After much consideration, US Sailing and the Match Racing Committee are excited to announce the recipients for the 2025 David Storrs Grant program. This year’s grants were given to three skippers, one female and two male: Lindsey Baab, Will Donovan, and George Higham.
The David Storrs Grant, named after USMRC winner and great supporter of US Match Racing, David Storrs, is designed to help match race teams ages 19-29 to pay for expenses such as entry fees, travel expenses, and lodging for one full calendar year. Each team is awarded over $2,500. Grantees are also given access to a match racing mentor to help guide them in their competition campaigns. Baab will be mentored by Nicole Breault, Donovan will be mentored by Dave Perry, and Higham will be mentored by Pearson Potts.
These skippers will also be working towards qualifying for this year’s National Match Racing Championships. If you are also interested in competing alongside them, sign up using the links below:
2025 U.S. Match Racing Championship
- Hosted by Chicago Yacht Club
- Dates: October 9, 2025 – October 12, 2025
- Direct link to the 2025 U.S. Match Racing Qualifiers here
2025 U.S. Women’s Match Racing Championship
- Hosted by St. Francis Yacht Club
- Dates: August 14, 2025 – August 17, 2025
- Direct link to apply for invitation here
Hear from each of the grantees:
Lindsey Baab
“Since jumping into match racing as a team last year, we’ve loved the intense 1:1 format, the strategy, and how little room there is for error. This grant really makes it possible for us to take our match racing to the next level. We’re able to compete in more regattas and gain the critical experience we need to keep progressing.”
Will Donovan
“This support means a great deal to me, and I’m excited to use it as an opportunity to take the next step in my match racing journey. With the help of the grant, and Dave Perry’s mentoring, my team and I are planning a full season of racing this summer as we make a serious push toward qualifying for the USMRC. I’m grateful for the chance to compete at a higher level and to continue growing in a discipline I’m passionate about, all while carrying forward the legacy of David Storrs. “
George Higham
“After competing in college sailing at Roger Williams University I began match racing by competing in the inaugural Koi Pond Classic. From the first dial-up, I was hooked. This grant will allow my team and I to deepen our match racing skills and compete at a higher level on the match racing circuit this year and beyond.”
US Sailing thanks all the supporters of this grant and all those hard-working volunteers who keep it going. If you’d like to support the future of this initiative, please donate directly to the fund here.