NEWPORT, RI (October 15, 2019) - On Thursday evening, October 17 at 5:30 p.m., Sail Newport launches their new "Sail Newport Challenger Lecture Series Inspired by Dr. Charlie Shoemaker." Newport's "Dr. Shoe" has been sailing in Newport for the past 50 years. He has won dozens of regattas in his Ensign "Challenger" and on his Shields "Hawk." Also, Dr. Shoemaker competed in the Newport Yacht Club frostbiting series for forty one consecutive years.
"Dr. Shoe is a remarkable sailor," says Brad Read, executive director of Sail Newport. "In addition to being a fierce competitor with laser focus, his sailing skills, strategy and tactics are valuable for any sailor to study. We honor his talent and skills with the 'Challenger Series Inspired by Dr. Charles Shoemaker' for the community to enjoy."
Shoemaker will attend Thursday evening's inaugural lecture at Sail Newport to accept the honor.
He moved to Newport over 50 years ago when he was stationed at the Navy Hospital, followed by his long career as a surgeon at Newport Hospital. He and his wife, Stephanie, have stayed in Newport after their retirements, remaining active at the Newport Yacht Club, Ida Lewis Yacht Club and with various sailing events. Shoemaker spent many years participating in community regattas and fostering new sailors, including his three children, Liz, Bill and Becky.
Read also notes the organization's gratitude to Dr. Shoemaker's for his role as a longstanding member of Sail Newport and supporter in the development of the community sailing center.
The lecture series will feature marine-related, ocean and sailing adventure topics with guest speakers. The lectures are scheduled to take place once per month throughout the winter and early spring seasons.
