The Atlantis Team
Chaz Bertrand
Short bio: Though originally from the landlocked town of Bedford, NY I grew up with tales of sailing lore ringing in my ears…as told by my father, an America’s Cup sailor and legendary story teller. Wanting a yarn or two of my own, I headed off to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD. Nine years and several sea stories later…I ended up here in New England.
Why AWG? After four years in the wonderful world of finance, I found the opportunity to combine my passion for business, brands, gear and the water…Atlantis.
Favorite piece of gear: Grand Prix softshell vest. I’ve been known to burn a little hot…so a vest is the perfect choice for me…and this one packs a wallop.
When not in the office you can find me… sailing or just puttering about aboard Gem, our Rozinante canoe yawl…preferably with wife Dee and dog, Dell, aboard. In spare moments I like to ski, flyfish…and cheer on Navy Lacrosse.
What is the most interesting thing you’ve “discovered” on the water recently? Spring deliveries mean cold water…and cold bunks.
Bill Mann
Short bio: I grew up in Marblehead and went to college at Northeastern University in Boston, which is when I became more involved in competitive sailing.
Why AWG? Two years in, we're fortunate to be realizing and experiencing the wonderful opportunity Atlantis provides us in building a great brand that is friendly, strong and insanely committed to the product experience as a whole every single day. People always ask me how Atlantis is going and if it's working. As an old sailing buddy would say, "She's got a bone in her teeth, Cap."
Favorite piece of gear: The Grand Prix Softshell Salopette. Unbelievable piece of gear! Like the Speedboat guys (who we developed the piece with and for) say, it's so comfortable, it's like sitting on the rail in your sleeping bag! Everyone will get more on this piece of gear soon. Stay tuned.
When not in the office, you can find me… Looking for on-the-water "research projects".
What is the most interesting thing you’ve “discovered” on the water recently? You can get a lot further with a gun and a smile than you can with just a gun.
Bill Lynn
Short bio: Grew up sailing on Long Island Sound and moved to Marblehead in 1995.
Why AWG? I’ve been an advertising/marketing executive for the past 21 years, but I’ve been addicted to great outdoor sports brands for a lot longer than that. After spending 2 decades helping other people build their brands, I decided to try to build my own. Plus…you know…the gear thing…
Favorite piece of gear: The salopette. I’ve always loved the versatility of this piece as it keeps your legs and butt dry without roasting the upper body. Throw a spray top or jacket over it, and that’s pretty much all the gear you need most days. My friends also accuse me of having a bit of a fetish for sunglasses, but I’m not admitting anything. Just because I own 12 pairs…
When not in the office, you can find me… Skiing, bike riding or sailing – depending on the month and sailing schedule. Actually, I probably spend less time racing boats these days than I do watching my kids race boats. I’d like to say it’s equally satisfying, but truth be told, it can make you crazy.
What is the most interesting thing you’ve “discovered” on the water recently? I fed a manatee fresh water from a hose off the dock at the beautiful Shake-A-Leg sailing facility in Coconut Grove. While sailing in a regatta there, I also discovered that I enjoy crewing much more than I remember.
Rick Myers
Short bio/Why AWG? I was never really a "gear guy". I grew up in St. Thomas in the USVI and if we needed gear we had serious problems. As kids we would leave the house at 8AM with a pair of shorts on. We would get on our boats and go ... where ever. No real rules - definitely no plan. Christmas Cove on Great St. James. Running from the park wardens at Maho on St. John. No spear fishing there. A big day was a run to Jost to see what Foxy had built that week.
I started to appreciate the art of keeping warm and comfortable when I came north to go to school. Long overnight deliveries in the fall probably were the tipping point. I have been working on finding the perfect "kit" since then. Anybody have good advice? We would love to hear it.
Remember, the best way to stay warm is to never get cold.
Favorite piece of gear: Currently, my favorite piece of gear is my new softshell. It's great around town in the early spring, and spectacular on the water.
When not in the office, you can find me… If I'm not in the office I'm either mucking around on one of the boats. My back yard looks a little like a boatyard right now. Two Opti's, a really beat up old Laser that I'm restoring, and a Sonar. My wife wants to get out on the Laser this summer so that is probably priority one. On the other hand, I know the Sonar is going to have to be perfect if we are going to keep up with Bill L. at the Worlds this Fall.
What is the most interesting thing you’ve “discovered” on the water recently? My best day on the water last year was running the Opti Green line at Marblehead Junior Race Week. Eighty kids said they had a ball but I think I had more fun than all of them combined. Seeing the look on my nine year old's face when he was winning a race was about the coolest thing I can imagine. I saw him get hooked, and it was perfect. He didn't end up winning the race but he didn't care. He was there, he belonged.
Sam James
Short bio/Why AWG? Following birth in central MA, I shipped out to Colorado for much of my childhood, and since have spent the majority of time far west of here. Though, I did enjoy a number of nice summers on Mt. Desert Island with my family. As a recent inductee to the sailing world, I'm catching up on days on the water after a life spent fishing, paddling, and swimming in it.
Why AWG? Atlantis grabbed my attention because of its remarkable position as a young, energetic, and growing company in a specialty market. After working in the recreational lifestyle industry since college, my background reflects a serious interest in outdoor-inspired, community-focused companies. Atlantis' enthusiasm and commitment towards a common passion makes it a fun and fulfilling team to be a part of.
Favorite piece of gear: The Intercoastal QuickDry Shirt. Moisture wicking, it helps keep me dry without compromising movement. Offers protection from sun and salt, and works great as a base layer under anything, for any physical activity.
When not in the office, you can find me… Depending on the season, telemark skiing, fly-fishing, or adventuring somewhere outside with family and friends. I'm also learning to sail, so if you have any pointers, please let me know.
What is the most interesting thing you’ve “discovered” on the water recently? These sailor types are an interesting breed.