New Era for Newport Bermuda Race
A subtle yet significant logo update
The Newport Bermuda Race has always been a celebration of tradition and history, a hallmark of endurance and seamanship dating back to 1906. As we look ahead to the 2026 edition of this iconic race, which marks another milestone: 100 years of the Cruising Club of America and the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club partnering on organizing the race, we’re embracing a quiet but meaningful change that reflects a new chapter in both sailing and global history.
In September 2022, Queen Elizabeth II’s remarkable 70-year reign came to an end, marking the ascension of King Charles III to the British throne. For institutions with royal ties, this transition brought updates to heraldry, insignia, and symbols—among them, the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club (RBYC), the historic host of the Newport Bermuda Race.
As part of this transition, the RBYC has updated its charter and burgee to reflect the King’s Crown rather than the Queen’s Crown. This seemingly small change carries profound significance, symbolizing the continuity of royal patronage while honoring the legacy of both monarchs. The King’s Crown is rounder with slightly different detailing compared to the Queen’s Crown, which was angular and distinctively feminine in design.
To align with these updates, the Newport Bermuda Race proudly unveils a new logo for the 2026 edition, incorporating the King’s Crown. This updated design retains the spirit of the Newport Bermuda Race’s storied past while embracing the present. The rounder crown and intricate details may appear subtle, but they reflect a deep respect for the traditions of the RBYC and its royal connection.
We encourage all participants, partners, and supporters to take note of this change and celebrate its historical significance. Additionally, please remember that the Newport Bermuda Race logo remains a registered trademark with the United States Trademark Office. Its use is protected, and we appreciate your cooperation in preserving the integrity of this iconic symbol. All crew gear must be purchased through a licensed retailer such as Team One Newport.
As we chart our course toward the 2026 Newport Bermuda Race, starting Friday, June 19, this updated logo is a reminder of the race’s enduring legacy and its place in a world of evolving traditions. To learn more, visit bermudarace.com.
New Brands at SendIt Sailing, Same Great Service!
Our friends at SendIt Sailing in Essex, CT are now offering Devoti ILCAs, Optis and parts, the complete range of marine hardware from Allen Brothers, and clothing and equipment from Rooster Sailing Gear.
“We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our latest collection!” said SendIt sailing co-founder Bill Wiggins. “Driven by their passion for sailing and their love of engineering, innovation and technology the Allen brothers, Tony and Glenn, continue to create high quality sailboat hardware for dinghies and keelboats alike!”
“Rooster Sailing Gear combines innovative design and performance-focused materials to deliver reliable, high-quality equipment that every sailor can trust,” Wiggins continued. “From breathable, quick-drying fabrics to advanced insulation technology, Rooster’s apparel and accessories are thoughtfully engineered for superior comfort and protection on the water. Whether you’re racing at the highest level or enjoying a casual day on the lake, Rooster Sailing Gear offers the perfect blend of functionality and style to help you sail with confidence.
SendIt Sailing is now a dealer for Devoti ILCA and Optimist class boats, parts, and accessories. Devoti Sailing is renowned for its precision craftsmanship and commitment to performance, making its ILCA and Optimist class boats a top choice for sailors worldwide. At SendIt Sailing, we provide a full range of Devoti parts, including masts, booms, foils, sails, rigging, and fittings, ensuring sailors have everything needed to stay race-ready. Whether upgrading equipment or purchasing a new boat, we’re here to support sailors with high-quality products and expert advice. Explore our selection today and experience the Devoti difference!
Founded in 2020 with a mission “to help make your sailing experience exceptional,” SendIt Sailing boasts an impressive catalog of over 65,000 SKUs in the boating sector including anchor & dock gear, electronics, systems, interior, lighting, safety, clothing, cordage, maintenance, fishing, outdoor gear, and sailboat parts for everything from a Cape Dory Typhoon to Waszps and iceboats, Their extensive vendor network ensures they can meet virtually any boating need, reflecting their commitment to the boating lifestyle. To learn more, call 803-574-2628, email info@senditsailing.com or visit senditsailing.com.
International Optimist Dinghy Association Becomes Newest Clean Class
By Emily Conklin, Sailors for the Sea Program Manager
Sailors for the Sea is delighted to welcome the International Optimist Dinghy Association (IODA) as our newest member of the Clean Class Initiative. As a class dedicated to nurturing the next generation of sailors, the Optimist class is committed to environmental stewardship.
As a Sailors for the Sea Clean Class, IODA reaffirms its dedication to promoting sustainable practices and protecting our oceans and waterways. “The Optimist is more than just a boat; it’s a community,” said Antonio González de la Madrid, IODA Secretary General and Clean Class liaison. “The class is renowned for its emphasis on sportsmanship, teamwork, and personal development. It provides young sailors with the skills and experiences that last a lifetime, making it the ideal starting point for any young sailor.”
Young sailors in the Optimist class are not only trained in the art of sailing but also educated on the importance of preserving the marine environment, ensuring that they become responsible sailors and advocates for the seas. The Class’s Recycled Optimist Parts & Equipment (ROPE) Program is an example of prioritizing sustainability in the class and has twice been nominated for the 11th Hour Sustainability Award through World Sailing.
IODA is also developing a fully digital system for events and measuring, which will allow for less waste and better tracking of all equipment. Joining the Clean Class Initiative furthers these sustainability efforts and will bring Clean Regattas to events worldwide.
The Optimist class is one of the most popular and recognized sailing dinghies in the world, specifically designed for young sailors. Created in 1947 by Clark Mills in Clearwater, FL, the Optimist was conceived as a simple and affordable boat to introduce children to the sport of sailing. With over 150,000 boats registered worldwide, the Optimist has become the global standard for youth sailing, offering a unique platform for learning, competition, and fostering a lifelong passion for the sport.
Today, the Optimist is sailed in more than 120 countries, with many of the world’s top sailors having started their careers in this class. The IODA oversees the global governance of the class, organizing world and continental championships that attract the best young sailors from around the globe. Together with the Optimist class, Sailors for the Sea looks forward to growing the reach of sustainable messaging and impactful actions across the globe. Learn more at sailorsforthesea.org.
Zim Sailing Approved as ILCA Builder
By Sam Patterson
ILCA is pleased to announce the approval of Zim Sailing in Bristol, RI as builder of class-legal boats in the US. Zim has successfully completed a detailed and thorough certification process, receiving approval from both ILCA and World Sailing technical departments.
This process comes in accordance with World Sailing’s Olympic Equipment Policy; ILCAs manufactured by Zim are fully compliant with ILCA regulations, and legal for use in ILCA events. Zim is now free to produce and sell ILCA boats and ILCA parts to dealers and customers.
“We are absolutely thrilled to be a class approved ILCA builder in North America,” said Zim Sailing’s George Yioulos. “The certification process has been rigorous, but the technical support of ILCA and World Sailing have been terrific. We are joining a collective of builders who are paving the way for all ILCAs to be effectively identical. Our company has an almost 20-year history with the class and we look forward to supporting local and regional dealers who work directly every day to grow sailing. We hope that our support of sailing, and history as dinghy builders, will give sailors the confidence to check out a US-made Zim ILCA.”
Zim is celebrating the initial ILCA production run with a ‘Founders’ Series’ on their first 50 US-made ILCAs. These boats will carry a commemorative plaque alongside World Sailing and ILCA designations. To learn more about Zim Sailing and the Zim ILCA, visit ZimSailing.com/ILCA.
Save the Date: April 25-27, 2025 for the CT Spring Boat Show in Essex, CT
The 2024 Show raised almost $29,000 in funds for Sails Up 4 Cancer. While many boats were sold over the weekend, our shoreside exhibitors broke new ground with over 30 exhibitors engaging the crowds and five bands providing live music.
This is a rain or shine event. Children 13 and under are free when accompanied by a paid adult. Be sure to get a Children’s ticket for them when you are purchasing online. Each ticket/bracelet provides entrance for all three days.
The show is a production of WindCheck Magazine and hosted by Safe Harbor Essex Island. Show 2024 sponsors include Essex Boat Works, Maritime Insurance International, Surfridge Brewing Co., Mohegan Sun Casino, Yacht Brokers Association of America (YBAA), Risk Strategies/Gowrie Group, The Griswold Inn, The Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, Experience Essex, and Saybrook Point Resort & Marina. ■
