The Power of Women in Sailing

Building a Stronger Sailing Community: The New York Yacht Club International Women’s Championship

The New York Yacht Club International Women’s Championship is more than just a sailing regatta. It’s a beacon of hope for a more inclusive and diverse sailing community. The event brings together some of the world’s best female sailors from various high-performance classes to compete in a unique one-design keelboat format.

  • It provides a platform for women to showcase their skills and build confidence in a competitive environment.
  • It promotes teamwork, communication, and technical skills among the competitors.
  • It sets an example for future generations of female sailors, inspiring them to pursue careers in sailing.

A Pioneering Event

The inaugural edition of the New York Yacht Club International Women’s Championship will be held in Newport, Rhode Island, from September 12 to 19, 2026. The regatta will feature the IC37, a 37-foot keelboat designed by Mark Mills for the New York Yacht Club.

The IC37 is a powerful, sporty platform that rewards cohesive crew work and athleticism. It was designed by Mark Mills to a brief developed by the Club.
Designed to be easy to handle and responsive in the water. Providing a fun and challenging racing experience for sailors of all levels.

A Focus on Diversity and Inclusion

The event organizers have made a conscious effort to create a platform that caters to a wide range of sailors, regardless of their background or experience level. The invited skippers come from different countries, including Italy, Australia, Canada, Germany, Bermuda, and China.

  • Some of the invited skippers have Olympic experience, while others are newcomers to the sailing world.
  • There are sailors with experience in different classes, including Olympic classes, offshore racing, and shorthanded competition.
  • Representatives from sailing clubs and organizations from various countries have been selected to participate in the event.

Key Partnerships

The New York Yacht Club International Women’s Championship is supported by several key partners, including Rolex and Helly Hansen. These organizations share the event’s vision of creating a more inclusive and diverse sailing community.

  • Rolex has been a long-time supporter of women’s sailing and has worked closely with the event organizers to promote the importance of female participation in the sport.
  • Helly Hansen has provided expertise and resources to support the event, including clothing and equipment for the sailors.

What to Expect

The regatta will be a thrilling experience for sailors and spectators alike. The IC37 is a fast and responsive boat that rewards skilled sailors and teamwork. The event will be a great opportunity to see talented female sailors in action and to learn from their experiences.

  • The regatta will feature a variety of racing formats, including one-design keelboat racing.
  • Sailors will be able to participate in training sessions and clinics, led by experienced coaches and sailors.
  • The event will also feature social gatherings and activities, allowing sailors and spectators to connect and build relationships.

Conclusion

The New York Yacht Club International Women’s Championship is a groundbreaking event that promises to be an exciting and inspiring experience for all involved. By bringing together talented female sailors from around the world, the event aims to promote a more inclusive and diverse sailing community. The event is a testament to the power of women in sailing and a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and a shared passion for the sport. As we look to the future, it’s clear that this event will be a game-changer for women’s sailing, providing a platform for talented sailors to showcase their skills, build confidence, and inspire others to follow in their footsteps. The future of women’s sailing looks bright, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for this talented group of sailors.