LYC Distance Racers Become Buzzards

March 28, 2009
Stamford, CT

The Buzzards Society was formed in 2008 to celebrate sailors who have contested ten or more Vineyard Races as captain or crew. Reflecting our strong ocean racing heritage, LYC was very well represented at the March 28, 2009, dinner hosted by the Stamford Yacht Club.

LYC's newest "buzzards" at the 2009 induction ceremony.

Eleven members of LYC were inducted into the Society this year: Following their names is the number of Vineyard races in which they sailed: Binky Hoffmann (35), Rich DuMoulin (30), Bevin Koeppel (30), Butch Ulmer (30), Chad Corning (18), Terry Arndt (16)), Joe Fontanella (15), Bud Heerde (15), Carl Olsson (15), Jed Kelly (12) , and Nick Langone (10). In all, over 90 sailors made up the Class of 2009.

LYC has notched up an enviable record of finishes in the Vineyard Race with class and overall wins too numerous to mention. The depth of experience is also impressive, stretching back into the 1940s.

The stories started flowing early (along with the rum) and by the end of the evening some truly outrageous tales were being told. Top of the list was Rich duMoulin’s epic battle with Hurricane Ernesto, but there was plenty of other fodder from the annals of Thunderhead, Resolute and Morning Glory – you can’t make this stuff up. Elaborate induction rituals for next year were also planned for those LYC members who, though qualified, did not attend. Butch Ulmer was unanimously nominated as sergeant at arms.

All in all it was a great evening, highlighting the friendships and memories that are the lasting gifts of ocean racing.

Report by Chad Corning