The One Design Awards represent a recognition of excellence, innovation, and leadership in the vibrant world of one design sailing, celebrating the individuals, clubs, and events that elevate the sport. As the 2024 nomination deadline of December 1 approaches, sailors and enthusiasts alike are encouraged to reflect on those who have made exceptional contributions to this discipline, from organizing flawless regattas to creating new ways to engage with the sport. Here is a closer look at the categories that highlight various aspects of one design sailing.
“Throughout our sailing experiences we encounter those occasional “wow” factors that impacted our practices, expectations, and leadership style,” said Jim Crabtree, US Sailing One Design Committee.” We all have shared experiences when one person, one regatta committee, or one sailing club exemplified excellence. They raised the bar and inspired us through excellence and creativity.”
John H. Gardiner Jr. Trophy for Service and Leadership
The John H. Gardiner Jr. Trophy is a beacon of recognition for individuals who have demonstrated distinguished service and leadership in promoting one design sailing and class organization. This award is not merely for a sailor, but for a true visionary who has transformed the landscape of one design sailing through tireless dedication. Whether fostering a new generation of sailors or building cohesive communities around the shared passion for the sport, this individual’s influence resonates far beyond the racecourse. Gardiner’s namesake reminds us of the profound impact that stewardship, advocacy, and initiative can have on the future of sailing. Previous winners include Gerry Christman (Bloomington, IL), Rob Bowden, ILCA (Charleston, SC), and Ali Meller, 505 class (Annapolis, MD).
To nominate, please visit: https://ussailing.jotform.com/92964135503155
One Design Club Award
Yacht clubs are the lifeblood of one design sailing, offering sailors a sense of belonging, camaraderie, and challenge. The One Design Club Award recognizes a club that has excelled across every facet of its organization. This is not about a single fleet or a few notable events—it’s about a comprehensive commitment to the sport. Clubs that achieve this honor demonstrate excellence in administration, fleet growth, and creative programming. They are places where regattas flourish and where member contributions fuel the growth of one design sailing on local, national, and even international levels. The winning club is a model of how an organization can inspire success on and off the water. Previous winners include Pentwater Yacht Club (Pentwater, MI), Mission Bay Yacht Club (San Diego, CA), and Orcas Island Yacht Club, East Sound, WA.
To nominate, please visit: https://ussailing.jotform.com/92964591821164
One Design Regatta Award
The spirit of competition is central to sailing, and the One Design Regatta Award honors excellence in the development, promotion, and management of a standout regatta. Whether international, continental, national, or regional, the winning event will have exemplified top-tier organization, flawless execution, and an electric atmosphere that leaves participants eager for more. The award is a testament to the vision and hard work of the organizers and sponsors who elevate the experience from a mere competition to a sailing spectacle, drawing fleets from far and wide to take part in something truly special. Previous winners include E Scow National Championship, hosted by Mendota Yacht Club, Madison, WI, and J/22 Women’s Winter Invitational, Hosted by San Diego Yacht Club, San Diego, CA.
To nominate, please visit: https://ussailing.jotform.com/92965529217165
One Design Creativity Award
Innovation is the key to keeping one design sailing fresh and exciting, and the One Design Creativity Award shines a spotlight on those whose ingenuity has resulted in the year’s most inventive event. This award is given to an individual who has transformed the traditional sailing event through creative ideas that enhance participation, engagement, or the overall event experience. Whether it’s a unique race format, a new way of integrating technology, or an innovative approach to regatta marketing, the recipient of this award has pushed the boundaries of what a one design event can be. It celebrates bold ideas that inspire others and help shape the future of sailing. Previous winners include Denise MacGillivray (International Women’s Keelboat Championship), Chuck LeMahieu (US Sailing Championship of Champions), and Peter Johnstone (One-Design 14 North Americans).
To nominate, please visit: https://ussailing.jotform.com/92965664878178
Nominations and Deadlines
Nominations for the 2024 One Design Awards will close on December 1, 2024. Sailors, class associations, and clubs are encouraged to submit their nominees for consideration. Whether you are nominating a club that has redefined excellence, a leader whose service has transformed your class, or an event that raised the bar for regattas, the One Design Awards provide a stage to recognize the best in the business.
“We need to recognize and uplift those efforts. When we do, a successful model is shared, and good leadership is recognized,” said Crabtree. “Most importantly, we inspire others in sharing a story that worked and can be duplicated. Excellence and creativity are an attitude, let’s show our gratitude and uplift those that have raised the bar in One Design sailing through the One Design Awards. “
For questions, please contact One Design for more information.
Award winners will be announced in February at US Sailing’s Sailing Leadership Forum in Coronado, California. Registration is now open to attend. Please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sailing-leadership-forum-2025-registration-944382131377?aff=oddtdtcreator