Host Spotlight: Grande Maumelle Sailing Club, 2024 Championship of Champions
Grande Maumelle Sailing Club (GMSC) is the host of the 2024 Championship of Champions. A vibrant, volunteer-run sailing club dedicated to the promotion of sailing and sailboat racing, the club is nestled just outside of Little Rock, Arkansas. Boasting a membership of approximately 212 families and a year-round racing calendar, the club emphasizes one-design racing, with dinghy races from May to November and PHRF keelboat races throughout the winter. A sense of pride runs deep at GMSC, as members have personally built nearly all the club’s facilities, reinforcing the close-knit and dedicated nature of the community.
“The thing we are most proud of is our volunteer attitude,” said Event Chair, Drew Daugherty. “We have no employees, no restaurant or bar and do everything ourselves. That attitude is what makes a club stronger.”
Past Experience Hosting US Sailing Championships
GMSC is no stranger to hosting major events, having previously hosted the Championship of Champions in 1998 and 2006. The inspiration to host came from a club member who became passionate about the Championship of Champions in the 1990s, leading to GMSC being awarded the event. This involvement continued, with several club members participating in the Championship of Champions over the years. That same member went on to manage the event for US Sailing for many years, showcasing GMSC’s strong connection and contribution to the event.
Hosting the Championship of Champions
GMSC is thrilled to once again host the Championship of Champions. The club aims to provide competitors with an opportunity to experience their beautiful lake and the camaraderie of their club. This event also serves as a chance to highlight the Y-Flyer, a boat with a rich history at GMSC dating back to the late 1950s.
Words of Wisdom for Future Hosts
Daugherty, emphasizes the importance of experiencing the event firsthand before hosting, as it provides invaluable insight into what’s involved. “Before you host, go to the event to see all that is involved,” said Daugherty. “Most importantly you really need the whole club to buy in to the event to make it special.” He highlights the need for full club support to create a memorable event and the crucial role of the host class of boat in ensuring success. GMSC has Y-Flyer members from across the country bringing their boats to support the event, underscoring the importance of community involvement.
The Joy of Hosting Sailors
For GMSC, hosting sailors is about building connections and forming friendships with competitors from all over the country. Hosting national champions adds a unique dynamic, creating lasting relationships and fostering a network of sailors that extends beyond the event itself.
Club Highlights and Growth
GMSC prides itself on its strong volunteer spirit. With no employees, restaurant, or bar, members are deeply involved in every aspect of the club, which fosters a sense of ownership and community. This dedication has helped GMSC grow and strengthen as a true “sailing” club. Additionally, the club’s proximity to a beautiful lake, just a few miles from town, provides an idyllic setting for sailing enthusiasts.
A Message from GMSC
Grande Maumelle Sailing Club looks forward to showcasing its strength in sailing and its welcoming community to competitors from across the nation. The club is eager to share its passion for sailing, its beautiful lake, and the camaraderie that defines GMSC. To follow racing October 4-6, please visit https://www.ussailing.org/competition/championships/2024-championship-of-champions/