Some of the best days and evenings at Grand Lake Sailing Club start the same way: a member mentions, almost in passing, that they’ve done something remarkable – and the rest of us won’t let it go until they agree to tell the whole story.
That’s how this one came about. Claude Phelps offered to share the account of his 1988 Atlantic crossing with George Purifoy, and a room full of members turned out to hear it. It’s the kind of story that reminds you why people are drawn to sailing in the first place: the preparation, the long stretches of open water, the weather, and the trust you place in a boat and in the person standing the other watch.
Several members weren’t able to make it for Claude’s talk and asked whether the talk had been recorded. It was, and the full presentation is below.
Watch the full talk
Our thanks to Claude for taking the time to put the presentation together and share it with the club.
About Grand Lake Sailing Club
Grand Lake Sailing Club is a member-owned sailing club on Grand Lake in northeastern Oklahoma. We’re a group of people who love sailing and like each other’s company – and the club exists to make both easier and more fun.
What that looks like in practice varies quite a bit from member to member:
- Racing. Regular club races through the season, welcoming to first-timers and competitive enough to keep experienced sailors interested. Crew spots are usually available if you don’t have a boat.
- Cruising and day sailing. Group sails, raft-ups, and plenty of quiet afternoons on the lake.
- Learning. Members teach members. Whether you’ve never held a tiller or you’re working toward bigger water, there’s someone here who’s happy to help.
- Fleet boats. Our Fleet Membership gives members access to club-owned boats – a low-commitment way to sail regularly without owning a vessel.
- The social side. Friday socials, potlucks, breakfasts, and the ordinary business of a club full of people who genuinely enjoy showing up.
And, as Claude’s talk shows, our members’ sailing doesn’t stop at the lake. People here have crossed oceans, cruised the coasts, lived aboard, raced offshore, and spent decades building the experience they now pass along to whoever asks. That accumulated knowledge is one of the real benefits of belonging.
Interested in joining?
Visitors are welcome, and you don’t need a boat or prior experience to get started. Come try sailing! Or, take a look at our Membership information, see what’s coming up on our Events & Calendar page, or Contact Us with any questions. You can also follow along on Facebook and Instagram, or browse more club news on our News page.