The 2024 Classic Yacht Challenge Series (CYCS) concluded in spectacular fashion, with participation and competition reaching new heights. Spanning fourteen regattas and twenty-eight races, a total of 231 boats competed—representing growth in every way from 2023. The Classic Yacht Owners Association (CYOA) continues to foster the excitement and camaraderie that brings together vintage and modern classic yachts across districts.
Abigail at the IYRS Classic Yacht Regatta © Stephen R Cloutier
“We’re thrilled to see participation grow in every way this year,” said CYOA President Timmy Dittrich. “In the future, we would like to see even more boats travel to participate in multiple events across our series, as that’s what ties us all together. Over the winter, we will look at how the CYOA can improve the series, but at the heart of it are the individual events and the sailors who make them possible.”
In the Vintage class, Ken Colburn’s NY 40 Marilee sailed to victory as the overall winner. “It’s always an honor to compete with these beautiful boats,” said Colburn. “Winning the series was an incredible experience, especially with the level of competition we faced this year. Marilee’s marconi rig and sprit combination served us well through the variety of conditions and race configurations we faced.”
Colburn went on to thank the various Regatta Organizing Authorities and volunteers “who put together great racing and fun gatherings in some of New England’s most beautiful sailing venues.”
Spirit, a 1934 John Alden schooner sailed by the father and son team of Lars & Peter Forsberg and crew, participated in ten of the fourteen 2024 Classic Yacht Challenge Series regattas from Maine to Long Island Sound. © Stephen R Cloutier
The battle for the top spot was close, with Matt Brooks’ iconic Dorade and Black Watch Syndicate finishing in second and third, just two points away.
Jack Curtin’s Intrepid was the top Modern Classic, Paul Koch’s Ponyo took Spirit of Tradition honors, and Harvey Jones’ Outlier was the top Contemporary boat.
A special recognition to Spirit in the Vintage class. Lars and Peter Forsberg, along with their crew, participated in ten out of the fourteen regattas from Maine to Long Island Sound. This father-son team truly captured the essence of classic racing aboard their 1934 John Alden schooner.
The CYCS enjoyed record participation in 2024 and is on track for a record-breaking 2025. © Stephen R Cloutier
Across districts, enthusiasm for classic yachting continues to grow, with more boats qualifying than ever before. Maine, the largest district, saw ninety-eight boats participate in its five events, with twenty-four boats qualifying by sailing at least three races across two events as CYOA members.
As the CYCS continues to grow, the passion for classic yacht racing remains at the core of the series, promising even more exciting developments in seasons to come. Complete results can be found at classicyachts.org/2024-results/
“We’re incredibly proud of the growth we’ve seen in 2024,” noted Dittrich. “We aim to make 2025 even better, and we’re excited to see what the next season holds for all of our sailors.” ■
