us sailing rolex yachtsman of the year

Awards & Trophies

Us sailing’s rolex yachtsman & yachtswoman of the year awards.

Established in 1961 by US Sailing and sponsored by Rolex Watch, U.S.A. since 1980, the annual presentation of US Sailing’s Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year awards recognize the individual male and female U.S. sailors who have demonstrated on-the-water excellence at international and national events to earn their place in the history of the sport. These prestigious awards are widely viewed by the sail-racing industry as the foremost individual competitive sailing honors in the nation.

On Thursday, February 1, 2024, as part of US Sailing’s National Sailing Programs Symposium, the best U.S. sailor athletes of 2023 were honored among family, friends, peers, competitors, and contributors to the sport of sailing.  

Charlie Enright ( Barrington, RI ) and Christina Wolfe ( Orcas, WA ) were awarded the 2023 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Award and were celebrated along with fellow 2023 award finalists Betsy Alison, Erika Reineke, Steve Hunt, and Allan Terhune, Jr.  

The winners were presented with the Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Award trophy along with specially engraved Rolex Yacht-Master timepieces. These honorees join an elite group of notable national sailors.   

As Skipper, Charlie Enright led the 11th Hour Racing Team to become the first American flagged team to ever win The Ocean Race in 2023. In his third shot at the elusive Ocean Race Trophy, the win had been over 10 years in the making for his team, and over 6 years in the making for 11th Hour Racing.     

Of the Rolex Yachtsman of the Year Award, Charlie Enright said “It’s iconic. It makes me think of all the people who have come before all of us. I’ve done a lot of sailing with some of the other finalists who were nominated, and I’ve certainly learned a lot from all of them. This is an individual award in theory, but it takes a village no matter what you’re doing, and I can’t say enough about all the teammates that we had in this endeavor.”  

Christina Wolfe is an accomplished offshore sailor, having put thousands of offshore miles under her belt. Wolfe is best known for her doublehanded sailing, which she does often with her husband, Justin. In 2023, Wolfe achieved 1st Overall ORC, 2nd Overall IRC, and Double-handed Line Honors in the Rolex Middle Sea Race, first female skipper overall in the Rolex Fastnet Race, and first in IRC 2 at the De Guingand Bowl, all achieved doublehanded.    

“Never in a million years did I expect to be standing on this stage, let alone in the room with all of you,” said Christina Wolfe. “This is an incredible honor for me to be up here on this stage. I don’t sail for a living, but when I do sail, it’s the most alive that I feel, and I know many of you feel that as well. I’m so grateful to have the opportunity to do this, to see these iconic races, and to meet inspiring people.”  

In January, three men and three women were chosen as finalists for US Sailing’s 2023 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Awards. The annual rundown of the year’s “best in the U.S.” represents a wide range of accomplished sailors from various disciplines and at different stages of their respective careers. All nominees are highly distinguished and talented, and the nomination panel was especially impressed by their growth and depth of achievements. Yachtsman and Yachtswoman finalists earned their spot on this exclusive list by dominating their respective classes and showing true variety in their sailing accomplishments. All six of these sailors represent their own unique pathway in the sport, have demonstrated on-the-water excellence at international and national events, and have brought global recognition to sailing while representing the United States.  

VIEW RECORDING OF THE CEREMONY

Past Winners

2023 – Christina Wolfe / Charlie Enright 2022 – Ravi Parent / Daniela Moroz 2021 – Harry Melges IV / Daniela Moroz 2020 – Not awarded 2019 – Mike Martin & Adam Lowry/Daniela Moroz 2018 – Jud Smith/Carmen & Emma Cowles 2017 – Peter Duncan/Erika Reineke 2016 – Caleb Paine/Daniela Moroz 2015 – Steve Benjamin/Annie Haeger 2014 – Terry Hutchinson/Stephanie Roble 2013 – Brian Porter/Jody Starck 2012 – Johnny Heineken/Jen French 2011 – Bill Hardesty/Anna Tunnicliffe 2010 – Stan Honey/Anna Tunnicliffe 2009 – Bora Gulari/Anna Tunnicliffe 2008 – Terry Hutchinson/Anna Tunnicliffe 2007 – Jeff Linton/Sally Barkow 2006 – Jud Smith/Paige Railey 2005 – Nick Scandone/Sally Barkow 2004 – Paul Foerster & Kevin Burnham/Jody Swanson 2003 – Augie Diaz/Hannah Swett 2002 – John Kostecki/Liz Baylis 2001 – Steve Fossett/Cory Sertl 2000 – Mark Reynolds & Magnus Liljedahl/JJ Isler & Pease Glaser 1999 – Eric Doyle/Dawn Riley 1998 – Paul Cayard /Betsy (Gelenitis) Alison 1997 – Chris Larson/JJ Isler 1996 – Dave Ullman/Courtenay (Becker) Dey 1995 – Ed Baird/Cory Sertl 1994 – Ken Read/Danielle Brennan 1993 – Cam Lewis/Betsy (Gelenitis) Alison 1992 – Kevin Mahaney/Julia Trotman 1991 – Ed Adams/JJ Isler 1990 – Jim Brady/Courtenay Becker 1989 – Larry Klein/Jody Swanson 1988 – John Kostecki/Allison Jolly & Lynne Jewell 1987 – Ed Adams/Susan Dierdorff Taylor 1986 – Dennis Conner/JJ Isler 1985 – Ken Read/Kathy Steele & Heidi Backus 1984 – Bill Buchan/Betsy Gelenitis 1983 – Dave Curtis/Wendy Thomson 1982 – Randy Smyth/Betsy Gelenitis 1981 – Dave Curtis/Betsy Gelenitis 1980 – Dennis Conner/Lynne Jewell 1979 – Ted Turner/Nell Taylor 1978 – Buddy Melges/Bonnie Shore 1977 – Ted Turner/Jan O’Malley 1976 – Lowell North/Allison Jolly 1975 – Dennis Conner/Joan Ellis 1974 – Ted Hood/Sally Lindsay 1973 – Ted Turner/Sally Lindsay 1972 – Buddy Melges/Jane Pegel 1971 – Ding Schoonmaker/Jane Pegel 1970 – Ted Turner/Jan O’Malley 1969 – Robert F. Johnson/Jan O’Malley 1968 – Lowell North/June Methot 1967 – Bus Mosbacher/Betty Foulk 1966 – Bill Cox/Jerie Clark 1965 – Dick Tillman/Timothea (Schneider) Larr 1964 – Bob Bavier/Jane Pegel 1963 – Joe Duplin/Leggie Mertz 1962 – Bus Mosbacher/Sue Sinclair 1961 – Buddy Melges/Timothea Schneider

Copyright ©2018-2024 United States Sailing Association. All rights reserved. US Sailing is a 501(c)3 organization. Website designed & developed by Design Principles, Inc. -->

• Weekly Newsletter

California's Boating & Fishing News

US Sailing image; Lexi Pline

Charlie Enright and Christina Wolfe Named US Sailing’s 2023 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year

BRISTON, R.I.— The celebration of excellence in American sailing took center stage on Feb. 1, as US Sailing’s National Sailing Programs Symposium included recognition of the top U.S. sailor athletes of 2023. Among a gathering of family, friends, peers, competitors and sailing enthusiasts, Charlie Enright of Barrington, R.I., and Christina Wolfe of Orcas, Wash., stood out as recipients of the prestigious 2023 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Award.

They were joined in celebration by fellow 2023 award finalists Betsy Alison, Erika Reineke, Steve Hunt and Allan Terhune, Jr.

Enright and Wolfe were presented with the coveted trophy, accompanied by specially engraved Rolex Yacht-Master timepieces, marking their induction into an esteemed group of national sailing luminaries.

For Enright, skipper of the 11th Hour Racing Team, the honor was a culmination of years of dedication and perseverance. After leading his team to a historic victory as the first American-flagged team to triumph in the Ocean Race in 2023, Enright reflected on the collective effort behind the achievement, acknowledging the contributions of his teammates and competitors.

Wolfe’s accomplishments as an offshore sailor garnered well-deserved recognition. With numerous accolades to her name, including notable achievements in double-handed sailing alongside her husband, Justin, Wolfe’s passion for the sport was evident as she expressed gratitude for the unexpected honor.

The selection process for the Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year commenced in January, with three men and three women vying for the prestigious titles. The finalists represented a diverse array of sailing disciplines and career stages.

The annual awards not only recognize individual excellence, but also highlight the collective achievements of the sailing community, showcasing the breadth and depth of talent within the sport. The winners’ and finalists’ journeys serve as inspirations, embodying the spirit of sailing while bringing acclaim to the U.S. on the global stage.

To view a recording of the ceremony, please visit https://vimeo.com/event/4060970. Charlie Enright and Christina Wolfe Named US Sailing’s 2023 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year

• ← Ryan Kelly Takes Helm as New CEO of Sail Canada
• Charlie Enright and Christina Wolfe Named US Sailing’s 2023 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year →

Comments Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Your Thoughts are Appreciated

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Nautic Shows
• America’s Cup
• Classic Yachts
• Motor Yachts
• Sailing Yachts
• Superyachts
• Yachts News
• Destinations
• Yacht Clubs
• Boat Racing
• Meta Yachts

On Thursday, February 1, 2024, as part of US Sailing’s National Sailing Programs Symposium, the best U.S. sailor athletes of 2023 were honored among family, friends, peers, competitors, and contributors to the sport of sailing.

Charlie Enright (Barrington, RI) and Christina Wolfe (Orcas, WA) were awarded the 2023 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Award and were celebrated along with fellow 2023 award finalists Betsy Alison, Erika Reineke, Steve Hunt, and Allan Terhune, Jr.

The winners were presented with the Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Award trophy along with specially engraved Rolex Yacht-Master timepieces. These honorees join an elite group of notable national sailors.

As Skipper, Charlie Enright led the 11th Hour Racing Team to become the first American flagged team to ever win The Ocean Race in 2023. In his third shot at the elusive Ocean Race Trophy, the win had been over 10 years in the making for his team, and over 6 years in the making for 11th Hour Racing.

Of the Rolex Yachtsman of the Year Award, Charlie Enright said “It’s iconic. It makes me think of all the people who have come before all of us. I’ve done a lot of sailing with some of the other finalists who were nominated, and I’ve certainly learned a lot from all of them. This is an individual award in theory, but it takes a village no matter what you’re doing, and I can’t say enough about all the teammates that we had in this endeavor.”

Christina Wolfe is an accomplished offshore sailor, having put thousands of offshore miles under her belt. Wolfe is best known for her doublehanded sailing, which she does often with her husband, Justin. In 2023, Wolfe achieved 1st Overall ORC, 2nd Overall IRC, and Double-handed Line Honors in the Rolex Middle Sea Race, first female skipper overall in the Rolex Fastnet Race, and first in IRC 2 at the De Guingand Bowl, all achieved doublehanded.

“Never in a million years did I expect to be standing on this stage, let alone in the room with all of you,” said Christina Wolfe. “This is an incredible honor for me to be up here on this stage. I don’t sail for a living, but when I do sail, it’s the most alive that I feel, and I know many of you feel that as well. I’m so grateful to have the opportunity to do this, to see these iconic races, and to meet inspiring people.”

In January, three men and three women were chosen as finalists for US Sailing’s 2023 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Awards. The annual rundown of the year’s “best in the U.S.” represents a wide range of accomplished sailors from various disciplines and at different stages of their respective careers. All nominees are highly distinguished and talented, and the nomination panel was especially impressed by their growth and depth of achievements. Yachtsman and Yachtswoman finalists earned their spot on this exclusive list by dominating their respective classes and showing true variety in their sailing accomplishments. All six of these sailors represent their own unique pathway in the sport, have demonstrated on-the-water excellence at international and national events, and have brought global recognition to sailing while representing the United States.

• Charlie Enright
• Christina Wolfe
• Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year

RELATED ARTICLES

Foiling awards: these are the best “flying” boats of 2024, the ocean race wins the sustainability award in the international sports awards 2023, neuschäfer and slingsby crowned at world sailing awards in malaga, world sailing awards 2023 to recognise this year’s highest achievers, sy nyumba wins the international superyacht society award 2023, sailing’s best to be celebrated at 2023 world sailing awards in málaga.

Subscribe to our newsletter

To be updated with all the latest news, offers and special announcements.

LATEST ARTICLES

Unleashing potential: emirates team new zealand’s two-boat training session, editor picks, canadian beau lake introduces the tahoe ’14 and lugano ’14 electric runabouts, underwater adventure and exploration with deepflight’s super falcon 3s, driving performance on land and on water: 41′ amg carbon edition, popular posts, young designer of the year 2022: ioana valentina corcodel reveals 65m ophelia concept, mirabaud sailing video of the century: celebrating 2 decades of passion, superyacht the flying fox seized in the dominican republic, popular category.

• Regatta 807
• America's Cup 384
• Motor Yachts 261
• Boating 215
• Superyachts 183
• Sailing 177
• Yachts News 174
• Sailing Yachts 162

Charlie Enright (Barrington, RI) and West Coast sailor Christina Wolfe (Orcas Island, WA) were awarded the 2023 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Award and were celebrated along with fellow 2023 award finalists Betsy Alison, Erika Reineke, Steve Hunt, and Allan Terhune Jr.

The winners were presented with the Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Award trophy along with specially engraved Rolex Yacht-Master timepieces. These honorees join an elite group of notable national sailors.

As skipper, Charlie Enright led the 11th Hour Racing Team to become the first American-flagged team to ever win The Ocean Race, in 2023. In his third shot at the elusive Ocean Race Trophy, the win had been over 10 years in the making for his team, and over six years in the making for 11th Hour Racing.

Of the Rolex Yachtsman of the Year Award, Charlie Enright said, “It’s iconic. It makes me think of all the people who have come before all of us. I’ve done a lot of sailing with some of the other finalists who were nominated, and I’ve certainly learned a lot from all of them. This is an individual award in theory, but it takes a village no matter what you’re doing, and I can’t say enough about all the teammates that we had in this endeavor.”

Christina Wolfe is an accomplished offshore sailor, having put thousands of offshore miles under her belt. Pacific Northwest sailor Christina is best known for her doublehanded sailing, often with her husband Justin Wolfe as crew, aboard their J/111 Raku and J/70 Mossy . They now have a Jeanneau Sunfast 3300, Red Ruby . In 2023, Christina achieved First Overall ORC, Second Overall IRC, and Doublehanded Line Honors in the Rolex Middle Sea Race, first female skipper overall in the Rolex Fastnet Race, and first in IRC 2 at the De Guingand Bowl, all achieved doublehanded.

“Never in a million years did I expect to be standing on this stage, let alone in the room with all of you,” Christina said. “This is an incredible honor for me to be up here on this stage. I don’t sail for a living, but when I do sail, it’s the most alive that I feel, and I know many of you feel that as well. I’m so grateful to have the opportunity to do this, to see these iconic races, and to meet inspiring people.”

Three men and three women were chosen as finalists for US Sailing’s 2023 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year awards in January 2024. The annual rundown of the year’s “best in the US” represents a wide range of accomplished sailors from various disciplines and at different stages of their respective careers. All nominees are highly distinguished and talented, and the nomination panel was especially impressed by their growth and depth of achievements.

Yachtsman and Yachtswoman finalists earned their spots on this exclusive list by dominating their respective classes and showing true variety in their sailing accomplishments. All six of these sailors represent their own unique pathways in the sport, have demonstrated on-the-water excellence at international and national events, and have brought global recognition to sailing while representing the United States.

Relax by reading our monthly print publication when you subscribe for yourself or a friend by clicking here . 

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Notify me via e-mail if anyone answers my comment.

Pacific Search BOLO — Coast Guard Searching for SV ‘Malulani,’ LA to Hawaii The USCG has issued a missing person/BOLO report for the Westsail 32 'Malulani' which is overdue on a passage from Long Beach, CA to Hawaii.

Hanging on the Wire I-14 Skiff Clinic Brings New Skills to Sailors From Near and Far The 2024 I-14 skiff clinic was held at San Diego yacht Club last weekend with 18 sailors coming together to learn new skills.

Sponsored Post Quality Yachts With Premium Service From Swiftsure Yachts Swiftsure Yachts offers exceptional service, quality brokerage boats and new yachts for world cruising.

racing through life Sailagram: Snapshot of January Sailing 2024 is off to a racey start! Lots of winter regatta action. Catch it here as Sailagram brings the heat to an otherwise chilly month on the S.F. Bay!

Sponsored Post Westwind Yacht Management — Washing, Waxing and Varnishing Professional yacht care with personal service.

• AROUND THE SAILING WORLD
• BOAT OF THE YEAR
• Email Newsletters
• Best Marine Electronics & Technology
• America’s Cup
• St. Petersburg
• Caribbean Championship
• Boating Safety

Shortlist Announced for Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year

• By Josh Toso
• February 8, 2022

The five Yachtsman finalists earned their way on to this exclusive list by dominating their respective classes and showing true variety in their sailing accomplishments. The four Yachtswoman finalists represent a wide array experience and sailing disciplines, and each had a 2021 to remember. All nine of these sailors represent their own unique pathway to the shortlist after a triumphant season on the water in their respective boats.

Some of these sailors were selected based on their consistent exceptional perfor-mances throughout the 2021 season and some were chosen for their signature win(s) at major international or national events. These sailors have each mastered their craft and have focused on the importance of precision and performance in their competitive sailing efforts.

Finalists for US Sailing’s 2021 Rolex Yachtsman of the Year award (in alphabetical order by first name):

Conner Blouin – The 2021 Sunfish North American Champion dominated the 83-boat fleet and also finished 3rd at the 100 boat Sunfish World Champion-ships. Additionally, Blouin won the prestigious US Sailing Championship of Champions, sailed in Lightnings, as well as winning the WASZP North American Championship. 

Dave Hughes – In 2021, the versatile “super crew” was part of National Champi-onship teams in 3 different classes, Etchells, J/24s, and the Atlantic Class. Additionally, Hughes and his long-time teammate, Stu McNay, won the 470 North American Champs and the US Open Sailing Series Miami, and finished 5th in the World Championships and 9th in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games (sailed in 2021).

Erik Shampain – 2021 was a year to remember for Shampain as his teams dominated major events across multiple classes and disciplines. Winning the J/70 Pre-Worlds event and then finishing 2nd at the Worlds Championship, Sham-pain’s teams also won the Etchells Midwinters West, finished second in the Midwinters East, and finished 3rd at the North American Championship. Additionally, Shampain was part of the Melges 24 National Championship team, the winning Congressional Cup team, a 3rd place Ficker Cup team, and placed 3rd in the Transpac.

Harry Melges IV – Scow country belonged to Melges in 2021. Harry won two E Scow National Championships (the 2021 Champs as well as the rescheduled 2020 Champs), the E Scow Inland Champs, and the E Scow Spring Champs. Additionally, Melges placed 2nd in the A Scow Inland Champs and 3rd at the A Scow National Championship. Furthermore, he won the Melges 24 Gold Cup, and was part of the winning team in the IC37 East Coast Champs and the 2nd place team at the North Americans.

Taylor Canfield – The man whose name is synonymous with the Congressional Cup won this year’s event with a dominating 22-3 record making him a 5-time Con Cup Champion. Canfield’s team also dominated the M32 class in 2021 winning both the Miami Winter Series and Newport Midtown Summer Series and winning the World Championship by 40 points. Additionally, Taylor was the tactician for the Dark Energy J/70 Team that placed 6th at the North Ameri-can Championships and 3rd at the Worlds as well as the Melges 24 team that placed 2nd at Charleston Race Week and Gold Cup and won the 17 boat PHRF 2 Class at Block Island Race Week. Taylor was also on the IC37 team that won the NYYC Leukemia Cup, placed 3rd SDYC in the Lipton Cup with team SDYC, and also was the Flight controller on the U.S. SailGP Team that placed 2nd at the Saint-Tropez event.

Finalists for US Sailing’s 2021 Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year award (in alphabetical order by first name):

Anna Weis – Learning to sail in Fort Lauderdale where she was raised, Anna Weis attended Boston University and was a member of their rowing team be-fore deferring school to commit to a Nacra 17 Olympic Campaign. Coming off her Gold Medal in the 2019 Pan American Games, Weis made it to the Nacra 17 Medal Race at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, finishing 9th overall. Anna then tried her hand on a much larger foiling catamaran as she finished 2nd as part of the U.S. SailGP Team at the Australian Grand Prix.

Daniela Moroz – Back on the shortlist again and looking for her 3rd Rolex, Dan-iela Moroz won the Women’s Formula Kit European Championship and her 5th Kite Foil World Championship. Moroz also placed 6th and 9th respectively at the US Open Sailing Series events in Clearwater and San Francisco, finishing as the top female athlete at both events, and is currently ranked 6th in the Formula Kite World Sailing Rankings.

Laura Grondin – After a 20-year break from One-Design Racing, Laura Grondin has come back swinging in 2021, turing heads and opening eyes in the J/70, Melges 24, and IC37 classes. Grondin’s Dark Energy J/70 team placed 6th at North Americans and 3rd at Worlds, while her Melges 24 team that dons the same name won the Block Island PHRF 2 class, placed end at Charleston Race Week and Gold Cup, and was higely successful in the Bacardi Cup win-ter events. Additionally, Grondin helmed the IC37 that won the NYYC Leuke-mia Cup and placed 4th at the NYYC Annual Regatta.

Nicole Breault – The uber experienced and successful match racer is the 2021 U.S. Sailing Women’s Match Racing Champion and placed 4th in the Califor-nia Dreamin’ Series and is ranked as the top female match racer in the US and ranked 3rd in the world. Additionally, Breault had success as tactician and main trimmer for her J/105 where she and her team placed 2nd at Block Island Race Week and 4th at the J/105 North American Championship.

The nominees and their 2021 sailing resumes will be reviewed by a panel of noted sailing journalists and past winners of these awards who discuss the merits of each sailor’s racing results before voting to determine US Sailing’s 2021 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year. The winners will be announced and presented with specially engraved Rolex timepieces in conjunction with the US Sailing Association Awards this Spring on a date and at a location to be announced soon.

• More: Rolex Yachtsman of the Year , Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year
• More Racing

Reineke’s Battle For the Berth

One-Design Wingfoil Racing Takes Off

Brauer Sails into Hearts, Minds and History

Anticipation and Temptation

America’s Offshore Couple

Jobson All-Star Juniors 2024: The Fast Generation

• Digital Edition
• Customer Service
• Privacy Policy
• Cruising World
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding

Published on October 25th, 2023 | by Editor

Nominations open for sailing excellence

Published on October 25th, 2023 by Editor -->

US Sailing has opened nominations for the 2023 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year, widely acknowledged as the premiere individual sailing honors in the nation.

Established in 1961 by US Sailing and in partnership with Rolex since 1980, US Sailing’s Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year award recognizes the individual male and female U.S. sailors who have demonstrated on-the-water excellence at international and national events bringing global recognition to sailing in the United States. Previous winners include America’s Cup winners, world champions, offshore record holders, and more.

Nominations are open through December 15 for US citizens who have demonstrated, in the calendar year of 2023, on-the-water excellence at national and international events bringing global recognition to sailing in the United States while representing the United States.

Following the close of the nomination period, US Sailing’s nominating committee, approved by the Board of Directors, will select three finalists for both the Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Award based on the merits of the nominees.

The finalists will be posted to a ballot and presented to voting groups of past award winners and sailing media journalists who will vote for the winners. Winners will be announced in a ceremony in the spring of 2024. Details to be announced.

• Yachtsman nomination: click here • Yachtswoman nomination: click here

Past Winners 2022 – Ravi Parent / Daniela Moroz 2021 – Harry Melges IV / Daniela Moroz 2020 – Not awarded 2019 – Mike Martin & Adam Lowry/Daniela Moroz 2018 – Jud Smith/Carmen & Emma Cowles 2017 – Peter Duncan/Erika Reineke 2016 – Caleb Paine/Daniela Moroz 2015 – Steve Benjamin/Annie Haeger 2014 – Terry Hutchinson/Stephanie Roble 2013 – Brian Porter/Jody Starck 2012 – Johnny Heineken/Jen French 2011 – Bill Hardesty/Anna Tunnicliffe 2010 – Stan Honey/Anna Tunnicliffe 2009 – Bora Gulari/Anna Tunnicliffe 2008 – Terry Hutchinson/Anna Tunnicliffe 2007 – Jeff Linton/Sally Barkow 2006 – Jud Smith/Paige Railey 2005 – Nick Scandone/Sally Barkow 2004 – Paul Foerster & Kevin Burnham/Jody Swanson 2003 – Augie Diaz/Hannah Swett 2002 – John Kostecki/Liz Baylis 2001 – Steve Fossett/Cory Sertl 2000 – Mark Reynolds & Magnus Liljedahl/JJ Isler & Pease Glaser 1999 – Eric Doyle/Dawn Riley 1998 – Paul Cayard /Betsy (Gelenitis) Alison 1997 – Chris Larson/JJ Isler 1996 – Dave Ullman/Courtenay (Becker) Dey 1995 – Ed Baird/Cory Sertl 1994 – Ken Read/Danielle Brennan 1993 – Cam Lewis/Betsy (Gelenitis) Alison 1992 – Kevin Mahaney/Julia Trotman 1991 – Ed Adams/JJ Isler 1990 – Jim Brady/Courtenay Becker 1989 – Larry Klein/Jody Swanson 1988 – John Kostecki/Allison Jolly & Lynne Jewell 1987 – Ed Adams/Susan Dierdorff Taylor 1986 – Dennis Conner/JJ Isler 1985 – Ken Read/Kathy Steele & Heidi Backus 1984 – Bill Buchan/Betsy Gelenitis 1983 – Dave Curtis/Wendy Thomson 1982 – Randy Smyth/Betsy Gelenitis 1981 – Dave Curtis/Betsy Gelenitis 1980 – Dennis Conner/Lynne Jewell 1979 – Ted Turner/Nell Taylor 1978 – Buddy Melges/Bonnie Shore 1977 – Ted Turner/Jan O’Malley 1976 – Lowell North/Allison Jolly 1975 – Dennis Conner/Joan Ellis 1974 – Ted Hood/Sally Lindsay 1973 – Ted Turner/Sally Lindsay 1972 – Buddy Melges/Jane Pegel 1971 – Ding Schoonmaker/Jane Pegel 1970 – Ted Turner/Jan O’Malley 1969 – Robert F. Johnson/Jan O’Malley 1968 – Lowell North/June Methot 1967 – Bus Mosbacher/Betty Foulk 1966 – Bill Cox/Jerie Clark 1965 – Dick Tillman/Timothea (Schneider) Larr 1964 – Bob Bavier/Jane Pegel 1963 – Joe Duplin/Leggie Mertz 1962 – Bus Mosbacher/Sue Sinclair 1961 – Buddy Melges/Timothea Schneider

Source: US Sailing

Tags: Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year , US Sailing

Related Posts

Testing the scoring programs →

Please US Sailing, stop the bleeding →

Applications for Youth Match Champs →

US Sailing recognizes Bob Johnstone →

© 2024 Scuttlebutt Sailing News. Inbox Communications, Inc. All Rights Reserved. made by VSSL Agency .

• Privacy Statement
• Advertise With Us

Get Your Sailing News Fix!

Your download by email.

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

• CLASSIFIEDS
• NEWSLETTERS
• SUBMIT NEWS

Daniela Moroz, Ravi Parent selected as US Sailing's 2022 Rolex Yachtswoman and Yachtsman of the Year

Related Articles

• SAILING NEWS
• AMERICA’S CUP
• THE OCEAN RACE
• VENDÉE GLOBE
• 52 SUPER SERIES
• GLOBAL SOLO CHALLENGE
• OCEAN GLOBE RACE
• SAILING WORLD
• SPANISH EDITION
• YOUTUBE CHANNEL
• MEDITERRANEAN

US Sailing: finalists for 2023 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Awards

Three men and three women have been chosen as finalists for US Sailing’s 2023 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Awards. The annual rundown of the year’s “best in the U.S.” represents a wide range of accomplished sailors from various disciplines and at different stages of their respective careers.

Yachtsman and Yachtswoman finalists earned their spot on this exclusive list by dominating their respective classes and showing true variety in their sailing accomplishments. All six of these sailors represent their own unique pathway to the sport, having demonstrated on-the-water excellence at international and national events bringing global recognition to sailing while representing the United States in 2023.

Some of these sailors were selected based on their consistent exceptional performances throughout the 2023 calendar year and some were chosen for their signature win(s) at major international or national events.

Finalists for US Sailing’s 2023 Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year award (in alphabetical order by last name):

Betsy Alison – Well known to many in the sailing community, Alison is a 5x Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year and multi-discipline World Champion. While Alison spent many years coaching the Para Sailing Team, a major hip surgery due to cancer in 2022 made her eligible to compete as a para sailor. In her first regatta since surgery and first Para sailing event as a competitor, Betsy Alison won the Women’s Hansa 303 at the 2023 Para Sailing World Championships held on Lake Braassemermeer.

Erika Reineke – 2017 Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year Erika Reineke is in contention for another Rolex in 2023. Reineke’s successes this year include representing the US at the Olympic Test Event as well as her stand-out performance at Pan American Games securing a gold medal, earning her a spot as one of this year’s Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year finalists. Reineke was also a member of the US SailGP team, helping them to a win in Cadiz this year.

Christina Wolfe – Christina Wolfe is an accomplished offshore sailor, having put thousands of offshore miles under her belt. Wolfe is best known for her doublehanded sailing, that she does often with her husband, Justin. In 2023, Wolfe achieved 1st Overall ORC, 2nd Overall IRC, and Double-handed Line Honors in the Rolex Middle Sea Race, first female skipper overall in the Rolex Fastnet Race, and first in IRC 2 at the De Guingand Bowl, all achieved doublehanded.

Finalists for US Sailing’s 2023 Rolex Yachtsman of the Year award (in alphabetical order by last name):

Charlie Enright – As Skipper, Enright led the 11th Hour Racing Team to become the first American team to ever win The Ocean Race in 2023. In his third shot at the elusive Ocean Race Trophy, the win had been over 10 years in the making for his team, and over 6 years in the making for 11th Hour Racing.

Steve Hunt – Professional sailor and coach Steve Hunt has had great success in the Etchells and J/70 fleet, earning him the Rolex nomination. As a tactician and main trimmer, Hunt helped win the 2023 Etchells North Americans, Etchells Nationals, and J/70 European Championship – the first American team to win the latter. Hunt made the podium at two world championships: silver at the J/70 World Championship and bronze at the 2023 Etchells World Championship. Hunt is also notable for his work with High School Sailing, where he has been a coach and a mentor to many.

Allan Terhune Jr. – Terhune’s success as skipper of the American Lightning team that won the 2023 Lightning North American Championship and captured the gold medal at the 2023 Pan American Games earned his third nomination for Rolex Yachtsman of the Year. Along with Sarah Chin and Madeline Baldridge, the American contingent placed first or second in all 10 races during the Pan Am Games, making the medal race meaningless but even more exciting when they won that as well, marking the first U.S. gold medal in Lightning class at the Pan American Games since 1999. Terhune also achieved success in the 6 Metre and MC Scow classes, coming in first at the 6M World Championship as tactician and winning both MC Scow Nationals and Midwinters.

The 2023 US Sailing Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Award winners will be announced and presented with specially engraved Rolex timepieces at a special presentation during the National Sailing Programs Symposium in Savannah, GA February 1, 2024, at the Savannah Yacht Club.

Share this:

Global Solo Challenge – Last week at sea for Riccardo Tosetto

40 years of irc rating, ai yacht assistance find a yacht of your dreams.

Most Popular

Fleet battles in rolex china sea race 2024, clipper race fleet cross the north pacific ocean, clipper race.skipper thoughts ahead of race 10, 2024 melges 24 worlds registration, recent comments.

Nautica.News is your news,sailing,boats, yachting website. We provide you with the latest breaking news and videos straight from our sport

Contact us: [email protected]

© 2020 - 2023 NAUTICA.NEWS

• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions of Use

Privacy Overview

Imoca skippers in the ocean race, yamaha and its environmental plan 2050, the resurgence of mini skirts in fashion.

Christina Wolfe named U.S. Sailing yachtswoman of the year

Submitted by U.S. Sailing.

As part of U.S. Sailing’s National Sailing Programs Symposium, the best U.S. sailor athletes of 2023 were honored among family, friends, peers, competitors and contributors to the sport of sailing. Christina Wolfe of Orcas Island, along with Charlie Enright of Rhode Island, was awarded the 2023 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Award.

They were celebrated along with fellow 2023 award finalists. The winners were presented with the Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Award trophy along with specially engraved Rolex Yacht-Master timepieces. These honorees join an elite group of notable national sailors.

Christina Wolfe is an accomplished offshore sailor, having put thousands of offshore miles under her belt. Wolfe is best known for her doublehanded sailing, which she does often with her husband, Justin. In 2023, Wolfe achieved 1st Overall ORC, 2nd Overall IRC, and Double-handed Line Honors in the Rolex Middle Sea Race, first female skipper overall in the Rolex Fastnet Race, and first in IRC 2 at the De Guingand Bowl, all achieved doublehanded.

“Never in a million years did I expect to be standing on this stage, let alone in the room with all of you,” said Christina Wolfe. “This is an incredible honor for me to be up here on this stage. I don’t sail for a living, but when I do sail, it’s the most alive that I feel, and I know many of you feel that as well. I’m so grateful to have the opportunity to do this, to see these iconic races, and to meet inspiring people.”

In January, three men and three women were chosen as finalists for US Sailing’s 2023 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Awards. The annual rundown of the year’s “best in the U.S.” represents a wide range of accomplished sailors from various disciplines and at different stages of their respective careers. All nominees are highly distinguished and talented, and the nomination panel was especially impressed by their growth and depth of achievements. Yachtsman and Yachtswoman finalists earned their spot on this exclusive list by dominating their respective classes and showing true variety in their sailing accomplishments. All represent their own unique pathway in the sport, have demonstrated on-the-water excellence at international and national events, and have brought global recognition to sailing while representing the United States. To view a recording of the ceremony, go to https://vimeo.com/event/4060970 .

All your favorite teams and sources in one place

Your Teams. All Sources.

© 2024 BVM Sports. Best Version Media, LLC.

US Sailing Reveals Shortlist for Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Award

The release by US Sailing of the annual shortlist for the Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year award has resulted in a shorter list than in previous years, with just three men and three women being included. This has prompted questions about who didn’t make the cut, emphasizing the influence of the nominating committee, whose basis for decisions is not known. The finalists are presented to voting groups of past award winners and sailing media journalists for final selection.

The reduction of the shortlist for the prestigious award raises questions about the selection process and the influence of the nominating committee, highlighting the subjective nature of the assessment of achievement for the award.

• Shortlist consists of three men and three women
• Finalists are presented to voting groups of past award winners and sailing media journalists for final selection
• US Sailing has released the annual shortlist for the Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year award
• Final selection of the winners involves past award winners and sailing media journalists

The reduction of the shortlist for the prestigious award has raised questions about the transparency and influence of the nominating committee, underscoring the subjectivity of the assessment of achievement for the award.

The summary of the linked article was generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence technology from OpenAI

Scuttlebutt Sailing News • Editor

Premiere individual honor in the USA

Think your team or athlete is better show us, submit your story, photo or video.

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.

OK Privacy policy

SINA HONG KONG LIMITED

Fleet battles through first night of the Rolex China Sea Race 2024

HONG KONG , March 28, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The fleet enjoyed a fast-reaching leg during the first night of the Rolex China Sea Race thanks to an easterly airstream which stayed with competitors all the way up to 0700hrs at which time the fleet came to a halt and parked up for at least an hour. 

Happy Go and Standard Insurance Centennial V have been battling hard from the start, on the hunt for Line Honours. Happy Go sailed further south of the rhumb line whilst 2023 Line Honours winner Standard Insurance Centennial V is using a different approach to last year’s, where they stayed closer to rhumb line. Behind the front two, Seawolf is having her own competition with rival Standard Insurance Centennial III .

The two IRC Premier boats, Thomas Attenborough’s Parnassus and Peter Churchouse’s Moonblue2 were also sailing fast behind the contenders in IRC Race 0, while enjoying their own private race.

The Two-Handed Division is being led by A Plastic Ocean , sailed by the father and son duo Philippe and Cosmas Grelon. In second place is Carl Wilkinson and Patrick M Harmon’s Lisa Elaine with Daybreak chasing from behind.

As a new entry to Double-handed division, it seems owner Carl Wilkinson isn’t busy enough sailing – not only has he only one other crewmember to share tasks with, they are also on a mission to provide updates to a Hong Kong local school during their journey in order to inspire them and to get them interested in the sport and to encourage them to also go for their dreams.

In the battle for IRC Racer 2, Race Chairman Nicolas Cohen-Addad’s Jinn is staying strong and over in IRC Racer 3, Zesst skippered by Henning Mueller is enjoying an early lead in front of last year’s Overall winner Whiskey Jack .

For the PHS division, both first-time entries in the Rolex China Sea Race, Bradly Wilkin’s Blowers Daughter and Sunny Leung / Alex Yu’s Jibulai are fighting hard at the back, trading positions every few hours.

Speaking for the Race ahead, Lisa Elaine said “After an exciting first 20 hours where we rode the strong easterly, and set a new record for nautical miles sailed for Lisa Elaine and managed to work our way up the fleet, we’re now trying different tactics with Jinn and Tong Ran to find a good breeze line and maintain boat speed. The next 12 hours will be key to see if we can keep on the edge of any pressure as we work our way along the rhumb line.”

When the race turns into the second night, the fight for Line Honours and Overall is expected to become even more fierce as the sailors consider their strategy and tactics as winds are predicted to weaken.

For more information about Rolex China Sea Race 2024, please visit  www.rolexchinasearace.com .

High resolution photos can be downloaded from the below link:

https://rhkycorghk-my.sharepoint.com/:f:/g/personal/koko_mueller_rhkyc_org_hk/EurYDxOpga5NsYFBlLxJ5rEBtH-NgFJ-0rzoLDEB5g5OIw?e=493oF7

Photos credit: ROLEX / Andrea Francolini

ABOUT ROYAL HONG KONG YACHT CLUB (RHKYC)

The Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club is one of the oldest and largest sports clubs in Hong Kong , with a rich, colourful history that spans 170 years of community and competitive sailing and rowing. The RHKYC provides training programmes for practitioners of all abilities and ages – both members and non-members – to nurture their development, produce elite athletes capable of competing at the highest levels, and contribute to the growth and popularity of these great pastimes. The Club also organises a full calendar of high-profile local and international race events, helping place Hong Kong firmly on the global sporting map.

ROLEX AND YACHTING

Rolex has always associated with activities driven by passion, excellence, precision and team spirit. The Swiss watchmaker naturally gravitated towards the elite world of yachting six decades ago and the brand’s enduring partnership now encompasses the most prestigious clubs, races and regattas, as well as towering figures in the sport, including ground-breaking round-the-world yachtsman Sir Francis Chichester and the most successful Olympic sailor of all time, Sir Ben Ainslie . Today, Rolex is Title Sponsor of 15 major international events – from leading offshore races such as the annual Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race and the biennial Rolex Fastnet Race, to grand prix competition at the Rolex TP52 World Championship and spectacular gatherings at the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup and the Rolex Swan Cup. It also supports the exciting SailGP global championship in which national teams race identical supercharged F50 catamarans on some of the world’s most famous harbours. Rolex’s partnerships with the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia , Royal Ocean Racing Club, Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, Yacht Club Italiano, New York Yacht Club and Royal Yacht Squadron, among others, are the foundation of its enduring relationship with this dynamic sport.

ABOUT ROLEX

AN UNRIVALLED REPUTATION FOR QUALITY AND EXPERTISE

Rolex is an integrated and independent Swiss watch manufacture. Headquartered in Geneva , the brand is recognized the world over for its expertise and the quality of its products – symbols of excellence, elegance and prestige. The movements of its Oyster Perpetual and Cellini watches are certified by COSC, then tested in-house for their precision, performance and reliability. The Superlative Chronometer certification, symbolized by the green seal, confirms that each watch has successfully undergone tests conducted by Rolex in its own laboratories according to its own criteria. These are periodically validated by an independent external organization. The word “Perpetual” is inscribed on every Rolex Oyster watch. But more than just a word on a dial, it is a philosophy that embodies the company’s vision and values. Hans Wilsdorf , the founder of the company, instilled a notion of perpetual excellence that would drive the company forward. This led Rolex to pioneer the development of the wristwatch and numerous major watchmaking innovations, such as the Oyster, the first waterproof wristwatch, launched in 1926, and the Perpetual rotor self-winding mechanism, invented in 1931. In the course of its history, Rolex has registered over 500 patents. At its four sites in Switzerland , the brand designs, develops and produces the majority of its watch components, from the casting of the gold alloys to the machining, crafting, assembly and finishing of the movement, case, dial and bracelet. Furthermore, the brand is actively involved in supporting the arts and culture, sport and exploration, as well as those who are devising solutions to preserve the planet.

CAIR香港人工智能與機器人醫療論壇開幕，聚焦AI科技與醫療的跨學科融合

香港2024年3月29日 /美通社/ — 在數據驅動的新時代，人工智能及機器人技術正以驚…

CAIR-HK AI & Robotics Forum for Healthcare: Spotlight Interdisciplinary Integration of AI and Medicine

HONG KONG, March 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — In this data-driven era, artificial intelligence and robotics technologies are rapidly reshaping people’s lifestyles, with their profound impact in the field of medicine and healthcare becoming increasingly evident. From image-assisted diagnosis to intelligent health management, artificial intelligence is emerging as a pivotal force

2024勞力士中國海帆船賽- 衝線冠軍爭奪難分難解

香港2024年3月29日 /美通社/ — 當62周年勞力士中國海帆船賽賽事進入第三日，衝…

Rolex China Sea Race Day 3- Nail-biting race to the end

HONG KONG, March 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The breathless battle for Line Honours that the 62nd Anniversary of Rolex China Sea Race continued well into the third day of racing, Standard Insurance Centennial V and Happy Go at the front of the fleet are separated by a mere six-nautical miles with