IHYC’s High-Level Clinic Was a Hit for JSA of LIS Sailors
written by Erin Wojdaszka
June 29, 2025 Indian Harbor Yacht Club (IHYC) threw down an awesome, all-day clinic for JSA of LIS sailors in the Club 420, Laser, and RS Feva classes, just before the big Commodore Law Trophy Regatta (June 30–July 11). Everyone was excited to get some top-notch coaching and shake off the rust before the season’s first major event. The clinic was open to C420 and ILCA (Laser) sailors who qualified and registered for the Commodore Law Trophy Regatta in these fleets. Also, it was open to RS Feva Class: Last year the Law Trophy Regatta was early in the season and there was quite a consistent strong breeze that made it challenging for JSA racers. This year IHYC sailing director Chris Foley wanted the sailors to feel comfortable and since the Law Trophy Regatta is early in the season he organized the clinic as a way to make sure everyone felt extra ready. Sailors got to:
- Tweak their rigging with expert help.
- Pick up new tricks and tips from coaches who’ve been there, done that.
- Gain confidence for the regatta—and for the rest of the summer.
The IHYC team was helpful and the day could be described as beautiful, sunny skies and a light, consistent breeze—ideal conditions for sailing. Sailors arrived in the morning and worked diligently to have their boats rigged and ready by the 9:30 AM start. There was a quick grab-and-go breakfast, but everyone had to bring their own lunch.
Coaches kicked off the clinic with fun, interactive getting-to-know-you games, helping to build camaraderie among the participants. Following this, coaches provided valuable tips for rigging in both heavy and light air, ensuring sailors understood how to optimize their setups for various conditions. After the morning session the plan for the day, coaches carefully checked each boat’s rigging, offering personalized feedback and adjustments. By 11:00 AM, all boats had launched, and sailors were out on the water, ready to put their skills into practice.
Chris Foley organized a great group of coaches including top national coaches for each class, supported by accomplished coaches from surrounding JSA LIS programs. The clinic featured dedicated sessions for each boat type, ensuring focused and effective instruction.
Coaching Staff Highlights
- Laser Clinic:
- Lead Coach: Andrew Scrivan—Former US Sailing Team member, Olympic hopeful, Brunswick & GA Head Coach, and Hobart alumnus.
- Assistant Coaches: Martha Schuessler (IHYC Head Coach, U Hawaii sailor) and Ellie Poole (IHYC Coach, UK National Team member, Topper National Champion, meteorologist providing weather briefings).
- C420 Clinic:
- Lead Coach: Annabelle Woodworth—Noroton Coach, Yale collegiate sailor, podium finisher at I420 and C420 Nationals, Top 8 at 2024 Women’s 420 European Championship.
- Assistant Coach: Callie Hammond—IHYC Coach, Stamford Sailing Team member, GA Captain, FCSL All League, top I420 women’s sailor.
- RS Feva Clinic:
- Co-Lead Coaches: Freddy Wood (LYC Coach, Oxford graduate, GB National Squad, ranked 29er crew) and Flo Peters (IHYC Coach, Cardiff graduate, RS Tera Ladies’ World Champion, RS Feva National Squad, ranked 29er skipper).
The IHYC clinic proved to be an invaluable opportunity for JSA of LIS sailors to refine their skills, receive expert guidance, and build camaraderie ahead of the Law Trophy Regatta. The combination of elite coaching, practical instruction, and a supportive environment ensured that participants were well-prepared for a successful and competitive summer season.