Event Recap: 2024 U.S. Singlehanded Championships
Richmond Yacht Club played host to the 2024 U.S. Singlehanded Championships, where skilled sailors faced off in the heart of San Francisco Bay at Richmond Yacht Club, also serving as the Aero North American Championship. With a challenging variation of light and heavy air conditions and strong current, the competition saw exceptional performances in the RS Aero Classes.
In the RS Aero 7 division, Dan Falk from Sail Washington navigated the tricky breeze and strong opposition, clinching victory after a series of tight races. He edged out one of his training partners, Jay Renehan, by just one point and his other, Keith Hammer, by eight. Falk demonstrated masterful control, keeping calm under pressure to secure the championship and earn the coveted O’Day Trophy.
“I couldn’t be more pleased to have just won the O’Day Trophy,” said Falk. “It has been a great event down here in Richmond. At this event, it turned out that upwind boat speed and breeze was the difference maker. Richmond Yacht Club is an amazing venue and the hosts are amazing. To US Sailing, thank you so much for putting on this event. It has been a true honor and a great privilege.”
In the RS Aero 5 division, Robyn Ratcliffe of Australia delivered an equally impressive performance, edging out the competition with consistent finishes across the regatta. Her ability to hold off second place finisher, Melissa Hale, by only three points proved crucial in this closely fought contest. Hale was the top American finisher in the fleet, finishing 10 points ahead of Courtney Clamp, earning her the prized Hanley Trophy.
“It feels amazing! I am really really really excited,” said Hale. “Fortunately for me, the conditions were mostly really heavy and really challenging, which is what I like. The race committee did an amazing job. I thought a solid start was important. There was a lot of current and tactics were also important because of the current.”
With dramatic lead changes and no shortage of tactical maneuvers, the 2024 U.S. Singlehanded Championships lived up to its billing as one of the premier events in singlehanded sailing in the nation. Both champions showcased the skill and endurance required to excel in singlehanded sailing, setting a high standard for future competitors.
“This was a perfect outcome,” said Regatta Chair, Craig Perez. “We offered stuff that US Sailing wanted in a host and US Sailing offered stuff that we could never have done on our own. People loved [the regatta], they felt welcomed, and had a great time. Thats the whole point. The racing was fast, furious, and competitive. It came down to the last race. You can’t ask for anything better than that.”
Off the water, competitors enjoyed complimentary Black Seal Rum and Ginger Beer from Goslings, including the new Peach flavor, to make the famous Dark ‘n Stormy. Sexant Wines provided everyone with complimentary wine tasting menus, in addition to a co-branded championship bottle and celebratory sparkling wine for the winners. All competitors were gifted marine tools from Gill, custom event-branded hats from Goslings, and spliced halyards from New England Ropes.
For full results, photos, and more information on the event, please visit https://www.ussailing.org/competition/championships/2024-u-s-singlehanded-championships/