coast, where her father hosted a block party every year for their neighbors.

"Whether from Italy or the Redondo Beach Yacht Club, there is one thing these outstanding people all had in common: a compass to guide them to their destinations," Sheridan said. "This club has a compass as well. Through ups and downs, our compass keeps us on course and focused on our objectives. To make sure the door is always open to those who seek the place where they can relax and be themselves, enjoy boating, race to improve their skills, compete for trophies or just for the fun, share drinks, food, laughter as often as possible."

Mayor Mike Gin also attended the event to present a proclamation to the group, which promotes and enjoys what the city is best known for—the ocean.  

"In many ways, sailing is emblematic of the spirit and freedom that not only exist in our community, but throughout our nation," Gin said. "I just want to say thank you to the Redondo Beach Yacht Club for helping to promote this amazing sport."

The Redondo Beach Yacht Club is hosting the Spring Horizon Series races every Tuesday night until May 25.

For more information on RBYC membership, call Ron Cotta at (310) 505-7260.