In this world, there are givers and takers. It would appear that STC Member John Dodge (Richmond, VA) is that latter! For a number of years, John has been competing in the Chesapeake’s Triple Crown Charity Regatta Series where participating boats’ performances on the racecourse are combined with their charity fundraising on shore to select a winner. The 2024 Triple Crown went to John Dodge sailing his J/105 KOBAYASHI MARU for his combined finishes in the Maryland Cures Cancer Regatta (formerly the Annapolis Leukemia Cup), The CRAB Cup (Chesapeake Regional Accessible Boating Organization), and the Hospice Cup.

John tells it this way:

“I am humbled to share that I, along with my outstanding crew of Mark Sweeney, Andrew Waters, Jackie Wetmore, Nick Finucan, Tyler Raven, and Jeff Kennedy, won the 2024 Triple Crown Charity Regatta Series aboard Kobayashi Maru. For those not familiar with CRAB, CRAB is a fantastic organization that focuses on providing the therapeutic benefits of sailing to those with physical or mental challenges. From Wounded Warriors to men, women, and children with debilitating health issues, CRAB has specially designed sailboats that allow for these folks to experience the joys and therapeutic benefits of sailing.

To win the beautiful Triple Crown trophy, one must compete in all three regattas, have top finishes on the racecourse, and be a top fundraiser. The competition was incredible in 2024, with 251 skippers competing for the coveted trophy. A huge ‘thank you’ to my crew, to the race committees of Annapolis Yacht Club, Eastport Yacht Club, Storm Trysail Club, and Sailing Club of the Chesapeake for providing race management. Also, thanks go to all the donors, many of whom are STC members. Lastly, and most importantly, we (all the skippers), collectively raised $572,000 for these causes. If you haven’t competed in these events, I encourage you to do so. There’s nothing better than being a difference maker. This is my second time winning the Triple Crown, which I did in 2021.”

Thanks, John, for being a giver...