IN THE NEWS

"I became involved with Dale during the thrilling Gold Star Regatta.* (An organization supports the families of fallen Police Officers and helps develop sailing opportunities for our first responders), while sailing alongside Commodore Marlon Harvey. We were aboard his boat, the Maggie Marie, heading north toward the starting line, filled with anticipation. As we navigated the waters, I spotted a really cool boat. Curious, I asked Marlon about it, and he informed me that it was a boat named ‘Defiance,’ well-known in the racing community for its superior performance and sleek design. I was around ten or twelve years old at the time.”

Eager to meet the owner of such a remarkable vessel, Timmy expressed his interest to Marlon, who nonchalantly replied, “I’ll see.” When they finally reached the harbor, fate intervened. Marlon turned to him and asked if he wanted to step aboard the boat. From that moment on, Timmy immersed himself in sailing with Dale, a dedicated racer and former Commodore of JPYC with a rich history in the local sailing scene. Over the years, he had owned several boats, including one named Airwaves, which many in the area fondly remembered.

During a challenging low-water season, many racers from Jackson Park Harbor ventured out to a marina with deeper waters, including another of Dale’s vessels, which its new owners renamed Fauci.

“Recently, I experienced one of the most adventurous moments of my life—participating in my first Chicago to Mackinaw race in 2024. Being part of the team on Defiance, one of the fastest boats on the lake left me in awe of the sheer power of sailing and teamwork.

Timmy, early on, was a sailing instructor for the JPYC’s Youth Program and has moved on to receive his sailing level one instructor’s license. Jackson Park Yacht Club and Timmy’s high school, Mount Carmel in Chicago, developed a sailing racing team that will make them eligible to compete in the Midwest Interscholastic Sailing Association (MISSA).

Timmy’s impressive leap into sailing was remarkable; not everyone can make that transition so seamlessly. When I asked how he navigated it, he reiterated the necessity of embracing opportunities when they arise, asserting that many people hesitate to take risks, limiting their potential. Achieving success requires jumping into experiences decisively, and allows a mindset that permeates his approach to life.

Timmy Carter - Up and Coming Racer