Member Profile: Brad "Social" Shipston
Name: Brad Shipston
Age: 27
Birth Date: 09/22/1978
Member Since: 2005
Boat Type: 1978 Hobie 18 (blue hulls w/ white sails)
Years Sailing: 1
Member Bio: Starting in 2005, I purchased my first catamaran, a 1978 Hobie 18. I had grown up around sail boats and I always wanted to have one of my own. I decided on sailing a catamaran because of the beach aspect, flexibility of use and the speeds which can be made.
I was told about the Fleet by a previous member. The regular parties, location, and friendly helpful members were solid selling points for me to join (especially the parties).
Although I am the youngest member of Fleet 119, all of the members have been extremely friendly and helpful as I learn this amazing sport. Because of this group I have been hooked to catamaran sailing in Lake Erie and enjoy my summers much more on the beach at Evangola State Park.
Last year I invited my friends to each party and everyone had fantastic times. During the 4th of July and Labor day weekends, my friends and I camped on the State Park camp grounds, relaxed on the beach and partied down with all the fellow members of the Fleet. It simply adds so much to a summer in Western New York.
