Nestled on the edge of San Francisco Bay with sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the St. Francis Yacht Club (StFYC) stands as a beacon of American sailing excellence. Founded in 1927, the club has cultivated a rich legacy of competitive spirit, innovation, and community engagement. The club hosts 130 days of sailing competitions, from fleet racing, match racing, team racing, to junior learn-to-sail programs, while also celebrating the cruising and racing accomplishments of its members. However, StFYC’s commitment to sailing extends beyond competition as they are also dedicated to nurturing the next generation of sailors.
Through initiatives like the California Dreamin’ Series and comprehensive training programs, the club provides invaluable opportunities for emerging talent. The club’s vibrant community spirit is evident in its hosting of teams from across the nation and abroad, fostering camaraderie and cultural exchange. As StFYC approaches its centennial, its dedication to excellence, innovation, and community ensures its continued prominence in the sailing world.
In 2025, StFYC reaffirms its status as a premier sailing venue by hosting three US Sailing National Championships and qualifying events for two of our National Championships, showcasing its commitment to the sport’s growth and diversity.
Hear from our Regatta Chairs and read more information about the events below:
June 20 – 22, 2025
The second annual U.S. WingFoil Championship returns to San Francisco Bay, welcoming racers of all levels, from Under 19 to Grandmasters (50+). Competitors will battle it out in both short-course and long-distance formats, including the iconic San Francisco Bay Challenge. Regatta Chair, Geoff Headington, highlights his favorite part about hosting sailors at StFYC:
“It is always a magical moment for out of towners to race on the bay underneath the Golden Gate Bridge and just upwind of iconic Alcatraz for the first time. But really, the best part is connecting our community together and making new and lifelong friends along the way.”
He credits the foiling “revolution” at StFYC to the 2013 America’s Cup when the innovative catamarans lifted off the water for the first time right in front of the club. Because of this, Headington has high hopes for the competitors and support crews alike: “The competitors will test their racing skills against some of the best in the U.S. and the world. They, and their families and friends will have an opportunity to immerse themselves in WingFoiling with many versions of racing, rules seminars, gear testing, and interesting speakers and panel discussions. And let’s not forget get the parties, BBQs and piles of swag.” In addition to high-speed racing, the F4 Foils Summer Wingding will feature freestyle exhibitions, gear demos, rule updates, and social events like beach barbecues and panel discussions. Registration is now open, with late fees beginning after May 27, so make sure to secure your spot by registering early here.
U.S Match Racing Championship Qualifier
August 2 – 3, 2025
The final qualifier for the U.S. Match Racing Championship brings top teams to the Bay to compete in J/22s for a shot at the Prince of Wales Bowl during the 2025 U.S. Match Racing Championship. Known for its technical race conditions, this event will challenge teams with strong currents and legendary breeze. For more information on the qualifiers, click here.
Chubb U.S. Youth Triple handed Championship and the local Area Qualifier for the Sears Cup
August 7 – 10, 2025
As US Sailing’s oldest national youth championship, this event sees elite youth sailors race J/22s with four-person crews. It’s a crucial step in the youth pipeline to keelboat excellence. Teams qualify to compete at the National level through Area Qualifier regattas held earlier in the year. StFYC will also be the host for their Area’s Qualifier for the Sears Cup.
U.S. Women’s Match Racing Championship
August 14 – 17, 2025
Ten all-female teams will compete in J/22s for the Allegra Knapp Mertz and Mrs. Charles Francis Adams Memorial Trophies. The format includes Round Robins, Semis, and Finals, in one of the most dynamic match racing venues in the country. On hosting the U.S. Women’s Match Racing Championship, StFYC Regatta Chair, Bruce Stone, offers some insight into this year’s event conditions.
“Racing on SF Bay is somewhat unique due to the changing currents and consistently high winds. We often say that this venue tests boat handling as well as match racing skills.” Stone looks forward to the competition, highlighting the level of skill and technique shown by the sailors at this level of event. He also shares his aspirations for the competitors’ experience: “Aside from competing for the title of U.S. Women’s Match Racing Champion, we hope competitors will come away with improved capabilities in close quarters racing that will carry them forward into both their fleet racing and match racing.”
As we close in on a fully subscribed USWMRC event, make sure to request an invitation and check out the current registration list and results later on here.
For more information on this year’s US Sailing National Championship and our beloved hosts, visit our Championships page here.