Issue link: https://www.wacmagazine.com/i/1544632
40 WAC Magazine | wac.net J. Irons grew up in the Bay Area, another West Coast locale known for extensive waterfront access. When he joined the Washington Athletic Club in 2023, he knew he wanted to bring his love for boat- ing to fellow members at the Club. So, he started WAC on the Water, a WAC affinity group geared toward boating. J.'s penchant for water began half a continent away. He spent childhood summers on a small lake in southern Ontario, Canada. "I always carried that childhood love for the water with me," he says. "WAC on the Water is a way for me to bring what I'm most passionate about to the Club." Other WAC members also showed keen interest, and J. began to take small groups out on Snap Deci- sion, his Bayliner 285. e single-engine motorboat makes for the perfect day-cruiser and is spacious enough to accommodate overnight stays. Snap De- cision has hosted various WAC on the Water out- ings with J. as captain. e Fourth of July fireworks are a particularly special occasion for the group. "We pick up at the dock, head out into South Lake Union, drop the hook, and break out dinner," J. says about the Fourth of July trips. "ere's a sense of closeness, and everyone has something in com- mon. It quickly becomes very festive!" is sense of community flows through WAC members drawn to the water. For J., the shoreline is more than just the city's backdrop. "e water is its own distinct place where you can explore for an entirely new perspective," he says. "I have a subconscious affinity for it. Every place I've boated to feels fresh and exciting." Get connected with WAC on the Water. Join the affinity group chat on the WAC app. Tap Menu > Stay Connected > The WAC Chat > Join an official chat. Or email clubprograms@wac.net. Powerboating The waters of Lake Union serve as the perfect playground for Fourth of July festivities and other boat-bound adventures.