The racing program at Sagamore was paused for Opening Day ceremonies on Sunday, May 22. Like many yacht clubs around the country, Opening Day at Sagamore is a traditional annual event that kicks off the boating season. It brings together members and reminds them of why they joined. It also reconnects those who may have not been to the club during the winter months.

The festivities were held on the back patio with members making a circle around the club's flagpole. The circle symbolically represents the tight-knit extended network of family and friends at Sagamore. The ceremony included a benediction, flag raising ceremony, speeches to thank members who help volunteer, and also many past and current board members. Following the invocation, past Commodore, Greg Bradley, introduced past and present board members. Then Commodore Dave Roach presided over the hoisting ceremony of several club ensigns to traditionally "dress" the yacht club for the boating season. The club's cannon was fired after raising the U.S. Ensign, then the Pledge of Allegiance was said, and the National Anthem was sung. Club members enjoyed a barbecue as well as the remainder of the day's festivities.

During the ceremony, Commodore Dave Roach spoke about what it means to belong to Sagamore. Although members were dressed in formal yacht club attire, including many patriotic outfits and board members with white pants and blue jackets, he noted that Sagamore is an unassuming club. Its racing program, winter skeet shooting, monthly potluck family nights, and many other activities are thriving. To many members, Sagamore has become a second home. The Commodore echoed this sentiment by quoting club member, Steve LaGreca, who has said "Sagamore is more than just four walls." He also concluded the ceremonies by saying that many are starting to realize that Sagamore may be one of Oyster Bay's best kept secrets and asked the members to keep making the club such a great place.

Throughout the day many members discussed why they joined the club. Most people agreed that joining Sagamore is like joining a golf club or another group. Though most join because of amenities such as launch service to their boat and the comfort of knowing that there are members and staff who look out for each other, many join for social reasons and the inclusive family atmosphere. Keith Doran said that, "The racing program and family activities are fun and give me a reason to regularly go to the club. Sometimes I can't get out on my boat as much as I'd like, but the scheduled races give me something to look forward to." In attendance were also a few house members who do not have a boat, but added that they like having private access to the waterfront.

Nestled next to Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park on the serene landscape of Oyster Bay Harbor, Sagamore Yacht Club offers launch service to reach your vessel in minutes, relaxation for captain and crew, and a beautiful setting for social events and leisure. There is free parking on site for members. The clubhouse has a recently updated dining room, bar, and second floor deck that provides superb views of fireworks, on the water activities, and romantic sunsets over the water and skyline. If you are interested in becoming a part of the Sagamore family, you can stop by for a tour and speak with the staff. For more information please contact Sagamore at 516-922-0555.

Tip: The U.S. Ensign is the "Old Glory," with 50 stars and 13 stripes. All boats, when at anchor or underway in inland waters, fly it from the stern staff, if so equipped, only while occupied. If a powerboat has a mast and gaff, the proper display is at the gaff. When fishing, the practice is to fly the ensign from a halyard rigged behind a tower or console, preferably on the starboard side. The ensign should never be displayed while a boat is racing.