The MASS BAY SAILING Association established the Olympic Sailing Fund in 1992. The purpose of this fund was to aid aspiring sailors from our area Association in helping them to defray the costs of an Olympic level campaign.
In 1998 the purpose of the Fund was broadened to include other types of sailing support and the name was changed to the MASS BAY SAILING Fund. This program will award gifts in an amount to be determined by the Board on an annual basis. These funds will be awarded to candidates who are members of the MASS BAY SAILING Association, have participated in its programs and are deemed qualified by the Board.
As a tax exempt, 501 C 3 organization, the intention is to solicit contributions from individuals and organizations to augment funds earmarked by MASS BAY SAILING Association for this program. It is hoped that the fund will grow to a point where more significant awards may be made.
The first recipient of these funds was Tim Collins of Duxbury, MA. Tim made it to the Olympic trial finals in the 470 class for the 1996 Olympics.
The most recent recipient is Ben Richardson of Gloucester, MA. Ben's goal is to represent the US in the Laser class in the 2000 Olympics. In 1999 he was ranked 6th in the US Sailing rankings in the Laser class. Dru Slattery and her Women's Match Racing Team received support for both the 1998 and 1999 ISAF World Championships. Dru is ranked 2nd in the U.S., 7th in the world, and was nominated for the 1999 Rolex Yachtswoman of the year award.
Applications for the fund can be obtained from the secretary of MASS BAY SAILING Association.