Sail America Honors Departing President Bill Bolin

Bill Bolin became president of Sail America in 2004, after serving as both the organization’s treasurer and VP-Boat Shows. As he leaves his post as Sail America’s president to remain on the board for two more years as past president, he shared his thoughts about his work with Sail America.

“In my seven years as a member of the board I’ve always felt that I gained more than I gave,” he said. “The various board members I have worked with have been a fantastic blend of passionate sailors and consummate business people, and the ‘brain trust’ gathered around our table never ceased to amaze me. There is nothing like working with an enthusiastic bunch of hard-driving professionals with a common purpose to ignite one’s own thoughts and dreams.”

Bolin praised Executive Director Jonathan Banks, one of three executive directors he has worked with during his tenure. “Jonathan has made my job immensely easier and has provided the stability and consistency that will allow Sail America to flourish. Membership and overall revenues are on the rise, and new marketing and association initiatives are in the works that will bring further added value to members of the sailing community.”

Bolin says he is particularly proud with his involvement in getting sailboat manufacturers to sign on for NMMA’s Grow Boating campaign. “There is still much to be done to enhance the sailing community’s support of Grow Boating, and I will continue to work with incoming president Bill Goggins to increase Sail America’s contribution to this worthy marketing effort, as well as expand and develop our own sailing-centric programs aimed at bringing in new sailors to our ranks.”

Finally, Bolin, vice president of sales and marketing for Island Packet Yachts, said he wanted to add a “commercial plug” for Sail America: “With rising gas prices, an increase in value for ‘family time,’ and a groundswell of environmental awareness, sailing and Sail America are poised for a healthy future,” he noted. “We continue to need the support of every company that derives any part of their living from sailing. Join Sail America, get involved in any of the volunteer opportunities, and I guarantee you’ll get back everything you give, and more.”

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