2026 Star Fixture List

2027 Star Fixture List

2028 Star Fixture List

Spectacular Gull Lake conditions deliver high-speed racing with winds up to 25 knots as the leaderboard tightens heading into the final day

Gull Lake, Michigan (May 22, 2026) – The second day of racing at the 2026 Star Western Hemisphere Championship delivered classic Star Class conditions on Gull Lake, with the fleet enjoying what many competitors described as “amazing conditions.”
Winds built throughout the day into a solid 12–15 knots, with puffs reaching up to 25 knots, creating fast and physically demanding racing on relatively flat water with occasional chop.

Three more races were completed, bringing the championship to six races overall and setting up an intense final day battle at the top of the leaderboard.

Maintaining their overall lead are Jack Jennings and Pedro Trouche, who backed up their strong opening day with finishes of 2 and 3 in today’s races. Their consistency throughout the series leaves them in first place overall with 7 points.

Just behind them are George Szabo and Guy Avellon, who moved even closer to the lead after winning one of today’s races and adding a fifth place to their scoreline. The experienced duo now sits second overall with 10 points, keeping the pressure firmly on the leaders heading into the final day.

The battle for third overall tightened considerably with only a few points separating multiple teams. Arthur Anosov and Dave Caesar remain third overall on 18 points, tied with Tom Londrigan and Mike Farmer, who climbed the rankings after posting an impressive 3-1 scoreline today.

The stronger breeze reshuffled portions of the fleet and rewarded teams able to balance aggressive tactics with clean boat handling in the gusty conditions.

Top 6 After Day Two

1. Jack Jennings / Pedro Trouche – 7 pts
2. George Szabo / Guy Avellon – 10 pts
3. Arthur Anosov / Dave Caesar – 18 pts
4. Tom Londrigan / Mike Farmer – 18 pts
5. Matt Rajacich / Eric Wagner – 20 pts
6. Jon VanderMolen / Jack VanderMolen – 26 pts

With one day remaining, the championship remains wide open as the fleet prepares for the concluding races on Gull Lake.

Gull Lake, Michigan (May 21, 2026) – Three races were completed today in light and technical conditions on the opening day of the 2026 Star Western Hemisphere Championship at Gull Lake, Michigan.

A fleet of 26 teams has gathered for the championship, with competitors primarily from the United States joined by two Canadian crews. Despite the relatively light breeze, the day delivered highly competitive racing and tight battles throughout the fleet.

At the top of the leaderboard after Day One are Jack Jennings and Pedro Trouche, who put together an impressive series of 3-1-1 finishes to end the day with just 5 points. Their consistency and speed across all three races gave them an early advantage in the championship standings.

Just behind them are former Star World Champions George Szabo and Guy Avellon, who recovered from a tenth-place finish in the opening race with two strong second-place finishes to sit in second overall on 14 points.

Third overall are Arthur Anosov and Dave Caesar, whose steady 8-4-8 scoreline leaves them on 20 points, narrowly ahead of a tightly packed chasing group.

The opening day once again demonstrated how quickly positions can change in the Star Class, particularly in unstable light-air conditions where consistency becomes critical.

Top 7 After Day One

1. Jack Jennings / Pedro Trouche – 5 pts (3-1-1)
2. George Szabo / Guy Avellon – 14 pts (10-2-2)
3. Arthur Anosov / Dave Caesar – 20 pts (8-4-8)
4. Nick Madigan / Mark Strube – 21 pts (1-14-6)
5. Matt Rajacich / Eric Wagner – 22 pts (2-13-7)

Racing continues tomorrow on Gull Lake with the fleet scheduled to complete three more races in the battle for the 2026 Star Western Hemisphere title.

Richard K. Hennig "Rick" of Racine, Wisconsin has passed away after a battle with cancel.  Rick was a wll-regarded Star crew, satiling with Tony Herrmann and later Ed Adams.  His size (six feet six inches with a size 16 shoe) made him perfect Star crew material. In addition to summer sailing, he also enjoyed iceboating in the winter. His constant companion was his best friend Todd Knop.

Star sailors lost a good friend when Foss Miller passed away recently. Foss was a leader in his Puget Sound fleet and District 6 for 40 years, working his way up through the fleet, to success skippering his own boats and finally having the pleasure of racing with his son, Forrest, including at the 2023 North Americans, as well as making an appearance as a crew, this time for Jim Revkin at the 2022 Worlds. Foss was always willing to help others get involved in Star sailing, either through learning about Stars by crewing for him or by generously lending his boat to prospective members.

Foss was also dedicated to his family and a leader in his community of Vashon Island, Washington, serving on the school board and supporting youth sports as well as owning and operating Sawbones, the largest employer on the Island, until turning it over to his employees. He even turned his bone making technology to the sailing side, using it to build tiller extensions!  Foss will be missed greatly by all who knew him.

Dates confirmed for the 2026-2027 Winter Series in Miami:

EVENT
Dec 5-6, 2026: Star Commodore's Cup
Jan 15-16, 2027: Levin Memorial
Jan 17, 2027: Schoonmaker Cup
Jan 30-31, 2027: Zagarino Masters
Feb 4-5, 2027: Star Walker Cup
Feb 6-7, 2027: Star Midwinters

Bacardi Cup: March 8-13, 2027

Saturday, April 11

View/Listen to recording here

1700 CET
1100 EST
0800 PST

This is scheduled to be a 90-minute meeting

Join Star Class President Paul Cayard as he gives the membership updates on the Class and an open discussion.

Please submit topics you would like to see on the agenda to the Star Class office (office@starclass.org) before April 6.

Zoom Meeting Link
PW: Star1911

Read the latest e-starlights with plenty of information for Star sailors

The Star Class Mourns the Passing of Peter Dirk Siemsen 

The International Star Class Yacht Racing Association (ISCYRA) mourns the passing of Peter Dirk Siemsen, a towering figure in the history of the Star Class and Brazilian sailing.

Affectionately known as “Peterzão”, Siemsen dedicated his life to the Star Class, leaving an enduring mark both on and off the water. A former President of ISCYRA, widely regarded as one of the most influential in the Class’s history, he also served as Vice President of the International Yacht Racing Union (IYRU), contributing significantly to the global development of the sport.

An accomplished sailor, Siemsen was a South American Star Champion and a passionate competitor across multiple disciplines, including ocean racing, where he collected numerous titles. His commitment to the Star Class extended far beyond his own achievements: he played a pivotal role in growing the fleet in Brazil by importing boats, organizing major championships, and mentoring generations of sailors.

Many of Brazil’s most prominent sailors took their first steps in the Star Class sailing on his bow, including Torben Grael, a testament to his generosity and dedication to developing talent. His legacy also lives on through his family, with his son Peter Eduardo Siemsen following in his footsteps as a Star sailor and Silver Star.

Beyond the racecourse, Siemsen served as a jury member in the America’s Cup, was a respected trademark and patent lawyer, and remained deeply involved in yacht club life, notably at Iate Clube do Rio de Janeiro, where he acted as an advisor for many years. He also authored a book chronicling the history of sailing in Brazil, preserving the heritage of the sport he loved.

Peter Dirk Siemsen was, in every sense, “Mr. Star”, a passionate advocate, a leader, a mentor, and a custodian of the Class traditions.

At this moment, the Star Class fleet lowers its sails in tribute. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations, ensuring that the values and spirit he embodied remain at the heart of the Class.

The Star Class extends its deepest condolences to the Siemsen family, to his many friends, and to the entire Brazilian sailing community.

Jochen Diercks 1948-2026

It is with deep sadness that we bid farewell to long-time Starboat sailor, Jochen Diercks, who passed away last Friday at the age of 78. He died peacefully at home, surrounded by the familiarity and calm that he always appreciated.

For decades, Jochen—together with his sailing partner Herbert Braasch of 60 (!) years —was a defining presence in the Starboat scene. With their beloved Starboat “Mops,” they were a familiar and welcome sight at regattas all over Europe. Since their youth, the two shared an extraordinary friendship and sailing partnership that carried them through countless races, journeys, and memorable moments on and off the water.

Jochen approached life and sailing with a quiet confidence, a warm smile, and a genuine kindness that made everyone around him feel welcome. His friendly, upright nature and his unmistakable zest for life left a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of meeting him. Within the Starboat community, he was not only respected as a sailor but truly appreciated as a person.

With Jochen’s passing, we have lost not only a true gentleman of the sport but also a cherished friend whose presence enriched our class for many years. He will be remembered with gratitude, respect, and great affection.

Our heartfelt condolences go to Nicole and his family. Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time.

Fair winds and following seas, Jochen.

photo: 2022 German Nationals in Schwerin

The International Star Class is ready for the 2026 racing season with a calendar that blends tradition, elite competition, and global reach, anchored by some of the most historic and prestigious events in sailing.

From Miami, the fleet will move north for the Western Hemisphere Championship, scheduled for May 20–24, 2026, on Gull Lake, Michigan, a venue well known for delivering tactical racing and classic inland conditions with the successful yearly Vintage Gold Cup on wooden Star boats.
EVENT PAGE
 

The focus will then shift to Europe for the Eastern Hemisphere Championship, hosted by Spartacus Sailing Club on Lake Balaton, Hungary, from May 30 to June 6, 2026. Lake Balaton, Central Europe’s largest lake, continues to grow as a premier international sailing venue, offering a unique and demanding racing environment.
EVENT PAGE
 

The 2026 Star European Championship will take place in The Netherlands, at the Regatta Center Medemblik, from 24 to 29 August, one of Europe’s premier sailing venues, with a long-standing reputation for delivering world-class regattas at the highest level. Its track record includes major Olympic-class championships and numerous World Sailing–sanctioned competitions, underlining its consistency and excellence in elite event hosting.
EVENT PAGE


 

The season will conclude back in the United States, with Florida once again at the center of the Star Class spotlight. The North American Championship will be held at Davis Island Yacht Club, October 24–29, 2026, serving as the final major tune-up before the pinnacle event of the year.
ENTRY LIST


 

The Star World Championship, the epic Gold Star event of the season, will return to Miami from November 5–14, 2026. Reigning World Champions Paul Cayard (USA) and Frithjof Kleen (GER) will be back to defend their 2025 title, as the world’s best Star sailors converge for six days of elite racing on a spectacular racecourse. The championship follows the traditional Star format, testing crews through long legs of up to two miles, with races averaging around two hours, demanding the highest levels of strategy, endurance, and strength.
ENTRY LIST

As it often happens, the final event of the year is the South American Championship. This year it will take place in Argentina, at YCA Darsena Norte (Yacht Club Argentino), in Buenos Aires, from December 4 to the 8th. Tricky conditions sailing in the Rio, will be a nice challenge for all competitors. 

With iconic venues, historic regattas, and a calendar spanning two hemispheres, the 2026 International Star Class season promises world-class competition while continuing a legacy that has defined excellence in sailing for over a century. At the same time, true to the Class motto “Honoring the past, leading the future”, special arrangements for the U30 categories will be implemented throughout the season, reinforcing the Star Class commitment to supporting young sailors and guiding the next generation into one of sailing’s most demanding and prestigious classes.

It is with heavy hearts that we report the passing of Contender Sailcloth founder Guus

Bierman. Guus passed away peacefully on March 2, 2026.

Guus was a passionate sailor and yachtsman, for whom sailing always connected the dots in

life. Equally important, he was an internationally minded pioneer, always alert to any

opportunity and an excellent salesman and businessman. If you had the opportunity to meet

him, you would immediately recognize that this man had “sailcloth in his stomach,” as Guus

would say.

Guus was born on April 11, 1938, in Amsterdam, the Netherlands and was introduced to

sailing as a young boy. He began sailing his canoe-class dinghy at the age of nine or ten on

the Nieuwe Meer near Amsterdam. It did not take long before he started crewing in the

Dutch one design class Vrijheid.

After completing his education, Guus began his career as a salesman for Marbon Chemicals

selling ABS plastics to the automotive industry. At the same time, he was actively sailing the

Flying Dutchman, attending international regattas and aiming for the 1964 Olympic Games.

However, he was rejected as he was considered a professional sailor, having found an

opportunity in selling sails.Thanks to his business savvy, this energetic, smart and competitive sailor was recommended

to build the European division of Howe & Bainbridge. Earlier, Guus had placed an

advertisement stating: “Dutch man looking for any opportunity,” which ultimately helped

seal the deal.

In 1972, Guus attended the Olympic Games in Munich as a reserve for the Dutch team in the

Flying Dutchman class, as his crew tragically passed away in a car accident shortly before the

Olympics. He later advanced to the international Star Class, with the Bacardi Cup always

holding a special place in his heart. In 2024, Guus was awarded The President’s Award by the

International Star Class Association.

Exactly 40 years ago, in 1986, Guus made the decision to become independent and founded

Contender Sailcloth in the Netherlands. With his exceptional ability to manage relationships,

he persuaded suppliers and producers to begin manufacturing for Contender Sailcloth. From

that moment on, the company began writing its own chapter in sailing history. Over the past

40 years, Contender Sailcloth expanded internationally, becoming a world leader in the

manufacturing and supply of sailcloth. Among the many milestones achieved, a few stand

out:

1988: During the Olympic Games in Seoul, Contender Sailcloth Polykote styles won 17 out of

18 medals in the Finn, Flying Dutchman, Soling, 470, and Europe classes.

1995: A breakthrough in the spinnaker cloth market came when the New Zealand team used

the lightest urethane-coated Superkote to win the America’s Cup, bringing the Cup to New

Zealand. Over four successful America’s Cup campaigns, Contender dominated the event

with its Superkote range. As a result of these successes, Contender became the world’s

leading manufacturer of nylon and polyester spinnaker fabrics.

1997: Contender Sailcloth USA was established in Fall River, Massachusetts, making

Contender Sailcloth a truly global operation.

Throughout his career, sailing remained Guus’ greatest passion, and he embraced every

opportunity to compete in regattas. Among his fondest memories were competing on Lake

Garda in the Asso 99 class with his international Contender Sailcloth team, winning the

Centomiglia in 2019. In late summer 2025, Guus was awarded honorary membership at

Circolo Vela Torbole and donated his boat to the yacht club, providing aspiring sailors with

the opportunity to develop their skills.

Although truly internationally minded, Guus also deeply loved his home yacht club, the

Koninklijke Watersport Vereniging Loosdrecht (KWVL). He made multiple charitable

donations to the club and supported local regattas. One of his favorite events at KWVL was

the Easy Week, held annually in August, where he continued to compete through 2025.

Guus will be greatly missed by the entire Contender Sailcloth team, his wife Janny Bierman-

Polman, his two children, Aksel, Marleen and her husband Alexander and his three

grandchildren, Laurens, Floris and Hugo.

Dear Star Fleet Officers.

The deadline for submitting a Resolution for an ISCYRA rule change is due in the Central Office by 9 July 2026. Resolutions submitted on time will be dispersed to the Class Management Committee, the Judiciary Board and the Technical Advisory Board within 5 days of the deadline.

If you have a good idea for a rule change, please get with your fleet member and get a resolution together for presentation to your fleet. Once your fleet has agreed to go forward the fleet officer should submit the form with a statement of the Fleet meeting where your Resolutions were discussed including Fleet members in attendance.

We look forward to input from you and your Fleet on moving our Class forward!

The 2026 for 2027 Resolutions will be presented to the Fleets at the 2026 Annual Membership meeting on 6 November 2026 at the World Championship in Miami.

The Resolution form is attached here and also posted on the Star Class website.

Best regards,
Mike Hecky
Executive Director

Annual Meeting: November 6
120 days prior (due): July 9
45 days (posting): September 22

After seven years of building the C Star with great results worldwide, we are pleased to announce that Ovington Boats will take over manufacturing

TheC Star. Ovington Boats is one of the world’s most successful small boat building businesses, specialising in one-design and class-rule boats, including the

manufacture of the Olympic Class 49er, 49er FX & ILCA (formerly known as the Laser) the World Sailing Youth Asymmetric 29er Class, 505, Musto Skiff, VX One,

Flying Fifteen and International 14 to name a few!

At C Star, we are very excited that Chris Turner and his world-class team will be taking on our Star boat production.

Chris said, “Having been involved in a technical role of a Star campaign for the 2012 Olympics, it will be great to be working within the Class again.” “I am looking forward to getting out in one myself!”

Ovington’s experience and enviable reputation will ensure the C Star will continue to develop, making it even faster and more reliable. Ovington’s capacity will enable a steadier build flow and shorter delivery times.

This is great news for us at C Star, and more importantly, for the Star class.

Ovington Boats Ltd.

+44 (0)191 257 6011

Nathan.batchelor@ovingtonboats.co.uk

C Star / Sune Carlsson Båtvarv AB

+46703437499

leif@batvarvet.se

US Sailing is proud to announce the winners of the prestigious 2025 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Awards. Paul Cayard has been named the Rolex Yachtsman of the Year, while Laura Grondin has been named the Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year. These awards recognize their exceptional accomplishments in the sport of sailing over the past calendar year. 

The winners were honored at an awards ceremony during the New York Yacht Club Champions Dinner and US Sailing Awards in New York City. The selection process involved a vote by past Rolex Award winners and prominent members of the sailing media.

Paul Cayard – Rolex Yachtsman of the Year

A seasoned veteran on the racing scene, Paul Cayard has no shortage of titles to his name. His mainstay has been the Star Class, where in 2025 he won the World Championship, triumphing over a fleet of 100-plus boats. This championship win is Cayard’s second Star World title – 37 years after his first World’s win in 1988. He also placed third at the Star North American Championship. Outside of Star sailing, Cayard is an accomplished tactician, winning the Voiles des St. Tropez on Twin Soul B. This will be his second Rolex, following his win in 1998. 

Outside his accomplishments in 2025 for which he was awarded the Rolex Yachtsman of the Year, Cayard is one of the most experienced American sailors to date. He has competed in the Olympics, America’s Cup, and Whitbread Round the World Race (now The Ocean Race), winning the Louis Vuitton Cup aboard the Italian Il Moro de Venezia in 1992 and Whitbread aboard EF Language in 1998. He competed in the 2004 Olympics in the Star Class for the United States, placing fifth overall. Since then, Cayard has been involved in the management side of the sport, serving as the Director of America One Racing and President of the International Star Class. 

An Update on the Russian/Belarus Policy

Background

World Sailing has recently updated its policy regarding Russian/Belarussian sailors as follows:

Russian and Belarusian sailors, support personnel and race officials may once again take part in World Sailing–owned and World Sailing–sanctioned competitions, but only as “neutral participants.” In practical terms, this means:

1. They do not compete on behalf of Russia or Belarus
2. They compete without a national flag, anthem or national colours
3. Their results are not attributed to their country
4. In start lists, results and media, they are identified as Neutral Athlete (or similar), not by a country code such as RUS or BLR
5. Their boats may participate only if the owner has also been approved to compete as a neutral under the World Sailing Neutrality Policy

This follows the guidelines of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), which since 2023 has allowed individual athletes from Russia and Belarus to compete neutrally under strict conditions.

Updated Position of the International Star Class

Following meetings of the IGC, the International Star Class has updated its policy regarding Russian/Belarus athletes snd support personnel.

Wording in our Notice of Race templates will state:

1.      To help preserve the integrity and safety of the Star Class, entries shall be open to competitors and support persons of all nationalities but not to competitors and support persons holding only Russian or Belarussian nationality. Exceptionally, athletes or support personnel who have an AIN classification, number issued by World Sailing, may compete as neutral participants, following the guidelines of the World Sailing Policy on this issue, with the further approval of the IGC. No representation of RUS or BLR will be allowed. The organizing authority may amend this rule following any further World Sailing decisions on the situation with Russia and Belarus

END

Paul Cayard
President, International Star Class Yacht Racing Association

The Star Class and SEA Program by Schoonmaker is hosting 2 round table sessions during the 99th Bacardi Cup this March 2026. We welcome all Star class competitors to join us as we hear from some of the top sailors in the class about setup, technique, conditions on the day and much more. 

The round tables will be held

Saturday February 28th at 1700

and

Tuesday March 3rd at 1700

in the breezeway of the US Sailing Center.

Refreshments and snacks to be provided.

These sessions are open to all Star Class sailors, so come with questions and topics you’d like to learn about, meet others in the class and have a great time!

Remembering Doug Knight

Doug Knight, World Champion Star crew, passed away on February 1. Doug’s partnership racing Stars with my father, Bill Buchan spanned 20 years that included numerous top finishes at the Worlds and 3 Olympic campaigns, beginning with winning the Gold Star in 1961 at San Diego where Doug’s competitive spirit and athletic gifts were key to putting them over the top, finally culminating with a second place finish at Marstrand in the 1979 Worlds and first place at the pre-Olympic regatta at Tallinn.

Following Doug’s Star career, he continued to race and explore the waters of the Pacific Northwest with Bill on other boats. He also was able to enjoy spending more time pursuing his other outdoor passion, mountain climbing and hiking, particularly in the Olympic Mountains near his home.

Doug is survived by his wife of 70 years, Sallie, his companion at numerous Star regattas in the US and Europe, and by his loving children and grandchildren.

One of my favorite memories of Doug is from when I was 14 years old.  I had sailed a few Star races with him that summer, maybe giving him some time in the boat before he sailed the Worlds later that year with Ding Schoonmaker. We caught an early shift and jumped out to a lead over my Dad. I made some sort of lame comment to Doug, who turned to me and said, “never underestimate your Dad”. Needless to say, the wind shifted back and my Dad passed us before we got near weather mark.

Fair winds, Doug

We are glad to welcome you in Spartacus Sailing Club at Balatonföldvár, host of the Star 17th District Championship and Star Eastern Hemisphere Championship in May/June 2026. Please find some useful information to make your stay as pleasant as possible.

ENTRY INTO THE HARBOUR
You can enter the harbour through the gate after you crossed the railway and the the roundabout as the City Map shows below. The gate will be open between 8:00–20:00. Please inform us if your arrival time is out of this period at olcsihun70@gmail.com.

We kindly ask you to keep the harbour free of cars and trailers – except for arrival and departure. The harbour and the host club is a strict no-parking zone. Please use the parking area for cars outside the gate.

After unloading your boat and sailing gear please drive out with your car and we help to move the trailer to the trailer zone.

CAMPER VANS & CARAVANS
We provide a parking zone for caravans and camper vans close to the club. Please inform us if you arrive with a caravan or camper van at olcsihun70@gmail.com.

CHECK IN
You can find the Check in area in the Spartacus clubhouse.

September 30 - October 3, 2026

ISCYRA 2026 Western Hemisphere Championships:  This year’s Championships will be sailed at Gull Lake (Richland, Michigan).  The event is scheduled to run May 20-24. The Fleet’s annual Tulip Tune-Up Regatta will be conducted the weekend before the Championships, May 16-17.  The fleet has decided to waive entry fees for the Tulip Tune-Up to all sailors wishing to sail in both events.  In addition, the Fleet will be offering the opportunity to sailors to join a star class clinic to be run May 18 & 19.  The clinic will cost participants $250.00 per boat and feature discussions on inland lake sailing, sailing with the Vakaros system, and tips on set-up for speed.  It is limited to 10 sailors.  Apply for a spot in the clinic by notifying Jon VanderMolen using his email address:  jonvmolen@gmail.com  . 

The International Star Class is pleased to announce Vakaros as its Official Technology Partner under a new three-year agreement. Through this partnership, Vakaros and the Star Class will work together to make Star racing more efficient, fairer, and even more engaging for sailors, race committees, and organizers alike.

At the heart of the collaboration is Vakaros RaceSense, an advanced race management system capable of accurately judging starting lines, finish lines, mark-rounding zones, and providing instantaneous feedback to fleets of 100+ Star boats. By delivering precise, real-time information directly to competitors, RaceSense virtually eliminates general recalls, significantly reduces the need for black flags, and removes ambiguity surrounding start timing and line positioning.

The system was successfully deployed at the 2025 Star World Championship in Split, Croatia, where a fleet of 101 boats was managed efficiently and smoothly using RaceSense technology. Building on this success, the International Star Class intends to use RaceSense at its World and Continental Championships over the next three years.
Beyond race execution, Vakaros will also support the Star Class through continued technical collaboration and the development of new tools aimed at enhancing the racing experience and the delivery of events.

Star Class members can purchase an Annual RaceSense Pass at a 25% discount between January 12 and February 20. For new passholders, this offers an opportunity to prepare for the upcoming season with a Star-exclusive discount. For sailors who already hold a RaceSense pass but are looking to extend, a pass purchased in this window using the ISCYRA discount will extend their RaceSense Pass by a full year.

“We are impressed with efficiency and fairness that RaceSense offers our sailors”, commented International Star Class President, Paul Cayard. “We look forward to additional features such as a live tracker that this technology will surely bring over the next three years”.

"The Star is one of the world's iconic classes: it's so exciting to see a class so steeped in tradition embracing new technology. We know Star sailors around the world will appreciate fairer, more efficient racing at all their championships" - Doug Wake, RaceSense Director @ Vakaros

This year, the picturesque town of Medemblik, Holland, will host the prestigious Star European Championship 2026, scheduled from August 24 to 29. This exciting event will be organized by Star Class Holland at the Regatta Center Medemblik, with the revered race committee of KNZ&RV Muiden overseeing the competition.

Medemblik has long stood as a pillar of excellence in European sailing, renowned for its ability to host complex, world-class regattas with consistency and distinction. The town boasts an impressive history of key sailing events, including multiple Star Class European and World Championships, the SPA Regatta, Holland Regatta, Delta Lloyd Regatta (Olympic classes), and the Open Dutch Championships across various high-performance classes. It also regularly hosts ISAF and World Sailing sanctioned events, reflecting its commitment to high-standard competitions.

Exceptional Sailing Conditions

The IJsselmeer, one of Europe's premier inland sailing venues, will provide exceptional conditions for the Star European Championship. Sailors can expect:

• Steady Wind Conditions: Ideal for competitive racing, with a prevailing direction from the southwest to west.
• Flat to Moderate Seas: Ensuring fairness across the fleet.
• Spacious Racing Areas: Allowing optimal course setting, with minimal tide or current interference for precise race management.

With average wind speeds between 9.7 to 13.5 knots and typical gusts reaching up to 19.4 knots, sailors can anticipate a high level of stability and consistency, enhanced by the sea breeze and North Sea influence.

Social Events and Community Engagement

In Medemblik, the camaraderie among sailors will not end on the racecourse. The post-regatta moments are crucial for strengthening bonds and fostering the convivial spirit that defines the Star Class. The organizing committee is dedicated to creating lively and memorable social events that accompany the competition.

Participants can look forward to welcoming gatherings, sailors' dinners, and local cultural experiences, ensuring that the Star European Championship in 2026 will be as rewarding ashore as it is on the water.

August in Medemblik promises optimal sailing conditions and a vibrant social atmosphere, making it a must-attend event for sailing enthusiasts from around the globe.

In memory of Klaus Kappes (Jaguar), the light-wind legend

Klaus Kappes passed away on November 18, 2025, after a full life. The Star class was his life. He started sailing the Star at the age of 16 (1952) and actively participated in regattas until his 80th birthday (2016). He was very grateful to the Star class for the events he experienced and the contact with the legends of the Star class. He was thankful for his friends in the Star class.

Two-time Swiss Champion (1963, 2002), three-time French Champion (1979, 1980, 1982)

Photo: Two legends from 1979: Klaus Kappes (right) an dUli Seeberger (left) as French Champions

Read the latest e-starlights here

Congratulations to all new officers for 2026!

Long time Star sailor Craig Prandini passed away December 9th, at his home in Merritt Island, Florida.  Craig served as fleet captain of the Biscayne Bay fleet for many years and was Tito Bacardi's right hand man helping organize the Bacardi Cup.  A member of the Coral Reef Yacht Club for over 30 years, he was introduced to the Star by Ding Schoonmaker. Craig was also the chief architect and contractor for the construction of the US Sailing Center in Miami.
While Craig was passionate about sailing he was also a very good golfer getting 2 holes in one on the same round of golf!  A graduate of the U of M, Craig followed the U football team every season always optimistic of a national championship

Scheidt / Kleen winning with a day to spare left a tight competition for the podium

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – December 7, 2025 – The 2025 Star South American Championship wrapped up in Rio de Janeiro with Brazilian sailing icon Robert Scheidt and his German crewmate Frithjof Kleen capturing the championship title in commanding fashion. The pair, who performed consistently throughout the event, secured their victory with a strong showing across all races, demonstrating their exceptional skill and teamwork.
 

Top 10 Final Results:

1. Robert Scheidt / Frithjof Kleen pt 12
2. Leandro Altolaguirre / Lucas Altolaguirre pt 19
3. Daniel Glomb / Pedro Trouche pt 20
4. Paul Cayard / Bruno Prada pt 21
5. Fabio Prada / Antonio Moreira pt 31
6. Arthur C. de Vasconcellos / Marco Lagoa pt 41
7. Marcelo Bellotti / Mauricio Bueno pt 42
8. Fabio Bruggioni / Marcelo Sanzone pt 43
9. John King / Fernando Ilha pt 43
10. Admar Gonzaga Neto / Ronald Seifert pt 48

 
The competition was fierce, with Scheidt and Kleen showing their prowess by winning multiple races and consistently placing near the top.

The runners-up, Argentinian brothers Leandro and Lucas Altolaguirre, put in a strong performance to secure second place. Meanwhile, Daniel Glomb and Pedro Trouche from Brazil claimed the third position with a commendable effort throughout the championship.

Today's racing conditions were ideal, featuring a steady breeze and sunshine, providing the perfect backdrop for the thrilling conclusion of the event.

The championship highlighted the talent present in the South American sailing community and fostered camaraderie among competitors from around the globe. As the event draws to a close, the excitement and achievements will surely inspire future competitions.

Robert Scheidt and Frithjof Kleen Secure the 2025 South American Championship Title with a Race to Spare

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – December 6, 2025 – On Day Three of the 2025 Star South American Championship, Brazilian Olympic legend Robert Scheidt, sailing with reigning World Champion Frithjof Kleen, clinched the championship title with a day and a race to spare. Today's conditions were sunny and warm, featuring a steady southerly breeze of 15-18 knots and current, providing excellent, but challenging, sailing conditions.

Scheidt and Kleen secured victory after a fierce competition with World Champion skipper Paul Cayard (USA) and Scheidt’s historic crew, Bruno Prada (BRA). They won the first race of the day, while

Cayard and Prada claimed victory in the second, enabling them to climb the rankings. They are now tied for second place with the Argentinian brothers Leandro and Lucas Altolaguirre, who experienced their toughest day of the championship.

Currently in fourth, just two points behind, are Daniel Glomb with Pedro Trouche (BRA). Fabio Prada and Antonio Moreira (BRA) are in fifth place, with a bigger margin to fill from the leading pack. With one more race left today, the focus shifts to determining the overall rankings from second place onward.

Star South American Championship in Rio de Janeiro

 

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – December 5, 2025 – Rio de Janeiro delivered another spectacular, and testing, day of racing at the Star South American Championship, as the fleet completed two more races in 15–18 knots of breeze, under bright sun and 27°C, with choppy seas and a tricky current that first pushed the sailors offshore and then back toward the bay. The challenging conditions demanded precision, endurance, and impeccable teamwork across the fleet.
 
The first race of the day was claimed by Daniel Glomb and Pedro Trouche (BRA), who mastered the shifting current and maintained strong speed throughout the course. In the second race, Marcelo Bellotti and Mauricio Bueno (BRA) stormed ahead to secure a well-earned victory, showcasing the depth of Brazilian talent on home waters.
 
After four races completed, the overall leaders are Olympic legend Robert Scheidt (BRA) sailing with reigning World Champion Frithjof Kleen (GER). The pair have shown outstanding consistency so far and head into the weekend with a narrow advantage. In second place sit the Argentine duo Leandro and Lucas Altolaguirre (ARG), followed closely by today’s race winners Glomb / Trouche (BRA).
 
With two more races scheduled for tomorrow and a final showdown on Sunday, the championship remains wide open. With the forecast hinting at similar breezy conditions, the battle for the continental title is set to intensify on the iconic waters of Rio de Janeiro.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – December 4, 2025 – The 2025 Star South American Championship officially launched today in the vibrant waters of Rio de Janeiro, attracting 14 entries, predominantly from Brazil, Argentina, and the USA. The competition runs until Saturday, December 6th, showcasing the skills of some of the world's most accomplished sailors.

Local legends Robert Scheidt and Bruno Prada, both Brazilian sailing icons with a legacy of Olympic medals and World Championship titles, have returned to compete, although not sailing together this time. Joining the competition are reigning world champions Class President Paul Cayard from the USA and Frithjof Kleen from Germany, sailing with Bruno Prada and Robert Scheidt, respectively.

Today's Results:

1. Leandro Altolaguirre / Lucas Altolaguirre (ARG) – 3, 2, 1 (Total: 6)
2. Robert Scheidt / Frithjof Kleen (BRA/GER) – 3, 1, 2 (Total: 6)
3. Daniel Glomb / Pedro Trouche (BRA) – 8, 5, 3 (Total: 16)
4. John King / Fernando Ilha (USA/BRA) – 9, 4, 5 (Total: 18)
5. Paul Cayard / Bruno Prada (USA/BRA) – 10, 3, 7 (Total: 20)

The day proved to be both competitive and thrilling. Competitors faced strong breezes ranging from 20 to 24 knots, coming from the south/southwest, creating challenging choppy conditions on the water. The gusty winds, influenced by the urban landscape, added an additional layer of complexity to the races. The Altolaguirre brothers secured the provisional top position, tying with Robert Scheidt and Frithjof Kleen but winning on a count-back.

Lucas Altolaguirre commented, "Today was a perfect day with winds ranging from 15 to over 20 knots, sunny skies, and a temperature of 27 degrees. We are thrilled to have finished second in the first race and first in the second. More importantly, it feels amazing to compete alongside some of the heroes of our sport and our class".

Frithjof Kleen said, "What a fantastic Day One of the Championship here in Rio, one of my favorite places in the world. I have great memories from the 2010 World Championship held here. Today, we scored a first and a second place, although we had a rough downwind in the second race that cost us some distance. We need to work on that. Robert kept me busy with 25 tacks upwind, so it was quite a workout—he always gives his all! It was great fun sailing with Robert. Congratulations to the Argentinians on a strong Day One".

The championship promises three more days of intense sailing as teams prepare to battle for the title. With seasoned veterans and emerging talents on the water, in one of the Star Class most loved venues.

Full results, photo and video galleries available at:
https://sa.starchampionships.org/

Photo credit: @International Star Class / Fred Hoffman

Jeff Johnson has joined the Star team as the G&B Ropes Regatta Manager.  He succeeds Tom Duggan who has stepped back after 2 years serving in this position.  

Jeff Johnson has built a multifaceted career in sailing, working as a sailmaker, charter crew member, sailing coach, and most prominently as an regatta manager for the San Diego Yacht Club for more than three decades. He is both a National and International Race Officer, and serves as an instructor and content developer for US Sailing and World Sailing’s National Race Official Training Programs.

Jeff’s approach to race management has been shaped by his involvement in some of the sport’s most prestigious events, including multiple US Youth and Youth World Championships, dozens of one-design Continental and World Championships, two Olympic Games, and two America’s Cups. He has also competed as a sailor in select events.

He currently serves as the Waterfront Director for the San Diego Yacht Club and is an active member of the US Sailing Race Management Committee, and the Training and Certification Working Group, as well as the World Sailing Race Officials Subcommittee.

Jeff is already working with the 2026 regatta organizers on the race documents for the Gold and Silver events as well as race templates for all events.

With a heavy heart the Austrian Star Sailors and the Star Class are mourning the passing of Hubert Raudaschl.

Multiple Sailing World Champion

Ten Times Olympian

Olympic Silver Medal Star 1980

Greatest Austrian Ambassador of the Star

World Famous Sailmaker

The class shall please keep a dignified memory of him.

STAR CLASS TOWN HALL

Saturday, November 29

1800 CET
1200 EST
0900 PST

This is scheduled to be a 90-minute meeting

Join Star Class President Paul Cayard as he gives the membership updates on the Class and an open discussion.

Please submit topics you would like to see on the agenda to the Star Class office (office@starclass.org) before November 20.

AGENDA

• Dues, Fleet Kits for officers
• Qualification system for Worlds
• VAKAROS 2026
• Committee's update
• Southstar Update
• New G&B Ropes Regatta Manager
• Miami Worlds Dates
• All competitors at ALL Star events to be members
• Open floor questions

ZOOM link

PW:  Star1911

LISTEN TO RECORDED TOWN HALL
Passcode: E!jN8gk2

Today, one of our life members and great Presidents, Malin Burnham, turns 98. His exceptionally long life has also been exceptionally successful.  Malin is one of my hero’s, someone I think of often as I lead our great class. He inspires me everyday!

Happy Birthday Malin!

Paul Cayard
President, International Star Class Yacht Racing Association

NOTE: Malin is the youngest Star World champion, having won the 1945 Worlds at the age of 17 with crew Lowell North (age 16), and is our oldest living World Champion. Join us in wishing Malin a very happy birthday!

The Star Class lost a great friend and Life Member on November 5, 2025. For over 65 years, Charles “Chuck” Beek was a fixture in Southern California Star sailing. He crewed for his father Barton and often sailed with his son Chas and daughter Hannah. 

Chuck almost always sailed with a family member, including his brother in law, Val Lyon. When he wasn’t sailing with family, Chuck sailed with Will Swigart, Steve Brown and Rick Peters. 

A native of Newport Beach, Chuck personified “California Cool”. With his wide and bright stripped, long sleeved polo shirts, he was the most relaxed guy in the boat park. He always sailed to and from the race course, even in places like Newport Beach and San Diego when everyone else was being towed.

As recently as April of this year, and being seriously compromised by his illness, he raced in the Western Hemisphere Championship with Chas crewing. Hannah was on the track racing with Bobby Lippincott. In July, Chuck raced in the King of Spain with Hannah crewing. Star sailing has always been, and will always be, a family affair for the Beeks.

We should all be more like Chuck!

Sail on Chuck!

On behalf of the Officers, Board of Directors, a members of Davis Island Yacht Club, I am thrilled to welcome you to the Star Class North American Championship. We are excited about the opportunity to welcome the world's top Star class sailors to our club, located in beautiful Tampa, Florida.

DIYC is widely recognized as a premier sailing venue, with a longstanding tradition of hosting top-tier regattas. Our location offers easy access for international travelers, with Tampa International Airport just minutes away and Orlando's international hub a short drive to the north. Tampa Bay provides an ideal racing environment, and October offers sailors outstanding conditions - typically featuring steady breezes ranging from 10-18 knots, warm temperatres in the mid-70s (24-26 C), and mild, predicatable weather patterns. While occasional cold fronts may bring a brief wind shift, they tend to stabilize quickly, offering excellent foiling conditions and exciting racing.

Our club has ample space for boat storage and launching, utilizing both our facilities and adjacent city beach areas. The City of Tampa and the Tampa Sports Authority are fully supportive of our bid and are actively working with us to ensure smooth logistics for equipment storage and access. Following major renovations in 2024 - including improvements to our pool, patio, fire pit areas, and landscaping - we are proud to provide a welcoming and resilient venue that maintains our Green Marina status.

Beyond the racing, we invite competitors and their families to make this regatta the gateway to an unforgettable Florida adventure. Tampa offers world-class attractions, including Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium, the Tampa Bay History Center, and the historic Latin Quarter of Ybor City. The stunning Gulf Coast beaches are just across the bay, and for those looking to extend their trip, Orlando's theme parks, the Kennedy Space Center, and Florida's Space Coast are just a few hours away.

Davis Island Yacht Club is known as the "Sailingest Club in the South," with a membership entirely composed of passionate sailors. Our unique "Do It Yourself" spirit is evident throughout our club, where members come together to maintain and improve our facilities, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and pride. This same dedication and enthusiasm will be on full display as we host the Star North American Championship, ensuring an unforgettable experience both on and off the water.

We are honored to welcome the Star Class to DIYC in 2026 and look forward to an exceptional championship event.

Read the latest e-starlights

Prepare for the start of this year's VGC by looking at the special events we have planned throughout the week. The accompanying artwork courtesy of amazing Brad VandenBerg!

Wednesday, October 1
6:00 pm
Opening Dinner at Gilmore Car Museum

Thursday, October 2
No formal event, sailors on their own

Friday, October 3
6:00 pm
Dinner and Auction at Gull Lake Marine Center

Saturday, October 4
5:00 pm
Bacardi Bar, Meet th Boats and Awards Dinner at Gull Lake Country Club

Take advantage of FREE PICKUP at the event when you make your purchase before this feature ends on 09-21-2025.

The store will close for 24 hours following this promotion and will re-open with shipping ONLY being available for purchases to be delivered after the event.
Please view the small selection of what's available on our Coral Reef storefront below.

CORAL REEF STOREFRONT

Victory comes down to the last downwind as four teams battle for glory in Split

Split, Croatia – September 13, 2025 – After six fiercely contested races across the waters of the Split Channel, Paul Cayard (USA) and Frithjof Kleen (GER) have been crowned 2025 Star World Champions, sealing the title on the very last race of the championship in one of the most thrilling finishes in recent years.

The final day dawned with anticipation, clear skies, and a classic Croatian sea breeze. By 2.20pm, the Race Committee had the 101-boat fleet under way in a steady 8–10 knots from 260°, setting the stage for a showdown between the top four teams, with the added pressure of the young U30 Germans Nick Heuwinkel and Jesper Spehr also in the mix.

As expected, strategy played a key role right from the start. Diego Negri and Sergio Lambertenghi (ITA) chose the left side of the course, sailing closely with Mateusz Kusznierewicz and Bruno Prada (POL/BRA). Eric Doyle and Payson Infelise (USA)held the middle, while Cayard and Kleen took it out to the right.

At the first top mark, it was Negri/Lambertenghi leading, followed by home favorite Tonci Stipanovic with Tudor Bilic (CRO) and the Italian duo Enrico Chieffi and Nando Colaninno. Doyle/Infelise rounded fourth, Heuwinkel/Spehr fifth, and Kusznierewicz/Prada sixth. Crucially, Cayard and Kleen were back in 14, a dangerous position given the championship on the line.

But the veteran pair showed their resilience, picking off boats on the first downwind to close the gap. They knew they had to limit the number of boats between them and their closest rivals: no more than 11 behind Negri, 4 behind Doyle, and 7 behind Kusznierewicz.

At the gate, the pressure mounted. The margins were razor-thin. But by the second top mark, it became clear, they had done just enough. The buffer was narrow, but it was there. The championship was within reach.

As Negri and Lambertenghi powered ahead to win the race, followed by Stipanovic/Bilic, Kusznierewicz/Prada, and Chieffi/Colaninno, the eyes of the fleet turned toward the battle further back. Cayard and Kleen crossed the line in seventh, securing the title by a slim three point margin.

“Big emotions for sure,” said a visibly moved Paul Cayard at the dock. “You know, it’s really hard to believe. We made it very difficult on ourselves, and of course that’s kind of the way I do things. But we stuck together through the tough times. Every team here had to deal with challenges, and we had a few yesterday and today, but we came back because we sailed smart and trusted each other. It’s surreal to win 37 years after my first title. With a long career in sailing, America’s Cups, Round the World races, the Star has always been a constant for me. Winning it again is incredibly special.”

“It’s very special to win this with Paul,” added Frithjof Kleen. “This whole journey has meant so much. I want to thank our amazing team, our training partners, our coach, and especially our families. I’m very happy, and I think we’re ready to celebrate tonight!”

It is Cayard’s second Star World title, 37 years after his first, and Kleen’s third as a crew, a well-earned reward for a team that has fought hard over the last three seasons, finishing close in 2022 and 2024, and now finally taking the top step of the podium.

The Prize Giving Ceremony will take place tonight in Split, where the 100+ year-old Star World Championship Trophy will be raised once again, this time by two sailors from different nations, united by teamwork, determination, and a deep love for the Class.

The 2026 Star World Championship will be held in Miami, Florida, from November 12–21, continuing the legacy of one of sailing’s most historic and prestigious titles.

Negri and Lambertenghi take Race 5 win to stay in the hunt ahead of the decisive last day

Split, Croatia – September 12, 2025 – With only one race remaining in the 2025 Star World Championship, the fleet of 101 boats took to the water today for the penultimate showdown in Split, battling through shifting breeze and intense tactical decisions that reshuffled the leaderboard ahead of tomorrow’s grand finale.

The day began with a scheduled one-hour delay, anticipating a later arrival of the sea breeze. Patience paid off. By 3.00 PM, the Race Committee had hoisted the flags for Race 5 in a 10-knot wind from 260, setting the stage for a classic Star Class battle across the Split Channel.

Unlike previous days, the left-hand side of the course proved to be the winning move. Those who committed early were rewarded handsomely, including 2022 World Champions Diego Negri and Sergio Lambertenghi (ITA) and Mateusz Kusznierewicz with Bruno Prada (POL/BRA), the five-time Bacardi Cup champions. The two teams rounded the first top mark in first and second, respectively, followed by the American-German pairing of Scot Barnard and Killian Weise in third.

At the downwind gate, Negri/Lambertenghi and Kusznierewicz/Prada held onto their lead, with European Champions Enrico Chieffi and Nando Colaninno (ITA) advancing into fourth. On the second upwind, the top contenders consolidated their positions. At the final top mark, the order remained unchanged at the top, though Austrians Hans Spitzauer and Christian Nehammer (AUT) made a strong move into third position.

The final downwind saw no changes at the front, with Negri and Lambertenghi taking a confident race win, followed by Kusznierewicz/Prada and Spitzauer/Nehammer, solidifying the battle among the world’s best heading into the decisive last day.

“Were really upset with our performance yesterday, with ourselves more than with our results because we missed so many opportunities and we didn't read properly the racing area and after the regatta it was so easy to understand what happened. So today we were planning to clean our minds and deliver a great race, we wanted to arrive where we are now, we closed the gap. Our plan for tomorrow is to do a great regatta and try to win it, and I mean that's the only thing we can control, we cannot control the position of the other sailors”, commented Bruno Prada.

“Today was beautiful, it's been beautiful sailing all week, we waited for the breeze a little bit, but that's ok as we're out there and it's beautiful, very picturesque and the race today was wonderful. The breeze came in and we got a little unfortunate approaching the line and the got into a very big light spot, very disappointing, but we have good speed upwind and we sailed pretty well and we made a few changes to the boat today to help us downwind, we've been awful downwind a little bit embarrassing, but we're better now so we just kind of hung in there and we passed a lot of boats on the last run to have a have a very good finish. It's so much better to go forward through the fleet than to go backwards like we've been doing the last few days!! So yeah, tomorrow's a big day, I guess just like every other one..” said Eric Doyle.

With five races now completed and the first discard applied, the overall standings heading into tomorrow’s final race remain wide open. Paul Cayard and Frithjof Kleen (USA/GER) currently lead the championship by 4 points over fellow Americans Eric Doyle and Payson Infelise, with Mateusz Kusznierewicz and Bruno Prada (POL/BRA)just 7 points behind the leaders. Diego Negri and Sergio Lambertenghi (ITA) are also in striking distance, trailing by 11 points overall. With one race left to sail, the championship remains very much undecided—and anything can happen on the final day in Split.

The 2025 Star World Championship continues to deliver world-class competition and brilliant sailing conditions, thanks to the support of Croatel, sponsor of the event and of the daily LIVE STREAMING of all races, broadcasting the excitement of the championship to a global audience.

Two intense races sailed in challenging conditions on Day 4, German U30 team lead the ranking

Split, Croatia – September 11, 2025 – Day 4 of the 2025 Star World Championshipdelivered a true test of skill and stamina, with two full-length races sailed in a building northwesterly breeze ranging from 10 to 16 knots, and a choppy sea state that, at times, became very demanding for the fleet of 101 teams.

After heading out on schedule, sailors had to wait briefly as a system of clouds brought a light rain over the race area. Once the breeze settled, Race 3 started around 2,30pm, with the committee boat end of the line and the right-hand side of the course appearing strongly favored. Teams that committed to the right saw immediate gains, reaching the top mark ahead of the pack.

Among them were Paul Cayard and Frithjof Kleen (USA/GER), who rounded the first mark in third place but with a great downwind leg rounded first at the gate and choosed the favored right-hand mark. From there, the duo never looked back, extending their lead with precision to take a convincing win.

Without much delay, PRO Marko Mišura and his race committee launched Race 4, which turned into a masterclass from Cayard and Kleen. The American-German team led from start to finish, showing tactical clarity and impressive speed as they increased their margin on each leg, securing their second bullet of the day and stamping their authority on the event.
 

“I I feel very blessed, I don't ever remember winning two races in the same day at the Star World Championship and I've been racing since 1978, so it's a day I'll never forget and you know we were just in a in a good zone mentally, we had a bad race on the second race, so in a way it reduced a little bit of pressure, we felt like we weren't in contention with Mateusz and Diego and we just took it easy on the starting line not to be over early but we were very fast obviously. We just found our way to some clear lanes and it all actually ended up feeling pretty easy, and maybe that's the lesson, to just take the tension out of the day and enjoy the sailing and let the boat go fast”, commented Paul Cayard.

The U30 team with Nick Heuwinkel and Jesper Spehr, winner of the 2025 Bacardi Cup in the U30 category, have climbed the overall ranking after four races, due to their great consistency. Cayard /Kleen are second and Mateusz Kusznierewicz with Bruno Prada (POL/BRA). Tomorrow’s Race 5 will be a pivotal moment in the championship, as the discard will come into effect, allowing each team to drop their worst result so far.

Tonight, competitors, race officers and guests will gather for the Mid-Week Prize Giving and Gala Dinner at JK Mornar, the host yacht club of the championship, an evening to celebrate the racing, camaraderie, and deep-rooted tradition of the Star Class.

The 2025 Star World Championship continues to deliver world-class competition and brilliant sailing conditions, thanks to the support of Croatel, sponsor of the event and of the daily LIVE STREAMING of all races, broadcasting the excitement of the championship to a global audience.

12-knot breeze delivers perfect conditions for Race 2 at the 2025 Star World Championship

Split, Croatia – September 9, 2025 – The second day of racing at the 2025 Star World Championship in Split, Croatia, saw the full 101-boat fleet return to the water for Race 2after a 90-minute wait ashore. Despite a light and uncertain forecast, the Race Committee docked out at 12.30pm, taking a chance that paid off handsomely, by early afternoon, a solid 12-knot easterly filled the racecourse, accompanied by a moderate chop across the Split Channel.

The race started at 2.30pm in excellent racing conditions. While a few boats were individually recalled, a general recall was avoided, thanks to the Vakaros RaceSense system, which reliably detected all OCS boats in real time, allowing the fleet to get away cleanly.

The first upwind leg quickly became a tactical battleground. While many of the fleet’s Gold Stars favored the right-hand side, it was the teams who tacked early toward the middle that reached the top mark in front. World Champions Mateusz Kusznierewicz and Bruno Prada (POL/BRA) led the fleet at the mark, followed closely by another World Champion, Eric Doyle with Payson Infelise (USA), and the American duo Jim Buckingham and Brad Nichol.

On the first downwind, Kusznierewicz and Prada maintained their lead, but Buckingham/Nichol and the German Silver Star team of Hubert Merkelbach with Markus Koy (GER) overtook Doyle/Infelise and closed the gap. The second upwind saw another tactical reshuffle, Merkelbach and Koy read the shifts best, rounding the second top mark in first, followed by Kusznierewicz/Prada and the Italian World Champions Diego Negri with Sergio Lambertenghi (ITA), who had played the middle of the course to perfection.

The Italians then executed a flawless final downwind leg, surfing into the lead and crossing the finish line in first place, followed by Merkelbach/Koy in second and Kusznierewicz/Prada in third.

“Challenging day today with some shifts, we had forecast for a right trend and unfortunately the it didn't come, otherwise we would have had a great lead at the top mark”, commented Diego Negri. “Luckily we were not far from the leading group so thanks to a very good downwind always in phase we managed to go back to the top three, we had very good speed and so we could win the race”.

“We loved the race very much, being second in the regatta is always fantastic, it feels very good and the wind was very good until close to the finish line where we had a big shift, but up to this was very nice breeze and we had good speed, we sailed tactically well and it was a very close race, so close we might have even won the race, but congrats to Diego, he deserved it”, said Hubert Merkelbach.

Negri / Lambertenghi are leading the overall ranking after two races, followed by Piet Eckert with Frederico Melo (SUI / POR), second yesterday, finished 12th today, and provisionally in third Nick Heuwinkel with Jesper Spehr (GER), the 2025 Bacardi Cup winners in the U30 category. 

Race 3 is scheduled for tomorrow, though conditions may prove more challenging. The forecast is calling for a strong southerly breeze, possibly too strong to race, with a chance of showers over the course area. A decision will be made in the morning based on updated weather models and safety considerations.

The 2025 Star World Championship continues to deliver world-class competition and brilliant sailing conditions, thanks to the support of Croatel, sponsor of the event and of the daily LIVE STREAMING of all races, broadcasting the excitement of the championship to a global audience.

Swiss team leads after a tactical opening race in light conditions

Split, Croatia – September 8, 2025 – The 2025 Star World Championship officially got underway today in Split, Croatia, with 101 boats from 20 nations lining up on the starting line for Race 1 of the six-day championship. The stunning setting of the Split Channel, combined with a light but steady breeze, delivered a classic Star racing day in true European style.

The Race Committee stuck to schedule, and with 7 knots of breeze filling in, the first and only race of the day started around 2.15pm. The course – true to Star tradition – was long and tactical, featuring 2-nautical-mile legs for a total of four legs: two upwinds and two downwinds, testing the fleet’s patience, tactics and endurance. Several boats were OCS at the start, underscoring the tight competition and eagerness of the fleet.

The first upwind leg saw many of the class’s Gold Stars – former World Champions – struggling in the light breeze and choppy water. None of the big names cracked the top 20 at the first mark. Meanwhile, Urs Hunkeler and Ivan Müller (SUI) had a clean and fast beat, taking the early lead.

In the first downwind, experience began to show. Both World Champions Paul Cayard with Frithjof Kleen (USA/GER) and Diego Negri with Sergio Lambertenghi (ITA) began to climb the ranks, rounding in the top 15. Still, the Swiss duo of Hunkeler/Müllerextended their lead with excellent boat speed and positioning.

The following legs saw steady progress from the top contenders, but the Swiss lead remained unshaken. Hunkeler and Müller crossed the line in first, setting the tone for a strong championship campaign. Behind them, Silver Star team Piet Eckert and Frederico Melo (SUI/POR) secured second, followed by Ante Razmilovic and Brian Hammersley (GBR) in third.

“We are so happy for the win, we started on the right side and kept on following the wind shifts and our lead got stronger”, commented Urs Hunkeler. “We haven’t attended a World Championship since 1999 and we thought Split was a good idea and it was!! It is the first race we have ever won in a Star World Championship.. so happy!!”.

“It was a good day for us, a great way to start such a championship, it was actually really tricky, we had a tight start and then found some really good breeze on the left side and that gave us a lot of leverage and then we tried to control the fleet..” commented Piet Eckert. “Such a really good day for us, we’ve been sailing together for the last six years, we feel like an old couple.. (laughs) but it feels really good, I love every second of it”.

Rounding out the top five were Jack Jennings and Pedro Trouche (USA/BRA) in fourth, followed by Brazilian team Fabio Prada and Antonio Moreira, and Swedes Tom Löfstedt and Johan Tillander (SWE) – with Löfstedt impressively returning to racing at age 71 after a year-long injury break.

The Opening Ceremony, held last night at the iconic Galerija Meštrović and sponsored by Croatel, was the talk of the boat park this morning. Sailors, coaches, and officials were treated to a spectacular evening overlooking the Adriatic. Croatel is also supporting the event by sponsoring the live streaming, broadcasting all races from today through to the final race on Saturday, bringing the action from Split to sailing fans worldwide.

Tomorrow, the second race of the series is scheduled for 1.00pm, with forecasts suggesting similar or slightly lighter conditions. With five races still to go, there’s plenty left to play for – and plenty of Star class drama still to unfold.

Watch the Star World Championship LIVE thanks to CROATEL:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TEcmo1_TlgY

Where tradition meets elite competition in the heart of Croatia’s sailing capital

Split, Croatia – September 4, 2025. The historic city of Split is preparing to welcome the sailing world for one of its most iconic and prestigious events: the 2025 International Star Class World Championship, organized by Sailing Club Mornar (JK Mornar) in cooperation with the International Star Class Yacht Racing Association. Set in the heart of Croatian sailing, this edition promises to blend tradition, excellence, and tight racing on the waters of the Split Channel.

From September 7 to 13, Split will host 107 teams from 20 nations, all eager to etch their names into the legacy of a championship that first began in 1922. The schedule kicks off with the Official Practice Race and Opening Ceremony on Sunday, September 7, where sailors, officials, and guests will gather in full tradition as they will on Saturday September 13, for the Prize Giving Ceremony following the last race.

This year's championship will see a remarkable level of experience and excellence on the water, with 14 past Star World Champions returning to compete. Among the skippers are John Kostecki (USA) title holder, Diego Negri (ITA), Mateusz Kusznierewicz (POL), Robert Stanjek (GER), George Szabo (USA), Eric Doyle (USA), Enrico Chieffi (ITA) who won the European Championship right here in 2021, and Class President Paul Cayard (USA). On the crew side, champions include Austin Sperry (USA) 2024 winner with Kostecki, Sergio Lambertenghi (ITA), Frithjof Kleen (GER), Bruno Prada (BRA), Samuel Goncalves (BRA), and Pascal Rambeau (FRA). With such a high-caliber field, the 2025 Star World Championship in Split is poised to deliver an unforgettable week of world-class racing.

“The Star Class honors tradition while embracing the future,” said Paul Cayard, President of the International Star Class. “We’re seeing young talent rise through the ranks, racing shoulder to shoulder with the legends. To welcome over 100 teams, more than a century after the first Worlds, is a testament to the enduring strength of the Star. We are thrilled to bring the World Championship to Croatia for the first time, a country with deep passion for sailing, great sailors and spectacular conditions.”

Among the 107 competing teams are 12 Under-30 skippers, a clear sign of the Star Class's appeal to the next generation of sailors. In addition, five women will be on the starting line, both at the helm and as crew, marking a significant step toward greater inclusivity in a class historically dominated by men.

The Star World Championship is celebrated for its traditional and demanding race format: one long race per day, sailed over a four-leg course of approximately 2 nautical miles per leg, with each race lasting no less than 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours. It’s not just about speed — it’s a test of tactics, strategy, endurance, and patience. Lead changes are frequent, and close battles unfold throughout the fleet, keeping both sailors and spectators on edge right up to the final maneuvers.

As the Star Class celebrates over a century of racing heritage, the 2025 edition in Split promises a perfect blend of history and world-class competition. With the stunning Croatian coastline as a backdrop, and with an elite field of sailors from all generations, this year’s championship will be one to remember.

Watch the Star World Championship LIVE thanks to CROATEL:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TEcmo1_TlgY

Dear Star Sailors,

We are excited to announce that registration is now open for the 99th Bacardi Cup. This historic regatta is the crown jewel of our sailing calendar, uniting the Star Class for another unforgettable week of racing and camaraderie in Miami.

�� Event Dates

• 99th Bacardi Cup – March 1–7, 2026

⏰ Entry Deadline

The registration deadline is February 1, 2026. After this date, a $100 late fee will apply. We encourage you to register early to confirm your place in the fleet and join us for this remarkable tradition.

⚓ Launching & Storage Information

Launching and boat trailer storage at Coral Reef Yacht Club will open in the coming weeks and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. All overflow will be directed to the US Sailing Center. An email will be circulated two days before registration opens to ensure every sailor has enough time to prepare.

�� Registration Platform

Please note that we have moved away from YachtScoring. All entries for the Bacardi Cup will now be managed through Sailti. You can now register HERE

For any questions or assistance, you can reach us at info@bacardiinvitational.com.

We look forward to welcoming the Star Class back to Biscayne Bay as we celebrate the 99th Bacardi Cup, honoring nearly a century of tradition while building excitement for the milestone 100th edition in 2027.

The Bacardi Cup Team

A complete summary booklet of the Star Worlds perpetual trophies has been compiled by Phillip Infelise and will be inserted into each competitor's bags at the 2025 Star World Championship.  Details include who the trophy was named after, with a brief history, what it is emblematic of, and any other additional information.  Members can view the booklet on th link below.

Fleet members recently gathered to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the Lake Hopatcong fleet.

The Star Class is saddened to learn of the news of the passing of Stig Wennerström at the age of 82. Stig won the Star European Championships in 1967 and 1970 and the 1968 and 1971 Eastern Hemisphere championships and was 3rd in the 1970 Star Worlds. He won a silver medal at the 1972 Summer Olympics in the Soling and was the 1970 Soling World Champion.  After his sailing career, he emigrated to the United States, where he spent his last years in Jupiter, Florida.

Paul Cayard wins overall with Julia Graber, Müller and Nehammer crowned Austrian Champions

Lake Wörthersee, Austria – June 2025 – The 2025 Austrian Star Championship, held last weekend on the picturesque waters of Lake Wörthersee, was an event to remember — not only for the quality of racing, but for the historic milestones reached by two outstanding female sailors.

Paul Cayard (USA), one of the most iconic names in international sailing, made a surprise appearance on the local racing scene and teamed up with Julia Graber (AUT). The duo showed their class and composure across five races sailed in exceptional conditions — with wind ranging from 7 to 16 knots — to secure first place overall.

Behind them, an inspiring story was unfolding. Julia Müller, a two-time Austrian youth champion, sailing with Christian Nehammer, not only claimed second place overall, but also secured the title of 2025 Austrian Champions — awarded to the top-finishing fully Austrian team.

This marks a historic first for Austrian sailing:
The first time a female skipper has won the national title
The first time a skipper under 30 years of age has achieved this milestone

Their road to the championship began in May at a local regatta in Attersee, where they placed fourth. After refining their teamwork in two targeted training sessions, Müller and Nehammer returned to Wörthersee determined — and delivered a standout performance against a seasoned fleet.

Completing the national podium was Roman Stelzl, who placed fifth overall and second among the Austrian crews.

With two women leading the top two teams, the 2025 edition will go down as a landmark moment for Star sailing — a powerful signal of progress for gender equality and youth development in one of the sport’s most traditional classes.

Beyond the racing, the atmosphere was quintessentially Star: laid-back, friendly, and filled with camaraderie. Local and national media, including Austrian television, covered the event, and the social gatherings felt more like intimate garden parties than formal regatta dinners — something Cayard himself praised as a unique strength of the Star Class.

“This event was a celebration of what sailing can be,” said Christian Nehammer. “Blending international experience with emerging local talent, and having two brilliant young women leading the way, made it unforgettable. It is my ninth Austrian title in the Star, but emotionally, it feels just like the first one”.

Gibson Island delivers classic Star conditions for one of the five Continental titles of the year

The 2025 Star Western Hemisphere Championship came to a close on Sunday after three days of tight and tactical racing hosted by the Gibson Island Yacht Squadron on the Chesapeake Bay. The regatta, part of the historic Star Class calendar, attracted many of North America’s finest teams, culminating in a well-deserved victory for George Szabo and Guy Avellon.

Szabo and Avellon delivered an outstanding performance across the seven-race series, counting five top-2 finishes, including four bullets, and discarding only one mid-fleet result. Their consistent dominance secured them the championship with a total of 8 points after discard — a commanding lead over the rest of the fleet.

In second place, John Loe and Olympic veteran Phil Trinter sailed a solid series with a string of top-5 finishes, closing out the regatta with 17 points. Rounding out the podium were Arthur Anosov and David Caesar, who took third overall with 23 points, including a win in Race 3 and strong early performances.

The event featured classic Chesapeake Bay conditions — light to moderate breeze, tidal strategy, and close mark roundings — offering a true test of skill and experience in the one-design fleet.

Final Top 5 Standings:

1. George Szabo / Guy Avellon – 8 pts
2. John Loe / Phil Trinter – 17 pts
3. Arthur Anosov / David Caesar – 23 pts
4. Thomas Londrigan / Mike Farmer – 24 pts
5. William Swigart / Brian Fatih – 33 pts

The championship began with a practice day and welcome ceremony, followed by three days of racing under the guidance of a professional race committee. Post-race socials and the final prizegiving ceremony capped off a spirited and competitive event.

The Star Class now turns its attention to the upcoming World Championship in September with more than 100 entries, as the global fleet continues to build momentum.

Chieffi and Colaninno crowned champions as
Cayard and Iverson take final race win

Viareggio, Italy — June 14, 2025 – The curtain has come down on the 2025 Star Class European Championship with the seventh and final race sailed today off the coast of Viareggio in light air and calm seas. Despite just 5 knots of breeze and glassy conditions, the Race Committee delivered an excellent performance – trusting the wind would settle in, and successfully completing the race to close out a remarkable week of sailing.

The final race was dominated from the start by Paul Cayard and George Iverson (USA), who rounded the top mark with a comfortable lead and steadily extended their margin over the hour-long course. Holding second throughout the race were Renato Conde (POR) and Taavi Taveter (EST), newcomers to the Star Class who have shown impressive skill and consistency all week. Finishing third were Giovanni Coppo (ITA) with German crew Frithjof Kleen, while Diego Negri and Sergio Lambertenghi closed out the race in fourth after a thrilling duel to the line, edging out Tonči Stipanović and Tudor Bilic by just one second.

With today’s result, Star World Champions Negri and Lambertenghi climbed to fifth overall, a strong comeback after a challenging start to the series.

“All week I've watched Enrico Chieffi just own the left and finally today I said I think we should own the left…so we started at the pin, great on start and it was the left that paid, so we just kind of followed that all the way around and the race was pretty simple after that. We had a great last day, it's my crew’s birthday, George Iverson's 66th birthday, I'm already 66, our bow number was 66, there was a lot of sixes in our destiny… We had a lot of fun!”, commented Paul Cayard at the end of the day.

The final podium sees Enrico Chieffi and Nando Colaninno (ITA) at the top – having secured the title yesterday with a race to spare – followed by Stipanović / Bilic (CRO) in second and Conde / Taveter in third. Cayard / Iverson finish fourth overall, just ahead of Negri / Lambertenghi in fifth.

The week in Viareggio was marked by steady thermal breezes, highly competitive racing, and a strong international turnout, reaffirming the Star Class’s enduring prestige and the city’s reputation as a premier Star sailing venue.

Hosted by Club Nautico Versilia and Società Velica Viareggina, under the authority of ISCYRA, FIV, and CONI, and supported by the Municipality of Viareggio and title sponsors G&B Ropes, Slam Telemar, and CTN, the championship closed with a warm and well-attended prize-giving ceremony at the Club, celebrating the sailors, organizers, and partners who made the event such a success.

Consistent performance secures title ahead of Saturday’s final race

Viareggio, Italy — June 13, 2025 – A masterclass in consistency and control has crowned Enrico Chieffi and Nando Colaninno as the 2025 Star Class European Champions, with one race still to sail. The Italian duo secured the title on Day Three of the regatta after another strong performance in the steady thermal conditions that have characterized the week—6 to 8 knots of sea breeze, flat seas, and blue skies off the Tuscan coast.

Today’s first race (Race 5) was a defining moment, with Chieffi and Colaninno claiming their second bullet of the series, extending their lead and mathematically securing the championship. Their rock-solid scoreline throughout the week showcased not only speed and tactical precision but also a calm, focused approach under pressure.

Race 6 went to the American-Brazilian pairing of Jack Jennings and Pedro Trouche, who added a crucial win to their campaign and jumped into the mix for a spot on the podium.

“We are so happy to have won and with a day to spare!! Tomorrow we can come out and enjoy the race as spectators! It was so difficult, there is such a great fleet, but it was definitely our week.. so glad!!”, commented from the water an ecstatic Enrico Chieffi. “I would say it's nice to win almost at home, I believe we had an advantage because we sail here every weekend, and it was as usual very tough, tricky and light wind, shifting everywhere.. so we are very happy about this win!!”, he concluded.

With just one race remaining tomorrow, the battle for second and third overall is heating up. In contention are Tonči Stipanović / Tudor Bilic (CRO), Renato Conde / Taavi Taveter (POR/EST), Paul Cayard / George Iverson (USA), Paul McKenzie / Florian Faucheaux (AUS/FRA), Jack Jennings / Pedro Trouche (USA/BRA), and Diego Negri / Sergio Lambertenghi (ITA) – all within striking distance and eager to finish strong.

The championship is hosted by Club Nautico Versilia and Società Velica Viareggina, in collaboration with ISCYRA, FIV, and CONI, and supported by the Municipality of Viareggio and title sponsors G&B Ropes, Slam Telemar, and CTN.

The final race of the championship is scheduled for tomorrow, Saturday, June 14, and will be followed by the official prize-giving ceremony at the Regatta Village.

Chieffi-Colaninno hold overall lead;
McKenzie-Faucheaux best team of the day

Viareggio, Italy — June 12, 2025 – Day two of the 2025 Star Class European Championship delivered another round of high-stakes, high-skill racing on the waters off Viareggio, with two more races completed in conditions very similar to the opening day.

Races 3 and 4 of the series were both preceded by general recalls and ultimately started under black flag, a reflection of the competitive intensity on the start line. Race 3 saw two teams disqualified under the black flag rule, while Race 4 claimed five.

The highlight of the day for local fans came in Race 3, with a brilliant win by Giampiero Poggi and Davide Mugnaini, sailing under the burgee of Club Nautico Versilia. The Viareggio-based team took full advantage of their local knowledge and sharp tactical sailing to claim their first bullet of the series.

Race 4 belonged to Australia’s Paul McKenzie and Florian Faucheaux, who backed up their win with a third-place finish in the earlier race, making them the best performers of the day. Their consistent performance has vaulted them into contention going into the final stretch of the regatta.

“We had a great day, we had the feeling it might be good, but you never know. Yesterday we felt like we were getting better because we haven't sailed for a while in the Star and today we just had nice starts and made the boat go and it worked out. Yesterday we felt like we were getting a bit better because the starts weren't good, but we were coming through and learning things or remembering things and today with the good starts it made the difference”, commented Paul McKenzie.

At the top of the provisional leaderboard, Italy’s Enrico Chieffi and Nando Colaninno (ITA) remain in first overall after posting a solid 2nd and 4th today. Just behind them are Olympic silver medalist Tonči Stipanović and crew Tudor Bilic (CRO), who secured a tight second-place finish in Race 4. Moving into third overall are Portugal’s Renato Conde and Taavi Taverner, showing impressive form at this stage of the championship.

With two races scheduled for Friday and the final race set for Saturday, and the discard coming in after five races, the battle for the European title is still wide open.

The Championship is hosted by Club Nautico Versilia and Società Velica Viareggina, under the authority of ISCYRA, FIV, and CONI, with the support of the Municipality of Viareggio and title sponsors G&B Ropes, Slam Telemar, and CTN.

Two races completed in light winds.
Stipanovic and Cayard share the spotlight.

 
Viareggio, 11 June 2025 – The Star European Championship 2025 got underway today in the waters off Viareggio, with two races sailed in light and tricky conditions. As expected, the level of competition is extremely high, and several top contenders have already made their mark on day one.
 
The first race saw a light westerly breeze of 7–8 knots, demanding precise tactics and fine boat handling. Croatian Tonci Stipanovic, Olympic medalist and seasoned Star sailor, with Tudor Bilic, showed great control and tactical awareness to take the win in the opening race.
 
In the second race, the wind dropped further, settling around 6/7 knots. The best to read the course was American sailing legend Paul Cayard, who capitalized on every shift and pressure line to take a well-earned victory, for the first time sailing with George Iverson.
 
“The conditions are pretty steady out here, it's a sea breeze situation and the Star Class is very competitive, 70 boats on the starting line, so the fleet stays pretty tight and it's difficult to find clear air. The racing is challenging and for George and I we managed to win the last race, which was very very fun, and in the first race we were a little too far back to know exactly how I did.. but three more days of racing here and we're really happy to be in Viareggio”, commented Paul Cayard, sailing legend and President of the International Star Class.
 
The provisional ranking is lead by Enrico Chieffi with Nando Colaninno, but with two different winners in the first two races it remains wide open going into tomorrow’s schedule, which features two more races and slightly stronger winds forecasted.
 
The Star European Championship 2025 is organized by Club Nautico Versilia and Società Velica Viareggina, in cooperation with the International Star Class Yacht Racing Association (ISCYRA) and the Italian Sailing Federation (FIV), with the support of the City of Viareggio.
 
Stay tuned for more top-level racing tomorrow along the Tuscan coast.

70 elite teams gather in the historic sailing hub for a week of world-class racing
 

Viareggio, Italy, June 10, 2025 – The 2025 Star Class European Championship officially opened this evening in Viareggio with a vibrant ceremony hosted by Club Nautico Versilia. Held against the stunning backdrop of the Versilia coastline, the event was marked by a stirring performance from the La Spezia Naval Band and attended by sailors, organizers, and local authorities.

This year’s championship has attracted 70 top-tier teams from around the world, all set to compete in one of the most prestigious events on the international sailing calendar. Organized by Club Nautico Versilia and Società Velica Viareggina under the aegis of the Italian Sailing Federation (FIV), ISCYRA (International Star Class Yacht Racing Association), and CONI, and with the support of the Municipality of Viareggio and title sponsors G&B Ropes, Slam Telemar, and CTN, the regatta runs through Sunday, June 14.

Racing begins tomorrow, Wednesday, June 11, with the first start scheduled for 1:00 PM following the Skippers’ Meeting at 10:45 AM. Seven races are planned across the week on a racecourse long regarded by the Star Class as one of the finest in Europe.

“Viareggio is a truly special place for the Star Class, and we’re thrilled to return for this championship,” said Paul Cayard, President of the International Star Class. “From its competitive racecourse to its rich sailing heritage, it’s the perfect setting for an event of this level.”

As the fleet prepares for the first day of racing, the atmosphere in Viareggio is already electric. With perfect early summer conditions and a stacked lineup of legendary sailors and rising talents, the 2025 Star Class European Championship promises a week of exceptional racing and unforgettable moments.

Save the Date !

March 1-7, 2026

99th Bacardi Cup Regatta
Miami, Florida

STAR CLASS TOWN HALL

Sunday, April 27

1730 CET
1130 EDT
0830 PDT

This is scheduled to be a 90-minute meeting

Listen to the recording of the meeting HERE
passcode: m+hKX+v4

Join Star Class President Paul Cayard as he gives the membership updates on the Class and an open discussion.

Please submit topics you would like to see on the agenda to the Star Class office (office@starclass.org) before April 20.

AGENDA

• Resolution deadline: May 5
• District Officer elections
• VAKAROS partnership
• 2026 and 2027 Worlds update

ZOOM link

PW:  Star1911

Vakaros is offering two webinars about RaceSense on April 22, 2025. Webinars will be offered at the following times:

Webinar #1 - view recorded session
                      passcode:  +M4hCRM6 

CET - 1800
EDT - 1200
SoAm - 1300
PDT - 0900

Webinar #2 - view recorded session
                     Passcode: T8v&qDJ1

EDT - 2000
SoAm - 2100
PDT - 1700
CET - 0200 April 23

You must PRE-REGISTER on one of the links above.

Vakaros engineers and RaceSense experts will be presenting, along with ISCYRA President Paul Cayard.

Please submit questions in advance here

After four thrilling and challenging days of racing, Jack Jennings (USA) and Pedro Trouche (BRA) have been crowned the 2025 Star North American Champions in Pass Christian, Mississippi. The duo delivered a remarkably consistent performance across a variety of conditions to secure the title, holding off fierce competition from George Szabo and Guy Avellon (USA) and Paul Cayard with Luke Lawrence (USA) — the top three boats separated by just three points after seven completed races.

The final day on the Mississippi Sound delivered one last weather puzzle for the sailors and Race Committee. What began with a hint of northerly breeze quickly turned into a full-blown chess match with the wind – alternating between sea breeze and northerly puffs in a battle for dominance. In a span of just 45 minutes, the wind shifted from due north to 210°, backed to 140°, then suddenly roared in at 328°, before settling around 010°. The instability made race management incredibly complex – and the sailors had their hands full on the water.

Race 7 got underway bearing 335° with a 1.5nm weather leg, in winds ranging from 5 to 12 knots, and gusts up to 18. Shifty conditions and strong current near the top mark created a tactical minefield. After a long upwind leg and an equally tricky downwind, the Race Committee shortened the course to 1.1nm for the final lap. Emerging victorious in the chaos were Will Stout and Danny Cayard, with Paul Cayard and Luke Lawrencefinishing second, and Scott Barnard and Kilian Weise taking third.

Despite determined efforts, Race 8 proved impossible to run. The breeze oscillated wildly between 285° and 345°, forcing the Race Committee to make multiple adjustments to both the signal vessel and course marks – each time narrowly avoiding nearby reefs. With the drop-dead time fast approaching and the breeze continuing to shift left, the Race Committee made the tough but correct call to abandon racing for the day.

Final Results – 2025 Star North American Championship (6 races, 1 discard):
1. Jack Jennings (USA) / Pedro Trouche (BRA)
2. George Szabo / Guy Avellon (USA)
3. Paul Cayard / Luke Lawrence (USA)

With shifting winds, tactical racing, and top-class competition, Pass Christian Yacht Club delivered an unforgettable championship. Special thanks to the dedicated Race Committee and volunteers of Pass Christian Yacht Club who made the event possible, even under demanding conditions.

The International Star Class now looks ahead to the next major events on the 2025 calendar with the European Championship and the Western Hemisphere Championship quickly approaching in June.

Day Three of the 2025 Star North American Championship tested every ounce of skill, patience, and endurance from both the competitors and the Race Committee, as the fleet battled through wildly oscillating winds and punchy gusts out on the Gulf.

With a forecast promising breeze from the northwest around 320°, the Race Committee ventured 2.5 miles offshore only to find an unpredictable and unstable wind pattern. Directional shifts spanned as much as 60 degrees and velocity swung from a mere 5 knots up to gusts of 25 knots.

Race 5 with a 1.5nm beat heading 315°, though the wind was already proving troublesome, oscillating between 305° and 345° - before swinging even further to 000°. After two general recalls, safety concerns took priority, and the Race Committee adjusted the course axis to 330° to reflect the prevailing conditions. On the third attempt, the fleet got away cleanly, though most boats were quick to tack onto port. Mid-race, the top mark was shifted once again, this time to 320°, as the breeze continued its erratic dance. Through the chaos, Paul Cayard and Luke Lawrence delivered a commanding performance to take the win, followed by Jack Jennings and Pedro Trouche, with John Kostecki and Austin Sperry rounding out the top three.

Race 6 brought no relief, with even more dramatic shifts and pressure changes. A five-leg Course 3 was set with an axis of 330° and a 1.2nm beat. Just one minute before the start, a 22-knot puff rolled through, but the fleet launched cleanly. The breeze ranged from 7 to 26 knots, while directionally swinging between 285° and 005°- a full 80-degree range. Despite the chaos, Jennings and Trouche proved their consistency with a race win, followed closely by Kostecki and Sperry, and Szabo with Avellon in third.

With six races now completed and the discard coming into effect, the overall leaderboard remains tight heading into the final day of racing.

Provisional Overall Standings – After Six Races (One Discard):

1. George Szabo / Guy Avellon
2. Jack Jennings / Pedro Trouche
3. Paul Cayard / Luke Lawrence

With the title still very much up for grabs and one final day to go, anticipation is building for a dramatic conclusion to the 2025 Star North American Championship in Pass Christian.

An early sea breeze and steadily building conditions set the stage for two dynamic races on Day Two of the 2025 Star North American Championship, hosted by the Pass Christian Yacht Club. With 21 teams battling it out in the Gulf of Mexico, the racecourse delivered a fresh test of tactics and boat speed under increasingly lively conditions.

Race 3 got underway right on schedule at 12:35 p.m., with a 1.2nm upwind leg opened in 7–9 knots from 210, but pressure continued to build throughout the race, reaching 11–13 knots by the time the fleet approached the leeward gate. A course change was signaled at the gate, with the top mark moved to 220°. Jack Jennings and Pedro Trouche showed great form to take the win, followed by George Szabo and Guy Avellon in second, and Scott Barnard with Kilian Weise in third.

Race 4 followed shortly after, sailed on a longer 1.5nm course set at 225°. With the wind ranging from 12–15 knots and oscillating between 205° and 225°, teams faced a more complex tactical challenge. The left phase dominated on the first beat, at the gate another course change followed, this time shifting the axis to 215° as the breeze continued to build. Eric Doyle and Payson Infelise claimed the win in commanding style, ahead of the consistent Barnard/Weise duo in second, and Paul Cayard with Luke Lawrence in third.

After four races, the provisional overall standings are beginning to take shape:

Provisional Results after Day 2:

1. George Szabo / Guy Avellon
2. Jack Jennings / Pedro Trouche
3. Scott Barnard / Kilian Weise

With two more days of racing scheduled and more favorable breeze in the forecast, the battle for the 2025 North American title is heating up. Racing continues tomorrow, with another two races in Pass Christian, Mississippi.

The 2025 Star North American Championship got underway yesterday in Pass Christian, Mississippi, with two solid races completed in challenging but steadily improving conditions. Hosted by the Pass Christian Yacht Club, the regatta welcomed 21 teams from the USA and Canada to the Gulf Coast for the first Continental Championship of the Star Class season.

Despite a forecast calling for light and unstable winds, the racecourse delivered better-than-expected conditions. By the time the Race Committee set the line, a manageable breeze had settled in, with conditions gradually stabilizing throughout the day.

Race 1 saw the fleet compete on a 1.0 nautical mile course. The wind fluctuated between 160° and 180° at 5–7 knots. Three boats were called OCS by the Vakaros RaceSense system but all returned and restarted cleanly. The race was tight, but 2009 Star World Champion George Szabo with Guy Avellon, light and shifty breeze experts, claimed the win, followed by Arthur Asonov with Rob Scrivenor and Benjamin Sternberg with Will Christenson. The fourth is the U30 Quinton Gallon with Ryley Garvey.

For Race 2, the wind conditions improved, oscillating between 165° and 190° with speeds of 7–11 knots. Halfway through the final beat, the expected sea breeze filled in from 205°–210° at a steady 10–13 knots, giving the teams a strong finish to the day. All boats started cleanly, and the leaders were 1999 Star World Champion Eric Doyle with Payson Infelise, behind them George Szabo with Guy Avellon and Derek DeCouteau with Jamie Stewart.

Szabo and Avellon lead the provisional overall score table with the lowest numer of points, while consistency paid off for Will Stout with Danny Cayard and Jack Jennings with Pedro Trouche, who, despite not even a podium finish, are respectively second and third at the end of Day One.

The forecast for today looks promising, with stronger and more consistent sea breeze expected throughout the day, setting the stage for an exciting day of racing.

Racing continues daily through Saturday, April 12, when the 2025 Star North American Champions will be crowned.

Dates are now confirmed for the 2025-2026 Winter Series in Miami:

EVENT
Dec 6-7, 2025: Star Commodore's Cup
Jan 10-11, 2026: Zagarino Cup (Masters)
Jan 16, 2026: Levin Cup
Jan 17-18, 2026: Schoonmaker Cup
Feb 19-20, 2026: Star Walker Cup
Feb 21-22, 2026: Star Midwinters

Bacardi Cup: March 1-7, 2026

The International Star Class is taking a significant technological step forward in race management by implementing Vakaros RaceSense for the 2025 Star World Championship in Split, Croatia. This marks a pivotal advancement in accuracy, efficiency and fairness in race officiating for the venerable class.
 

A Leap Forward 
Vakaros RaceSense represents the latest technology designed specifically to increase the accuracy of race officiating and the overall on-water sailor experience. Using enhanced GPS location data, real-time data processing, and a resilient communications protocol, RaceSense tracks exact positional data for every boat, mark and the starting and finishing lines, all in real time. 
Importantly, this automated system eliminates the delay and uncertainty surrounding “On course Side” (OCS) calls by delivering an instantaneous OCS indication to infringing yachts. RaceSense also virtually eliminates time consuming “general recalls”, required when there are large groups of unidentifiable OCS infringing competitors, as well as penalty flags such as the Black and U Flag. Unlike traditional methods, reliant on visual observation from distant committee boats, RaceSense increases fairness and transparency for all.
 

How Vakaros Racesense Works

• Each boat, as well as every mark, is equipped with a Vakaros Atlas 2 device, which continuously tracks its position with sub-meter accuracy.
• Competitor devices receive live location data from ends of the start line, eliminating the need to "ping". Likewise, timers are automatically started for all boats by the race committee.
• The system monitors the starting line in real-time, instantly detecting if a boat crosses early.
• Sailors receive immediate feedback via their onboard device, reducing confusion and ensuring compliance without the need for verbal recall signals over the radio.
• All of this is done on a display most Star teams already race with, which also displays magnetic heading, speed, heel angle, DTL, and more.

Elevating Star Class Racing
By integrating RaceSense, the International Star Class reaffirming its commitment to high quality race officiating. The 2025 and 2026 Star World Championships will showcase how technology can improve and refine race management, further ensuring that victories are decided by sailing skill.
 

Quotes:
“Employing RaceSense will significantly improve the quality of our championships, especially in our 100 boat fleets. We are committed to providing our members with the best possible race management, and this system ensures a higher level of accuracy and fairness.”, said Paul Cayard, International Star Class President.
 

“We are thrilled to see Vakaros RaceSense deployed at the Star Worlds. This is a major step in modernizing race officiating, giving both sailors and race committees the confidence that every start is judged with absolute precision, and ensuring competitors are afforded the best data possible when racing”, Douglas Wake, Vakaros RaceSense Director


Vakaros website:
https://vakaros.com/
2025 Star World Championship Website:
https://worlds.starchampionships.org/

Exclusive Introductory Offers for ISCYRA members

Introduction
The 2025 World Championship will be conducted under the RaceSense system. Therefore, an Atlas 2 device and a RaceSense license are required equipment for all competitors in Split, as stipulated in NOR amendment 1. Assuming continued positive experience, it is the Class’s intention to continue using RaceSense in 2026.  The class has purchased two sets of RaceSense management equipment which are available to any Continental and World Championship host, free of charge. The 2025 North American Championship, starting April 8^th, will also be conducted using RaceSense and the license offers below are immediately available to all Star Class members.
To support the Star Class in this transition, the following offers are available exclusively to ISCYRA members.

Atlas 2

1. An exclusive 20% discount to SEA, Nixdorf and U30 Star Class members for the purchase of an Atlas 2, available 4/1/2025 to 6/1/2025.
2. An exclusive 10% discount to paid registrants of the 2025 Star World Championship for the purchase of an Atlas 2, available 4/1/2025 to 6/1/2025.
3. Rental of Atlas 2 Units for Star Worlds 2025

Vakaros agrees to make available up to 50 rental Atlas 2 units equipped with a RaceSense license, and 50 deck brackets, for the Star World Championship, to be held in Split, Croatia, from September 1st to September 13th, 2025, at a discounted rate of $250 per unit. Exceptionally, the Star Class will subsize rentals with a $100 contribution.
 
RaceSense License
For owners of Atlas 2, a valid RaceSense license is required to participate in RaceSense managed regattas. 
 
a. Exclusive to the Star Class, Vakaros is offering paid ISCYRA members a, one time, 50% discount on the Annual RaceSense Pass purchases from April 1st to June 1st, 2025. During this promotional window, eligible Star Class members can purchase their Annual RaceSense Pass for $75.00 USD for the year.
b. Competitors who choose not to purchase an Annual Pass have the option to purchase a RaceSense Monthly Pass for $50.00 USD, as needed.
 

To access these discounts, please fill out the following form: VAKAROS Discount Form Request

Webinars
Additionally, Vakaros will conduct two (2) webinars, exclusive to ISCYRA members planned for Tuesday Apr 22

1st webinar 1800 CET (EU central); 1200 EST, 1300 SoAm, 0900 PST
2nd webinar 2000 EST, 2100 SoAm, 1700 PST, 0200 CET (April 23)
 
Please contact support@vakaros.com to take advantage of these limited time offers.


Vakaros website:
https://vakaros.com/
2025 Star World Championship Website:
https://worlds.starchampionships.org/

We would like to thank MARITIME PARTNERS for being the Title Sponsor, allowing us to spoil the competitors.
Vakarous’s RaceSence will be used for 2025 event!! All boats will need an Atlas 2. Rentals are available for ($105 for the event). CLICK HERE
- The Pass Christian Sailing Foundation has agreed to donate $500 to the winner’s charity of choice!
- Dinner are included on Tuesday, Wednesday SHAGGY’s Bar & Grill, Thursday, and Saturday nights.
- Breakfast is included on race days 8:30am-10am
- Lunch/Sandwich Station set up from 9am-10am on race days for sailors & RC to pack a lunch for no additional fee.
- Free beer around the hoist after racing during protest time.
- Gorgeous awards and trophies.
-G&B Ropes will be giving either a mainsheet or jibsheet for the team placing 5th-10th Overall!

Results of Fleet Ballots of 2025 or 2026 resolutions:

Resolution #1 - Olympic
For: 346
Against: 0

Resolution #2 - U30 
For: 172
Against: 174

2025 ISCYRA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
5 September 2025

1700

Split, Croatia
Restaurant Velum

AGENDA

1. Call to Order, Paul Cayard, ad-interim President
2. Reading of the minutes from the 2024 Annual General Meeting
3. Reports of the ISCYRA Officers
4. Ratification and Revocation of fleet charters
        List to be posted on the Star Class website by Aug 4
5. Unfinished Business
6. Proposed Resolutions
7. Other new business and open discussion concerning subjects of interest
8. Remembering Star Sailors Passed
9. Adjournment

The Central Office is now accepting Resolution proposals for the 2025 for 2026 year. Resolutions are due to the Star Class office no later than May 5, 2025. 

Resolutions will then be posted no later than July 22, 2025, in accordance with the STCR.

The Annual General Meeting will be held Friday, September 5, 2025, at the World Championships in Split, Croatia

The Pass Christian Yacht Club would like to invite the
International Star Class and it’s sailors to come
compete in the Mississippi Sound. The city has a deep
history of boating and was the birthplace to yachting
in the South. The Membership is honored that the Star
Class has chosen PCYC to host the 2025 MARITIME
PARTNERS Star Class North American
Championship April 8th-12th, 2025. We would like to
thank MARITIME PARTNERS for being the Title
Sponsor allowing us to spoil the competitors.
The Sailing Committee has been working and
preparing for months to get everything ready for our
quests. Shannon Bush will serve as the Principal Race
Officer and Cliff Black will be the Chief Judge.
Vakaros’s RaceSence will be used for 2025 event!! All
boats will need an Atlas 2. Rentals are available for
($10 a day).
There are many options when looking for a place to
stay along the coast for the event. There are two small
boutiques in the Pass along with AirBnB’s all along
the coast.

On a day where every gust mattered and every tack counted, Biscayne Bay transformed the light-air finale into a masterclass of precision and teamwork. With the 6-10 knot breeze whispering across the water, the fleet faced postponements and shifting conditions, turning the racecourse into a stage for tactical brilliance
 
The 98^th Bacardi Cup fleet was a who’s-who of sailing greatness, featuring six former Bacardi Cup winners, eleven Star World Champions and a host of Star Class legends. Consistency across six races was a monumental task, but Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada rose to the occasion once again, defending their title and securing an incredible sixth consecutive victory with a race to spare.

The 98^th Bacardi Cup and Bacardi Cup Invitational Regatta made history, with a record-breaking entry uniting over 600 sailors across 200 teams to compete for some of sailing’s most coveted titles. The event concluded in style with a spectacular prize-giving at Shake a Leg Miami, followed by the legendary Bacardi after-party.
 
The sense of being part of something special is palpable, as this jewel in the sailing calendar draws teams back year after year with its unique blend of world-class racing and unforgettable camaraderie. Save the date and come sail with us from March 1-7, 2026.

98^th Bacardi Cup
The desire to win amongst the world’s best makes the Bacardi Cup an annual pilgrimage. This year, 65 Star teams made the journey to Miami, where since 1962 the Coral Reef Yacht Club has proudly hosted the event. 
 
Winning the Bacardi Cup is an ultimate ambition for Star sailors - a rare achievement that is open to all but attained by only a few. The Bacardi Cup exudes an air of relaxed camaraderie, yet out on the race track lies a battlefield where only the extraordinary prevail. Victory is never promised, and the leaderboard stands as a testament to unmatched skill and perseverance.
 
Yet, once again, Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada defended their title, securing an incredible sixth consecutive win. By the end of Friday’s race 5, the duo had already clinched victory, as a remarkable comeback through the fleet to finish in second place left them with an unassailable scorecard. With a 5th-place discard, their total score would only rise to 12 points whatever their result from today’s final race, making it mathematically impossible for Paul Cayard/Frithjof Kleen to catch them. Out of respect for the event and their fellow sailors, Kusznierewicz/Prada sailed the final race, finishing 19^thwhile staying clear of the front-runners.
 
With the title out of reach, Cayard/Kleen shifted focus to defending their second place. The podium battle would be intense, with just 6 points separating the teams in second through fourth. The race 6 showdown was set between Cayard/Kleen, Will Stout/Danny Cayard, Eric Doyle/Payson Infelise, and Jack Jennings/Pedro Trouche.
In a riveting race, Cayard/Kleen fell out of contention early, slipping through the pack. At the finish, Doyle/Infelise and Jennings/Trouche were neck and neck, vying for second overall. Jennings/Trouche needed at least one boat between themselves and Doyle/Infelise to move up but couldn’t manage it, settling for third overall as they crossed the finish line in 3^rd just ahead of their rivals in fourth. Doyle/Infelise claimed second overall, while Stout/Cayard ended the regatta in fourth, with Cayard/Kleen rounding out the top five.
 
Following tradition, Eddie Cutillas of Bacardi was at the finish line to congratulate Kusznierewicz/Prada. Later at the prize giving, amidst huge applause, the champions celebrated their remarkable achievement by sipping Bacardi rum from the iconic Bacardi Cup Trophy and Tito Bacardi Cup. 
 
Kusznierewicz/Prada have forged a genius and formidable team to remain as custodians of the Bacardi Cup Trophy and Tito Bacardi Cup for six successive years: 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025. They first made history in 2023, as the only same-crew team to win five consecutive times and have now reset the history books again. They will however need to add another three titles to their trophy cabinet to match the eight titles achieved by James ‘Ding’ Schoonmaker. 
 
A bit overwhelmed after their win, Kusznierewicz said, “I’m still trying to get this win into myself. I still can’t believe we made it. It’s every time a different regatta, every time we have like a fresh approach, but now it comes to me that we did something unbelievable. Six years in a row to sail so well, especially that the fleet is so strong and every year is a little bit different game. It’s amazing, I still don’t feel it.”
 
“It’s an outstanding thing,” added Prada. “Not to win six Bacardi’s, but six in a row. It is not normal in the Star Class that this happens. Since I started sailing Star, I never saw this before. We have a program to develop equipment and sailing and everything with Augie, and I think this make a big difference.”
 
They make winning the Bacardi Cup look effortless, but Kusznierewicz assures it is anything but, saying, “Trust me it’s not easy. We left everything on the racecourse. It’s amazing how tired we are. It’s full concentration, it’s feeling the wind, analysing everything. Before the race we spent hours on discussion and analysing the weather forecast, the settings, our notes, what other people were doing. It is hours, days, weeks or months of preparation. This is the sport on the highest performance level, and this is how we approach this. We just spoke after finishing that it was one of the toughest Bacardi Cups for us physically.”
 
Kusznierewicz also shared some words of wisdom from his idol John Bertrand, which still inspire him, noting, “His way of approaching life and the key to longevity is ‘someone to love, something interesting to do and something to look forward to’, and I think together with Bruno, we’ve got it also in our lives.”
 
The U30 Bacardi Cup continues to nurture the next generation of talent, with ten U30 teams competing this year. Top U30 finishers Nick Heuwinkel/Jesper Spehr (23^rd overall), along with champions Kusznierewicz/Prada, will receive Bacardi’s support to compete at the Star Class Worlds in Croatia, from September 5-13, 2025. 

Final Star Results - Top 3 
1. Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada (POL 8602) - 12pts
2. Eric Doyle/Payson Infelise (USA 8580) – 20 pts
3. Jack Jennings/Pedro Trouche (USA 8464) - 21 pts
 
Prizes were also presented to the category winners:
U30 (skipper under 30) - Nick Heuwinkel/Jesper Spehr
Master (skippers aged 50 through 59) - Eric Doyle/Payson Infelise
Grand Master (skippers aged 60+) - Paul Cayard/Frithjof Kleen
Exalted Grand Master (skippers aged 70+) - Augie Diaz/Tudor Bilic
Tammy Rubin-Rice Trophy - Hubert Merkelbach/Christian Nehammer

On the penultimate day of racing at the 98^th Bacardi Cup and Bacardi Invitational Regatta, Biscayne Bay demonstrated all the reasons why sailing is a thinking person’s sport. With light and shifty breezes, both teams and the Race Committee were kept on their toes.
 
The Race Committee made an early decision to postpone all fleets ashore as they waited for the wind to fill in. Today separated the best from the rest, requiring a lot of transitions in response to the changing breeze. Perfectly executed team plays saw the frontrunners working together to dominate the course, while across all fleets new teams staked their names on the race wins.

98^th Bacardi Cup
After four attempts to start race 5 for the Star, each of which had to be postponed as the wind kept shifting up to 50 degrees, racing got underway on attempt number five.
 
All eyes were on the five-time defending Champions Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada and their closest rivals Paul Cayard/Frithjof Kleen, the only team realistically capable of challenging. Upwind both teams headed to the right, with Kusznierewicz/Prada holding a slight edge over Cayard/Kleen. However, neither team was at the front of the pack, with both sitting in the mid-teens at this stage.
 
A performance pedigree as deep as that of Kusznierewicz/Prada ensures they are always the ones to beat. Whatever position they find themselves in, they have an extraordinary ability to make gains. On the left on the first downwind, they took a roll of the dice, becoming the first boat to gybe. Boat by boat chipped their way through the fleet, delivering another masterclass to claw back and secure a second-place finish. Their unstoppable performance has secured them mathematical victory at the 98th Bacardi Cup with a race to spare. 
 
Commenting on their strategy to stay focused with the repeated starts, Prada explained, “We already had four good races, so we did not feel that much pressure today, as we still had today and tomorrow to do good results. We have a lot of experience, and we are used to being in this situation.”
 
Kusznierewicz explained, “We also reset. For one minute we take the pressure off, just quiet on the boat, with Bruno and I just in our own world. Then building towards the new start, looking what settings, where to start, what the wind is going to do. So, you are resetting and building again, resetting and building.”

Commenting on their tactics, Kusznierewicz continued, “We knew this is going to be a long race. So, we pass a couple of boats the first downwind, we pass I think five boats second upwind. Then I think we passed four boats the last downwind. With this kind of mindset you know that maybe on the beginning it is not going your way, but you’re looking for every opportunity to catch here, catch here. We enjoyed it,”
 
Whilst Kusznierewicz/Prada surged ahead, Cayard/Kleen did the opposite, ultimately crossing the line in 28^th. “Obviously we had a bad day today, a terrible day,” admitted a disappointed Cayard.
 
Cayard’s son Danny, crewing for Will Stout, claimed the race win to secure their place in the final battle for a podium finish.
 
The leaderboard top five have separated themselves from the rest of the fleet. It all comes down to Saturday’s race 6 to determine which two teams from the chasing pack of four will join the champions Kusznierewicz/Prada on the podium. Cayard/Kleen, Stout/Cayard, Eric Doyle/Payson Infelise and Jack Jennings/Pedro Trouche are separated by just 6 points.
 
Provisional Results - Top 3 after Race 5
1. Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada (POL 8587) - 7 pts
2. Paul Cayard/Frithjof Kleen (USA 8550) - 12 pts
3. Will Stout/Danny Cayard (USA 8538) - 13 pts

Over six hundred sailors in more than 200 boats and representing 24 countries took to the water across four race courses off Miami today. The Melges 24, J/70, Snipe, Viper 640 and VX One classes joined the Star fleet for the Bacardi Invitational Regatta, in a spectacular showcase of international sailing talent. 
 
On the water it was a fantastic sight with boats filling Biscayne Bay. Shoreside you couldn’t walk down the dock without rubbing shoulders with Olympians, World Champions, America’s Cup sailors and some of the sport’s greatest names from around the world. Biscayne Bay served up wind, sun and perfect planning conditions. It was a day of dial shifting, as teams changed tempo to adapt to the variable pressure. 
 
Nailing a win in race 4 of the Bacardi Cup, Paul Cayard/Frithjof Kleen edge closer to series leaders and defending champions Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada. Some phenomenal performances in the other classes saw plenty of contenders go full stretch to establish themselves on the leaderboard. Notable was a hat trick from Ernesto Rodriguez/Taylor Scheuermann in the Snipe.
 
After racing, it was time to soak up the atmosphere shoreside accompanied by Bacardi’s renowned hospitality. The event dances to a serious and fun tune, blending world-class racing, lively parties and a unique lifestyle experience, in celebration of the spirit of sailing. 
 
Racing continues on Friday, March 7, with the first starts scheduled for 1200 hrs.

98^th Bacardi Cup
The leaderboard tightened as Cayard/Kleen claimed victory in Race 4, narrowing the gap to just 2 points behind series leaders Mateusz Kusznierewicz and Bruno Prada.
 
As the battle for supremacy intensifies, Cayard/Kleen have positioned themselves as the favourites to overhaul Kusznierewicz/Prada. The defending champions have an insatiable desire to win, but it is never an easy ride to win the Bacardi Cup.
 
Cayard/Kleen were delighted to get a win, adding to an already impressive scorecard of 4,3,4,1. They astutely interpreted the super tricky 10-12 knot breeze and big shifts. Cayard described the day’s racing as a test of skill and adaptability, with "north-west winds, which are common and very, very shifty." Reflecting on their strategy, he admitted, "We started a little too far to the right, so we had to work the right side on the first beat and take our opportunities to get back with the boats on the left, which were the leaders."
 
Despite the early challenge, Cayard/Kleen stayed focused. "We just sailed the shifts pretty much the whole race,"Cayard added, "and we were fortunate enough to work our way back up to the front. We were pretty happy with the day."
 
A special father/son moment unfolded as Paul found himself in a battle to the finish with his son Danny, racing with Will Stout. The race culminated in a nail-biter, with Cayard/Kleen beating Stout/Cayard by about a foot.
 
For Danny, the Bacardi Cup has been a special experience, not just for the racing but for the chance to compete alongside his father. “I don’t know what else you could ask for here at the Bacardi with the wind and the shifts and the close competition,” he said. “For me to be able to race against my dad so close, it’s just been amazing. Looking forward to two more.”
 
Third to Eric Doyle/Payson Infelise, with Jack Jennings/Pedro Trouche finishing in fourth.
 
Provisional Results - Top 3 after Race 5
1. Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada (POL 8587) - 10 pts
2. Paul Cayard/Frithjof Kleen (USA 8550) - 12 pts
3. Jack Jennings/Pedro Trouche (USA 8464) - 23 pts

Thank you to our sponsors and supporters play a vital role in making this week unforgettable: North Sails, Nautical Ventures, Mr.C Miami, Sail 22, Team One Newport, Hatuey, Gill, Think Inflatables, Tuuci, and Harken Derm are all integral to enhancing the event experience.  
 
The 98th Bacardi Cup and BCIR are organized in collaboration with our club partners: Coral Reef Yacht Club, Shake-A-Leg Miami, Biscayne Bay Yacht Club, Coconut Grove Sailing Club, the US Sailing Center, and Dinner Key Marina.

March 5, 2025 - Miami, Fl. USA - Day 3 at the 98^th Bacardi Cup delivered another stunning show, with a consistent 15-20 knots southerly breeze across Biscayne Bay. Jack Jennings and Pedro Trouche claimed a decisive victory, showcasing tactical mastery and flawless execution.
 
Spotting a crucial wind-shift two minutes before the start, Jennings/Trouche positioned themselves strategically a few boats in from the pin end. Launching off the line with superb speed, they executed a bold port-tack, crossing the fleet to head right upwind. Their move secured them a convincing lead, which they held from start to finish.
 
“We got a little lucky,” commented Jennings. “There was some open space on the line near the favoured end and we got there early to check both sides and figured out the wind was in a left phase, so it was a pretty good advantage on the left-hand side.”

Jennings/Trouche opted to tack relatively early, spurred on by Will Stout/Danny Cayard shouting for them to make the move. In contrast to Monday’s shifty conditions, which demanded countless tacks, only two were needed to reach the windward mark. Jennings/Trouche nailed a perfect rounding, with Stout/Cayard chasing in second, followed by Peter Bromby/Mark Strube rounding third after their strong pin end start.
 
Jennings, a veteran of over twelve Bacardi Cups appearances, is competing in his fourth event with Trouche. Reflecting on the performance, he remained cautiously optimistic, saying, “We have won races at Bacardi before. One year, in 2022, we won two races, and we are going to be happy about this. But for us it is about the series result. We have got to stay consistent, there is a lot of regatta left.”
 
The pair has been training in Miami in January, as Jennings explained, “This is definitely the pinnacle, so this is what we shoot for every year. The race course being long and the breeze being up like this, that is what we love.”
 
Trouche, who is fresh off winning the 2024 Star South American Championship with Paul Cayard, highlighted the synergy he has with Jennings, adding, “We got a lot of synch, especially on the downwind. We train a lot in the Finn against each other, so this really helps to know exactly what the boat needs and what we need to do to keep the boat on a nice flow.”

A phenomenal second place finish from the 2024 Star World silver medallists, Will Stout/Danny Cayard. The conditions so far, Stout has described as the windiest they have sailed together. Describing the racing, Stout explained, “The shifts were relatively small, so it was really kind of a boat speed day, clear lanes and get out and go.” 
 
They also spotted the left shift, starting just to leeward of Jennings/Trouche, and tacked soon after the start. “It was a long port grind all the way to the right corner. It was forever,” continued Stout. 
 
Reflecting on how he felt seeing the series leaders behind them, Stout laughed, “I think that is what everyone is trying to do right now! Obviously, Mateusz is sailing quite well and has throughout history, so we are just trying to watch and continue to learn from him. We are still relatively new in the class, and Danny and I just started sailing together at the Worlds.”
 
The duo secured an impressive second-place finish at the 2024 Star Worlds, marking a milestone achievement for Danny Cayard, who carries on the legacy as a third-generation Star sailor.
 
Paul Cayard/Frithjof Kleen finished fourth, holding their second place on the leaderboard and within striking distance of series leaders Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada, who took third. Cayard, the reigning South American, and North American Champion with son Danny, continues his quest for the Bacardi Cup title which has so far eluded him.

Croatia’s Marin Misura/Tonko Barac climbed into the top 10, with a fifth-place finish. In twenty-second overall, Germany’s Nick Heuwinkel/Jesper Spehr lead the U30 fleet in their Bacardi Cup debut. 
 
Race 4 is scheduled to start at 1200 hrs on Thursday, with the series discard set to shake up the leaderboard after Friday’s race five.
 
Provisional Results - Top 10 after Race 3
1. Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada (POL 8587) - 5 pts
2. Paul Cayard/Frithjof Kleen (USA 8550) - 11 pts
3. Jack Jennings/Pedro Trouche (USA 8464) - 19 pts
4. Eric Doyle/Payson Infelise (USA 8580) - 21 pts
5. Will Stout/Danny Cayard (USA 8538) - 22 pts
6. Hubert Merkelbach/Christian Nehammer (GER 8446) - 22 pts
7. Marin Misura/Tonko Barac (CRO 8531) - 28 pts
8. Piet Eckert/Frederico Melo (SUI 8599) - 34 pts
9. Leandro Altolaguirre/Lucas Altolaguirre (ARG 8565) - 37 pts
10. Peter O’Leary/Joost Houweling (IRL 8465) - 38 pts

 

March 4, 2025 - Miami, Fl. USA - On day two of the 98th Bacardi Cup, the pressure mounted on Biscayne Bay, as strong winds swept across the water, prompting a postponement ashore. 
 
Racing got underway at 1400 hours, with the fleet greeted by demanding yet thrilling conditions. A big breeze of 20 knots, big waves and a powerful swell combined for an epic day on the bay.
 
Sailing a Star in 20 knots of breeze is difficult and the two-hour race tested both skill and endurance. The top teams, who found the balance and the sweet spot with all the boat’s settings, demonstrated the difference between them and the rest. Five-time defending champions Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada delivered another masterclass, dominating from start to finish and solidifying their reputation as the team to beat.
 
Experience proved decisive as Kusznierewicz/Prada showcased they are masters of all conditions. They burst off the start line with precision, five boats down from the committee boat and ready to execute their game plan. While Croatia’s Marin Misura/Tonko Barac owned the best start, it was Kusznierewicz/Prada who methodically extended their lead up the first leg and beyond, to claim their second win.

The 98th Bacardi Cup, held from March 3-8, 2025, kicked off in spectacular fashion, living up to its reputation. With sixty-five Star teams competing, the opening day delivered thrilling action and set the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable week of racing.
 
A steady easterly breeze of 11-13 knots provided perfect conditions for the opener. Defending champions and five-time winners Mateusz Kusznierewicz and Bruno Prada need no introduction. Once again, they proved their dominance, applying relentless pressure on the fleet. In a nail-biting finish, they clinched victory in the final meters by the narrowest of margins, edging out John Dane III/Markus Koy.

The day’s racing began with a general recall, and on the second start Piet Eckert/Frederico Melo seized the early advantage. Making a notable return to Biscayne Bay, after more than a decade-long absence, was Bermuda’s Peter Bromby, a three-time Bacardi Cup champion (2009, 2003, 2001), sailing with Mark Strube, the 2005 winner. They closely tailed Eckert/Melo upwind, while Kusznierewicz/Prada steadily worked their way into contention.
 
Eckert/Melo rounded the windward mark in the lead, but their advantage was short-lived as Dane/Koy executed a perfect move to take control of the fleet. Kusznierewicz/Prada also edged through, to sit right behind in second place as they headed downwind. The shifty conditions rewarded those who could make gains by playing the puffs.
 
Through the gate and back upwind, Dane/Koy and Kusznierewicz/Prada approached from opposite tacks. Dane/Koy crossed Kusznierewicz/Prada, with the two rounding the windward mark in that order. Eric Doyle/Payson Infelise, the 2019 Bacardi Cup champions, held third place, while Eckert/Melo slipped to fourth, followed by Paul Cayard/Frithjof Kleen in fifth.

The final downwind leg delivered intense drama as Dane/Koy initially held a comfortable lead and a massive duel unfolded. However, Kusznierewicz/Prada showcased their exceptional downwind dynamics to gradually reel them in inch by inch and close the gap. In a nail-biting finish, the two boats were neck-and-neck with just 200 metres to go. When it mattered most, Kusznierewicz/Prada edged ahead to claim victory by just a few boat lengths. 

“It was ‘Bacardi’ conditions on Biscayne Bay,” commented Kusznierewicz. “We didn’t actually start too well but played our game, and the goal was not to be too behind on the first top mark.
 
“We had a plan, but the only thing we didn’t know was there was going to be so much tacking! I think we did about forty tacks because of the wind shifts. Normally here you can end up with 4 tacks the whole race! So, it was quite exhausting!
 
“It was a fight with John Dane and Markus Koy. We had to really give it. I can sleep well today!”
 
With only marginal gains to be made upwind, their superior downwind speed was pivotal to success. Kusznierewicz steered the boat with just his fingers to minimise movement on the rudder, whilst they played the boat to catch the waves. “It is like dancing,” he explained.
 
Second to Dane/Koy, who held onto first or second throughout the race, and third to Doyle/Infelise. Dane/Koy clearly demonstrated the potential for them and others to challenge and possibly unseat Kusznierewicz/Prada.
 
“We had a very good first day. It was windy and we are one of the heavier crews,” said Dane. “You can’t ask for a better sail here on Biscayne Bay. I love doing the winter down here, I just love sailing here.”

Dane won the 2006 Bacardi Cup, and most recently finished 14^th in 2024. Dane was equally pleased that their training partners, Doyle/Infelise, who finished third, almost caught the leading two downwind. Doyle first sailed with Dane when he was twelve years old, so they enjoy a long-standing friendship. 
 
“It was as good as it gets on Biscayne Bay,” said Doyle. “It was shifty, a really hard fleet, with everyone coming from every direction and it was great. The Bacardi Cup is the big draw to bring everyone here in the winter – it’s fantastic. Now it’s time to enjoy some nice Bacardi cocktails!”
 
Leading the ten U30 teams are Roman Stelzl/Pirmin Sablatnig in twenty-second overall.
 
The fleet extends their heartfelt thanks to the Mr. C Miami Coconut Grove Hotel for hosting a truly special cocktail party after racing for the Star Class teams. The evening was an unforgettable experience for all.
 
Racing continues on Tuesday, March 4, with racing scheduled to start at midday.

Provisional Results – Top 10 after Race 1
1. Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada (POL 8587) - 1 pt
2. John Dane III/Markus Koy (USA 8504) - 2 pts
3. Eric Doyle/Payson Infelise (USA 8580) - 3 pts
4. Paul Cayard/Frithjof Kleen (USA 8550) - 4 pts
5. Piet Eckert/Frederico Melo (SUI 8599) - 5 pts
6. John MacCausland/Samuel Gonzalez (USA 8448) - 6 pts
7. Hubert Merkelbach/Christian Nehammer (GER 8446) - 7 pts
8. John Loe/Phil Trinter (USA 8481) - 8 pts
9. Leandro Altolaguirre/Lucas Altolaguirre (ARG 8565) - 9 pts
10. Peter Bromby/Mark Strube (BER 8317) - 10 pts

Thank you to our sponsors and supporters play a vital role in making this week unforgettable: North Sails, Nautical Ventures, Mr.C Miami, Sail 22, Team One Newport, Hatuey, Gill, Think Inflatables, Tuuci, and Harken Derm are all integral to enhancing the event experience.  
 
The 98th Bacardi Cup and BCIR are organized in collaboration with our club partners: Coral Reef Yacht Club, Shake-A-Leg Miami, Biscayne Bay Yacht Club, Coconut Grove Sailing Club, the US Sailing Center, and Dinner Key Marina.

The 98th Bacardi Cup and 2025 Bacardi Invitational Regatta (BCIR), taking place from March 2-8, 2025, will set a new benchmark with a record-breaking entry list.
 

As the sailing world converges on Biscayne Bay once more, the 98th Bacardi Cup and BCIR are gearing up to host an even larger and more diverse fleet than ever before, solidifying their reputation as two of the most prestigious events on the global sailing stage. Building on the record-breaking success of the 2024 edition, the 98th Bacardi Cup and 2025 BCIR are already poised to shatter expectations, with over 210 entries representing twenty-six nations on the provisional entry list – a testament to their enduring appeal and growing legacy.
 

Racing kicks off on March 3, with the 98th Bacardi Cup for the Star Class, followed by the J/70, Melges 24, Snipe, Viper 640 and VX One classes, who open their three-day regatta on March 6.
 

“We are super proud of the record-breaking level of entries, the largest ever gathered in Miami,” said Eddie Cutillas of Bacardi USA. “To our returning sailors, welcome back - we are excited to have you here once again. And to those joining us for the first time, we are delighted to see the word spreading about what makes this event so special. We hope this is just the beginning of your journey with us.

“The Bacardi Cup and BCIR are a celebration of sailing excellence, camaraderie, and, let’s be honest, a whole lot of fun. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a first-time participant, or a passionate spectator, Miami welcomes you with open arms. This is where champions come to sail, and we are proud to see the regatta’s legacy continue to grow.”
 

The event brings together a unique blend of sailing legends, Olympians, World Champions, and amateurs, all drawn to the world-class competition and challenge of racing on Biscayne Bay. Off the water the magic continues, as the legendary Bacardi hospitality takes center stage post-race, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of friendship and celebration. The event is as much about camaraderie as it is about competition.

98th Bacardi Cup: A Star-studded showdown

The Bacardi Cup, a cornerstone of sailing excellence since 1927, will once again showcase the legendary Star Class, with nearly seventy entries representing sixteen nations set to compete. Racing gets underway at 12:00 hours on March 3, featuring one daily long-distance race throughout the six-day series.

Last year’s Bacardi Cup reached new heights as Mateusz Kusznierewicz and Bruno Prada clinched their historic fifth consecutive victory, cementing their legacy as one of the most dominant teams in the event’s storied history. As they return to defend their title at the 98th edition, the stakes have never been higher.
 

The 2025 Bacardi Cup promises thrilling battles between sailing legends and a new generation of talent. Defending champions Kusznierewicz and Prada will face fierce competition from past winners, including Eric Doyle and Payson Infelise, as well as Frithjof Kleen who teams up with Paul Cayard. While Cayard boasts a Star Worlds title, the elusive Bacardi Cup victory remains a coveted prize for the sailing icon.
 

A host of top international Star teams will be in the mix, including Piet Eckert and Frederico Melo from Switzerland, Peter O'Leary and Stephen Milne from Ireland, and Jørgen Schönherr and Markus Koy of Germany. They will go head-to-head with former Star World Champions, including Augie Diaz and John MacCausland.
 

These seasoned teams will be challenged by a wave of rising stars emerging from initiatives like the Bacardi Cup U30 Program. This groundbreaking initiative, designed to nurture young sailors through financial support and competitive opportunities, is already transforming the future of the Star Class. In 2025, ten U30 teams are poised to make their mark, adding an exciting dynamic to the regatta and ensuring the Bacardi Cup continues as a beacon of innovation and tradition in the sailing world. The Bacardi Cup U30 program operates in partnership with the Star Class and their Star Education and Access (SEA) program.

A Celebration of Sailing, Community and Tradition

Beyond the racing, the event is renowned for its vibrant social scene. Miami’s unique blend of glamour and laid-back charm provides the perfect setting for sailors to unwind and celebrate after a day on the water.  

At the heart of it all is Bacardi, whose unwavering support has made this regatta more than just a competition - it's a celebration of sailing, friendship, and shared passion. From legendary hospitality to unforgettable post-race gatherings, Bacardi’s legacy of bringing people together continues to define the event’s spirit.  
 

The regatta’s grand finale, the awards ceremony on Saturday, March 8, 2025, will honor the winners with coveted podium trophies and class prizes. But for many, the true reward is the camaraderie, the memories, and the chance to be part of a tradition that spans nearly a century. 
 

Our sponsors and supporters play a vital role in making this week unforgettable. North Sails will provide daily weather briefings, post-race debriefs , and sail repairs. Nautical Ventures will support our media team with dedicated ribs. Mr.C Miami, Sail 22, Team One Newport, Hatuey, Gill, Think Inflatables, Tuuci, and Harken Derm are also onsite and integral to enhancing the event experience.  
 

The 98th Bacardi Cup and BCIR are organized in collaboration with our club partners: Coral Reef Yacht Club, Shake-A-Leg Miami, Biscayne Bay Yacht Club, Coconut Grove Sailing Club, the US Sailing Center, and Dinner Key Marina.

March 13, 2025

Dear Star sailors,

We are in the final stretch of closing our fund for Rachele and her girls following the tragic death of their father and husband, Matteo, in January. Thanks to the generosity of 166 sailors from all nations and classes, a great match by the Sperry family last Thursday, we have raised $76,000 to date.
 

We need YOUR HELP to raise the final $24K to get to $100K. To make this easier, every dollar you donate between now and midnight on the 15^th, will have double the impact as it will be matched! The Parfet, Iverson, Saidelli and Cayard families will provide the $12K for this match..
 

DONATE HERE

Come on Star fleet, let’s get this done!

Paul Cayard

Dear Star Friends,

On January 12, 2025, our Star Class Communications Director, Rachele Vitello, tragically lost her husband, Matteo, in a skiing accident. This sudden loss was a shock to all those who knew Matteo and love his young family. Obviously, his loss is most devastating for Rachele and their two young daughters: Allegra, 14 and Carlotta, 12.

Rachele, who is a friend to all of us in the Star Class, is now a single mother with a lot of responsibility. While nothing will bring Matteo back, we can make an impactful gift for the future of his daughters. It would be a kind gesture for all of us, in the Star family, to consider a contribution for the higher education of Allegra and Carlotta.

Please join me by sending a check, wire, or using your credit card, to contribute to the Vitello Fund per the options below. Jerelyn will aggregate our contributions make one wire transfer, on behalf of all Star Class members, to Rachele on March 15th.

The Star Class is the greatest fraternity in Sailing. Now is the time to help one of our own. Thank you for your compassion and generosity!

Paul Cayard

• By Credit Card (see below)
• By Wire
• By Check: to ISCYRA, write Vitello Fund in the memo
  Mail to: ISCYRA 2812 Canon Street, San Diego, CA 92106 USA

Tom Londrigan, Sr age 87 passed away on January 28, 2025

Tom Londrigan Sr, started sailing Stars in 1967.  When he died, he and his family currently hold all the colors of the Class.  Son Joe Londrigan won gold on 1993, son Tom Londrigan, Jr won silver in 2011, Tom Sr. the Blue, late Son Pat the green star, and his late wife Carol had a red star.  

Thomas Foster Londrigan, 87, of Springfield, passed away on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at Villas Health Care East Nursing Home.

He was born in Springfield on May 10, 1937, the son of Joseph A. and Loretta (Foster) Londrigan. Tom married Carol Ann Fish on August 31, 1963.

Tom attended Hazel Dell Elementary School, Little Flower, and graduated from Cathedral Boys High School. Tom was an All-City football player at Cathedral. Tom attended the University of Notre Dame and was chosen as the first Captain of its inaugural varsity swim team. For reasons unknown, Tom took pride in removing the bust of Knute Rockne, a statue that was mounted at the swim team pool, the Rockne Memorial, known as the "Rock". Tom hid the bust of Rockne in the bathroom stall, snuck in later and placed it on the second story windowsill of the President of the University, Father Thomas Hesburgh. To this day, the Rockne statue is bolted to the building. He later graduated from University of Notre Dame and earned his Juris Doctorate degree from University of Illinois.

After graduation, Tom joined the Air National Guard and was assigned to the kitchen. When the Navy offered him an officer's commission in the Judge Advocate General's Office, he happily accepted the move into the courtroom. He served in the Navy Reserves from 1962 to 1980, rising to the rank of Commander.

Tom met Carol, his future wife, when she returned to campaign for her boss in Washington DC, Congressman Peter Mack. Carol never went back to Washington DC. The couple married at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in 1963.

Tom worked as an Assistant United States Attorney for Robert Kennedy's Department of Justice, and later worked with his father's firm of Londrigan and Londrigan before striking out to create his own firm, Londrigan and Potter, later known as Londrigan Potter and Randle P.C. Tom was a litigator and was a former president of the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association. Tom was known to take very difficult cases to trial. He stood and fought for people that needed a champion. His spirit is best exemplified when he won a landmark verdict for families in Taylorville that were exposed to environmental carcinogens.

He was a member of Knights of Columbus, YMCA, the Lincoln Memorial Gardens, the International Star Class Yacht Racing, and Island Bay Yacht Club. He was also a faithful member of Catholic Church of St. Jude in Rochester as well as Church of the Little Flower in Springfield. Tom enjoyed sailing, skiing, and flying. He has won the Great Lakes Championship in the Star Class, and he was most proud of his 2012 win of the Chicago to Mackinac Race.

Tom was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Carol was the love of his life, and his family bore witness to that love in action through decades of serenades, trips around the dance floor, adventures to far-flung places and, when she needed him the most, caretaker. As a father, Tom held strict standards and great pride in his children's achievements. Whether it was the Londrigan Annual Fishing Tournament, sleigh rides through the snow or family trips, Tom loved to create special memories for his grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Carol; son, Patrick Joseph Londrigan; and brother, Michael Londrigan.

Tom is survived by his sons, Joseph P. (Amanda) and Thomas (Betsy) Londrigan, Jr., both of Springfield; daughter, Genevieve Turner of Springfield; grandchildren, Wesley (Kayla) Copelin, Dylan, Jack, Tori, William, Kathryn, Haley and Ali Londrigan, Scarlett Turner; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Memorial Gathering: Family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Friday, February 14, 2025, at Butler Funeral Home- Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. The gathering will begin with a prayer service.

Mass of Christian Burial: 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 1725 S. Walnut St., Springfield, with Father Michael Friedel officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Lincoln Memorial Gardens.

Burial will be held at Oak Ridge Cemetery.

With a heavy heart, but confident that she is now once again sailing in a beautiful place, we mourn the passing of Mrs. Christa Lux (Kastinger).

In the 1950s, when ladies sailing the Star were rare, she was already crewing for her father, Max Kastinger. As a skipper, she sailed her Star until the new millennium and maintained a lifelong friendship with the boat and the class, both in Europe and in the US. Countless pictures and reports inside the Starlogs of the last decades are a prove to her strong transatlantic connection. Christa was Attersee’s “Fleetmom,” with a heart bigger than a house for “her” Stars.

We will miss her serving welcome snacks at every Star regatta, taking pictures at the prize givings, and writing in the club’s guestbook.

Thanks for everything, Christa!

In honorable memory of you, and of everything you have been for the Star,
The Attersee Fleet

Club Nautico Versilia and Società Velica Viareggina welcome you to the 2025 Star Class European Championship. Club Nautico Versilia and Società Velica Viareggina are pleased to welcome you in Italy for the 2025 European Championship, an event that is organized, under the aegis of the FIV, together with the International Star Class Yacht Racing Association and Class sponsor G&B Ropes.

The Star Class, in fact, returns once again in Viareggio which hosts one of the most important Star Fleets in the world: the event will be ensured by seven regattas of the highest technical level that will take place on a race course considered optimal for the crews of this Class, and by collateral events on land designed to celebrate the spirit of competition and conviviality that has always characterized the Star Class.

CNV President Roberto Brunetti, SVV President Paolo Insom, ISCYRA Vice President Diego Negri, XIV District Secretary Massimo Canali, Assistant District Secretary Silvio Dell’Innocenti and CNV Sports Director Muzio Scacciati will work in synergy to guarantee you maximum assistance and hospitality, both at sea and on the shore, with the aim of making your stay in Versilia and participation in this 2025 European Championship, an unforgettable memory.

Alongside them will also be the local section of the LNI, the Municipality of Viareggio, iCare Viareggio Porto 2020, Navigo scarl, and the host Fleets - Viareggio, Perla della Versilia and Forte dei Marmi - who will collaborate with the Organizing Authorities.

Remembering that on the website https://euro.starchampionships.org/ you can find all the useful information. The registrations will close on May 10th, the Club Nautico Versilia and the Società Velica Viareggina will meet you from June 9th to 14th in Viareggio!

Il Club Nautico Versilia e la Società Velica Viareggina sono lieti di darvi il benvenuto in Italia in occasione del 2025 European Championship Star Class Open, evento che sarà organizzato, sotto l’egida della Fiv, insieme all’International Star Class Yacht Racing Association e al title sponsor G&B Ropes.  
La Star Class, infatti, torna ancora una volta a Viareggio che ospita una delle più importanti Flotte Star di tutto il mondo: lo spettacolo sarà assicurato da sette regate di altissimo livello tecnico che si svolgeranno in un campo di regata considerato ottimale dagli equipaggi di questa Classe, e da eventi collaterali a terra pensati per celebrare lo spirito di competizione e convivialità che da sempre caratterizza la Star Class. 
Il Presidente CNV Roberto Brunetti, della SVV Paolo Insom, il vice presidente ISCYRA Diego Negri, il Segretario del XIV Distretto (District Secretary) Massimo Canali, l’Assistant District Secretary Silvio Dell’Innocenti e il Direttore Sportivo CNV Muzio Scacciati lavoreranno in sinergia per garantirvi la massima assistenza e accoglienza, sia in mare che a terra, con l’obiettivo di rendere il vostro soggiorno in Versilia e la partecipazione a questo 2025 European Championship, un ricordo indimenticabile. 
A loro fianco anche la locale sezione della LNI, il Comune di Viareggio, iCare Viareggio Porto 2020, Navigo scarl, e le Flotte ospitanti - Viareggio, Perla della Versilia e Forte dei Marmi- che collaboreranno con le Autorità Organizzatrici. 
Ricordando che sul sito https://euro.starchampionships.org/ sarà possibile trovare tutte le informazioni utili e che le iscrizioni chiuderanno il 10 maggio, il Club Nautico Versilia e la Società Velica Viareggina vi danno appuntamento dal 9 al 14 giugno a Viareggio!

What’s New in the New Racing Rules for 2025-2028

Presented by Dave Perry
The Star SEA Program is sponsoring 2 90-minute sessions 

Save the Date:  Tuesday, January 28, 2025
 Reserve your spot at one of the sessions below:

held on Zoom

SESSION 1: Register here

SESSION 2: Register here

Dave will explain all the significant changes in the 2025-2028 Racing Rules of Sailing that go into effect on January 1, 2025. Dave welcomes questions from the audience throughout the presentation.
 

RESERVE YOUR SPOT NOW!

Read the latest issue here 

LISTEN TO RECORDED CALL

PASSCODE: 6f!8H9fs

Join President Paul Cayard as he leads another Town Hall for all Star Class members.

DATE CHANGED to accommodate various racing on Saturday in various parts of the Star world!
Meeting will be recorded for anyone unable to attend. See time change below

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11

8am Pacific Time
11am Eastern US
1pm BRA/ARG
4pm London
5pm Paris
6pm Helsinki

1. 2024 sailing season-short recap
2. 2024 financial and membership results.
3. 2025 Events
4. Youth movement-Bacardi and Sea-boats, mentors, clinic and round tables. Europe?  How can we help
5. Dues increase-strategy
6. Reminder: Dues and annual fleet meetings and reports in January.
7. Open session: Interesting topics to consider:

• Flat crew weight-200kgs
• Remove rocking limitation over 12 knots
• Crew on deck-standing prohibited.
• Starting line systems
• Worlds every other year
• Shorter world championship
• More frequent town halls?

ZOOM link

Three days of excellent conditions and impeccable organization by Club Náutico Olivos made for an unforgettable championship in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires, Argentina - November 23, 2024 – The 2024 Star South American Championship wrapped up in spectacular fashion at Club Náutico Olivos, with Paul Cayard (USA) and Pedro Trouche (BRA)claiming the title after three days of exhilarating and closely contested racing. The duo demonstrated their mastery of the challenging conditions and finished the championship with a well-deserved victory.

Coming in second were Lucas and Leandro Altolaguirre (ARG), who consistently delivered impressive performances throughout the regatta. Third place was secured by Fabian Mac Gowan and Nicolas Rosas (ARG), rounding off an excellent podium for the event.

Consistent Conditions Deliver Tight Racing

The final day of racing continued with the same steady wind conditions as previous days—16-20 knots from the same direction and accompanied by a steady current. These consistent conditions set the stage for another round of tight, tactical racing that thrilled competitors and spectators alike.

Club Náutico Olivos once again proved to be an outstanding host, offering world-class race management and warm hospitality. The Argentinian Star Class continues to impress with its efforts to grow the class and develop young sailing talent. Their commitment and passion for the sport ensured another successful championship, building on Argentina’s strong tradition in the Star fleet.

International Competition Highlights

The championship also highlighted the international appeal of the Star Class, with teams from Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, Brazil, and the USA joining a strong Argentine contingent. Among the notable international competitors were Dani Fritz (GER), an Under 30 sailor, and Giovanni Coppo (ITA) with crew Frithjof Kleen (GER). Coppo and Kleen showed great potential, frequently rounding the top mark in the top three positions. However, downwind challenges with their new boat revealed areas for improvement as they look ahead to future events.

A Bright Future for the Star Class

The 2024 Star South American Championship showcased not only the enduring appeal of this classic racing class but also the efforts of the Argentinian fleet to expand participation and develop the next generation of sailors. With a mix of seasoned champions like Paul Cayard and promising young talent, the event was a testament to the strength and vitality of the Star Class.

“We just finished the South American Championship 2024 here at the Yacht Club Olivos”, commented Paul Cayard, President of the International Star Class and newly crowned 2024 Star South American Champion. “Buenos Aires is a windy venue, you need a lot of power to beat the Altolaguirre brothers who are a very good local team, and we managed to do it. Pedro is obviously a strong young guy and I'm so grateful to him for crewing for me. The Argentinian fleet is very strong, we had over 30 boats with a lot of young people, they have Alberto Zanetti as a godfather, who's helping grow the fleet and building new boats for them. Star sailing is alive and well in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and I'm very happy I came down to see this and the whole Class can be happy about the quality of the sailing down here”.

Final top three:

1. Paul Cayard (USA) / Pedro Trouche (BRA)
2. Lucas Altolaguirre / Leandro Altolaguirre (ARG)
3. Fabian Mac Gowan / Nicolas Rosas (ARG)

Paul Cayard (USA) and Pedro Trouche (BRA) battling head to head with Lucas and Leandro Altolaguirre (ARG)
 

Buenos Aires, Argentina - November 22, 2024 – Day 2 of the Star South American Championship saw the fleet take on challenging yet exciting conditions in Buenos Aires. With winds blowing at 22-25 knots from 135° and choppy seas, the sailors were put to the test as they completed two intense races hosted by Club Náutico Olivos.

The first race of the day was claimed by Paul Cayard (USA) and his crew Pedro Trouche (BRA), who showcased their expertise and determination, finishing ahead of local favorites Lucas and Leandro Altolaguirre (ARG). However, the second race saw the Altolaguirre brothers strike back, crossing the finish line first, with Cayard and Trouche close behind in second.

After two days of racing and four total races, the provisional overall standings show Cayard and Trouche leading the fleet with 6 points, followed by the Altolaguirre brothers with 8 points. In third place, Fabian Mac Gowan and Nicolas Rosas (ARG) hold 14 points, keeping them in contention as the championship enters its final day tomorrow.

"It was a very tough day out there, a good battle in 22/24 knots, this Championship is proving to be a big challenge and we love it!", said Lucas Altolaguirre at the end of the day.

Provisional Overall Standings (after 4 races):

1. Paul Cayard (USA) / Pedro Trouche (BRA) – 6 points
2. Lucas and Leandro Altolaguirre (ARG) – 8 points
3. Fabian Mac Gowan / Nicolas Rosas (ARG) – 14 points

High Stakes for the Final Day

With just two races left in the championship and the discard coming into play, the battle for the title is heating up. Both Cayard and the Altolaguirre brothers have proven themselves to be the teams to beat, but the unpredictable conditions of Buenos Aires could play a decisive role in the outcome.

Paul Cayard, one of the most decorated sailors in the world and the current Star Class President, is demonstrating why he remains a formidable competitor. Meanwhile, the Altolaguirre brothers continue to impress with their consistent performances, leveraging their local knowledge and teamwork to challenge for the championship.

Looking Ahead

The final day of the Star South American Championship promises to be an intense showdown, with the top contenders vying for victory and others aiming to secure strong finishes. Racing will continue tomorrow at Club Náutico Olivos, where the South American champions will be crowned.

One of the best started his last voyage

Sad news on Wednesday evening,

Achim Griese passed away after illness close to his family in Hamburg.

During the 1980s Achim was one of the most successful Star sailors in the world. Achim and his crew Michael Marcour won Silver at the Olympic games in Los Angeles 1984, beating 1981 World Champions Alexander Hagen and Vincent Hoesch in the German qualification trials. In 1983 Achim and Michael ended 2nd in the European Championship in Kiel and in the Worlds in Los Angeles, later winning the Pre-Olympics.

Other top results include winning the Spring Europeans in Punta Ala 1985 or the Admirals Cup as helm of the Yacht “Outsider” from the German team.

Together with Michael again, Achim attended his last Star race, the ssl City Grand Prix 2015, on Lake Alster in his home club Norddeutscher Regatta Verein.

After his active career and until late Achim always showed his support as mentor, partner and sponsor for sailors from the NRV Olympic Team. This left a lasting legacy and many of Germanys young teams of the last decades are grateful for his backing.

Amongst other roles Achim in 2004 became responsible for Germanys high performance sailing during his voluntary service as chairman of the Olympic Sailing Council.

Achim Griese passed on Sunday November 17th, 2024, at the age of only 72 years but will forever be remembered by us Star Class sailors.

Rest in Peace, Achim

Buenos Aires, Argentina - November 21, 2024 – The 2024 Star South American Championship kicked off in spectacular fashion today, with two races completed under near-perfect, but challenging, sailing conditions. Organized by the Yacht Club Olivos in collaboration with the International Star Class, the event brought together some of the finest sailors in the world to compete in Buenos Aires.

The opening day delivered sunshine, a steady breeze, and thrilling competition. The wind started at 12-15 knots during the first race, building to 16-20 knots for the second, with a direction ranging from 130° to 145°. The choppy waters added an extra layer of challenge, testing the fleet's skills and endurance.

Both races had clear starts, showcasing the tight competition within the fleet. The first race was claimed by Paul Cayard (USA), partnered with Pedro Trouche (BRA). Cayard, the Star Class President and one of the most awarded and versatile sailors in the world, demonstrated he likes Rio de la Plata, where he won his Star World Championship back in 1988.

“We had a great day, Pedro and I, sailing together for the first time in about five years, it's fantastic to be teamed up with him again, he's a great partner and we borrowed this boat so we're working on it, and improving it and our speed seems pretty good” commented Paul Cayard with Pedro Trouche, provisional leaders after two races. “The winds and the current here are not straightforward, it's much trickier than I remember so it was challenging. In the first race we were 4th at the first mark, but we managed to pick our way through the leaders including the Altolaguirre brothers who are a very good team here from Rosario, not far from here, and the second race we had a bad start but could make our way back to 2^nd. So fantastic day for us for day one and a couple more days of this championship to go”.

The second race saw a victory for the local Argentine duo Leandro and Lucas Altolaguirre, who are surely among the ones to watch out for. The pair recently tied for second place on points, finishing third at the 2024 Star World Championship in San Diego this past September, confirming their status as top contenders.

The fleet remains incredibly tight, especially on top, with small margins separating the leaders, promising more exciting racing ahead.

Looking Ahead
The championship will continue tomorrow with two more races scheduled per day until Saturday, November 23, when the South American champions will be crowned. With excellent conditions expected to persist, the sailors and organizers are expecting a thrilling week of competition in Buenos Aires.

31 Teams Ready to Compete from November 20-23 on the Rio de Plata

Buenos Aires, Argentina - November 20, 2024 - The 2024 South American Championship is set to kick off in Buenos Aires, Argentina, from November 20 to 23, bringing together 31 teams from around the world. Hosted at the beautiful coastal venue in Buenos Aires, the championship will feature a strong representation from Argentina as well as international teams from Chile, the Netherlands, the United States, Italy, Croatia, Brazil, and Germany.

District 18 is excited to announce its support for U30 teams from other districts, offering competitive boats for use at no cost, complimentary accommodation, and a 50% discount on the registration fee. This initiative aims to foster greater participation and development within the sailing community by welcoming young, emerging talents from across the globe.

Event Schedule

The championship will begin with registration, measurements, and crew weigh-in on Wednesday, November 20, followed by the Opening Ceremony. Racing will commence tomorrow, Thursday November 21, with two races scheduled, starting with the first warning signal at 13:00, and so on until Saturday November 23 when the Prize Giving Ceremony will close the regatta. After each day of racing, a social event will provide an opportunity for competitors to connect and celebrate.

The championship promises three days of competitive racing, with each day offering two races designed to test skill, strategy, and endurance. The final day of competition will conclude with the awards ceremony, celebrating the achievements of the top-performing teams.

The 2024 South American Championship will reflect the vibrant sailing culture of Buenos Aires while fostering camaraderie and competition among sailors from across the region and beyond. The District 18 initiative to support U30 teams emphasizes the commitment to youth development and accessibility within the sport, contributing to a stronger and more diverse future for competitive sailing.

The 2024 ISCYRA ballot for 2025 officers & 1 resolution was emailed today to all voting members (current Active, Life & Isolated boat owners).

If you did not receive your electronic ballot and would like to receive a digital or hard copy, please contact the 2024 Ballot request immediately.   Ballots are due 10 December 2024.