I was fortunate to race in the inaugural Lightning Division at the Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta Series - Annapolis this past weekend. This marks the 3rd HHSW regatta series site the Lightning Class now participates in (St. Pete, Marblehead and now Annapolis). The final Lightning Class event in the HHSWRS is Marblehead July 24-27 at Marblehead Yacht Club - see you there!
But let's get back on topic, I wanted to share an excerpt of a social media post put out by the Sailing World Regatta Series.
PRESS RELEASE
The 2025 Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta Series in Annapolis was a thrilling debut for the Lightning Class, featuring 16 competitive teams and seven intense races over three days. David Starck, also the Lightning Class president, praised the event: "This was my first time doing the Helly Hansen Regattas in Annapolis and is was first class," Starck says. Starck noted the energy of the Annapolis Lightning Fleet as the main reason for the great first-time turnout for the fleet at the regatta. "The camaraderie amongst all the clubs - Annapolis, Eastport, and Severn Sailing - was incredible," he says. " The race committee on our course was excellent" - @sailingworldmag by @davereedri
The enthusiasm of Fleet 329 is inspiring and as noted above really made a difference in the success of the Lightning debut at the HHSWRS-Annapolis. It is hard work, really hard work! But more people will take notice, buy boats and join the fleet!
This is the type of Fleet and District energy that we need to build and grow the Class.
There are more examples too. The Montreal Fleets are gaining traction with new boat owners and the anticipation of the up coming Canadian Open June 21-22 in Montreal. The Fleet 70 at the Monmouth Boat Club, just brought back the Long John Regatta after a short break and they too are in the planning stages of a major regatta - the Atlantic Coast Championships - July 19-20 at Atlantic Highlands YC in NJ. Long standing regattas and new ones like the HHSWRS - Annapolis are great for our Class.
The Finnish and Greek Districts are preparing for new boat arrivals. The South American Districts have been sailing hard over the past few months. A great representation of our Class will be in Voula, Greece in June for the Worlds. We are making an increased effort to share all of this great work and activity socially to encourage more growth.
The Charleston Fleet recently held a meet the Boat Grant Teams evening gathering. Spreading camaraderie on and off the water is key too.
Whether planning a regatta, a Fleet or District event Schedule, working with a potential new boat owner or new crews - it takes effort, time and passion from a lot of people to help make this all happen. We have a fabulous membership that is committed to the Class - Thank You!
For those of us in North America with the sailing season just beginning, what can you do to help spark some energy in your Fleet or District?