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34 | OHCC LIVING | FEBRUARY 2026 | Honoring First Mates: Where Preparation, Safety, and Enjoyment Meet Every Ocean Hills Sailing Club sail begins well before we gather in the parking lot at 10:15 am. While crews are arriving and the day is taking shape, our First Mates are already at work — often quietly, always deliberately — laying the groundwork for a safe and enjoyable day on the water. A typical sailing day is a long one, and First Mates help set the tone early. Before we ever step aboard, club lockers are opened and essential equipment is assembled: Lifesling, first aid kit, AED, personal f lotation devices, and other critical safety gear. This preparation is not glamorous, but it is foundational. When done well, it allows everything else — learning, conversation, relaxation, and fun — to unfold smoothly. Safety sits at the very top of the First Mate's responsibilities, but it is carried out with calm confidence rather than urgency. First Mates help ensure that everyone understands how personal f lotation devices work, how emergency systems are used, and what is expected onboard. They assist the Captain throughout the day, take direction while underway, and maintain situational awareness as conditions, traffic, and crew needs evolve. Importantly, First Mates are also trained to assume command should a Captain become incapacitated — a responsibility that underscores the seriousness of the role. At the same time, First Mates play a central role in helping everyone enjoy the day. They are often the first friendly face, the steady presence that reassures newer sailors, and the conversational glue that helps a group of individuals become a crew. Reading the room, offering encouragement, answering questions, and knowing when to teach — and when to simply let someone enjoy the moment — are skills refined over many long days on the water. The work continues even after the sails are down. Securing the boat, stowing gear, unloading equipment, and completing follow- up responsibilities all fall within the First Mate's scope. When others head home, First Mates are often still finishing the job. With gratitude, we recognize our OHSC First Mates: Karena A., Brian B., Paula B., Cathy C., Rod D., Susan F., Mickey G., Stephanie H., Jim K., Pat M., Harrison M., Paul P., Jaime R., and John W. To our OHSC sailors: may debates about the "correct" way to tie a bowline remain the most serious arguments you ever have — and may health, happiness, and good humor always be onboard. Written by Pat Melzer in collaboration with ChatGPT. Sailing Club

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