As President of the US 2.4 Meter Class and Secretary of the Charlotte Harbor Yacht Club, I am pleased to provide this recap of the recent CanAm #4 and #5 regattas hosted at our club. CanAm #5 also served as the United States Nationals for the 2.4mR class. These events welcomed 19 sailors in CanAm #5 and 20 sailors for CanAm #4, with five Canadian competitors participating in both regattas and thereby strengthening international camaraderie within the fleet.
CanAm #4 was conducted under light wind conditions. Despite these challenges, the Principal Race Officer successfully completed six races. Allan Leibel from Toronto took first place, followed by Chuck Allen from Providence, Rhode Island, in second position, and local sailor Tony Pocklington in third.
The Tuesday evening dinner offered a memorable social highlight. Friends and family members of the sailors, performing as “The Dock Bunnies,” presented an entertaining skit. In addition, each sailor received a custom sticker bearing their boat’s name to display at home; sailors were called forward to receive their stickers as their individual walk-up songs played, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere. During the event, three individuals celebrated their birthdays.
CanAm #5 similarly encountered light winds. The first day resulted in no racing, as winds did not exceed four knots. The fleet made productive use of the following days, however, completing five races on Friday and Saturday. Jeff Linton, the reigning World Champion, claimed first place in these races, with Allan Leibel placing second and Chuck Allen third.
In the overall series standings, Chuck Allen emerged as champion, with Allan Leibel in second place and Tony Pocklington in third.
A highlight of the closing ceremonies was a group photograph featuring all sailors, their families, and dedicated volunteers. Every participant and volunteer signed two commemorative flags—each half United States and half Canadian in design. One flag will travel north to Canada, while the other will be proudly displayed in the Charlotte Harbor Yacht Club clubhouse.
All attendees departed with a strong sense of fulfillment and enthusiasm, eagerly anticipating their return next year. These regattas exemplified the spirit of sportsmanship, community, and sailing excellence that defines both our club and the 2.4mR class.
Respectfully submitted,
John Seepe US 2.4 Meter Class President Charlotte Harbor Yacht Club Secretary