As a native Rhody (a.k.a. someone who was born in Rhode Island), summers were a spectacular time. There was nothing better than a hot and humid day in July lounging on the beaches.
We lived up the street from the local town beach – our huge (and virtually only) hangout. Family and friends would congregate at our house and then we’d take the short jaunt down to the sand with our Styrofoam coolers in hand. Piece of family trivia: I am related to the founder of Providence, R.I.; a theologian by the name of Roger Williams.
Beaches and Rhode Island go hand in hand. We had bonfires, held sparklers and lit off fireworks on the beach. We even jumped on a neighbor’s trampoline close to the beach. What fun!
I even learned how to swim at the beach. And it was interesting to say the least. I had to jump off the lifeguard's rowboat and dog paddle safely to shore. What a way to learn! Do I know how to properly swim today? Hmmmm…
Sailing is a popular recreational activity in Rhode Island, which means I was able to learn how to sail launching from the beach. Since R.I. borders bodies of water but is not an ISLAND, sailing is BIG in this smallest state of the U.S.A.
I sailed a boat called a Sunfish and competed in a racing series called Mugwumps. Funny name for a sailing race, but hey, it's Rhode Island! I think now they race in dinghy's. In college, I graduated from racing in a sunfish to a boat called a laser.
Growing up as a Rhody (also known as the URI mascot and given that name on my birthday - weird coincidence!), lazy summer days remind me of strolling along Brick Market Place and Bowen's Wharf in Newport and yes, watching The America’s Cup races! The America’s Cup was held in Newport, RI for over 50 years and it was very much a staple in Narragansett Bay until Skipper Dennis Connor took it away! Now, thankfully, this summer the America’s Cup is back in my area, the Bay Area and races will be showcased on San Francisco Bay! Need help planning an America’s Cup event in SF? Or a trip to Rhode Island? Just ask!
Go Team USA!
