Event Recap: 2024 U.S. Match Racing Championship
The 2024 U.S. Match Racing Championship lived up to the promise of delivering intense, high-stakes action on the water. Hosted by the prestigious St. Francis Yacht Club, this year’s event featured some of the best sailors in the nation competing for the coveted Prince of Wales Bowl. With the iconic backdrop of San Francisco Bay and its notoriously challenging conditions, the regatta provided a dramatic stage for match racing’s unique one-on-one format.
Challenging Conditions on San Francisco Bay
San Francisco Bay provided sailors with unexpected lighter breeze, offering up variable winds and strong currents that kept sailors on their toes throughout the event. From the first day, competitors had to adjust quickly to the dynamic conditions. The round-robin format allowed all teams to face off against each other, testing their ability to adapt and execute tactical maneuvers under pressure in the evenly matched fleet of J22s. As the fleet battled it out, the top teams emerged, setting the stage for the semifinal and final rounds to come on the final day.
Aggressive Tactics and Tactical Duels
The semifinals were marked by tight matchups, with local sailor, Nicole Breault, and Pearson Potts advancing to the finals after grueling, closely contested races. Spectators were treated to pre-start duels and aggressive maneuvers as teams sought to outwit and outmaneuver each other. Match racing’s focus on direct competition between two boats ensured that every race was packed with strategic depth and excitement.
The other teams in the Semi-Finals, Morgan Pinckney and Chris Poole went on to compete for third place honors in the Petit-Finals, with Pinckney being the first team to secure two wins, taking the final place on the podium.
In the end, the final series came down to Breault and Potts, who went head-to-head in a best-of-three showdown. Potts, displayed unmatched precision and composure, clinching the 2024 U.S. Match Racing Championship in a thrilling final race.
“What an incredible event,” said Potts. “I thank all the competitors. Thank you, St. Francis and US Sailing, for putting on a great event, it was a real treat.”
Final Results:
1st Place: Pearson Potts, Chase Quinn, Tim Siemers, Robert Savoie
2nd Place: Nicole Breault, Molly Carapiet, Sam Reynolds, Will Paulsen
3rd Place: Morgan Pinckney, Shawn Bennett, Teddy McDonough, Ben Louttit
4th Place: Chris Poole, Kelsey Tostenson, Andres Guerra-Font, Carson Crain
The 2024 U.S. Match Racing Championship was a testament to the skill, determination, and tactical prowess of the sailors involved. As they navigated the complex waters of San Francisco Bay, these athletes showcased the best of American match racing, leaving spectators and competitors alike in awe of the thrilling competition.
“This is the fourth of these championships that I have hosted,” said regatta chair, Bruce Stone at St. Francis Yacht Club. “Everybody feels the precision of match racing is much more exciting than fleet racing, actually. When we post our calendar in the fall, these events are all sold out for race committee because everybody wants to be here. This event was oversubscribed from competitors all around the country, as well. The prestige of having a US Sailing event is important to us. A very high-quality event with great sponsorship and good competition!” 
Outfitted with marine tools and waterproof beanies from Gill Marine, sailors are well-prepared for any weather. Goslings added a personal touch with custom event hats, while also offering their signature Black Seal Rum, Ginger Beer, and Peach Ginger Beer, perfect for mixing the classic Dark ‘n Stormy while competitors socialized after racing. To celebrate victories, Sextant Wines has crafted a co-branded championship bottle and treated participants to sparkling wine for the winners and wine tasting menus for all competitors.
For those who couldn’t attend in person, the excitement was streamed live thanks to GoPro, capturing every thrilling moment from on-board and aerial perspectives. For full results, photos, replays, and event highlights, visit https://www.ussailing.org/competition/championships/2024-u-s-match-racing-championship/
The 2024 U.S. Match Racing Championship will be remembered for its tight battles, tactical showdowns, and remarkable sailors, setting a high bar for future editions of this premier event.