The 2025 Beneteau 36.7 North American Championship: San Diego's Poetic Return
By Eric Hanson
The championship returned to San Diego Yacht Club in October, marking the first time since 2021 that competition occurred at this venue. The event followed the West Coast Championships by just two weeks.
These championships are traditionally a Midwestern affair, but this year offered Pacific conditions with six to ten knots of breeze and clear skies. Ten races were scheduled.
Competitors arrived from Southern California and Chicago. Local legend Chick Pyle competed with tactician Chuck Sinks. Alice Martin's Chicago team Painkiller featured match racer Chris Poole. Eric Hanson's Given-Ho led after day one. Kelp in the water affected boat performance throughout.
Results
- Team Kea — 1st place
- Given-Ho — 2nd place
- Painkiller — 3rd place
Kea won through the accumulation of right choices, of calm hands and small mercies rather than dramatic moments.
Sponsors: Southcoast Yachts, Mt. Gay, Pure Project. Next event location: Toronto.