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.

John Gallagher, 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.  

Billy Funk, Rear Commodore

I grew up in the Midwest where I met my wife Judy. I have worked in engineering almost my entire career which eventually brought me to Hawai’i. My interest in sailing started in my 30s where I was fascinated by the intense racing community on Lake Michigan. I was never able to get on a crew and vowed to one day buy my own racing boat which happened a few years ago with my purchase of a project boat, Buzz Off, a Henderson 30.