Sailpast 2018 was a wonderful “official” kick-off to this season’s boating. The theme for the event was a tribute to Albert Stierle. The organizing committee (Brad & Crystal Chapman, Wayne Armstrong, Rob Arbuckle and Janet & Paavo Kivisto) worked closely with Andrea Stierle-MacNeill to the plan the day’s events. Albert had expressed his desire that instead of a funeral there be a celebration in his memory at the Club.
The day began with the traditional skippers’ briefing led by Brad Chapman, Vice-Commodore. This was followed by senior members heading out into the Bay for the on-water portion of sailpast. The line of the Club’s vessels sailing across the Bay is an impressive sight and clearly the hilite of Sailpast.
Once everyone was back at the Club, George Wilkinson officiated at a tree dedication in Albert and Ursula Stierle’s memory. This was followed by an unveiling of memorial rock in the garden at the south side of the clubhouse. The latter is a beautiful green marble rock engraved with the Club’s logo and name. There is a plaque affixed to the back of the rock that informs the reader that the rock was generously donated by Albert and Ursula.
Garry Klassen and the PYC Jammers entertained everyone with live music prior to the dinner that was held under the tent. Andy Coxhead, master of ceremonies, used his unique brand of stories and humour to keep the evening’s agenda light yet on schedule. Guest speakers included Mayor Mark Walas, Andrea Stierle-MacNeill, George Wilkinson, Bob Hallworth, and Herb Hilderley. Speakers recounted their recollections of Albert and Ursula Stierle with celebratory toasts to Albert and Ursula following each speaker.
Commodore Paavo Kivisto thanked the south side senior members who “volunteered” in large numbers to help the organizing committee do the many tasks that make the plans for Sailpast a reality. He remarked that the north side senior members are already excited about their upcoming opportunity for helping host next year’s Sailpast. He also thanked Andrea Stierle-MacNeill for the very generous donation she made to help fund Sailpast 2018.
It was truly a fitting tribute and the kind of celebration that Albert would have approved.
