In 1992, the attention of "On The Bay" was called to the Loda family by their participation in the "America 500" which retraced Columbus's voyage from Spain to the new world. For their trip to Spain, a send-off was held at the Town Dock.

The account of their current voyages starts with leaving here on Christianne (Jeanneau 52, bought in 1993) for visits to South Carolina, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, Panama and finally to New Zealand where they arrived on October 10. Elizabeth, daughter Christianne and Hannah the cat flew home on October 30.

Especially for the Port News & Manhasset Press, Elizabeth took the enclosed photo of Ralf Steitz, who is well known here. He has been a Frostbiter at MBYC, a teacher of sailing at USMMA (Kings Point) and operator of the Rigging Service at Capri. To the caption under the photo she has added this:

"Ralf Steitz at the America One team compound-Auckland, New Zealand. The background shows the elaborate America's Cup Village in the foreground and Auckland Skytower in the center. Auckland's waterfront has undergone a massive face lift in anticipation of the America's Cup festivities. The entire country follows every race in the Louis Vuitton Challenge with interest because the winner of the Challenge will face the defending current cup holder New Zealand's Black Magic. Local resident Ralf Steitz, team member of America One, a syndicate with a very good chance to be the final challenger, is upbeat and excited about the prospects. The day of the photo Ralf was rigging the mast for the second boat which had yet to arrive. The first boats are used for trials, the second boats are saved for the later races which carry a heavier-point weighting. America One is Skippered by Paul Cayard, winner of the 1998 Round the World Race."

Frostbiting - (11/14/99) Eleven boats were reported to have come out. The wind was northwest and the weather slightly foggy. Later only five boats were reported. The top three skippers were 1. Don Clark, 2. Pedro Lorson, 3. Jim Miller.

Top 1999 Sonar Fleet #11 Championship Awards (11/13/99)

1st. Housemartin #375 - Greg/Beth Danilek.

2nd. Delight #396 - Bob Kirtland.

3rd. Ping #451 - Rick Jordan/Sue Miller.

4th. Lark #436 - Bill Brakman.