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Happy Birthday Yucca!

By Andy Turpin | September 24, 2012 | Sausalito |
Renowned as one of San Francisco Bay’s best helmsmen, Hank Easom loves nothing more than blasting across the Bay aboard Yucca.

© 2012 Leslie Richter

At the 75th birthday party of his long-adored 8-meter Yucca Saturday, Sausalito’s Hank Easom explained that he really wasn’t in the market for such a boat when she was offered to him by SoCal broker Chuck Ullman back in the ’60s. But apparently it was love at first sight.

She’s been his mistress ever since, and has been a familiar contestant in a wide variety of Bay races for decades — often taking home a pickle dish or two.

With his kids, Kent and Jan, Hank tests the rowboat for fit and comfort.

© 2012 Leslie Richter

At the grand soiree, several generations of past and present race crews were in attendance, in addition to shoreside admirers, and a who’s-who of waterfront characters.

A long list of fine sailors have had the pleasure of crewing aboard Yucca, including the late Rob Moore (second from right), a former Latitude racing editor.

© 2012 Leslie Richter

Look for more on Yucca‘s long stint as a NorCal racing icon in the upcoming edition of Latitude 38.

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