Following two days of exhilarating competition on the waters of the Charles River, Stanford University took first in the College Sailing Women’s Team Race National Championship, graciously hosted by Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University. This triumph marks a remarkable ascent for the Cardinals, who secured second place in the 2023 edition of the Women’s Team Race Nationals.
Head Coach Chris Klevan reflected on the team's stellar performance, stating, “I’m so proud of the way our team sailed and conducted themselves on the water. I can’t think of a group of people I’d rather work with. Big thank you to all the Stanford sailing family who came out to support, and those watching from elsewhere. I love this team. We sailed like champions.” Hannah Freeman '24, Captain of Stanford's sailing team, echoed Klevan's sentiments, remarking, “I’m so proud of how the team came together this week. Our success is a testament to the work every single team member has put in throughout the year, and I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to work together and compete with such an incredible group of people.” With their exceptional skills and unity, Stanford University's sailing team has firmly established themselves as champions on the water, embodying the spirit of collegiate sailing at its finest.
The contest unfolded under light conditions, with winds coming from the east ranging between 4 to 9 knots. Following the first day of the College Sailing Nationals, the Cardinals maintained their flawless streak, boasting a 9-0 record. Meanwhile, Boston College, Dartmouth College, and Harvard University found themselves tied with records of 7 wins and 3 losses each. In a thrilling showdown, the University of Pennsylvania and Cornell University engaged in a sail-off, ultimately resulting in a Quaker victory, securing their spot in the Top Six alongside Stanford, Boston College, Dartmouth, Harvard, and Yale. During the round of six Boston College dashed Stanford’s hopes of an undefeated run. Entering the Final Four, Stanford could not be caught, leaving Dartmouth, Yale, and Boston College to battle it out for the remaining podium spots. Despite sealing victory before the final round, Stanford commanded the field once again going 3-0.
Stanford finished with an 18/1 record, Yale University with 13/6, Boston College with 12/7, and Dartmouth with 11/8. Kyle Assad, PRO of the event, said “The quality of sailing demonstrated by the women over 88 races was extraordinary. Competition was fierce and camaraderie was ever present. Honored to be part of this championship and hope to see more women’s team racing of all forms in the future.”
Stay tuned for the 2024 Women’s Fleet Race National Championship May 20-23.
Author: Arielle Darrow
Photos: Dave Curtis / HDFA Photography
Social Media: Hannah Lee Noll
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Special thanks to College Sailing sponsors:
Zim/West Coast Sailing
Dermatone Skincare
Quantum Sails
Marlow Ropes
US Sailing