american yacht club fall regatta

Racing is a tradition here for over 100 years

The long history of AYC sailing events continues. Sailboat racing has been a tradition at the American Yacht Club since its inception over a century ago. Today sailors continue that tradition by participating in races both local and far away.

The American Yacht Club is host to active racing fleets. All races hosted by the AYC are open to anyone wishing to participate, including members of other clubs or the public at large.

There is a Google Group for the Joppa Flats fleet, and a separate Google Group for people interested in volunteering for Race Committee. Email the Regatta Chair to be added to either of these groups.

The Notice of Race and all information for the small boat fleet can be found by downloading this PDF file .

PHRF is a Handicap rules system that allows racing for all boats as an open class, generally for 20’+ boats. Boats are rated based on a formula and scored depending on their time to complete the course. AYC traditionally hosts at least two PHRF regattas each season. Please contact the Regatta Chair for more information.

Laser/ILCA and small boat racing

The AYC hosts a Laser and small boat regatta series each season on the Joppa Flats. The Laser is a single-person boat sailed competitively all over the world. The Joppa Flats ILCA Fleet is part of the ILCA Class District 7 - more information here: laserdistrict7.blogspot.com Laser Full, Laser Radial, and Laser 4.7 rigs are all welcome. Other small single and double handed boats under 20’ are also welcome to join us.

Please contact Nat Coughlin, Regatta Chair, at [email protected] for more information.

Joppa Flats / American Yacht Club Regatta schedule 2024

If you would like to crew, please fill out this form , and we'll provide your details to skippers looking for crew.

McMichael News
American Yacht Club Fall...

American Yacht Club Fall Series

There is still time to register for the AYC fall classic on Long Island Sound! Mark your calendars now to get your team organized for the last big blast of sailing offshore for the 2023 sailing season. The fall classic on western Long Island Sound, the American YC Fall Series, will be taking place over two weekends - September 23rd & 24th and Sept 30th & October 1st.

The regatta has evolved into a bona fide "J/Fest", with forty-two J/Teams of the sixty-five boats registered to date-- already 65.0% of the fleet and growing! As part of the Fall Regatta, AYC will be hosting the J/109 East Coast Championships and J/88 Long Island Sound Championship!

Live music and the classic free food & drinks will be waiting for you when you step off the water! Plenty of story-telling and catching up for all on the picturesque AYC lawn. Get busy, get organized now! Come on down and join the fun!! Great parties and BBQs EVERY night!!

Sailing are one-design classes for J/44s (7), J/109s (5), J/105s (13), J/88s (4), and PHRF Coastal Racing fleet (4 x J/100s, 3 x J/99s, 2 x J/92s, 2 x J/133s, and J/45)! For more American YC Fall Series sailing and registration information.

Position Title: Service Advisor

Position Type: Full-time / Part Time

Reports to: Sales Manager

Job Description and Summary: In this position you will be responsible for providing support to the Service Writer, Service Team, and Customers. Responsibilities include working with the customer to get the information required to perform the work on the boat, following through to make sure the work is completed correctly and in a timely manner.

Assist Service Writer in day-to-day operations, including scheduling and distribution of work for technicians and yard team, utilizing DockMaster and other tools as required to generate and manage work orders.
Communicate with customers by phone, email an text to determine needs, providing clear and precise instructions on the work order for the technician.
Answer incoming calls and emails in a professional manner, returning all customer calls and emails prior to close of business each day.
Promote the sale of additional labor services, part and accessories in a professional manner for each customer.
Obtain Customer approvals for work order, and collect payment for work prior to releasing customer boat. In the event the repair cost is unknown initially, obtain customer approval on work order to diagnose issues, and then contact customer with estimate for repairs as soon as determined, and obtain approval.
Review and input technician timesheets into DockMaster.
Inspect quality of work performed as required, prior to delivery to the customer.
Communicate with the customer during repairs and coordinate customer pick-up.
Finalize and invoice work orders.
Provide prompt, detailed and timely flow of all paperwork.
Other duties as assigned.

Key Results Areas:

Effective communication with the customer
Accurate and timely invoices
Accurate and organized service repair orders
Minimize aging accounts receivable, timely completion of open work orders

Compensation:

Pay commensurate with experience
Paid Vacation and Holidays
Health Insurance
Retirement Program
Continuing Education

Experience Level: 1-3 years preferred, or similar industry background

1-3 years preferred

Salary and Benefits: $45 – 55k, Medical, 401K

Email: [email protected]

Position Title: Sales Meeting Setter Position Type: Full-time / Part Time

Job Description and Summary: In this position you will work alongside the McMichael Sales Team to set web meetings, conference calls and boat viewings for the sales team. You will work with an experienced team that specializes in premium racing and sailing yachts, as well as high-performance inboard and outboard day and cruising power yachts. You will work with an existing client database. You will cultivate ongoing communication with our clients and their families that demonstrate the highest degree of professionalism for the McMichael brand.

Core Skills:

Effective and professional phone communication skills
Prospect farming
Active listening
Influencing with content through digital and social media tools
Coordinating meeting schedules with Sales Consultants and prospects
Strong communication skills, verbal and written
Ability to work collaboratively with other team members

Responsibilities:

Call boaters to set web or phone meetings for Sales Consultants
Send emails to prospects for the purpose of setting meetings
Send texts to prospects with meeting request

The ideal candidate is someone who can consistently and persistently communicate and send reach out messages to boaters in a professional manner to set meetings. This position is ideal for a recent college graduate or someone going to school part-time.

Experience Level: 0-2 Years in Sales

Salary and Benefits: $40 – 60k, Medical, 401K

Email: [email protected]

Brett Lyall A lifelong, passionate boater, Brett brings 26 years of sailing and 18 years of powerboat knowledge to the McMichael team. His background includes Environmental engineering and consulting, along with 7 years of sales and marketing experience in the luxury market. In addition to being an avid fisherman, surfer, and scuba diver, he is a sailing coach and has crewed extensively offshore on a variety of boats from J109, J105, J99 and 112E to a Gunboat 57. His knowledge of all things boating related is second only to his reputation for exceptional customer service and professionalism.

Doug Conner Doug’s life-long love of all things nautical naturally led him to pursue a career in luxury yacht brokerage. His professional background in sales and marketing, combined with his overall experience in and passion for the yachting industry, makes him a valuable asset to his clients for sail and power boats. Doug is committed to providing his clients with honest, professional, knowledgeable, and personal service.

Myles McQuone Myles is a licensed captain from age 18. He is a third Generation Merchant Mariner, operating boats runs deep in his family. Myles has held multiple roles within the marine industry between Marine Towing and Salvage, Marine Technician and Marine Service Manager. Myles’ focus has always had the customers best interest in mind; expect the same attention while consulting with Myles.

Ethan Morawski Ethan grew up in Fairfield CT and has been sailing for 13 years and powerboating for 10 years all over Long Island Sound. He has worked in the marine industry since High School and has an excellent reputation for superb customer service, seamanship, and attention to details. He is a graduate of Bryant University in RI.

Position Title: Boat Yard Crew Member Position Type: Full-time Experience level: 2-3 years preferred

Reports to: Service Manager

Job Description and Summary: In this position you will work alongside a team of supportive and experienced marine industry professionals. Your primary role will be to support the efficient daily operations of the McMichael yacht yard and the satisfaction of our customers.

This will include a variety of functions and tasks including basic property maintenance, launch and recovery of boats, cleaning, crane and forklift operations, blocking boats, and winter storage and other relevant duties as assigned.

Ability to clearly understand instructions and complete tasks accordingly
Mechanically inclined
Able to lift and reposition equipment, tools, and materials
Basic boat operations – power and sail (will train)
Focus on customer satisfaction
Proactive mindset
Able to work unsupervised
Ability to collaboratively work well with other team members
Support of daily operations
Support clients boating activities, prepping boats, fueling, etc.
Safe operation of company vehicles, forklifts, and equipment, including trailer handling
Haul, block and launch boats
Boat cleaning and detailing
Bottom paint and waxing boats
Dock and marina area maintenance
Shrink wrapping
Repositioning boats

The ideal candidate is someone who will enjoy the nautical environment of the boatyard, which includes being around boats and being on the water. They will have at least two to three years of experience at a previous boat yard or yacht club. Their background will include a familiarity with boats. They will be someone who enjoys the boating lifestyle and enjoys working outdoors. They value working in a team and being part of a family-owned organization an enhancing part of the local community. We encourage you to apply if you do not have the experience but are dedicated to building a career in the marine industry.

What does a typical workday look like? A typical morning could involve arriving and immediately removing covers, prepping several boats to be launched and readied for use by their clients. You could find yourself assisting with changing a large tire on a trailer or rigging and craning a boat onto a truck for transportation. Daily activities will also include basic maintenance of the boatyard facilities which includes painting, building repair, emptying garbage, and cleaning, as well as assisting technicians with boat maintenance.

Salary range: $15 – $30

https://vimeo.com/758079548

Position Title: Fiberglass / GelCoat Technician Position Type: Full-time Experience level: 2-3 years preferred

Job Description and Summary: In this position you will work alongside a team of supportive and experienced marine industry professionals. Your primary role will be fiberglass and gel-coat repair work on sailboats and powerboats. The fiberglass work will include everything from small parts repair to structural repair and rebuilds. The gelcoat work will be similarly inclusive and will also involve spaying hull bottoms and topsides with boat bottom paint and gelcoat.

Working with vinylester, polyester, and epoxy resins
Experience working with various coring materials
Knowledge of gelcoat matching and application
Cutting, grinding and finish sanding
Visually spot imperfections in all parts
Use of buffers, DA’s, pencil grinders etc.
Finish buffing and polishing
Exceptional paint rolling and spraying finishing
Proactive mindset and able to work unsupervised
Complete fiberglass and composite repair work to the highest possible standards
Spray gelcoat, clear coat, and metal flake consistently and evenly to desired thickness
Getting the customer back on the water with a safe operating boat
Ensuring all repair work structurally and visually exceeds expectations
Lifting heaving objects
Assisting the entire service teams with various tasks

The ideal candidate is someone who will enjoy the nautical environment of the boatyard, which includes being around boats and being on the water. They will have at least two to three years of experience in fiberglass and composites fabrication or repair as well as experience with painting and gelcoat work or similar skill sets. Their background will include a familiarity with boats and enjoy delivering exceptional finish work. They will be someone who appreciates the boating lifestyle and working sail and powerboats. We are looking for a person who values working in a team and being part of a family-owned organization that is a respected part of the local community.

Salary and benefits: $50 – 70k, Medical, 401K

Position Title: Marine Service Mechanic Position Type: Full-time Experience level: 2-3 years preferred. Certifications Preferred. Equal skills and high motivation also accepted.

Job Description and Summary: In this position you will work alongside a team of supportive and experienced marine industry professionals. Your primary role will be engine maintenance and repairs for both gas and diesel engine systems as well as service and repair work on a variety of other boat system. A large part of this position will include troubleshooting, engine and drive preventative maintenance, emergency repairs at the yard or at the location of the boat needing service. You will be working on inboard and outboard systems and interacting and communicating with our boaters, so a focus on customer service is an important skill. Certification not initial required but is a plus.

Effective and knowledgeable mechanic
Problem solving – engines, drives, control systems and electrical
Mechanical and electrical troubleshooting
Engine rebuilds, 12v DC systems, machining work
Gas and diesel engine/generator operations
Wiring and soldering
Performing maintenance and repairs safely and quickly
Have your own set of tools
Performing functionality checks on engines and systems
Basic boat operations

The ideal candidate is someone who will enjoy the nautical environment of the boatyard, which includes being around boats and being on the water. They will have at least two to three years of experience as a marine service technician, automotive mechanic, Gen Tech, or similar skill sets. Their background will include a familiarity with boats and enjoy solving mechanical and systems issues. They will be someone who enjoys the boating lifestyle and working outdoors. They value working in a team and being part of a family-owned organization an enhancing part of the local community. We encourage you to apply if you do not have the experience but are dedicated to building a career in the marine service industry.

Salary and benefits: $60 – 80k, Medical, 401K

Position Title: Yacht Sales Consultant Position Type: Full-time Experience level: 2-3 years preferred

Reports to: Sales Manager

Job Description and Summary: In this position you will work alongside the McMichael Sales Team to consult with our client boaters, guiding them to find and purchase the best yacht for their modern boating needs. You will work with an experienced team that specializes in premium racing and sailing yachts, as well as high-performance inboard and outboard day and cruising power yachts. You will work with existing clients as well as being responsible for identifying, nurturing, and closing new clients. You will cultivate relationships with our clients and their families that demonstrate the highest degree of professionalism for the McMichael brand. You will be supported by the team to help you locate, acquire, and nurture prospective new client boaters. You will be a part of a sales and service team that caters to the all-encompassing boating needs of the McMichael community of boaters.

Conveying key features and distinguishing selling points of a given boat model
Ability to close high-value sales from $500k – $3M
Excellent negotiating skills
Consulting with and guiding clients effectively
Proactive mindset that fosters successful unsupervised work
Close deals on new yacht sales
Deliver world class service in the form of professionalism, knowledge, and customer service
Acquire and develop prospects into leads, then into new boat sales
Attend boat shows and events to meet with and engage boaters
Use digital and social media tools to engage with boaters
Secure used boat listings
Close used boat sales
Guide boaters through the research, selection, specification, closing, delivery, and commissioning process
Work with the Sales Team to constantly increase brand and model knowledge
Influence your client boaters to choose McMichael Yards for their boat servicing and storage needs

The ideal candidate is someone who will enjoy the nautical/boating lifestyle and has grown up around boats. They will have previous experience selling in the corporate environment, in addition to a strong boating background and several years of selling yachts over 30 feet and over $500K. They will be an excellent communicator who is able to convey information clearly and concisely. They will be motivated to constantly learn more and achieve more regarding new boats and sales goals. They will be a person who can collaborate with all the members of the sales team to find creative solutions to barriers and issues.

Experience Level Experienced as a sail or power boater or similar industry background 2-3 years preferred

Salary and benefits: Base of $50 – $70k, commissions, Medical, 401K

John Glynn John brings to McMichael more than three decades of sailing, boating and sales experience. In addition to his time at BEYC, Glynn’s resume includes years as an Associate Editor (and Contributing Editor) for Sailing World magazine, where he was part of the team that created both the “Boat of the Year” awards and the NOOD Regattas. Over the years he has raced aboard C&C 40s, New York 36s, J/35s, Express 37s and Farr 40s, as well as his own J/30 and Soverel 33 Grey Seal. He boats with his family out of Captain Harbor in Greenwich, CT.

“John brings a wealth of experience as a racer, boat owner and industry professional,” said Michael Beers, McMichael Sales Manager. “He will be a fantastic resource for his clients in buying and selling boats. We’re proud to have him on our team, and his background will help us continue to fulfill our motto, ‘Experience Counts!’”

“I’ve been fortunate enough to spend my career in and around the sailing and boating community, enabling me to love the various jobs I’ve held,” said Glynn. “In joining McMichael Yacht Brokers I’ve found another fresh, new outlet from which to apply my knowledge of and passion for yachting. Moreover, I’m able to do that while working in the company of some of the finest yacht brokers in the business. It is my hope to bring to my brokerage customers a sense of confidence and satisfaction as they make yacht transactions, both from the buyer’s and seller’s sides.”

Cameron Campbell Cameron has been boating his entire life, starting as a toddler on Great South Bay on Long Island. He grew up in Connecticut and spent every summer on Long Island Sound. In college he was a member of the University of Rhode Island Sailing Team and also ran operations at the URI Waterfront Center. After college he was an ASA Sailing Instructor at the New York Sailing School on City Island and then for Olympic Circle Sailing on San Francisco Bay. He participated in many regattas on both coasts in both small and large boats. He owned a Sabre for many years which he cruised from Annapolis to Maine. Cameron also has experience with power boats ranging from center consoles though larger cruisers.

Cameron has been working with clients preparing for Bermuda races, extensive blue water cruising, and many that are new to boating.

Rick Fleig Rick grew up on Long Island spending many years sailing on the Sound in everything from J/22′s to J/105′s, Custom C&C 41′s and many other boats, competing in all the major Northeast events. This experience and passion for sailing led him on a path to sail in the 1987 America’s Cup in Perth, Australia with both the Courageous and USA Syndicates. He has sailed in many major international regattas, including the Swan World Championships in Sardinia, the World 6 Meter Championships in Portofino, Italy, and several Newport Bermuda races.

Rick combines his extensive sailing background with both the marine and sports industry, having worked as a regional sales manager at SunfishLaser and Vanguard Sailboats, and prior to that as a regional sales representative with sporting goods giant Nike. He believes that building relationships and understanding the clients’ needs are essential in helping customers have a great experience with their boats. He works out of the McMichael Yacht Broker’s Newport office at the Newport Shipyard.

Rick resides in Portsmouth, RI, with his family, having fallen in love with the Newport area during his many sailing events there. He recently retired as the director/coach of the Portsmouth High School Sailing Team after many years, and along with his wife, Carline, now enjoys his time proudly following their youngest son, Tyler, who just finished his second year at the US Naval Academy. Tyler is a very accomplished sailor himself, and a member of the nationally ranked USNA dinghy sailing team. Rick is a member of Sail Newport and can be seen racing many weeknights and weekends in all the local events in a variety of boats.

Michael Beers Michael is a licensed captain and active racer who began his sailing career in Boston on the Charles River. As someone who did not grow up sailing, he especially enjoys introducing new boaters to the sport. Michael has a proven track record of working tirelessly for his clients, and enjoys working directly with buyers to identify the best possible “next boat” from the many options available. He is an active racer, recently racing in the J/70 fleet at Quantum Key West Race Week and aboard the J/130 Dragonly in the 2012 Newport Bermuda Race.

Prior to joining McMichael in 2007, he captained the 80′ schooner Adirondack II in Newport, RI and was an instructor at Offshore Sailing. In his free time, he enjoys cruising his Sabre.

Todd Williams Todd started sailing on his family’s cruising boat before his memory serves. His love of racing was cultivated through sailing Blue Jays and Lasers in Pequot Yacht Club’s junior program. Since then he has actively raced in the J105 fleet, J109 fleet, and helped form the J122 class. He also developed and helped launch the LIS IRC 35 class. Todd is an experienced distance sailor and was involved with winning the Vineyard race class and IRC overall aboard the J122 Partnership.

Todd enjoys using his extensive knowledge of boating to find his clients the boat that best suits their needs. He is dedicated to providing the best possible service to all his customers. Todd can often be found racing with clients and helping them build their racing programs. Through the years, he has custom built many J/Boats, Alerions, and MJM power boats for clients, many of whom he now considers personal friends.

During the winter season you may spot the Williams family on the slopes at Okemo where they have a ski house.

Andy Kaplan Starting October 4, Andrew (Andy) Kaplan has joined the brokerage team at McMichael Yacht Yards & Brokers. The addition increases the McMichael roster to seven full-time yacht brokers serving customers up and down the east coast with a concentration on the Long Island Sound and Narragansett Bay. He will work primarily out of the McMichael Mamaroneck, NY, office as well as Martha’s Vineyard.

“Andy is bringing to McMichael a lifetime of experience in sail and power boating with a keen focus in the sailboat racing world,” said McMichael President Steve Leicht. “His broad familiarity with offshore and one-design sailboats combined with his powerboating experience makes him an ideal addition to our brokerage team.”

Kaplan spent the majority of his career in finance including helping create the Quattro Global Capital, LLC where he was a principal and head of operation and marketing. “I believe that my financial sales and management experience is a great asset as I transition to yacht brokerage,” noted Kaplan. “While they are different industries, to succeed in either you need similar disciplines when matching buyers with the right product. That’s what creates and maintains long term customer relationships.”

Kaplan grew-up in Mamaroneck and has been a member of the Larchmont Yacht Club for over 30 years where he has been active in the Club’s leadership. He lives in New Rochelle, NY, and on Martha’s Vineyard, MA.

Published on October 3rd, 2021 | by Editor

All done at AYC Fall Regatta

Published on October 3rd, 2021 by Editor -->

After the 31st edition of the American Yacht Club Fall Regatta got underway with the first part of the two stage series on September 25-26 , the concluding weekend of racing was held October 2-3 in Rye, NY.

With steady wind out of the west and temperatures more suited for summer than the beginning of October, racing got underway with Commodore William Ketcham on Maxine (AYC) maintaining his lead in the J/44 class while the J/88s remained close with only one point between Justin Scagnelli and Tim Price on Albondigas (HYC) in the lead and Lawrence Cutler and Andrew Weiss on One Too Many (STC) close behind. Pen Segal ended Day 3 racing with an impressive lead in the small J/70 class competing on the south course.

The final day began with moderate wind and nearly flat conditions, but the breeze gradually diminished throughout the day. The race committee did a great job responding to the shifting environment, shortening some races due to the lack of wind.

Along with first, second, and third place in each class, four AYC perpetual trophies were awarded. The Joyette Trophy for PHRF Division Racing went to William Ingraham on the J/124 Tenebrae, the Cynosure Trophy for the ORC Division was awarded to David Fass on the Swan 42 Zammermoos, and the Zilph Trophy for One Design went to Paul Beaudin racing aboard the J/105 loulou. Beaudin and crew also took home the highly coveted Roger Sherman Memorial trophy for best combined performance in both the Spring and Fall Regattas.

Save the Date: The 2022 American Yacht Club Spring Regatta will be held on April 23, 24, 30 & May 1, 2022.

Details: https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eid=14292

Results – Top 3 in each class

East Course Racing J/44 (7 Boats) 1. Maxine, William Ketcham – 1, 1, 1, 2, 1, 1, 2, 2, 2 [11] 2. Glory, Lincoln White – 3, 5, 2, 3, 3, 2, 1, 1, 1 [16] 3. Breakaway, Thomas Blackwell – 4, 3, 4, 1, 2, 5, 4, 5, 6 [28]

ORC (9 Boats) 1. Zammermoos, David Fass – 1, 3, 1, 1, 4, 4, 2, 1, 1 [14] 2. Cool Breeze, John Cooper – 2, 1, 4, 3, 2, 5, 6, 3, 4 [24] 3. Gemini II – James Coffman – 3, 4, 2.5, 2, 5, 1, 5, 2, 7 [24]

ORC (Doublehanded – 3 boats) 1. Byte (ORC Mixed Doublehanded), Robert & Libby Alexander – 2, 1, 1 [4] 2. Groupe 5, Vlad Shablinksy/Sam Wright – 1, 2, 3 [6] 3. Hotspur, Rich Jessop – 4/DNC, 4/DNC, 2 [10]

PHRF (Coastal PHRF Division I – 9 boats) 1. Tenebrae, William Ingraham – 1, 1, 3 [5] 2. Cougar, Leonard Sitar – 3, 2, 1 [6] 3. Antidote (PHRF Plus One), Ron Richman – 2, 3, 4 [9]

PHRF (Coastal PHRF Division II – 11 boats) 1. Crazy Train, Patrick Cole – 2, 3, 4 [9] 2. Upsetter, Jason Viseltear – 4, 4, 3 [11] 3. Thin Man, Todd Aven – 5, 1, 6 [12]

South Course Racing J/109 (8 boats) 1. Growth Spurt, John Greifzu, Jr. – 1, 4, 2, 1, 2, 2, 6, 3 [15] 2. Emoticon, Jonathan Rechtschaffer – 3, 3, 4, 3, 3, 5, 2, 1 [19] 3. Incendiary, Trevor Roach – 2, 2 3, 2, 5, 3, 4, 4 [20]

J/88 (5 boats) 1. Albondigas, Justin Scagnelli/Tim Price – 2, 1, 3, 3, 2, 1, 3, 2 [14] 2. Oh Jee !!, Nicholas Delcourt –1, 4, 4, 1, 4, 5, 2, 1 [17] 3. One Too Many, Lawrence Cutler/Andrew Weiss – 3, 2, 2, 2, 1, 3, 4, 6/DSQ [17]

J/105 (8 boats) 1. loulou, Paul Beaudin – 4, 1, 1, 1, 2, 1, 1, 1 [8] 2. Ataraxis, Frank Latawiec – 1, 4, 3, 5, 1, 3, 3, 2 [17] 3. LauraBea, Max Kalehoff – 3, 5, 2, 2, 3, 2, 4, 4 [20]

J/70 (4 boats) 1. Pen Segal, Jean marc Papin – 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1 [7] 2. Half Mine II, Gibbons Sinclair – 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 3/TLE [14] 3. Grins, Ghislain Descamps – 5/DNC, 5/DNC, 5/DNC, 5/DNC, 3, 3, 3, 3/TLE [27]

Source: AYC

Tags: American Yacht Club Fall Series

Fall arrives at American Yacht Club →

Sun sets on Long Island Sound →

Fall racing on Long Island Sound →

Light winds close out AYC Fall Series →

Privacy Statement
Advertise With Us

Get Your Sailing News Fix!

Your download by email.

Your Name...
Your Email... *
Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

American Yacht Club Fall Regatta

Mother Nature served up gorgeous conditions for both weekends of the AYC Fall Regatta. © Jim Reilly

“Long Island Sound sailing conditions were spectacular!” said AYC Sailing Director Kevin Broome. “Everyone, including sailors, Race Committee, and support boats worked hard. Our wind ended up being a little stronger than the forecast each day. Warm weather, wind, and some waves were enjoyed by everyone, and it was a great weekend all the way around!”

John Sommi’s Cloud9 (Darien, CT) highlighted the 11-boat J/88 class with a sensational two weekends of racing, posting seven bullets in a row to start the first weekend of racing and ten bullets overall to finish first in the division. “We had Cloud9 prepped for North Americans next week,” said Sommi. “The boat setup was fast, and the crew’s work was flawless. The scores don’t reflect the competitiveness of the fleet, the starts were contested and there were many close crossings. We got a few breaks to finish many races just a boat length or two ahead or behind the nearest boat.”

The USMMA’s M.A.T. 1180 notched four bullets on her way to second place in IRC. © Jim Reilly

Peacemaker YCC , a Ker 11.5 helmed by Leo Vasiliev (Bayville, NY) posted five bullets during the first weekend and followed up with two more in the final weekend to finish atop the PHRF class.

Close finishes and tight scoring highlighted the 6-boat J/44 fleet, with only four points separating first and fourth place heading into the final weekend. Lenny Sitar’s Vamp (Holmdel, NJ) posted a 1-2-2 during the final three races to finish tied for first with Don and Rick Rave’s Resolute (Huntington, NY). Close behind, Bill Ketcham’s Maxine (Greenwich, CT) and Tom Blackwell’s Breakaway (Fairfield, CT) tied for second in the division and finished only one point out of first.

After finishing first in the AYC Spring Series this May, Loki , helmed by David Rosow (Fairfield, CT) returned to take first again in the J/109 division after posting five straight bullets in the second and third day of racing.

The IRC Division saw two boats trading spots nearly every race throughout, which made for some really thrilling competition. Pterodactyl , Scott Weisman’s R/P 45 Custom (White Plains, NY) finished with four straight bullets during the final weekend to take first place with Kenneth Luczynski’s M.A.T. 1180 YCC (U.S. Merchant Marine Academy; Kings Point, NY) finishing a close second in the division.

Bill Ketcham’s Maxine finished third in the always ultra-competitive J/44 One-Design Class. © Jim Reilly

John Gochberg’s USA 551 (New York, NY) had an impressive two weekends of sailing in the 8-boat J/70 class, posting eight bullets in 12 races to take first place. Finishing second was the U.S. Coast Guard Academy’s Yogi (New London, CT), helmed by Nick Custer and a new crew that included recent Junior American Yacht Club grad Richard O’Leary, Merrill Cline, Greg Gaskel, and Dan Peveler. “It was great to see so many young sailors mixed into the adult racing!” said Broome.

Sailors enjoyed food and drinks on the front lawn overlooking the New York City skyline following both weekends of racing, and a wonderful awards ceremony hosted by American Yacht Club at the regatta’s conclusion.

During the first weekend, AYC also welcomed back special guest speaker Tucker Thompson, who gave a presentation on this year’s America’s Cup to a full audience.

“I have been coming to American Yacht Club each year to present about the America’s Cup or Volvo Ocean Race, and each time I am simply blown away by the club, the staff, and the members of AYC,” said Thompson. “It is one of the best clubs I visit on my annual 40+ yacht club speaking tour and I always look forward to coming back. It would be great to see a big AYC turnout in New Zealand for the Cup in March of 2021 and hopefully, if American Magic is successful, we can bring the Cup back to AYC for another visit!”

Included in this year’s Fall Regatta was a wonderful beer tasting on the front lawn featuring Sloop Brewing Co. Big thanks are in order for Doyle Sails, who sponsored the beer for this year’s Fall Regatta and Poland Spring for sponsoring water. For all final results, visit Yachtscoring.com and be sure to visit American Yacht Club’s Facebook page to view photos from both weekends of action. ■

American Yacht Club Fall Regatta 2021 - Days 1 & 2

Bell 42 — Sailing at American Yacht Club

Major Events

Below you'll find a few of the major sailing race events happening at American Yacht Club in 2024, not including our ongoing cruising, sunset series, and summer one-design events. You can visit our website for the full list.

April 14, 21, 28: Cold Shoulder Regatta (Lasers)
May 3-5: Spring Regatta (PHRF, ORC, and larger one designs liks J/44s/88s/etc
May 30 - June 2: Robie Pierce 15th Annual Regatta (Ideal 18s)
June 8: College Alumni Sailing Event (CASE) Race (Ideal 18s)
June 17: JAYC (junior sailing instruction) summer program begins
June 22: Young Member Championship (Ideal18s)
July 5: YRA Independence Day Regatta (Multiple classes)
July 6: AYC Distance Race
July 12: AYC Optimist Invitational (Optis)
Sept 28-29, Oct 5-6: Fall Regatta (PHRF, ORC, and larger one-design classes)
Oct 12-13: Laser Regatta and Fall Inter-Club Laser Champs
Oct 27: Halloween Howl (Lasers, 420s, Cook11s, K6s)
Nov 3: Frostbiting season beings (Lasers, Cook11s)
Dec 7: Women's Frostbiting Regatta (Cook11s)

High School
Bargain Bellingham
Add An Event
Event Articles
Around the House
Restaurants and Pubs
Retail Shops
Women in Business
Bellingham Regional Chamber of Commerce
Ferndale Chamber of Commerce
Downtown Bellingham Partnership
Lynden Washington Downtown Business Association
Food and Farming
Health Care
Heating and Air Conditioning
Hotel and Lodging
NorthAmericaTalk
Whatcom County Real Estate
Overnight Trips
The WhatcomTalk Team
Company News
Terms of Use
Advertise with us
Marketing Insights
Customer Testimonials

Bellingham Symphony Orchestra Expands Its Audience — and Its Repertoire

This Film Was Written and Directed by Eliott Glasser

The Hills Are Alive With the Sounds of the Bellingham Festival…

Fairhaven Summer Repertory Theatre Brings 3 Award-Winning Plays To the Stage…

Spun Loud Effects: Dan DeMay Sells His ‘Hand-Crafted in Bellingham’ Guitar…

A Brief History of Bellingham Area Mascots

Old Ironsides: When the USS Constitution Visited Bellingham in 1933

A Look at the History of Haggen, Bellingham’s Original Chain Grocery

‘May These Gates Never Be Closed’: 100+ Years of Events at…

A Perch in the Clouds: Visit a Historic Whatcom County Fire…

Assistance League of Bellingham Offers a Path to Literacy

2024 Snapshot on Whatcom County Homelessness

September is Emergency Preparedness Month

From Forgotten to Functional: Embrace Energy Efficiency and Modern Comfort With…

New Clinicians Join PeaceHealth Medical Group

Work, Rest, Recharge: Things To Do in Port Ludlow During Your…

Roll Into Fun: Explore Bocce Ball in Whatcom County

Bountiful Byway Takes Thurston County E-Bike Riders Through Scenic Chehalis Western…

Recreational Nonprofit Shifting Gears Helps Women Reach Outdoor Goals

The Heart of a Community: Meet the Folks Behind the Fairhaven…

Hat’s Off: Meet Bellingham Milliner Alyssa Carter

Whatcom Women in Business to Award Well-Deserved Winners September 13th

Aeroseal® by Barron Can Improve the Health and Comfort of Your…

Cascade Connections Receives First Fed Foundation Grant to Help Job-Seekers with…

Bellingham Bells, Max Higbee Center & West Coast League All-Stars Field…

Celebrate Volunteers

‘The Respect We Forgot We Deserved’: A Local Health Care Worker…

50th bellingham yacht club pitch regatta.

Add to Timely Calendar
Add to Google
Add to Outlook
Add to Apple Calendar
Add to other calendar
Export to XML

50TH BELLINGHAM YACHT CLUB PITCH REGATTA @ Bellingham Yacht Club

Bellingham Yacht Club celebrates its 50th anniversary of the PITCH Regatta, the prestigious sailing competition north of Seattle this Labor Day weekend. Racers from Olympia to British Columbia will travel to compete in PITCH and enjoy Bellingham’s challenging wind and currents as well as BYC’s renown hospitality.

“The PITCH motto ‘‘Come for the wind, stay for the party! sums up the competition and why the regatta is so popular,” commented Shauna McGuinn, BYC’s Sailfleet Captain. “Since it’s our 50th, we have big plans to recognize this milestone including lively dinners and socializing and of course, our award ceremony.”

BYC manages the competition in accordance with US Sailing and PHRF rules so that winners may qualify to compete at the national level. PITCH is also recognized as a Grand Prix qualifying race as well as a 48North Top 25 ranking event. Register for the race.

Started in 1974, PITCH is one of the oldest regattas in northwest Washington and over the years, BYC has added divisions to open the race to many sailors. “The goal of the Bellingham Yacht Club has been to increase sailboat racing opportunities to Bellingham and the greater sailing communities,” explained Jim Gibson, past Commodore, PITCH promoter and racer. “Sailing is one of the few sports with co-ed team members of multiple generations. It teaches both competition and cooperation and appreciation for our stunning environment,” he added.

“We look at PITCH as our contribution to Bellingham’s vibrant athletic events,” added Commodore Jim Haines. “Ski to Sea marks the commencement of Bellingham’s many summer events and PITCH sails us into Fall over Labor Day. The sight of all those colorful sails on Bellingham Bay reminds us how fortunate we are to live here.”

The Bellingham Yacht Club thanks our many generous PITCH sponsors including Mercedes Benz of Bellingham, BECU, the Port Of Bellingham, Fourth Corner Pain Management, Profectus Consulting, San Juan Sailing and Waycross Investment Management Company.

The Bellingham Yacht Club is the oldest yacht club in Bellingham. Located on the Squalicum waterfront, the facility has a full bar and Event Center which can be rented by the public. For more information, visit https://byc.org/.

Drink And Dine Waterside In and Around Bellingham

Bellingham’s Crepe Offerings Will Hit Both Your Sweet and Savory Spots

LaFeen’s Masters the Certainty of the Doughnut

Trending now.

Editor Picks

Bank of the Pacific Marks Another Year as Grandstand Entertainment Sponsor...

Bryan Matamorosa’s Path to Bellingham and a Filipino-Flavored Restaurant

A Perch in the Clouds: Visit a Historic Whatcom County Fire...











)

( )

2000-2024
•

, the All-Russian Sailing Team Championship was held at Taganrog's yacht club "Pier 5" ("Pyaty Prichal") on May 4-10. The event is organized by a partnership between Taganrog Yachting Federation, "Pier 5" Club, Rostov Oblast Yachting Federation and Russian Yachting Federation. The championship was sponsored by VTB Bank.

� Sergey Plishenko

Over 150 athletes from Saint Petersburg, Sevastopol, Kaliningrad Oblast, Krasnodar Krai, Primorsky Krai, Republic of Tatarstan, Rostov Oblast, Samara Oblast, Saratov Oblast and Volgograd Oblast competed in team races in several sailboard categories. Trainees of Taganrog's Youth Sports School of Olympic Reserve No. 3. participated as well.