Newport to Host International Women’s Championship Sailing Event

The New York Yacht Club has announced the launch of its International Women’s Championship, a female-only competition that will take place in 2026.

The inaugural edition will take place September 12–19 at the New York Yacht Club Harbour Court in Newport, Rhode Island. The biennial event will include teams of nine or more sailors.

Top professional and amateur female sailors will compete in the club’s fleet of 20 matched IC37 yachts, with identical sails, standardized rigging and on-the-water umpiring, creating a level playing field.

“The New York Yacht Club envisions that this event, like the very successful Rolex New York Yacht Club Invitational Cup, will emerge as one of the sport’s top events,” said L. Jay Cross, commodore of the New York Yacht Club. “The IC37 keelboat was designed to reward talented crews who can execute exquisite teamwork, speed transitions and excellent tactics, regardless of size or gender, so we’re excited to put these great boats into the hands of the world’s top female sailors.”

The International Women’s Championship is supported by founding partner Rolex and regatta sponsor Helly Hansen. The winning skipper will receive a Rolex timepiece.

“Our goal is to attract a truly international field of top competitors,” said Cory Sertl, event chair and a past Rolex Women’s International Keelboat champion. “We are hopeful that top professional sailors from the Olympics, Women’s America’s Cup and other top competitions will field teams and compete alongside top amateur keelboat sailors. The IC37 is a great platform that can accommodate sailors of all sizes and ages while still facilitating a robust and athletic competition.”