About Us

Emily Richardson

Director of Sailing Instruction and Head Youth Instructor

Emily Richardson is a US Sailing-certified instructor with over a decade of experience at Canandaigua Community Sailing (CCS). She grew up sailing at the Canandaigua Yacht Club and became Head Youth Instructor in 2021 and now serves as Director of Sailing Instruction.

Emily has played a key role in growing CCS’s racing and learn to sail programs. She also coaches Optimists (Optis) in the off-season, supporting year-round development for younger sailors.

Emily is active racer herself. She races Sunfish and  J22s in addition to various other boats. Additionally  she is former high school varsity sailor. Emily brings both experience and energy to her coaching. She is known for creating a positive, engaging environment where sailors of all levels can succeed.

Christine Brown

Assistant Youth Instructor

Christine is an experienced sailing instructor, having worked previously for several years at CYC. She is an active sailor and racer, sailing the apporpirately named "Lovely Lady" at CYC. She has a great sense of humor and looks forward to sharing her love of Canandaigua with the kids at CCS. 

Zander Veeck

Assistant Youth Instructor

Zander began his sailing journey as a student sailor with CCS in 2023 and quickly discovered a passion for the sport. That same season, he advanced to a Counselor in Training (CIT) role and joined Race Club, where his competitive drive and dedication stood out. Over the past two seasons, Zander has continued to grow as a sailor and mentor, returning as a CIT for two consecutive years while remaining an active member of Race Club. During last year’s racing season, he competed in five races, earning four first-place finishes and a second-place overall, while still securing first place in his class in the final race. Now entering his fourth year with the program, Zander is excited to return as an Assistant Instructor, where he looks forward to sharing his knowledge, experience, and enthusiasm for sailing with the next generation of sailors. 

Leo Murray

Assistant Youth Instructor 

Leo learned to sail right here at Canandaigua Community Sailing and has grown through the program over the years. After spending a couple of seasons as a Counselor-in-Training, he now joins the staff as an Assistant Instructor. Leo is also an active member of the Race Club, where he continues to develop his skills and passion for sailing. Known for his fun, silly personality and strong dedication to the sport, Leo brings great energy to the program and connects easily with younger sailors both on and off the water. 

Brennon Blodgett

Race Club Coach

Brennon is a US Sailing-certified instructor with several years of experience as an advanced Youth Instructor previously. A lifelong sailor who grew up at CYC, he is an avid and competitive racer, having competed at both regional and world championship levels. Brennon has returned to CCS from the Marines and is excited to work with our racers this summer.

Steve Heinzelman

CCS Board President

Steve is passionate about sailing and providing our youth and adult sailors with the best possible instructional program. He’s been managing the program since 2012 and loves to see people discover the joy of sailing. Steve has been sailing his entire life. He currently races in the Ensign, Vanguard 15, and Sunfish fleets. The sailing skills he and his family have honed on Canandaigua Lake have taken them sailing in places as far away as New Zealand.