Host Spotlight: St. Francis Yacht Club, 2024 U.S. Match Racing Championship
The historic St. Francis Yacht Club (StFYC) is set to host the 2024 U.S. Match Racing Championship, continuing its legacy of supporting premier sailing competitions. Positioned on the edge of San Francisco Bay, the club has become synonymous with high-level match racing, offering sailors some of the most challenging and rewarding conditions in the country. As the regatta chair, Bruce Stone shared, “St. Francis Yacht Club is one of the most active clubs in the world and hosts national and world championships every year in a wide range of fleets from kite foiling to large keelboats.”
This year’s championship promises to be a highlight of the season, with top competitors from around the nation coming together to battle in the famously dynamic winds and currents of San Francisco Bay.
“We have an iconic venue that can deliver fun, challenging conditions, including fresh afternoon westerlies and dynamic current,” says local standout and nationally recognized match racer, Nicole Breault.
The Bay’s unpredictable conditions will push teams to their limits, ensuring a thrilling event for sailors and spectators alike. St. Francis Yacht Club has long been a cornerstone of American match racing, having previously hosted the U.S. Match Racing Championship.
“Our sailors travel to championship regattas around the country and around the world, and we enjoy reciprocating,” said Stone.
The club’s commitment to the sport is reflected in its regular hosting of feeder events like the California Dreamin’ Series and its robust match racing program that trains sailors of all levels.
“We have a strong member training program with regular weeknight practices and a fleet of J/22s, which has been instrumental in attracting younger sailors to join the club,” Breault added.
The club’s role in developing match racing extends beyond just hosting events, including the value of exposure for local sailors.
“Our junior and collegiate sailors get exposure to the world’s top teams and are often invited to participate as skippers and crew, building skills that carry forward into fleet and team racing,” says Stone.
By giving young sailors opportunities to engage with elite-level competition, StFYC continues to foster the next generation of champions.
As the 2024 U.S. Match Racing Championship approaches, Stone and Breault both anticipate an exciting, well-fought regatta. Breault hopes to give the competition a run for their money on her home turf.
“I love racing on the city front in our squirrelly little boats,” she said. “Many thanks to my husband, Bruce and the St. Francis YC, the umpires, and RC volunteers who work hard to make the game great on SF Bay.”
Stone also emphasized the unique camaraderie that hosting brings.
“We enjoy getting to know the teams from around the country and overseas. Our host families have come down to the club to cheer on their house guests.”
This close-knit community spirit, combined with top-tier match racing, makes St. Francis Yacht Club the ideal host for this prestigious championship.
The event will be livestreamed on the final day, Sunday October 6, live from St. Francis Yacht Club with detailed commentary. To follow the action, please visit https://www.ussailing.org/competition/championships/2024-u-s-match-racing-championship/?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIx8ezyt7qiAMVDUH_AR0QIwsAEAAYASAAEgIhI_D_BwE