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St. Pete To Shine Again

  • By Dave Reed
  • February 14, 2024

2022 Star Class Vintage Gold Cup

The St. Petersburg Yacht Club and the western shore of Florida’s Tampa Bay will be the epicenter of sailboat racing this weekend when more than 240 teams across 13 one-design classes and five handicap-racing fleets get races started for the first event of the national Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta Series in St. Petersburg . Now well into its third decade, the regatta will also mark 10 years with its title sponsor.

The Sunshine City’s motto is that St. Pete is “Always in Season,” and that is certainly the enticement for many teams traveling in from colder climes with the promise of warm breezes, stiff competition and a nightlife that’s never been more vibrant.

One such northerner is David Mierzwa, of Lake Placid, New York, who on Tuesday was behind the wheel and racing to get south of a big storm burying the mid-Atlantic and Northeast in snow and ice. Behind him was bitter cold, but ahead of him was warmth and the anticipation of his first Melges 24 Midwinter Championship at the regatta.

As a newbie to the demanding Melges 24, Mierzwa says his primary goal is to “stay out of everybody’s way,” but ultimately, he and his teammates are on a mission to learn the nuances of this high-performance keelboat from his peers.

“We’re going so we can hunt for tips, tricks and whatever makes us better,” Mierzwa says. “It’s about having the opportunity to do an event of this caliber with likeminded people, because while sailing is the goal, being surrounded by others that do the same sport is sometimes better than the sport itself.”

As the Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta in St. Petersburg will be his team’s first major event, he recognizes they don’t have a high enough racing pedigree to vie for the Midwinter Championship title—yet. “The only way we can get to that point is to go out there and race,” he says.

And race they will, from early Friday morning through late Sunday, alongside several other one-design classes that are the regulars of this February classic, including the S2 7.9s and the Hobie 33s , both of which will also be vying for their midwinter championship titles. 

2022 Star Class Vintage Gold Cup

The S2s have the returning champions of Tom and Mary Bryant’s “Team Matros” from Holland, Michigan, which won seven of eight races in 2023 to earn their berth at the Helly Hansen Sailing World Caribbean Championship last October. At each of the series’ five events one team is selected to compete in the British Virgin Islands for the overall season title.

The Hobie 33s also have their champions returning to defend— Craig and Deborah Wilusz’s “Hoof Hearted”—but this year there’s a new and unknown challenger from Waxhaw, North Carolina, and it’s a boat with a nefarious name: “Bad Bunny.” Its new owner, Sean Rhone, says he’s looking forward to meeting and racing with other Hobie 33 owners for the first time and “taking a peek under their hoods.”

Rhone has been primarily racing his Hobie 33 in singlehanded events and low-key races on North Carolina’s Lake Norman, and like Mierzwa, he’s not sure how well he’ll fare, especially with a five-person team that’s been assembled by way of social media message boards, and whom he’s never met.

“It’s cold in Charlotte,” Rhone says, “and I’m getting tired of the cold weather, so when I saw that the fleet was having its midwinters in St. Petersburg, I thought it would be nice to go and race against some other Hobie 33s for once.”

Contender

Mierzwa and Rhone may pass each other on an interstate somewhere on the way to St. Pete, along with a sizable Canadian contingent of Contender dinghy sailors making their annual pilgrimage from across the northern border. The 16-foot Contender, which its loyalists claim to be “The Sexiest Singlehander in the World ” was introduced in 1969 and continues to be popular internationally, as well as in Tampa thanks to local sailmaker Ethan Bixby. Bixby, a champion of many classes, continues to rally the troops to the Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta and the fleet has doubled for this year’s gathering. Bixby, who won all races last year, will of course be among the 11 trapezing sailors.

Sharing the same racecourse will be eight teams racing the doublehanded Windmill class, which is new to the regatta lineup, but another cult classic sparked in the 1950s. Class measurer Pat Huntley, of Erie, Pennsylvania, is now a decade into Windmill racing, and says he’s eager to enjoy some fast sailing in St. Pete and good times with his fellow Windmillers. “It’s such a fun and cool group,” Huntley says. “And the Windmill is such a bad-ass skinny and fast boat. It can handle the chop easily and is really fast.” 

Five teams racing in the 20-foot Flying Dutchman class (first built in 1951) will hail from California to Tennessee and hosted by local FD ace, Lin Robson, the 2023 class winner. The doublehanded bonanza, however, will be the Melges 15 class, which will feature an impressive 31 teams, nearly double from 2023. The new one-design class has exploded in popularity across the country since its introduction three years ago, and midwinter regattas elsewhere in Florida have maxed out at nearly 100 boats.

Melges 15 class

Among the Melges 15 ranks in St. Petersburg will be New York’s Iris Vogel, who has traditionally raced the regatta with her larger one-design keelboats over the years (a Soverel 33 and a J/88, both named “Deviation”). Vogel is now enjoying the challenge of big-fleet racing and exhilarating downwind sailing.

Racing with her partner, Tim Longo, Vogel helms and Longo handles the front of the boat, and over the past year they’ve been working their way up the scoreboard, but have a long way to go to the top. “This is a totally new thing to sail in such a big fleet,” Vogel says. “J/88 events typically get a dozen boats at best, and the racing is much slower paced. The tactics are completely different and boats are fast downwind so it’s a ton of fun, but we are still learning a different style of racing. Having the smaller fleet [at the Helly Hansen Regatta] will give us a chance to work on our boatspeed.”

While the out-of-town armada is significant, local sailors look forward to the regatta every year, especially Tampa Bay’s PHRF sailors who’ve made the event a key fixture in their Suncoast Boat of the Year Series. For these fleets, which now comprise the regatta’s largest group with 38 entries across four divisions (Spinnaker, Non-Spinnaker, Racer-Cruiser and Cruising) organizers have added two days of long-course racing over the weekend. Depending on the wind strength and direction of the day, the race committee will plot a daylong course to test each team’s navigational and sailing skills, as well as their perseverance and desire to be first to the dock and first to the yacht club bar.

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Local sailor Tim Landt, who has been an active sailor on the Tampa Bay waterfront for decades, is a registered competitor in the Cruising division in his new-to-him Nightwind 35, “Charisma.” He’s excited to see the regatta’s blossoming distance-race fleet and says the local growth and interest in racing older-generation yachts is good for the sport and for the Tampa Bay racing scene.

But it’s not all classic plastics in the distance fleet. In the Racer-Cruiser division will be the sparkling new Neo 43, owned by Ken Mungan of nearby Isles Yacht Club in Punta Gorda, Florida. Mungan purchased his sleek Italian-built 43-footer in 2022 with big plans to take on a few of the sport’s marque distance races, and local events like the Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta offer he and his team an opportunity to learn the boat in a racing environment.

st pete yacht club events

“When I turned 40 I needed a hobby and took up sailing,” Munger says. “I’m always trying new things and got into racing 2019. I did the Melges 24 for a while, but the Neo, because it’s a shallow-draft boat, allows me to do more local long-distance racing and we’re learning a lot.”

For this weekend’s regatta, Munger has more crew lined up than there are roles on the boat, but that’s fine with him. “We’re going to be overloaded, and I am anticipating a level of skill and organization that we don’t quite have yet,” he admits. “We’ll have two coaches and a new set of racing jibs that will be used for the first time, so it will be fun, and I’m looking forward to it.”

Trimaran in St. Pete

While the long-course racers are making their way around the bay, closer to shore, will be the multihulls: the high-tech A Class Catamarans , which have two divisions (Classic and Foiling) totaling 33 competitors, and the Weta Trimarans , with a smaller contingent from years past, return with nine boats, and among them is two-time defending champion and local Pete Merrifield looking for a three-peat.

David Starck and crew

         The iconic Lightning Class is one of the regatta’s largest one-design fleets, with 25 boats, five of which will be raced by members of the Starck family with a few world champions among them. Hall of Famer, Augie Diaz, of Miami, and Ched Proctor, of Southport, Connecticut, both world champions as well, always add to the high level of racing and camaradarie Lightning sailors enjoy all winter. The Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta in St. Petersburg is a key warm-up event for the Lightning class’s hotly-contested two-regatta Southern Circuit with March events in St. Pete and Miami.

J/24 fleet

Sharing one racing circle immediately off the city front will be the 29-boat J/70 fleet and a reemergent J/24 fleet, both of which will no doubt provide quality racing for both professional and amateur sailors. The same will be true for the ever-competitive ORC fleet, with 11 entries, which will be racing further south. Bill and Jackie Baxter’s J/111 “Fireball,” from Stamford, Connecticut, which has won all of its events this winter will return to defend its 2023 ORC title, which it earned with ease, winning seven of eight races.

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Come enjoy the spectacular Grand Prix of St. Petersburg Yacht Club during the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding! By anchoring in the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg Yacht Club, an exclusive, members only area, located on private floating docks at Turns 10 & 11, you and your guests will experience unprecedented access to the Event!  Enjoy the Horse Soldier Bourbon Whiskey Waterside Club connected right next to the Yacht Club slips!

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The St. Petersburg Sailing Center has been home to novice sailors and expert racers since the early 1940's. Community memberships are available to those who live in the Tampa Bay Area.

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🌊 Sailing for All! 🌍 At the St. Petersburg Sailing Center, we believe sailing should be accessible to everyone. Our community sailing programs offer affordable and inclusive opportunities for all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re looking to learn, race, or simply enjoy a day on the water, we have a program for you. 🤝 Community Sailing Includes: Open sailing days Special events and regattas ⛵️ Join our community and sail the beautiful waters of St. Pete! #sailstpete Learn more by visiting www.sailstpete.org ... See More See Less

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🚤 It's Never Too Late to Learn! 🛟 Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a beginner, the St. Petersburg Sailing Center offers a variety of adult programs tailored to your experience level. From basic sailing lessons to advanced racing techniques, we've got you covered. 🌟 Membership Benefits Include: Access to a fleet of boats Discounted class fees Exclusive social events ⛵️ Explore our membership options and set sail with us! Learn more at www.sailstpete.org ... See More See Less

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🌟 Setting Sail for the Future! 🌊 At the St. Petersburg Sailing Center, our youth programs are designed to inspire the next generation of sailors. From beginners to advanced sailors, our camps and classes offer a fun and educational experience on the water. Join us in creating lifelong memories and a love for sailing! 📅 Youth Programs: Summer Sailing Camps After-School Programs Competitive Sailing Teams ⛵️ Enroll your child today and let them discover the joy of sailing! Learn more by visiting www.sailstpete.org ... See More See Less

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Would love to know more about your after school programs. My son enjoyed summer camp-would love to know what is available during the school year.

⛵️ Important Notice: Limited Hours and Equipment ⛵️ In preparation for impending inclement weather, our Sailing Center will have limited hours and equipment availability this weekend. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this time. Stay safe and we look forward to resuming normal operations soon! #SPYC #WeatherUpdate #sailstpete ... See More See Less

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🌊 Save the Date! Ocean Racing Awards 🏆 Join us on August 17th at 6 PM for the Ocean Racing Awards. RSVP here: forms.gle/U7yXcYM39ofwmxno7 . Don't miss out! ... See More See Less

This summer, let your kids discover the joy of sailing at the St. Pete Sailing Center. Our camps are designed for all skill levels, ensuring a fun and educational experience for everyone. Dont let this summer pass by without a little adventure! #StPeteSailingCenter #SummerCamp #SailingFun #StPeteAdventures #sailstpete

This summer, let your kids discover the joy of sailing at the St. Pete Sailing Center. Our camps are designed for all skill levels, ensuring a fun and educational experience for everyone. Don't let this summer pass by without a little adventure! #stpetesailingcenter #summercamp #sailingfun #stpeteadventures #sailstpete ... See More See Less

Looking for a unique summer experience for your kids? Our sailing camps at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club are the perfect blend of education and fun. From learning to rig boats to mastering the waves, every day is an adventure. Enroll today! #StPeteYachtClub #SummerSailing #YouthSailing #AdventureAwaits #sailstpete

Looking for a unique summer experience for your kids? Our sailing camps at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club are the perfect blend of education and fun. From learning to rig boats to mastering the waves, every day is an adventure. Enroll today! #StPeteYachtClub #summersailing #youthsailing #AdventureAwaits #sailstpete ... See More See Less

Join us at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club  for an unforgettable summer sailing camp! Perfect for young sailors ready to learn the ropes, make new friends, and have a blast on the water. Spots are filling up fast, so dont miss out! #StPeteYachtClub #SummerSailingCamp #YoungSailors #StPeteSummer #sailstpete

Join us at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club for an unforgettable summer sailing camp! Perfect for young sailors ready to learn the ropes, make new friends, and have a blast on the water. Spots are filling up fast, so don't miss out! #StPeteYachtClub #summersailingcamp #youngsailors #stpetesummer #sailstpete ... See More See Less

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It's hard to believe we are already half way through summer. Time flies when you are having fun! Don't miss out on the opportunity to learn how to sail this summer. Visit www.sailstpete.org for more information. #sailstpete #spycsailing #spyc_fl ... See More See Less

Thank you to the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg for joining us on the water this summer! We are having a blast showing everyone the wonderful world of sailing. #sailstpete #spycsailing #spyc_fl

Thank you to the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg for joining us on the water this summer! We are having a blast showing everyone the wonderful world of sailing. #sailstpete #spycsailing #spyc_fl ... See More See Less

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We are incredibly proud of all of our amazing sailors. Learn how you can start your sailing journey by visiting www.sailstpete.org #spycsailing #spyc_fl #sailstpete ... See More See Less

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We are excited for his next round of lessons! 🤗⛵️

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Join us at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club April 6, 2025!

Vip package, featured marque.

The St. Petersburg Motor Classic Show is held in beautiful South Straub Park along the waterfront in downtown St. Petersburg. The show, in its 23nd year, is organized by the St Petersburg Yacht Club, with a dedicated show committee and volunteers from both Club members and interested members of the public.

The show, which is free to the for spectators, is open to both Club Members and non-members, and features a carefully curated selection of 300+ vehicles from the 1880’s through today. There is something for every motoring taste, from antiques and classics through modern exotics, and even boats or motorcycles.

There are 25 classes covering every era of motoring, each judged by a “People’s Choice” metric. Additionally, a Best of Show is awarded.

The St. Petersburg Motor Classic is a non-profit 501(C)3 organization that supports and donates proceeds from the event to local charities, to assist them in their amazing efforts.

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SEE YOU APRIL 6, 2025!

This event was designed to provide equal opportunity for enjoyment by all participants. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation for accessibility assistance pursuant to disability laws , please contact the event planner at (727) 488-0584. If you are unable to connect with the event planner regarding reasonable accommodations:

You can contact the City of St Petersburg Community Affairs Division at (727) 893-7345 or (727) 892-5259 TDD/TTY” . Please note that City staff will not have event or ticket information.

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The Life & Lies of St. Pete’s Founding Mother, Part II Sarah Judge

The life & lies of st. pete’s founding mother, sailing into history:  the st. petersburg yacht club.

St. Pete Yacht Club

Founded in 1909 by a small group of sailors, the St. Petersburg Yacht Club had no dock or clubhouse. What they did have was a common interest in boating and the belief that the waters of Tampa Bay were special.  Their first outing consisted of twenty boats carrying about 100 members and guests to Blind Pass. That's a pretty impressive turn out for a city with a population of only about 4,000 citizens.

 The lack of a proper yacht basin stymied the organization's growth for a few years until two local newspaper men called a meeting on the evening of May 30, 1916. Seven prominent local  men rallied to lead the charge to incorporate the club and raise funds for a proper clubhouse. On June 23, 1916 articles of incorporation were drawn up and filed with the county clerk. Just shy of its first anniversary, the St. Petersburg Yacht Club formally opened their clubhouse on June 15, 1917.

Located on the northwest corner of Bayshore Drive and Central Avenue, the Spanish Mission style clubhouse was designed by architect George W. Stewart and was roughly 100 feet by 75 feet. The St. Petersburg Times marveled at the imposing waterfront structure stating that "its  pleasing interior and spacious porches offer a center for the social activity of its members and guests."

The club did have a slight setback when on October 25, 1921 hurricane force winds damaged some porches and pushed several feet of bay water into the structure. As with other damaged structures in town, repairs were quick to happen and ready the city for the wintering tourist season.

As membership soared during the next few years, it was all too clear that an expansion was needed,  and on December 21, 1922 the new wing was opened. The clubhouse more than doubled in size, offering the finest of amenities to its members and guests. And plenty of spacious porches to take in the beauty of clear bay waters. Additional clubhouse improvements occurred over the years, with a major renovation and construction of a multi-story garage in the early 1990s.

From card games, social meetings and dancing, a bevy of activities could be enjoyed off the water. Water-based activities taught boating and sailing skills to its members young and old. Events consisted of power and sailing races, regattas, and for the adventurous yachtsmen, The St. Petersburg to Havana Yacht races.

The first race to Cuba was organized by George Gandy, Jr. on March 30, 1930 with 11 yachts competing.  With the Pier serving as the staring points, racers finished 284 miles later at the Morro Castle near the entrance to Havana Harbor. The races served as the forerunner to the Southern Ocean Racing Conference (SORC).

The St. Petersburg Yacht club has a rich history, and the membership rolls over the past century were literally a Who's Who list within the city. Today, the Yacht club is in the headlines with the news that Club leadership have a tentative goal to replace the current 51,000 sq ft structure with an improved facility to withstand major storms by 2028-29.

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st pete yacht club events

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St Pete Catalyst

Concerns swell over St. Pete Yacht Club redevelopment

Mark Parker

St. Petersburg Yacht Club officials are attempting to quell member concerns regarding the waterfront landmark’s impending demolition and future uses, less than two months after announcing a tentative redevelopment date.

The Catalyst obtained an email Commodore Scott Boyle sent to members Tuesday that addressed a petition circulating around the clubhouse in recent days. He said it contains inaccurate information regarding plans to rebuild the facility at 11 Central Avenue – first opened in 1917 – and a marina project.

In early March, club leaders announced plans to build anew in fiscal year 2028-29, as time has caught up to the aging facility. Boyle wrote Tuesday that a modern and efficient building would honor the club’s “rich sailing history” and provide a place that members “will be proud to call home.”

“The decision to build a new facility has nothing to do with jeopardizing or minimizing the club’s sailing history,” Boyle wrote. “The master plan assures we will maintain that history, and we will remain a premier sailing club well into the future.”

The Yacht Club has started building a new event pier with a 475-foot floating dock. Club spokesperson Joe DiVito said, in an earlier interview, that the existing pier was over 50 years old and becoming a “real problem.” He said the new pier would better accommodate regattas and other events.

In his email, Boyle called marina reconstruction a “huge endeavor” with several moving parts.

“Unfortunately, we relied on inaccurate information regarding the length of time required to obtain city and county permits,” he added. “This led to the unfortunate decision to vacate the marina of vessels months before it was necessary.”

st pete yacht club events

Ongoing dock construction at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club. Photo: Chris Fraser, Facebook.

Boyle said club leadership assembled a “very capable” dock project management team to oversee the project. He noted that the group meets weekly with contractors and engineers to ensure marina reconstruction concludes in the fall.

The Yacht Club was founded in 1909 and now offers two clubhouses, three marinas, full-service catering, a sailboat fleet and myriad events. The facility on the downtown St. Petersburg waterfront opened in 1917.

The building underwent a substantial remodel in 1989. However, its floor elevation is six feet below current Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) standards, and the historic site is no stranger to storms .

Club archives state that the “Great Hurricane of October 1921” caused extensive flooding. Officials opened an expanded facility in December 1922.

Boyle noted that the club began updating its “Long Range Plan” in 2021. Over 50% of members participated in a corresponding survey and requested extensive improvements that leadership determined were cost-prohibitive .

Stakeholders also expressed the need for a new elevator, roof and pool deck, an updated kitchen and electrical repairs. However, a remodeled club would still not comply with FEMA regulations.

In a condensed recap of “how we got to this place,” Boyle said noncompliance would limit improvements to 50% of the facility’s appraised value. That would necessitate multiple construction phases and “club closures over a period of years.”

“There is no practical way to raise the building elevation as, again, it would require significant modifications to meet members’ demands, which rival the cost of a new structure,” Boyle wrote.

st pete yacht club events

The St. Petersburg Yacht Club site at 11 Central Avenue. Screengrab, Pinellas County property records.

He added that a complete rebuild is the only viable option to “provide a flood-resistant state-of-the-art facility with adequate parking providing the features desired by our members.” Boyle then noted that the Yacht Club’s governing board has the authority to make those decisions.

Global engineering firm Skanska will lead the master planning phase and prepare conceptual designs to share with city and club officials. Construction models recently provided two building options that include 48,500 square feet of airconditioned space and a pool.

The Yacht Club’s leadership must still decide whether to build a new parking garage. Boyle said he hopes to provide initial conceptual drawings at an informational session this summer.

However, he also addressed concerns regarding banquet facilities. Boyle said there is “no truth” to allegations that the plan calls for a design better suited to host weddings and “revenue-driven events.”

Boyle said the Yacht Club, as a 501c (7) organization, can only derive 15% of revenues from nonmember sources. “We come close to that limit every year as it is,” he wrote.

“While banquet revenue does help subsidize member costs, the Master Plan is wholly unrelated to increasing funding from banquets,” Boyle added. “My hope is that this brings our members up to date on where we stand … and has addressed many of the questions you may have.

“It’s important to deal with the facts.”

st pete yacht club events

Hugh Hazeltine

May 7, 2024at3:59 pm

I attended a cruising club lunch 3 months ago. Commodore Boyle was introduced and when he got to the podium the first words he spoke: “Don’t ask me about the marina”.

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May 1, 2024at4:14 pm

The glory days of yacht racing are over, it’s just a big expensive dinner club. Big elephant in the room, what do you do with 2400+ members (possible 3500 individuals) during a 2 year build, and based on the marina it could be 3 years. No one is counting these costs. SPYC will become history in bankruptcy facing $55M+ costs.

Avatar

May 1, 2024at8:15 am

ha! – the 1% bickering over their “spoils”

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D. Artzibushev

May 1, 2024at5:53 am

The club could have the FEMA regulations and the 50% rule waived by officially designated the building as historic. Just something to consider.

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Scott Simmons

April 30, 2024at11:33 pm

I hope the rebuild will be handled better than the new dock was handled. I am concerned about the cost as a nearly 25 year member long gone to North Carolina and now Mexico. Knowing Joe DiVito for those 25 years, I trust his judgment. Joe, I am on FB and living the good life in San Miguel de Allende. Look me up old friend.

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COMMENTS

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    Community Events. About Us. Regattas. What's happening at St Petersburg Yacht Club? Address: 11 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 2301 Pass-a-Grille Way, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706 ... Situated in a bustling arts community on the downtown St. Petersburg waterfront, the St. Petersburg Yacht Club has been a part of the sailing community ...

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  23. Home

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