July 2008
Crew Bio’s:
The Regulars:
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Peter Clark: Peter Clark began his sailing career as an NBYA Junior Sailing All-Star and has blossomed into an ultra-talented Fleet 9 competitor. The pride of East Providence, Rhode Island and a graduate of both La Salle Academy and the University of Rhode Island, Peter appreciates the local flavor that Fleet 9 has to offer. When Peter is not at the helm of the 224 he can be found behind his desk at Applied Technology and Management, working on his newly acquired Newport home, or entertaining his K-9 friend Travis.
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Mark Kroening a.k.a “Kiwi Mok”: Mark, or “Mok”, is responsible for the 224’s blazing speed. Mark trims the main upwind and the spinnaker downwind. Mark is also in charge of the Virginia’s rig tune. Mark tunes the rig off the guide for the most part but is great at making off-the-cuff adjustments after routine sights up the rig.
- Matthew Cohen: Matthew, known by most as Matty, is the Virginia bowman. Matty’s crisp mechanics help the team pick up points at crowded mark roundings. Matty calls the pressure upwind and downwind and is an integral part of the information feeding process.
The Ringers:
Anthony Kotoun: J-24 World Champion
Pete Levesque: 3x Collegiate All-American
Mike Campbell a.k.a. “Grits”: Collegiate Keelboat National Champion
Wednesday Night Approach:
Much of the Virginia’s success can be attributed to their crew chemistry. All Virginia crew members are of the same mindset: they’re out there to relax, have a good time, and get their fix of weekly sailboat racing. Each crewmember enjoys, as well as respects, the Corinthian nature of the class and the majestic lines of the boat. They like to refer to each week as a new story and a release from the stresses of the average workweek.
Virginia’s Tips and Tricks:
The 224 does not spend a lot time “tricking out” their chariot. The group has definitely adopted a less-is-more philosophy when it comes to boat work. The simpler the better they like to say. They have however installed a new Harken Traveler, a control they believe is one of the most important on the boat. Being active with the traveler in puffy conditions neutralizes the helm and keeps the boat on its feet. They have also adopted a somewhat unconventional 2:1 jib system that allows for finer tuning and keeps more weight on the rail. Other than that, nothing too out of the ordinary for this ordinary crew of guys.
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