ESA 2023/2024 : simplebooklet.com

Savannah Sound Magic - 04Introduction by CarlienTABLE OFCONTENTSwww.eleutherasailingacademy.comThe Rise of Bahamian Youth Sailing - 14 & 15 Chronicle of a Triumph - 17Our Programs Financials 35 & 36Reflections on Season 4by Martin - 38Make Them Sailors & Donate 40Eleuthera Warriors Racing 2023 National Championships - 06Traditional Sloop Sailing -07Sir Durward Knowles Regatta -08 & 092024 National Family Island Regatta - 10 & 11ESA Girls Pushing Boundaries - 12Saturdays at ESA - 19 & 20School Programs, ELC - 21School Programs, DCMS - 22 & 23Adult Learn to Sail - 24 & 25ESA Watersports - 26WingFoiling - 27Windsurfing - 28Little Kids Sailing - 29Volunteers - 31 & 32Apprentice Program - 33Learning from Each Other Diversity - 34

Page 4

S A V A N N A H S O U N D M A G I CWe are coming to the end of the Fourth Season of the Eleuthera Sailing Academyon the Island of freedom. And I can tell you....what a year it has been!!! Kids travelled worldwide to represent The Bahamas in sailing. We went with a biggroup to the National Championships in Nassau. We introduced wing-foiling andhad an incredible, windy kitesurf season. A lot of inspiring volunteers andcoaches came to Eleuthera to help and our older sailors are transforming intocoaches themselves. More adults are discovering the thrill of sailing andwindsurfing. And, we reintroduced Eleuthera into traditional Bahamian Sloopsailing...I dare to say that ESA is the coolest sailing school in the world and I think thateveryone who has been part of this incredible journey over the last four years,even if it was just for one day, knows about the Magic of Savannah Sound.I hope everyone will enjoy reading this book and together we can look back on allthe memories we made this year, all the goals we achieved, the trophies we won,and most important all the new friendships we made.Carlien Pels www.eleutherasailingacademy.com

Page 5

Page 6

Eleuthera WarriorsThe National Optimist Championshipsmark an exciting time each year, kickingoff a new season for us. This year wasno different. Thanks to the incrediblesupport from generous sponsors andparents who assisted with airfares,accommodation, and transportation, wewere able to bring 15 kids to Nassau.The Championships are always thrillingand challenging, as the best Optimistsailors from across The Bahamas cometogether to compete for the NationalChampion title.NationalChampionships 2023For many of our sailors, it’s a life-changingexperience—not just racing on new watersbut also competing against the best in theCountry and even a big group of US sailors.While the rivalry on the water is fierce, it’salso a place where lasting friendships areformed between kids from different clubsand islands!A huge thank you to the entire ESAcommunity and everyone who made thisunforgettable experience possible!www.eleutherasailingacademy.com

Page 7

Eleuthera WarriorsTraditional sloop sailing in The Bahamas holds a significant cultural and historicalsignificance that is deeply intertwined with the identity of the islands. These beautifulboats have been an integral part of Bahamian maritime tradition for centuries, servingfirst as modes of transportation but became symbols of skill and community pride. Traditional sloop sailing in The Bahamas is not just a recreational activity; it is a livingtestament to the ingenuity of Bahamian shipbuilders and the seafaring legacy of theregion. The colorful sails and distinctive design of these sloops symbolize a connection tothe past, cherished by locals and admired by visitors worldwide. However, the EleutheraSailing Academy believes that traditional sloop sailing is not only about honoring historybut also about shaping the future of the nation.www.eleutherasailingacademy.comBahamianSloop SailingBy facilitating connections between the youth Olympicclasses and traditional sloop sailing, the ESA endeavorsto cultivate an inclusive community that bridgessocietal disparities. This cultural heritage transcendsthe confines of mere sport, acting as a guiding light forBahamian cultural identity, instilling community pride,and honoring the timeless legacy of seafaringtraditions. Through events like Sloop Sailing Regattas,the bond between past and present, the islands andtheir people, irrespective of background or ethnicity, isreinforced, ensuring that traditional sloop sailingcontinues to thrive as a dynamic cornerstone ofBahamian heritage for generations to come.

Page 8

In February, we received a special invitation from the Regatta Desk to participate inthe Sir Durward Knowles Regatta in Montegu Bay, Nassau. It was a momentousoccasion for the ESA crew as we embarked on our first adventure with traditionalsloop sailing! The event was a delightful revelation, showcasing the vibrantBahamian culture and heritage, along with the government's profound commitmentto nurturing our national sport.Our large group of enthusiastic children had the privilege of staying at the scenicSeabreeze Hotel, surrounded by peers from various islands, creating a warm andinclusive atmosphere. The regatta itself was a spectacle like no other, with an arrayof activities including food stalls, musical performances, live streaming, andenthusiastic commentators adding to the excitement. The day's events featured adiverse range of races, from Optimist to Sunfish, Laser, and Green Street racing,culminating in the thrilling sloop races.Sir Durward KnowlesRegatta Eleuthera Warriorswww.eleutherasailingacademy.com

Page 9

www.eleutherasailingacademy.com Eleuthera WarriorsThe experience was both exhilarating and enlightening, as we learnt the uniquechallenges of traditional sloop sailing. From last-minute repairs to ensuring the boatsheld together, it is a completely new game to what we are used to. The racedynamics, including anchoring before the starting line, presented new challengesand added a refreshing twist to the competition! We love it.Amidst all the excitement, it was amazing to see just how connected our local sailorsare to sloop racing, a tradition that runs deep in the Bahamian community. Beingpart of the regatta for the first time left us all feeling inspired and craving more ofthose unforgettable moments. We can’t wait to dive back into it in the future!

Page 10

Last April marked a truly unforgettable moment for all of us at Eleuthera SailingAcademy as we journeyed to George Town, Exuma, for the iconic Family Island Regatta.Attending this event felt like stepping into a proud Bahamian tradition, and it was a hugemilestone for our young sailors. The regatta's long-standing legacy, filled with fiercecompetition and vibrant community spirit, made it the perfect platform for us toshowcase our hard work and dedication.Thanks to the overwhelming support of our community, we were able to make thisdream a reality. Many generous donors and organizations from Eleuthera helped us getto George Town, including the invaluable coordination of our local government and theHonorable Minister Clay Sweeting. Our squad featured siblings Finley and TarynMcKinney-Lambert, alongside the ever-popular Lorenzo Laramore and the formidableHauber twins, Makayla and Yemaha.The regatta truly felt like a baptism by fire, with strong winds and challenging conditionstesting our limits. We faced our fair share of hurdles—broken rudders and leaky boats—but our young sailors stepped up to the occasion, showing incredible resilience andteamwork. They dove into the challenges of sloop sailing, tackled repairs like pros, andeven picked up some Bahamian slang to communicate with the seasoned sailors, allwhile keeping smiles on their faces. www.eleutherasailingacademy.comFamily Island Regatta Eleuthera Warriors

Page 11

One of the most exciting parts of the regatta for us was the generous donation ofour very own ‘Sugar Loaf’ E CLASS sloop, built by none other than the legendary boatbuilder Mark Knowles. Having this beautiful sloop meant we could send a team of fiveof our sailors into their first big sloop Regatta! The team was fired up to prove that alltheir success in youth Olympic classes could carry over into the world of sloopracing!Despite the challenges, we approached the regatta with unwavering determination.The spirit of Bahamian camaraderie shone through right from the start. When theSugar Loaf team faced rudder issues just before a race, the crew of Lady AnneMarierushed in to help, diving into the water just seconds before the cannon fired! Theirquick assistance helped us overcome the obstacle and secure a surprising 3rd placefinish. We knew this was just the beginning.This was no leisurely day on the sound. On the very first day, six (yes, SIX!) E Classsloops sank while racing! For our young sailors, simply finishing the races felt like avictory. As the event progressed, the girls on Baby Thunderbird faced their own set ofchallenges, constantly bailing out water from a leaky boat. Their determination in theface of equipment failures and tough conditions truly highlighted their growth. As weoften say at the Island School, “The obstacle is the way!”Our team performed admirably, making smart decisions and executing somefantastic tactical sailing that kept us in top positions throughout the races. With eachday bringing new experiences and challenges, we clinched first place overall, atestament to our training and dedication. This victory was about so much more thanjust winning; it was about breaking barriers and inspiring young Bahamians toembrace the beauty and challenges of sailing. Eleuthera Warriorswww.eleutherasailingacademy.com

Page 12

Eleuthera Warriorswww.eleutherasailingacademy.comESA Girls Pushing BoundariesThis year’s regatta was historic for more than just Eleuthera Sailing Academy’s debut—it was also the first time an all-female youth crew competed in the event! At just 12years old, Taryn McKinney-Lambert, Makayla Hauber, and Yemaha Hauber sailedaboard Baby Thunderbird, making waves as the youngest sailors to race on whatwas likely the oldest boat in the regatta. Facing tough conditions, including a leaky boat that required constant bailing, theseyoung sailors showed grit and determination. Their ability to push through andnavigate both the physical and mental challenges of sloop sailing made them standout. They weren’t just competing—they were breaking barriers, setting a powerfulexample for young Bahamian girls who aspire to join this male-dominated sport.Their presence on the water symbolized a newera for Bahamian sailing, where girls can takethe helm, and the obstacles they faced were metwith resilience and grace.The girls’ efforts, combined with the support oftheir teammates, coaches, and the entireEleuthera Sailing Academy community, remindus that the future of sailing is bright. Theirparticipation in the regatta was about more thanjust racing—it was about empowerment, growth,and showing that young Bahamians can achieveincredible things, on and off the water.

Page 13

Page 14

2023 marked a historic year for Bahamian Youth Sailing, heralding the mostsuccessful period in its history! Through relentless training hours, exhaustive clinics,and comprehensive camps at the Eleuthera Sailing Academy (ESA) and in Nassau,the national team ascended to new heights. This year, the team partook in severalprestigious international events — the World Championships in Spain, the NorthAmerican Championships in Antigua, and the European Championships in Greece.For the first time ever, The Bahamas was represented by such a robust team ofyoung sailors who managed to achieve astonishing results. T H E R I S E O F B A H A M I A NY O U T H S A I L I N Gwww.eleutherasailingacademy.comELIZA DENNINGS2023 WORLDS - SPAIN2023 EUROPEANS - Greece2023 NORTHAMERICANS - AntiguaAt the 2023 World Championships, Finley McKinney-Lambert, the very first sailor totrain at ESA, made history for The Bahamas in the competitive Optimist Class. Finleyaccomplished the highest result ever for a Bahamian in this class. Not only did hequalify for the coveted Gold Fleet, but he also finished an impressive 35th overall.This remarkable achievement is particularly noteworthy given that he hails from asmall archipelago and a sailing academy that is only four years old. Finley'sperformance showcases the dedication and high level of training provided by ESA.Congratulations Finley!Taryn, Alethea and Tegan at Euros

Page 15

A mere week after the Worlds, Eliza Dennings from Lyford Cay, an esteemedcolleague and friend of the ESA community, secured a groundbreaking victory at the2023 Optimist North Americans in Antigua. Eliza won the title of Female Sailor ofNorth America, a feat that seemed unattainable just a few short years ago. Her winunderscores the progress and potential of Bahamian youth sailors. Regularly trainingwith the academy, Eliza is an integral part of the ESA family, and we take immensepride in her achievement.The exciting journey for ESA sailors didn't end there. A team, led by Coach Martin,ventured to Greece for the European Championships. This team included a dynamicgroup of four sailors, notably featuring our very own Greek goddess, AletheaTsoumpas, and Taryn McKinney-Lambert. Sailing on the warm waters of the AegeanSea, they had an unforgettable experience steeped in learning and camaraderie.Bright future ahead. Many of the sailors who have excelled in the Optimist class arenow transitioning into new classes, with some heading abroad to continue theirstudies while others pursue their Olympic dreams right here in The Bahamas. We’reconfident that this hardworking generation of sailors will continue to spread joy andshare their knowledge with those who follow in their footsteps!

Page 16

Page 17

International RegattaLORENZO LARAMOREThe entire ESA community united tosupport local sailors Lorenzo Laramoreand Makayla Hauber. Throughcollaboration with the Make ThemSailors Foundation ESA & BAHODAsuccessfully fundraised to send theseyoung sailors to the Optimist NorthAmericans Championship in Antigua.This invaluable experience wentbeyond competition, exposing them tothe diversity, culture, and camaraderiethat international sailing events offer.The exposure to global peers providedthem with new perspectives and adeeper understanding that sailing isabout much more than just the results!IN T HE IR W OR DS“This past summer I had theopportunity to attend the OptimistNorth Americans Championship inAntigua. The experience was fun andallowed me to meet a lot of differentpeople from all around the world.While I didn’t do very well in thecompetition, I gained a lot ofconfidence to attend larger eventslike this and I hope to be able to helpother kids from Eleuthera preparefor opportunities beyond ourisland.”150NEW FRIENDS KM TRAVELEDRAISED$5,000IM PA CT S NA PS HO TEM PO WE RI NG L OC AL T AL EN T1,763.23Chronicle of a Triumph

Page 18

Page 19

Saturday's at ESAwww.eleutherasailingacademy.comSaturdays at Eleuthera Sailing Academy are a whirlwind of energy, a bit ofnervousness, laughter, and the beauty of the sea. From dawn, kids arrive from allcorners—some piled into vans from Cape Eleuthera, others hitching rides or strollingin. By the time everyone’s here, it feels like the whole island is alive with excitement.The youngest sailors kick off the day with games and sunscreen, their enthusiasmhuge! Meanwhile, older kids are already setting up windsurf gear and rigging boats.Everyone knows the routine—except the shy newcomer, who quickly gets guidancefrom the ESA WARRIORS, our racing team and assistant coaches. Martin, Carlien, andthe daily volunteer dart between groups, keeping the day flowing with fun andlearning.While the kids are on the water, laughing and splashing, lunch is being prepared—ahearty pasta and fresh greens. By noon, 25 hungry sailors gather, sharing food andstories of the day’s adventures, from close calls to small victories. It’s a moment toteach teamwork, manners, and friendship.As the younger ones head home, the advanced sailors take over for the afternoon,whether it's an open-ocean sail, races in the bay, or a windy windsurf session. EverySaturday at ESA is filled with fun, challenge, and community that keeps everyonecoming back!

Page 20

Page 21

School Programs - ELC www.eleutherasailingacademy.comWednesday mornings are nothing short of magical at the Elementary LearningCenter from The Island School. Each week, ESA arrives in Cape Eleuthera, bringing awave of adventure and learning as the kids dive headfirst into it. Tiny captainssetting sail on their little boats, whether navigating solo or teaming up with theirfriends, all against the backdrop of the most breathtaking scenery!ELC SAILINGAt first, fear wraps around them like the windgripping their sails. They exchange nervousglances, hesitant to be the first to launch.Some even try to convince each other it’snot worth the risk! But with a gentle nudgefrom the coaches and the encouragementof older kids, they begin to set out, one byone. Starting on their knees to avoid theboom swinging back and forth, they glancenervously at the coach boat, silently hopingfor rescue.Slowly they start to build confidence,realizing that they DO have control over theirlittle boats. It’s pretty incredible to see themshift their perspective, treating fear as anexciting ally rather than a scary monster.And then, the laughter begins! By the end ofthe course, all they want to do is sail faster,hike out, and even capsize!

Page 22

School Programs - DCMS The Deep Creek Middle School Group brings ajoy and enthusiasm to the Eleuthera SailingAcademy every Thursday afternoon.As the 7th and 8th graders dive into the worldof sailing and windsurfing at SavannahSound, it’s heartwarming to witness theirtransformation from nervous beginners toconfident sailors.When they first step onto the water, fear ofthe sand, grass, or whatever “monsters” theyimagine lurking in the crystal-clear depthsholds them back. They move cautiously,hesitant to try anything new. But gradually,they start to loosen up, rediscovering the joyof play and gaining confidence. Soon, they’reyelling for their teachers or friends to watchthem as they venture further into the bay,embracing the beauty of independence andself-control.www.eleutherasailingacademy.comHere’s a fun story: when Roos Wind, the Laser world champion from the Netherlands,came to volunteer with us, she kicked things off with an introductory conversation.When she asked the kids about their favorite hobbies, guess what most of themsaid? Watching TikTok videos! It’s clear that screens are capturing their attentionmore and more these days. While technology has its benefits, it’s so important toremind them to embrace their inner child—jump into the water, explore the naturalworld, and face challenges that build self-confidence and self-love, all without filters.

Page 23

Page 24

Adult learn to Sailwww.eleutherasailingacademy.comAt Eleuthera Sailing Academy, Sundays aren’t just for kids—our adult sailing programis thriving! Every week, grown-ups gather to discover sailing, try windsurfing, andenjoy the water in a fun, supportive environment where everyone helps andencourages each other. After two years, we now have solid sailors and windsurfers,proving it's never too late to dive into the sport! With a Vanguard 15, a Hobie Cat, andwindsurfing gear, there’s plenty of opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, learnnew skills, and have a blast. From boats to kites, windsurf boards, foils, and wings,Sundays at ESA offer something for everyone. It’s not just about learning to sail—it’sabout building community and enjoying the water together!

Page 25

Page 26

ESA Watersportswww.eleutherasailingacademy.comThis winter, the winds returned, and we took full advantage of the fantasticconditions! Our location in Savannah Sound offers an exceptional environment forlearning and improving kite surfing, wing surfing, and windsurfing. With flat water,stable winds, and shallow depths on the Atlantic side, it provides a safe and idealsetting for both beginners and skilled surfers alike.Our young athletes are rapidly enhancing their skills, and the size of our kite surfingcommunity is growing quickly. If you haven't tried it yet, now is the perfect time todive in and experience the thrill for yourself.Our private lessons in these sports are crucial for maintaining our financial stability,and we’re incredibly grateful to be in such a beautiful and conducive location forlearning. Above all, we look forward to the day when our local youth will take thelead in teaching these lessons to others!Kitesursfing

Page 27

Page 28

Page 29

Page 30

Page 31

Volunteers: Friends giving backThis past year, we’ve been incredibly blessed by visits from volunteers—manyof them former students of Martin, hailing from all corners of the world. Mostof these volunteers are accomplished sailors or coaches, and all of themhave become lifelong friends who share a passion for sailing and a desire togive back. Their motivation to "pay it forward" has allowed them to enjoy anunforgettable adventure in The Bahamas while sharing what they love doingthe most. Friendships for ever!Among them was Roos Wind, ILCA 6 2023 Youth World Champion from theNetherlands, who brought supplies generously donated to our Make ThemSailors initiative. Fellow Dutch sailors, Ties Wijbinga and Houwe Reesink, visitedas well, discovering the vibrant world of Bahamian Sloop Sailing and bondingwith our energetic youth. We were also visited by Tomás Di Luciano, a formerOpti South American champion from the days when Martin coached inArgentina, who came with his friend Paloma, a world-class sailor and coachherself.www.eleutherasailingacademy.com

Page 32

Tomi and his brother painted the busTies sailing Sloops with OdnecePaloma coaching from an OptimistThese are just a few of the amazing sailors who visited us this year. Whether theyslept on the bus or aboard the catamaran, they formed a strong connection withour local kids. For Martin, it was heartwarming to witness this blend ofgenerations, seeing so many former students embrace the transformative powerof sailing and believe in its ability to unite and inspire.www.eleutherasailingacademy.comNiels, now new HEAD COACH from LCS

Page 33

Our apprentice program journey, though fraught with challenges, also broughtrewarding experiences. Initially, it proved difficult to secure long-term commitment fromthe youth teenagers. They participated enthusiastically for a month, but their interestwaned, especially after traveling to regattas. It was a learning curve that highlighted theneed for continuous engagement and support for our young participants.Amid these challenges, a shining success story emerged with Mark, a young Haitian whojoined our program. Mark proved to be trustworthy and demonstrated a keen eagernessto grow in the marine industry. He has since become our reliable maintenance guy andis gradually transitioning into a windsurfing coach. His journey has been exemplary,inspiring young kids with his dedication and skill. To further his development, wesponsored him for lifeguard and CPR training provided by the CTI One EleutheraFoundation, which he successfully completed.Mark's journey from a participant to a coach and maintenance expert embodies thepotential of our program to transform lives. It highlights the importance of offering notonly skill training but also the necessary support to help individuals thrive.These achievements underscore our commitment to fostering competitive spirit, skilldevelopment, and inclusivity, despite the obstacles we encountered. The stories of ourparticipants, like Mark, are a testament to the transformative power of the Youth Equityand Opportunity Program, driving us to continue making a lasting impact in ourcommunity.Apprentice Programwww.eleutherasailingacademy.com

Page 34

Diversity: A Pillar of Eleuthera Sailing AcademyA powerful moment came during the World Championships in Spain. Finley McKinney-Lambert, an ESA sailor, felt the pressure building before his final race. "I'm nervous," headmitted. "I feel a lot of pressure." I reminded him that real pressure is not knowing whereyour next meal will come from or having to work to support your family. "This is just agame. Think of your friends from Eleuthera who hitchhike just to make it to sailingpractice. Realize how lucky we are to be here. Sail for them." He went on to sail the bestrace of his life.At ESA, diversity enriches us all, and if you’ve been here, you’ll know it’s at the heart ofeverything we do. Bringing together local kids, expat families, top national team sailors,and complete beginners creates a vibrant environment where everyone learns fromeach other. We grow when we connect with people from different backgrounds,especially when we work together. Whether it’s a conversation with young Shamarrabout long-term goals versus instant gratification, or watching top sailors and privilegedkids gain a deeper appreciation for the opportunities they’ve been given—at ESA, theylearn empathy.This cultural exchange strengthens our community and empowers everyone involved.From sailors with vastly different lives teaching each other technical skills, to doingdishes, or organizing sleepovers during regattas, the intertwining of these diverseexperiences is what makes ESA so special.Learning from Each Otherwww.eleutherasailingacademy.com

Page 35

www.eleutherasailingacademy.com Eleuthera Warriorswww.eleutherasailingacademy.comAs we invest in the youth of our community, we emphasizevalues like perseverance, teamwork, and compassion. Ourmission extends beyond sailing; it’s about equipping theseyoung individuals with the skills they need to thrive in theirpersonal lives and contribute meaningfully to society. Weenvision a future where our local kids don’t just becomeaccomplished sailors but also tour operators, professionalsailors, boat mechanics, engineers, canvas and sail makers,and more. They will grow into valuable community members,ready to dream big and work hard.

Page 36

www.eleutherasailingacademy.comFinancials - Fiscal year 2023/2024"Congratulations to The ESA on another yearof growing the sport of junior sailing withinthe Eleuthera community. A special thanksalso to our many contributors who makeeverything possible."Craig Symonette,Founder ESAKids got the Opportunity to Sailthrough out the year60+20Sailors participated in2022 NationalsEleuthera Sailing Academy - Statement of Activities for the year ended june 30th 2024Revenues, Gains and Other SupportExpensesContributions & DonationsGrantsProgram IncomeSpecial Events $ 52,083Total Revenues, Gains and Other Support $ 28,936$ 16,273$ 48,667$145,959Program ServicesManagement & General$(125,970)$(18,701)Total Expenses $(144,671)Change in net assets$1,287

Page 37

www.eleutherasailingacademy.comDonations40%Memberships22.7%Grants21.9%Camps/Clinics8.9%Other3.8%CEIS2.9%Revenues, Gains and Other SupportRental/Lessons:Camps/Clinics: Memberships: Donations: Grants: CEIS: Other: $13,582$11,750$29,995$52,906$28,936$3,800$4,990Total$145,959Wages31.7%Rent25.9%Equipment8%Special Events: Clinics6.7%Wages Instructors4.8%Utilities3.5%Sponsorship3.4%Repairs & Maintenance3.2%Travel1.7%Fees & Licenses1%ExpensesWagesRentEquipmentSpecial Events: ClinicsWages InstructorsUtilitiesSponsorshipRepairs & MaintenanceFuelFreightTravelApprenticeshipsSuppliesHealth and Nutrition ProgramInsuranceFees & LicensesMisc.$44,050.00$36,000.00$11,100.00$9,362.00$6,684.07$4,908.94$4,761.00$4,411.00$3,820.00$2,632.00$2,432.11$2,250.00$2,180.38$1,792.00$1,095.00$1,322.00$220.00$(144,671)Total EXPENSES

Page 38

www.eleutherasailingacademy.comAs we close another extraordinary season at Eleuthera Sailing Academy, I reflect onthe remarkable journey we’ve taken. This season has been about much more thanmilestones or results—it’s been about the adventure, the challenges, and the growththat come with pursuing a dream. From the early days of uncertainty to theflourishing program we see today, it has been a journey of passion, commitment,and belief in the power of sailing to bring people together.Reflecting on our beginnings with only five Optimist boats and a half-built clubhouse,it’s astounding to see how far we’ve come. Today, we position ourselves as a beaconin The Bahamas, showing how passion and commitment can unite a community toachieve unthinkable things. We proudly have a thriving fleet that serves sailors of allages, genders, and skill levels. Our membership programs for residents, partnershipswith local schools, and the establishment of a social enterprise where tourists canlearn to sail, kite, or windsurf while supporting the community, are vital componentsof our mission. These initiatives not only empower our young sailors but also enrichthe entire Eleuthera community.Our racing team had another outstanding year. We’re proud to be the largest club atlocal competitions, bringing numerous local kids to regattas and giving them thechance to experience the thrill of competition. We’ve also fundraised to send sailorsto international events, allowing them to compete against the world’s best. WatchingEleuthera and the Eleuthera Sailing Academy become a recognized breeding groundfor excellent sailors has been nothing short of a dream come true. We’ve had world-class coaches come to volunteer their time and share their experiences, and we’vecreated an atmosphere where local kids have gone from looking at the ground andonly answering with "Yes, Sir," to dreaming big and achieving great things.R E F L E C T I O N S O N S E A S O N 4 :A J O U R N E Y O F G R O W T H ,C O M M U N I T Y , A N D A C H I E V E M E N T

Page 39

www.eleutherasailingacademy.comParticipating in the traditional Bahamian sloops this year was particularlyenlightening. Winning the E Class during our first entry into such a prestigious eventwas not only a remarkable achievement, but it was also a pivotal moment thatconnected us with the heart of Bahamian sailing culture. Through this victory, weshowcased the importance of teaching sailing from a young age and how theOptimist Class is the perfect boat to learn how to master the elements, as well ashow to race. The Optimist is the largest and most competitive class in the world,and we hope to continue bridging the gap between Olympic Classes and thecompetitive international Bahamian sailors with our local Sloop tradition and clubs.This union can expose more kids to the sport and serve as a solid foundation for ourbeautiful maritime country. We are grateful and excited that the government andlocal authorities share this vision and are making a huge effort to promote ournational sport.This season has deepened my belief in the transformative power of sailing. Beyondthe excitement of competition, it offers a pathway to personal growth and collectivehealing for our community. I’m incredibly thankful for the unwavering support we’vereceived, which has helped us create a safe space where dreams are nurtured, andevery child, regardless of their background, can discover their potential. Our journeywould not be possible without the generous backing of organizations like the IslandSchool, One Eleuthera Foundation, he Bahamas Sailing Association, the localgovernment, and the dedicated communities of Nassau and Eleuthera. A specialmention goes to our founding father and visionary, Mr. Craig Symonette, whosesteadfast generosity during challenging times has kept ESA thriving. He exemplifieswhat it means to be a true community leader.Looking ahead, I’m filled with optimism and a sense of exciting possibilities! We’removing ever closer to our dream of securing a permanent location—one where wecan be financially independent from rent and create a lasting sailing center. Weenvision this center being led by the very sailors we are training today. Together, weare building something meaningful, sustainable, and dedicated to nurturing a futuregeneration that understands the power of lifting each other up. I can’t wait to seewhere this journey leads us next.Martin ManriqueEleuthera Sailing AcademyHead coach

ESA 2023/2024

Page 1

Page 2

Page 3