Opening Day in San Francisco

April 27, 2009

There is a phenomena in San Francisco called Opening Day. It marks the beginning of the summer season, which isn’t a whole lot different than the winter season except that there is more wind. The temperatures on land are higher but with the wind coming off of the ocean makes the temps on the water a net even. There are parades and BBQs and general frivolity.

On both sides of the bay there is a parade. The Coast Guard cutter blesses the fleet in Raccoon Straights on the Marin side. And there is a boat decorating competition on the city front. The boat I was on, the a beautiful motor launch, Defiance lead both parades. It is owned by Jim _ Gabbert – and his partner Tim ____ and they were very gracious to donate their boat for a fundraiser for the Junior Sailing Foundation of the Sausalito Yacht Blurb. The foundation asked me to be on board to network and thank people for their contribution. It was not hard duty!

After the morning on the water, everyone goes back to their own clubs and celebrates.

At Sausalito Yacht Club there was a silent auction which was a big success and I am happy to report that a copy of my book went for $100 in large part because sailors are a competitive bunch and there were two in particular who were fighting for bragging rights of winning my book – a competition that I was happy to encourage and I signed the book accordingly ☺. Thanks Bill and Oz.

These types of celebrations occur around the world with different themes and purposes. In New Zealand Opening Day is the day when every club opens it’s doors to the public. In a country where around 80% of the population already know how to sail at some level, this is a great inclusive event which helps to gain members at individual clubs. I’d like to hear from other areas of the world who have opening day celebrations. I am sure there are some other creative celebrations of the opening of the season.