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34 | OHCC LIVING | OCTOBER 2026 | Why Does the Sailboat Lean? And Why at's Okay! To our non-sailing club members: If you've been admiring our club sails in OHCC Living magazine, perhaps it's time to come aboard! Check the OHSC website "Calendar" for remaining openings in October and early November, when our 2026 sailing season ends. And if you've ever watched a sailboat from afar and thought, "That boat is leaning over awfully far!" you're not alone. That leaning is called heeling, and it's a normal part of sailing. The Catalina 350s we frequently sail from Seaforth are substantial cruising boats designed with stability, comfort and safety in mind. A Catalina 350 (our favorite) weighs roughly 13,000–14,000 pounds, including more than 5,000 pounds of ballast in its keel. That weight, positioned far below the waterline, creates a powerful righting force as the boat heels. Reviewers have described the Catalina 350 as notably stable and well balanced, even when sailing through gusts. The boat also offers wide decks, grab-rails, lifelines and non-skid surfaces — and sails can quickly be reduced when conditions are warrant. But perhaps the most reassuring feature isn't part of the boat at all: OHSC sails are skippered by experienced, highly qualified captains. You'll also receive a warm "Welcome Aboard" — and very likely come home with some great memories from the day! Captain and Mate Bio of the Month: 1st Mate Stephanie "Steph" Hewitt Being on the water has always been Steph Hewitt's "happy place." Whether at the beach, in a kayak or catamaran, aboard an OHSC sailboat, or on a cruise ship, Steph has spent years enjoying all that time on the water has to offer. Before joining OHSC in 2024, those experiences often included great music, good friends and drinks enjoyed together. On Do Dues Day 2024, Steph was introduced to OHSC by Charlie Cappello and Dave Ramgren. She quickly became immersed in everything sailing — participating in Dave's education and mentoring program, sailing as often as possible, and advancing from 2nd Mate to 1st Mate. With three regattas under her belt, Steph was on the winning boat in 2025 and became our club's Vice Commodore in 2026. Along the way, Steph has contributed countless hours helping keep the club's first aid and boating supplies organized and ready to go. As 1st Mate, she works diligently with the captain of the day to orient the crew, assist with the heavy lifting, help raise and adjust sails and rigging, and pitch in wherever needed throughout the day. Sometimes, the best things really do come to those who wait! The 2026 Hal Bolton Memorial Regatta was on Sept. 17! Results will be printed in the November issue of OHCC Living. Written by Patrica Melzer Sailing Club