Sandra Svoboda, chair of the U.S. Adult Sailing Championship Committee, has been at the helm for six months, bringing a fresh perspective and energetic leadership to the event. With a dedicated team of volunteers from across the country, her committee oversees recruiting and selecting host clubs for the championship, as well as choosing competitors nominated by Regional Sailing Associations (RSAs).
Leading with Experience and Passion
Sandra’s passion for sailing is deeply rooted in her own experiences competing in US Sailing championships. “Back in the day, when I was younger and in better shape, I did several US Sailing championships around the country,” Sandra says. The thrill of representing her home club, traveling, and sailing against different competitors in various classes sparked her commitment to the sport. Sandra continues to race her Cal 25 locally and continues to pursue racing in more national level women’s events all over the country. Now, she’s using her sailing experiences to inspire others and elevate the U.S. Adult Sailing Championship.
Expanding Horizons for Sailors
Sandra’s goal is to expose sailors to new venues and challenges, bringing national competitions to diverse locations. “We’re working hard to find host clubs in new places for sailors to travel to these events, and so far, so good!” she shares. With the 2024 championship set in Detroit, MI and Park City, UT on the calendar for 2025, the committee is building excitement and momentum. Sandra is optimistic about securing venues for 2026 and 2027 in the coming months, as US Sailing endeavors to broaden the geographic horizons for competition venues for sailors.
Creating Meaningful Connections
The U.S. Adult Sailing Championship is about more than just competition. It’s about creating lasting memories, new friendships, and a deep appreciation for the sport. “I hope the competitors gain great sailing experiences, new friends, and a chance to sail in different conditions and against top-level talent,” she says. Sandra is especially passionate about the connections made through sailing, whether between competitors or local clubs hosting the event. This championship is a fleet racing event for the Mallory Trophy, showcasing top sailors in the fleet racing discipline representing their respective clubs from regions across the United States. Originally, the Mallory Trophy was awarded to the top male team in the country but evolved to recognize any team comprised of adult male and/or female sailors, single gender, or combined.
A Message to Host Clubs
Sandra encourages clubs to consider hosting a national event like the U.S. Adult Sailing Championship, seeing it as a valuable opportunity to showcase their club and waters while working with national-level race officials. “It’s a great chance to bring a national event to your home club,” she says, adding that while budgeting can be a challenge, sponsorship opportunities through US Sailing help create an energetic and well-supported event.
Looking Ahead
Sandra’s enthusiasm for the championship is palpable, as she works with her committee to grow the event and build excitement across the sailing community. She’s also quick to recognize the importance of learning and growing through these events: “One of my favorite things is learning just how big and diverse our sailing community is across the United States.”
As she prepares for the upcoming U.S. Adult Sailing Championship in Detroit, Sandra’s leadership and vision are sure to make a lasting impact on sailors and host clubs alike.
Stay tuned for more updates from Sandra and Detroit Yacht Club as they gear up for this year’s competition! To learn more about the 2024 U.S. Adult Sailing Championship, please visit https://www.ussailing.org/competition/championships/2024-u-s-adult-sailing-championship/