Little Traverse Sailors at 50

For over 50 years, the Little Traverse Sailors has offered a community learn-to-sail program for youth on the waterfront in Harbor Springs, Michigan. The program is designed to build practical skills, confidence on the water, and a lifelong interest in sailing.

From an informal gathering to teach local kids to sail, to a true youth sailing school, to a non-profit organization supporting lifelong sailing, many things have changed for Little Traverse Sailors over the years. But what has remained the same is our focus: kids + boats = learning and FUN!  Join us for a discussion of how Little Traverse Sailors began, how it has changed over time, and what the future holds for this great local program.

Talk Leaders:

Mara Lowry – Treasurer, Board Member 2020-2026
Mara Lowry is a life-long sailor who has had the privilege of teaching and racing on Little Traverse Bay since 1996. Mara joined the Board in 2020 and has acted as a member-at-large, Secretary, and, now, Treasurer.  Mara, her husband, Adam, and their two daughters are summer residents of Harbor Springs and live in Mill Valley, California the rest of the year. Her girls, Kenning & Ryan, are former LTS students, who survived (barely!) a year living on a boat and an Atlantic Ocean crossing with their parents.

Martin Grin – Youth Regatta Chair, Board Member 2018-2024
Martin Grin’s love of sailing started as an 8-year-old at Little Traverse Sailors and grew as he participated in numerous fleets on Little Traverse Bay and throughout the Great Lakes. Martin was originally taught sailing and racing by Ann (Irish) Wilderom, and went on to instruct for LTS during his college years.  Martin joined the LTS Board in 2018 when his 4 daughters were LTS students. Martin has championed our Youth Regatta series and continues to oversee these events. His daughters have also graduated from the program and gone on to instruct for LTS, creating a multi-generational LTS relationship with the Grin family!