Go for the Gold with Leo Boucher

Left to right: AYC Rear Commodore Gary Jobson, Leo Boucher, and AYC Commodore Chris Bell

On the Eve of Valentine's Day, more than 50 AYC and Annapolis community members showed their love for aspiring Olympian Leo Boucher at a fundraiser graciously hosted by AYC members Sandy and David Askew.  While many currently are captivated by the Winter Olympics, Leo is laser-focused on the Summer 2028 Olympic Games and has embarked on a rigorous training and competition schedule in preparation for LA.  

Leo shared his sailing journey starting with Opti sailing on the Chesapeake Bay; to collegiate, national and international events; to representing the U.S. on the global stage.  Each step has created a building block to success -- boat handling, physical endurance, technical expertise, mental toughness, and strategic acumen.  Combined, they are essential skills to success.

Following Leo's presentation, many in the room were moved, including Rob and Tammy Flaherty who were inspired by Leo’s journey.  "We believe that the AYC Foundation should play a significant role sponsoring high performance sailing and, more broadly, enabling access to sailing and boating for those who otherwise would not be able to be out on the water," shared Rob. "We have decided to make a two-year donation to kick-start the High Performance Fund in the run-up to the LA 2028 Olympic Games by donating this year and next because the funding is needed now."  The notion of a “28 for 28” campaign quickly took hold with a $28,000 contribution made that evening followed by another for $1,028.28. Any version of 28 is welcome, from $28.00-280,000.

Leo Boucher with Rob Flaherty.

Rear Commodore Gary Jobson slipped into his sports broadcast mode and projected what the LA28 play-by-play at the ILCA 7 class start would sound like.  "We're here at the start of the ILCA 7 race.  With seconds to go, Leo is positioned at the favored end.  The race starts and Leo has clear air and an unobstructed lane to the left side of the course. He is the first to hit the shift and crosses the fleet on the favored tack, well on his way to being first at the weather mark.”  All in the room were riveted and believed Jobson's mock broadcast is an accurate view of what will unfold in LA28.

Join the AYC Foundation in supporting Leo Boucher’s campaign.  In doing so, you’re investing in the future of U.S. Sailing and enabling a hard-working, talented, and determined athlete to achieve his dreams and that of his country. You can donate directly to Leo through his GoFundMe account or to athletes like Leo through the Foundation's tax deductible form here.