Hello, my name is Ira Bigeleisen and I love City Island Youth Foundation!

As a nautical clergy, I have witnessed the profound, transformative power of the sea. My goal is to ensure that all children have the opportunity to experience this natural guidance. I founded City Island Junior Sailing in 2018 after two years of research as the Past Commodore of the City Island Yacht Club and Program Director. Sailing has been a lifelong passion for me. I competed at the college level and was one of the founding members of the Brandeis University Sailing Club. Later, I had the honor of winning trophies in the PHRF Fleet in Oxnard, California.

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​I also served as Past Commodore of the Anacapa Yacht Club in Oxnard, CA, and spent nine years as the Assistant Program Director for the Pacific Corinthian Youth Foundation’s Junior Sailing Program. I’m proud to hold a US Sailing Level 1 Instructor’s Certificate.

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​Professionally, I worked as a clergyman in the Jewish faith for 35 years, teaching children and leading youth choirs.

​I believe that every child deserves the chance to grow as an individual. Sailing is more than just a sport—it instills a love for the marine environment, teaches respect for the balance of nature, and emphasizes the Corinthian spirit of helping others and taking responsibility. Ultimately, I believe that true success comes from a child's growth, both in skill and in character, through their involvement in the sailing community.