2024 Classic Yacht Challenge Series wraps up with record participation and thrilling finishes

by Classic Yacht Owners Association 7 Oct 17:42 BST

IYRS Newport Classics 2024 © Stephen R Cloutier

The 2024 Classic Yacht Challenge Series (CYCS) concluded in spectacular fashion, with participation and competition reaching new heights. Spanning 14 regattas and 28 races, a total of 231 boats competed—representing growth in every way from 2023.

The Classic Yacht Owners Association (CYOA) continues to foster the excitement and camaraderie that brings together vintage and modern classic yachts across districts.

"We're thrilled to see participation grow in every way this year," said CYOA President, Timmy Dittrich. "In the future, we would like to see even more boats travel to participate in multiple events across our series, as that's what ties us all together. Over the winter, we will look at how the CYOA can improve the series, but at the heart of it are the individual events and the sailors who make them possible."

Spirit - IYRS Classic Yacht Regatta - photo © Stephen R Cloutier

In the Vintage class, Ken Colburn's NY 40 Marilee sailed to victory as the overall winner. "It's always an honor to compete with these beautiful boats," said Colburn. "Winning the series was an incredible experience, especially with the level of competition we faced this year. Marilee's marconi rig and sprit combination served us well through the variety of conditions and race configurations we faced."

Colburn went on to thank the various Regatta Organizing Authorities and volunteers "who put together great racing and fun gatherings in some of New England's most beautiful sailing venues."

The battle for the top spot was close, with Matt Brooks' iconic Dorade and Black Watch Syndicate finishing in second and third just two points away.

Dorade - IYRS Classic Yacht Regatta - photo © Stephen R Cloutier

In the Classics class, newcomer James Emery and his Buzzards Bay 25 Lilith were impressed by winning the class. Jesse Terry's Abigail and the 12-Meter American Eagle followed closely behind in the standings.

Among modern boats, Jack Curtin's Intrepid was the top Modern Classic, Paul Koch's Ponyo took Spirit of Tradition honors, and Harvey Jones' Outlier was the top Contemporary boat.

Intrepid - IYRS Classic Yacht Regatta - photo © Stephen R Cloutier

A special recognition to Spirit in the Vintage class. Lars and Peter Forsberg, along with their crew, participated in 10 out of the 14 regattas from Maine to Long Island Sound. This father-son team truly captured the essence of classic racing aboard their 1934 John Alden schooner.

Across districts, the enthusiasm for classic yachting continues to grow, with more boats qualifying than ever before. Maine, the largest of the districts, saw 98 boats participate in its five events, with 24 boats qualifying by sailing at least three races across two events as CYOA members.

Ponyo - IYRS Classic Yacht Regatta - photo © Stephen R Cloutier

"We're incredibly proud of the growth we've seen in 2024," noted the Dittrich. "We aim to make 2025 even better, and we're excited to see what the next season holds for all of our sailors."

The detailed results can be found here and the list of qualified sailors for Overall and Districts are below.

The Classic Yacht Owners Association's Annual Meeting and Awards will take place on November 15th from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM at The Sailing Museum in Newport. Awards will be given to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners for both the Overall Series and Districts. The event is free for CYOA members and guests, but an RSVP is required.

As the CYCS continues to grow, the passion for classic yacht racing remains at the core of the series, promising even more exciting developments in the seasons to come.