The Lobby | People
Eyes on the Horizon Q&A with OCC President Chris Laird Interview by Rachel Wagenman
Annual Meeting Recap, continued
athletics, and simply being great members. These are the people who have helped OCC grow into what it is today. The spark that really got me involved was members Tom Mc- tigue, Mark Sandvold, Jon Steiner, Freddie Noa, Alan Lau, and Marc Haine asking me to step up beyond using the Club for my own personal use. As President and RME of DC Asphalt Services, you lead teams in a very different environment— what leadership principles carry over from your professional life to your role at OCC? In my profession, I have always tried to lead by example and be willing to understand and accept different methods to achieve re- sults that work. I am a believer in strong, clear communication and in having the right people doing the right job. I have found this cre- ates positive synergy. Tyler and his team are exceptiona lly excellent at their jobs, and I want them to have the space to continue growing and excelling. How has OCC shaped you per- sonally over the years, whether through competition, community, or connection? OCC has a great community of members that I feel blessed to be a part of. I have had so many opportunities racing and compet- ing in multiple ocean sports over the years with people I enjoy and respect. I learned to have a lot of fun within the framework of being competitive. In addition, serving on
Dolan, Britta Lau, and Kristina Larsen— for their diligence and service. There were six vacant positions this election year, with seven candidates slated to fill them. The following were re-elected to the 2026 Board of Direc- tors for two-year terms: incumbents Jon Bryan, Chris Deuchar, Malia Eversole, and Doug Johnstone. Joining them are Joe Bock and Tai Sunnland. They will be serving alongside Steve Auerbach, Jon Bryan, D.C. Eichelberger, Candes Gentry, Siana Hunt, Chris Laird, and Amy Law- son Woodward. Life Membership was awarded to Tiare Finney and Brant Ackerman, both elected with unanimous support. In introducing them, Director D.C. Eichelberger shared that together they represent 113 years of membership and a deep commitment to giving back through coaching, mentoring, committee work, and Board service in support of future generations. Finney was described as fearless and joyful, a reminder that “excellence and joy don’t compete, they paddle in the same canoe.” Seeing a need, she recently stepped forward again to coach the Masters Wahine, continuing her long-standing dedication to pad- dling. Ackerman was recognized for his humor, sharp mind, and generous heart, including his decision to donate his athletic proceeds to Shriners Hos- pital. In accepting the honor, they were met with heartfelt applause—a fitting tribute to two members whose lifelong contributions make the recognition so well deserved. President Mallet then moved to adopt the Bylaw Amendments. Hearing no objections, the amendments were adopted. With no new business brought forward and no questions or concerns raised by the membership, the meeting adjourned at 6:21 p.m.
You’ve been a member of OCC for nearly three decades and now step into the role of President— what impact do you hope to have on the Club during your term? To provide positive continuity—to honor and remember OCC’s history while looking forward to the next chapters of its prosperity. This includes much-needed campus and facility upgrades, the continued work to secure the lease extension with the Elks, and preserving the Club for future generations of members. Are there particular areas of Club life, on the water or off, that you feel especially passionate about strengthening or evolving? I love the ocean, and I feel strongly about OCC’s mission of promoting the water sports of old Hawai‘i and all of its programs that have pro- duced strong watermen and wom- en. To me, this is the core and spirit of OCC, and I plan on ensuring the stability and focus needed for these traditions to grow and prosper. In addition, the food and beverage is currently the best I remember it being, and I want to support Tyler and his team in keeping that going and evolving. When you first joined OCC, did you ever imagine yourself in a leadership role like this? No, I did not think I would be involved at the level that it has become. Over many years of mem- bership, I noticed how many people have tirelessly and voluntarily given back through committees,
10 AMA | march/april 2026
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