🎙️ ICYMI: Sir Russell Coutts Joins the American Sailor Podcast! ⛵️
Hosts John Pierce and Charlie Enright sat down with sailing legend, Olympic gold medalist, and SailGP Co-Founder & CEO Sir Russell Coutts for a deep dive into the future of professional and youth sailing!
Here are the big takeaways from their conversation:
• 🏆 SailGP’s Evolution: From funding all six startup teams in 2018 to...🎙️ ICYMI: Sir Russell Coutts Joins the American Sailor Podcast! ⛵️
Hosts John Pierce and Charlie Enright sat down with sailing legend, Olympic gold medalist, and SailGP Co-Founder & CEO Sir Russell Coutts for a deep dive into the future of professional and youth sailing!
Here are the big takeaways from their conversation:
• 🏆 SailGP’s Evolution: From funding all six startup teams in 2018 to nearly selling out every franchise, the league is tracking toward a massive 20+ event global calendar featuring split fleets (10 and 10).
• 🇺🇸 The Critical US Market: With the USA SailGP team climbing the rankings and a new state-of-the-art training facility opening in Pensacola this September, the US is more central to the league's commercial future than ever.
• 🗽 Next Stop: New York! Mark your calendars for the Mubadala New York Sail Grand Prix (May 30-31) racing right off Manhattan and Governor’s Island. Look for live coverage on the CBS Sports Network and YouTube!
• 👧 Youth Sailing Shakeup: Russell drops some "controversial" wisdom on youth sports—arguing we evaluate kids far too young, push spectators and parents too far away, and need to embrace more double-handed boats and modern foiling disciplines to keep numbers in the sport.
"We want to have the boats challenging to sail. We want to test for the best sailors in the world." — Sir Russell Coutts
🎧 Listen to the full episode to hear Russell reminisce about a 1996 regatta in Wisconsin, his thoughts on the upcoming LA 2028 Olympics, and why he thinks race committees need to stop postponing races for wind shifts!
#USSailing #AmericanSailorPodcast #SailGP #RussellCoutts #Sailing #YouthSailing #Foiling Show more

Ep. 21 Interview: SailGP CEO Sir Russell Coutts

This week, we sit down with sailing legend Sir Russell Coutts — ISAF Youth World Champion, Olympic gold medalist, five-time America’s Cup winner, and co-founder & CEO of SailGP. Russell joins hosts John Pearce and Charlie Enright for a wide-ranging conversation on building SailGP into a global league, the future of the sport, and his candid perspective on sailing’s development pathway. Along the...

⛵️ Big news for aspiring Olympic sailors! 🇺🇸
US Sailing and Oakcliff Sailing are teaming up to launch a second Olympic Pathways Camp this summer, heading to San Pedro, California from August 10–12, 2026!
Even more exciting? It's taking place right at the official venue that will host the sailing competitions for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games! 🌟
Whether you’re exploring Olympic-class sailing for...⛵️ Big news for aspiring Olympic sailors! 🇺🇸
US Sailing and Oakcliff Sailing are teaming up to launch a second Olympic Pathways Camp this summer, heading to San Pedro, California from August 10–12, 2026!
Even more exciting? It's taking place right at the official venue that will host the sailing competitions for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games! 🌟
Whether you’re exploring Olympic-class sailing for the first time or already competing, this camp offers an incredible chance to: 🔹 Train in high-performance classes (49er, 49erFX, Nacra 17, and 470) 🔹 Get hands-on coaching from elite instructors 🔹 Learn the ins and outs of campaign planning and athlete development
🏆 Put skills to the test: The camp wraps up with the Triple Crown 2 Regatta from August 14–16, giving sailors the perfect opportunity to apply everything they’ve learned in a competitive environment.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward your Olympic dreams, don’t miss out on this path to the world stage.
👉 Read the full announcement and get details on how to get involved here: www.ussailing.org/news/olympic-pathways-camp-comin…
#USSailing #OakcliffSailing #OlympicDevelopment #RoadToLA28 #Sailing #OlympicPathways Show more

⚓️ From the Classroom to the High Seas! 🌊
Huge congratulations to 16-year-old Alfredo Gentilini from Sant'Ilario d'Enza (and student at Maria Luigia in Parma) for completing an incredible 10-day journey aboard the historic Palinuro, one of the Italian Navy’s most prestigious training ships! 🇮🇹✨
Selected back in January during rigorous trials in Milan, Alfredo put his sailing knowledge—passed down to...⚓️ From the Classroom to the High Seas! 🌊
Huge congratulations to 16-year-old Alfredo Gentilini from Sant'Ilario d'Enza (and student at Maria Luigia in Parma) for completing an incredible 10-day journey aboard the historic Palinuro, one of the Italian Navy’s most prestigious training ships! 🇮🇹✨
Selected back in January during rigorous trials in Milan, Alfredo put his sailing knowledge—passed down to him by his grandfather—to the test. From proving his balance at sea to answering tough nautical questions, his hard work and great school grades earned him a spot among a select group of youth from all over Italy.
From July 6th to 16th, Alfredo experienced the true life of a sailor, sailing from Cagliari to Crotone. The journey was anything but a vacation:
• Hard Work: Helping the crew with daily chores, from cleaning the gavette (mess halls) to scrubbing pots and maintaining the ship.
• Real Responsibility: Taking the helm to steer the massive ship and pulling lookout duty to scan the horizon for incoming vessels.
• Braving the Elements: Facing Force 6 winds while crossing the Strait of Messina! Despite the rough seas, Alfredo and his crewmates showed true grit and resilience.
What an unforgettable adventure and an amazing example of dedication. Fair winds and following seas, Alfredo! 🌬️🚢
#ProudCommunity #MarinaMilitare #NavePalinuro #SantIlarioDenza #YoungTalent #SailingLife Show more

⚓️ ONBOARDING OPPORTUNITY 2026: Sail on Nave Vespucci & Nave Palinuro! ⚓️
Attention all young members of the Lega Navale Italiana! 🌊
The Italian Navy General Staff has made spots available for LNI youth members (aged 16 to 24) to embark on a unique training experience aboard the historic tall ships Nave Vespucci and Nave Palinuro during the 2026 summer/autumn training campaigns.
If you want to...⚓️ ONBOARDING OPPORTUNITY 2026: Sail on Nave Vespucci & Nave Palinuro! ⚓️
Attention all young members of the Lega Navale Italiana! 🌊
The Italian Navy General Staff has made spots available for LNI youth members (aged 16 to 24) to embark on a unique training experience aboard the historic tall ships Nave Vespucci and Nave Palinuro during the 2026 summer/autumn training campaigns.
If you want to experience life at sea, learn traditional seafaring skills, and be part of an elite crew, this is your chance!
📅 AVAILABLE ROUTES & SLOTS
⛵ NAVE PALINURO
• Route 1 (July 1 – July 12): Livorno to La Maddalena (Stopover in Gaeta July 4-8) | 7 boys, 4 girls
• Route 2 (July 13 – July 21): La Maddalena to Salerno | 7 boys, 4 girls
• Route 3 (Aug 8 – Aug 20): Messina to Taranto (Stopover in Valletta Aug 12-15) | 7 boys, 4 girls
• Route 4 (Aug 22 – Sept 2): Taranto to Imperia | 7 boys, 4 girls
• Route 5 (Oct 12 – Nov 3): Milazzo to La Spezia (Stopover in Naples Oct 26-30) | 7 boys, 4 girls (Nautical Institute students preferred)
⛵ NAVE VESPUCCI
• Route 1 (Sept 22 – Oct 2): Taranto to Venice | 7 boys, 5 girls
• Route 2 (Starts Oct 1): Embarkation in Trieste (Disembarkation port & date TBD)
🔍 HOW TO APPLY & SELECTION CRITERIA
⚠️ DEADLINE: Applications must be submitted through your local LNI Section strictly by June 20, 2026.
• Who gets priority? Local Section Presidents will prioritize candidates who have stood out in sports and social activities (athletes, solidarity sailing initiatives, instructors/assistant instructors, etc.). In case of excess applications, LNI seniority will be considered.
• Medical Requirements: Selected candidates must pass a medical checkup and provide a certificate of "healthy and robust constitution" upon boarding. No severe allergies/intolerances incompatible with life at sea (e.g., dust, hemp, nylon, manila rope).
• Costs: LNI National Presidency covers the onboard insurance. However, travel expenses to and from the embarkation/disembarkation ports are entirely the responsibility of the participant.
📲 Interested?
Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! Contact your local LNI Section President immediately to get the application forms and submit your request.
#LegaNavaleItaliana #MarinaMilitare #NaveVespucci #NavePalinuro #SailTraining #YouthAtSea #Seafaring #TallShips2026 Show more

⛵American Sailor Podcast | Episode 20: Olympic Trajectories, Youth Power, and Cup Shakeups! ⛵
We’ve officially hit 20 episodes! 🎉 In this jam-packed episode, the Pod Squad is joined by special guest host Molly Vandemore, US Sailing's Director of Olympic Sailing, to break down the massive energy building in the American sailing scene.
Here’s what’s cooking in the world of US Sailing:
• 🏆 Palma Regatta...⛵American Sailor Podcast | Episode 20: Olympic Trajectories, Youth Power, and Cup Shakeups! ⛵
We’ve officially hit 20 episodes! 🎉 In this jam-packed episode, the Pod Squad is joined by special guest host Molly Vandemore, US Sailing's Director of Olympic Sailing, to break down the massive energy building in the American sailing scene.
Here’s what’s cooking in the world of US Sailing:
• 🏆 Palma Regatta Recaps: The US team showed serious depth at the Trofeo Princesa Sofía with 47 US athletes competing and four teams finishing in the top five! Huge shoutouts to Noah Lyons (IQFoil Men) and the duo of Nevin Snow & Ian MacDiarmid (49er) for bringing home silver medals 🥈🇺🇸.
• 📋 The New Olympic Format: The crew dives into what the new compressed finals format means for athletes, traditionalists, and the future of media storytelling in the sport.
• 🌴 LA 2028 Horizon: Molly shares an insider look at the training compounds and footprints taking shape in Long Beach and San Pedro as athletes gear up for summer training.
• 🌊 America's Cup Groundbreaker: Reaction to the stunning news of Rhode Island’s Sail Newport launching a community-sailing-backed challenge for the America's Cup 🏆😲.
• 🚀 Next Gen Excellence: Congratulations to the 61 athletes named to the second annual US Sailing Youth National Team! The summer training calendar is officially set, leading up to the Youth Worlds in Portugal this December.
🎁 Listener Perk! Because we made it to Episode 20 without being pulled off the air, we're giving away American Sailor stickers! Want one? Send your mailing address and feedback to americansailor@ussailing.org (limited supply!).
👉 Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review!
#AmericanSailor #USSailing #OlympicSailing #YouthSailing #AmericasCup #SailNewport Show more

Ep: 20 Notice Board: Palma recap with Molly...

In this week's episode, the pod squad is joined by US Sailing's Director of Olympic Sailing, Molly Vandemoer to discuss the latest happenings in the Olympic sailing scene and recap of an intense week of competition in Palma!

⛵️ New Episode Drop: Deep Dive into Regatta Management! ⛵️
We are kicking off the upcoming sailing season with a brand-new episode of the American Sailor Podcast!
Hosts John Pierce and Whitney Kent sit down with special guest host Lynn Lynch, the Sailing Director at the New York Yacht Club and a highly certified International Race Officer (IRO). With the summer season just around the corner,...⛵️ New Episode Drop: Deep Dive into Regatta Management! ⛵️
We are kicking off the upcoming sailing season with a brand-new episode of the American Sailor Podcast!
Hosts John Pierce and Whitney Kent sit down with special guest host Lynn Lynch, the Sailing Director at the New York Yacht Club and a highly certified International Race Officer (IRO). With the summer season just around the corner, we’re getting into the nitty-gritty of what it takes to run world-class events.
🎧 Inside This Episode:
• The Logistics of 1,600+ Sailors: Lynn breaks down the massive undertaking of running the Annual Regatta, from managing 160 boats to navigating complex scoring formats.
• The Game-Changer—Markbots: How robotic marks are completely shifting the strategy and pace of modern team racing.
• High-Tech vs. Pure Sailing: A fascinating discussion on how automated line calling and advanced rating rules are impacting competitors and race committees alike.
• Road to LA 28: A sneak peek at the incredible depth of talent in the US race official community leading up to the next Olympic games.
• The "Dark Art" of Race Committee: Ever wonder what happens right after a race officer cancels racing for the day? Lynn shares a hilarious cautionary tale from Newport.
We also give a massive shoutout to the recent American champions at the Wasp games in Pensacola, and look ahead to the 47 US athletes benchmarking their skills at the upcoming Palma Regatta!
"I feel as competitive running the races as I do sailing in them." — Lynn Lynch
Whether you're an elite racer, a weekend frostbiter, or a volunteer on your local race committee, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss.
👇 Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform! 👇
#USSailing #AmericanSailorPodcast #RaceManagement #SailingLife #RegattaLife #LA28 Show more

Ep 19 Interview: NYYC Sailing Director Lynn Lynch

This week we are joined by New York Yacht Club Sailing Director Lynn Lynch! Listen as we dive into her career and how she got to NYYC, what it takes to put on a world-class regatta, and her take on how technology has evolved in the sport for Race Committees and sailors alike!

Check out the latest episode of the American Sailor Podcast, where the Pod Squad sits down with college sailing standout and Rolex Yachtsman of the Year nominee, Justin Callahan! ⛵️🎙️
Currently on spring break in Charleston, Justin dives into his incredible 2025 season—which included four national championships across team racing, match racing, and college sailing—and shares what’s next as he...Check out the latest episode of the American Sailor Podcast, where the Pod Squad sits down with college sailing standout and Rolex Yachtsman of the Year nominee, Justin Callahan! ⛵️🎙️
Currently on spring break in Charleston, Justin dives into his incredible 2025 season—which included four national championships across team racing, match racing, and college sailing—and shares what’s next as he kicks off his 470 Olympic campaign.
Key Highlights:
• The "Trifecta" of Team Racing: Justin discusses winning the Wilson, the Hinman, and College Nationals all in one year.
• Cross-Training Success: How skills from match racing and fleet racing translate to the college starting line.
• The Growth of the Sport: Why the new selection committee process is making college nationals more competitive and "good TV" for fans.
• A Lifelong Community: Reflecting on the 15-year friendships built from Optis through the collegiate level.
What’s Next for Justin?
After graduation, Justin is heading straight to Japan for the 470 World Championships this August as he sets his sights on international podiums.
Listen to the full episode for "inside baseball" on the college circuit and tips on how to keep consuming sailing knowledge like a pro! 🎧
#US-Sailing #CollegeSailing #AmericanSailorPodcast #SailingLife #OlympicHopeful Show more

Ep. 18: Crushing it in College Sailing with...

In this week's episode, guest host, Justin Callahan talks about what it means to be a 2025 Rolex Yachtsman of the Year Finalist, where's he's at for spring break and all things college sailing!

🏆 CHAMPION CROWNED: Bob Hodges Takes the Title! 🏆

Join us in celebrating Bob Hodges, our 2026 U.S. Multihull Champion! 🥇⛵️

Competing at the prestigious U.S. Multihull Championship for the Hobie Alter Trophy—hosted by the beautiful Columbia Sailing Club on Lake Murray, SC—Bob put on a masterclass in consistency and skill.

The Highlights:

Class: Weta Trimaran

The Record: 11 races over 4 days

The...🏆 CHAMPION CROWNED: Bob Hodges Takes the Title! 🏆

Join us in celebrating Bob Hodges, our 2026 U.S. Multihull Champion! 🥇⛵️

Competing at the prestigious U.S. Multihull Championship for the Hobie Alter Trophy—hosted by the beautiful Columbia Sailing Club on Lake Murray, SC—Bob put on a masterclass in consistency and skill.

The Highlights:

Class: Weta Trimaran

The Record: 11 races over 4 days

The Performance: Only two finishes outside the top three!

The Result: Victory secured with a full race to spare.

Establishing a decisive margin over a highly competitive fleet, Bob’s performance was nothing short of exceptional. Give him a "Congratulations" in the comments below! 👇

#Sailing #USMultihullChampionship #WetaTrimaran #ColumbiaSailingClub #HobieAlterTrophy #Champion #LakeMurray #SailingLife Show more

Spotted in La Spezia: The historic Nave Palinuro! 🚢 Originally launched in 1934, this stunning schooner continues to serve as a training vessel for the Italian Navy, keeping the art of traditional navigation alive. A true master of the Mediterranean! 🌊

#MaritimeHistory #NavePalinuro #MarinaMilitare #SailingVessel #TrainingShip #Italy

📢 Attention Sailors & Cruisers! ⚓🚫

If you’re heading to Poros, take note: The Coast Guard has officially established a No-Anchoring Zone in the bay directly in front of the town.

What you need to know:
The Area: Anchoring is now prohibited in the main bay area (check local maps/Coast Guard notices for the exact perimeter).

The Penalty: Authorities are issuing "administrative sanctions" (fines) for...📢 Attention Sailors & Cruisers! ⚓🚫

If you’re heading to Poros, take note: The Coast Guard has officially established a No-Anchoring Zone in the bay directly in front of the town.

What you need to know:
The Area: Anchoring is now prohibited in the main bay area (check local maps/Coast Guard notices for the exact perimeter).

The Penalty: Authorities are issuing "administrative sanctions" (fines) for vessels found anchoring inside the restricted zone.

Current Status: The Coast Guard is currently making the rounds to notify boats, but don't count on a warning forever!

Spread the word to your fellow boaters to help them avoid a hefty fine. Stay safe and stay informed!

#SailingGreece #Poros #SailingCommunity #AnchorWatch #GreekIslands Show more