A Rich & Salty History

Wet Pants Sailing Association had it’s humble beginnings in Sayville in 1934.  Young sailors Edward “Ed” Kinkaide and William “Bill” Huus won races one day on the Great South Bay.  That evening they went to collect their trophies from the Cherry Grove Yacht Club, host of the race and award dinner at the Cherry Grove Hotel (Fire Island, NY).  Ed and Bill’s glory was short lived – they were surprised to learn that despite winning the races, they were ineligible to place and receive trophies because they had no yacht club affiliations.  Necessity is the mother of invention, so together with Mr. Hervey Garrett Smith, who would lead as the Commodore for the first 3 years, they created Wet Pants as an inexpensive inclusive sailing club.

 

Edwin L. Kinkaide Memorial Award Scholarship

The Edwin L. Kinkaide Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to a Wet Pants high school or undergraduate student member in good standing who meets certain criteria.

Kyle Walker Scholarship

The Kyle Walker Scholarship is for a 1st year sailing student who has demonstrated skill and desire to continue taking lessons at Wet Pants.

GSBYRA Scholarship

The WPSA’s GSBYRA Scholarship is for a college bound youngster who demonstrates seamanship skills, good sportsmanship and races GSBYRA events.

1934

WPSA Founded September 16, 1934
Sayville, NY
“Short they may be, long may they wave”