Kona Sailing Club 2025 Board of Directors
Joe Scarola, Commodore
Joe was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, an island that sparked a strong desire to sail the ocean
Joe spent his youth honing his nautical skills primarily on motor boats. Then, in 2017, he discovered his passion for sailing when he arrived on the Big Island of Hawai’i. Inspired, he bought a sailboat and then learned how to sail. He has spent the last 7 years volunteering with the Big Island Sailing Foundation sailing dinghies,, and has earned his certificate as a U.S. Sailing instructor. His enthusiasm for sailing inspires youth and adults alike.
Dan Schweitzer, Vice Commodore
John is the father of three and enjoys cruising and fishing with the family while out on the water. He sailed as a teen with his father and grandfather on the Great Lakes but was away from the sport for many years while living on the mainland. Now living full time in Kona, he is out on the water whenever he can be. If you’re new to sailing and want a chill time on the water with no stress, give him a call.
Jessica Wertz, Rear Commodore
TYLER boss
Secretary
Ocean enthusiast, home cook, and Wilco nerd. I was fortunate enough to grow up fishing, water skiing, and swimming any chance I had. All of my grandparents lived on the water and my dad taught my sister and I to swim and ski before we could spell our own names. One summer while visiting my grandparents, my Dad’s childhood friend took me out on his Hobie 16. He showed me how to work the jib sheets and we were flying a hull later that day. Ever since I’ve absolutely loved sailing! When my wife and I moved to Hawai’i, one of the first things I did was contact the sailing club. I was quickly welcomed in and started sailing. Not long afterward, I began working on a sailing charter in the evenings when I finished up my day job. I now own a Hobie Holder and enjoy taking friends and family sailing as often as I can. I love meeting new people and look forward to sailing with you soon!
robert keogh, Port Captain
casey mayes, education officer
ahmad mohamadi, Treasurer
Ahmad Mohammadi is the CEO of Hawaii Luxury Yachts and a Board Member of the Kona Sailing Club. With over 24 years of experience in real estate development and marketing, Ahmad has built a successful business that has grown from $2M to $74M in sales, managing luxury condos in Hawaii’s top resorts. His expertise extends into luxury yacht sales and charter management, offering clients unique investment opportunities with significant tax benefits. Ahmad’s connections through the Kona Sailing Club, as well as his team of experts, enhance his ability to manage charter operations and sailing ventures across Hawaii and beyond.
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Director
Vanessa Crowson Director and membership
Vanessa left Orange County, CA in 1977 and kept roving. Hawaii, Guam, Juneau, AK, then 27 yrs. In Cambridgeshire, UK. Former ESL teacher. Learning to sail. Kai Ehitu paddler, improving guitarist. Interests history, science, music, crafts, and many more.

Victoria Penfield
Social Director
Billy FunkDirector
I hail from the heart of the Midwest, where I first crossed paths with my wonderful wife Judy. My journey in engineering has spanned nearly my entire professional life, ultimately leading me to the beautiful shores of Hawai’i. It was in my 30s that I discovered a passion for sailing, captivated by the vibrant racing scene on Lake Michigan. Although I never had the chance to join a crew back then, I made a promise to myself to one day own my own racing vessel. That dream came true a few years ago when I acquired my project boat, Buzz Off, a Henderson 30.