Veterans Racing, Birding, and Building Community on Long Island's Waters
- Sean Duclay
- 23 hours ago
- 3 min read
As summer gets underway, SailAhead veterans are once again finding opportunities to get out on the water, learn new skills, and build community across Long Island.
From racing classic sailboats to exploring local waterways in search of wildlife, recent weeks have provided a variety of opportunities for veterans to connect with one another and experience Long Island from the water.
Veterans Racing Aboard Judy
One of the highlights of our season so far has been returning to the starting line aboard Judy, a classic sailing vessel built in Huntington by Knutsen's Marina in 1947.
Originally designed as a cruising boat, Judy has found new life as part of the Stirling Harbor Foundation's classic fleet in Oyster Bay. Thanks to the dedication of her skipper, Llori Levere, she now serves a new mission: introducing veterans to the challenge and camaraderie of sailboat racing.
Over the course of four race days this season, veterans from the United States Marine Corps, Army, Air Force, and even an active-duty member of the United States Coast Guard have joined us aboard. Together, we've experienced everything from light-air tactical races to spirited competition that saw Judy finish second in May and first in June... We may have also finished last on one of those days, but that's not the story we're here to tell!
While it's always exciting to see a good result on the scoreboard, the real victory is seeing veterans become part of a local sailing community, learn new skills, and experience Long Island's maritime heritage firsthand.
Racing takes place every Thursday and Friday in Oyster Bay. Veterans interested in joining a future race are encouraged to reach out to SailAhead for more information (see button at the bottom of this article).
Birding from the Water
This season also marked the return of one of SailAhead's unique maritime programs: birding from the water, with our friends the CI Bird Sanctuary.
In early June, SailAhead participant Angela joined a birding excursion aboard a classic vessel in Oyster Bay Harbor. Guided by experienced naturalists from the CI Bird Sanctuary, she had the opportunity to observe ospreys, herons, egrets, and other local wildlife while enjoying a peaceful morning on the water.
A longtime SailAhead participant, 9/11 first responder, and military veteran, Angela represents the type of experience we hope to offer more veterans throughout the season. Programs like these provide an opportunity to slow down, reconnect with nature, and experience Long Island's waterways from a unique perspective.
Additional birding outings are already planned throughout the summer, and we look forward to welcoming more veterans aboard.
What veterans are saying:
Today's experience was calming and informative. The beauty of the Bay and its habitat was a refreshing experience with great company.
—Angela, US Army Veteran and 9/11 First Responder
The SailAhead team's impact through advocacy and sailing to the veteran community and beyond is incredible.
—John, U.S. Air Force Veteran
Join Us
Are you a veteran interested in sailing, racing, birding, rowing, boatbuilding, or other maritime activities?
We would love to hear from you.
Sign up here to receive future SailAhead opportunities and event announcements:
Support Our Mission
SailAhead's programs are made possible through the generosity of volunteers, boat owners, community partners, and donors.
Every donation helps us continue providing free maritime experiences to veterans throughout Long Island.
As we prepare for our 10th Annual Let's Take a Vet Sailing Event this July, community support remains essential to making these programs possible.
Support SailAhead:
