Women’s Match Racing Championship Triumph

Victory in the Bay: A Remarkable Championship

The confidence and skills of women sailors shone brightly at the recent U.S. Women’s Match Racing Championship, where competition took place in San Francisco from August 15-17, 2025. Nicole Breault and her team, Vela Racing—which includes Hailey Thompson, Molly Vandemoer, and McKenzie Wilson—elevated their game to seize their fifth career victory using J/22s, showcasing exceptional performance through each round of the event.

Championship Summary

This year's championship proved to be a true test of skill and endurance against the dynamic backdrop of San Francisco Bay. The event kicked off with a series of qualifying matches, during which Breault's team remained invincible, advancing seamlessly through the quarterfinals and semifinals. The finals saw them face off against Lindsey Baab’s crew, ultimately claiming victory with a score of 3-1.

Challenging Conditions

The final match unfolded in challenging foggy conditions, coupled with powerful winds of 18-20 knots, making the competition even more intense. Despite the atmosphere, Breault expressed her love for sailing in San Francisco, emphasizing the high level of competition and her appreciation for the other teams' talents. "Competing here is exhilarating," she remarked. "There is so much growth and improvement among new teams each year." This sense of community within sailing not only showcases a commitment to excellence but also highlights the camaraderie among competitors.

Preparations Leading to the Championship

A significant aspect of their success is rooted in the teamwork and dedication shown throughout the training sessions leading up to the championship. Breault and Baab had been sparring partners, regularly engaging in "match race Mondays" at the St. Francis Yacht Club. These preparations included rigorous drills and debriefs that played a crucial role in honing their strategies and skills.

Looking Ahead: Embracing Global Challenges

With this victory, Breault and her team are set to take their momentum into the upcoming 2025 Women’s Match Racing World Championship at the Chicago Yacht Club. “We have conquered the nation, and now we are ready to take on the world,” deemed Breault, signaling her team’s aspirations and readiness for international competition.

The Community and the Venue

The St. Francis Yacht Club served as an exemplary host for the championship, providing an inspiring environment filled with accomplished teams from across the nation. After an action-packed day of quarterfinal and semifinal races, the stage was set for a thrilling finals showdown, embraced fully by the spectators eager to witness exemplary performances. The talented roster of all-women teams displayed resilience and determination throughout the event, reinforcing women's presence in competitive sailing.

Crowd Favorites and Results

In the petit finals for the third-place finish, Molly Carapiet and her crew faced off against Caroline Bayless and her team, ultimately clinching the victory with a 2-1 score against fierce competition.

Entry List:

• Lindsey Baab / Helen Lord / Kate Shiber / Elena VandenBerg – StFYC
• Caroline Bayless / Emma Montgomery / Nora Ong / Noelle Owen – AYC Foundation/Something Chill Yacht Club
• Allie Blecher / Ali Blumenthal / Beka Schiff / Katja Sertl – Team BAAM / California YC
• Nicole Breault / Hailey Thompson / Molly Vandemoer / McKenzie Wilson – Vela Racing / StFYC
• Molly Carapiet / Evan Cahill / Kate Gaumond / Megan Grimes – StFYC / SFYC
• Marilyn Cassedy / Carling Freeborn / Ellie Glenn / Megan Marsh – California YC
• Gwynie Dunlevy / Eva Fortunato / Whitney Kent / Marley Mais – CBYRA/AYCF
• Julia Jaynes / Liz Hopkins / Caroline Salas / Rochelle VanTil – Williwaw / Alamitos Bay YC
• Michelle Lahrkamp / Trish Gerli / Sammy Pickell / Ana Clare Sole – Stanford Sailing Alumnae
• Rebecca McElvain / Erika Barth / Lindsey Kloc / Julie Mitchell

Conclusion: Sailing’s Next Waves

The U.S. Women’s Match Racing Championship serves as a radiant reminder of the growth and perseverance inherent in the sailing community. Each event not only highlights individual victories but enriches the broader tapestry of competitive sailing. As sailors navigate exciting waters, this journey interweaves culture, personal growth, and unique experiences, mirroring the vibrant local flavors found in each destination.

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