HISTORY OF THE MARINA SINGLE SAILING CLUB
The Club was started in 1976 by three sailors at Marina del Rey. Connie Scroggs, Dawn O'Day and Ron Segel all had crewed extensively on day sails and Catalina trips. Connie had a 22 foot sloop and Ron had recently sold his. All three were always in demand as crew because they made sailing their number one priority. They listened to hundreds of often repeated stories from skippers who complained that they invited guests who never showed up or were not very seaworthy if they did. On the other hand, there were many people who really wanted to go sailing but didn't know any boat owners.
Thus the idea behind the club is to suit the desires of both the skippers and the crew. It brings them together to participate in outstanding day sailing with knowledgeable, enthusiastic and involved people. Crew members are not expected to be Joshua Slocums; but must progress to the point, where they can assist the skipper. Safety has always been of primary concern as has been the member's desires to enhance their sailing skills.
The first meeting was held at Don the Beachcomber's in Marina del Rey and 150 people attended. The interest has never wanted in the ensuing years. However, with no specific meeting place and with no present Sunday sails - it was necessary to call all the members and let them know when and where to meet. The three founders did all the telephoning. Did you every try to call over 150 singles in California before the days of answering machines? It was a great problem as was finding a place to gather before sailing in order to make boat assignments.
Difficult as it was, we managed to survive until Burton Chace Park was built and the club was allowed to meet there on a twice monthly basis. By 1981, the organization had matured to the point where it was not feasible to be run by just a few people and it was decided to elect officers and collect a small amount of dues. At this time, the name was changed from the original title of "The Crew" to the "Marina Single Sailing Club." In 1984 the club was incorporated in California and a few bylaws were written.
The concept of an easy going but serious sailing club persists today. Members are active in a variety of offices and activities included four parties and four trips to Catalina each year. In addition, there is a once a month cleaning of a member's boat and also a monthly safety class. This, in addition to two Sunday sails each month gives a well rounded sorts activity that is one of the most desirable aspects of single life in southern California.