REGATTA REFRESH: A NEW ERA OF FUN-COMPETITIVE SAILING
North Sails President Ken Read explains Regatta Refresh, an ambitious, forward-thinking program aimed at reimagining what a regatta can and should be.
If you’ve been around the regatta circuit long enough, you’ve probably felt it too—that creeping sense of déjà vu. The same courses. The same schedule. The same long waits on the water. And while the camaraderie and competition remain strong, there’s been a growing undercurrent of restlessness. A quiet chorus of voices asking, “Couldn’t this be better?”
That question has been echoing in my mind for a while now. And it’s what led to the launch of the Regatta Refresh initiative—an ambitious, forward-thinking program aimed at reimagining what a regatta can and should be. It’s not about tearing down tradition. It’s about building it. It’s about evolving the experience to meet the expectations of today’s sailors, owners, and fans.
LISTENING TO THE FLEET
The idea for Regatta Refresh didn’t originate from the boardroom. It came from the docks, the yacht club bars, the debriefs, and the long tows back to the harbor. It came from conversations with owners who invest so much into their programs only to feel like their time isn’t being respected. It came from both professionals and amateurs alike who love the sport but crave a more dynamic and engaging experience.
Last year’s NYYC Annual Regatta saw near-record turnout—a clear sign that the passion is still there. However, we also saw the cracks: excessive downtime, logistical headaches, and a sense that the event could be more than just a series of races. That it could be a celebration.
WHAT’S CHANGING?
So, what does a “refresh” actually look like? It starts with a mindset shift. We’re not just organizing races—we’re curating an experience. Here are some of the key changes to look for as you kick off your summer sailing season.
Smarter Scheduling: The aim is to reduce wasted time. That means tighter race windows, better communication, and a more predictable daily flow.
Innovative Formats: Expect to see new course configurations, more engaging race sequences, and formats that reward skill and strategy—not just boat speed. Don’t wait for or expect starting line and racecourse perfection. Get ready to go no matter what last minute wind shift might throw at you.
Owner-Centric Design: From dockage to hospitality, we’re putting owners at the heart of the event. Their investment deserves a premium experience.
Onshore Energy: The regatta doesn’t end when the sails come down. We’re enhancing the social side with better food, entertainment, and opportunities to connect.
Evolving Decisions: This isn’t a one-off experiment—it’s a living, evolving program.
WHY IT MATTERS
Sailing is a sport steeped in tradition, but it’s also one that thrives on innovation. From foiling technology to performance analytics, we’ve embraced change on the water. Now it’s time to do the same with how we run our events.
Regatta Refresh is about creating a model that others can follow. If we get it right at the NYYC Annual Regatta, there’s no reason these ideas can’t ripple out to other clubs, other events, and even other disciplines within the sport.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION
I know change can be met with skepticism. That’s healthy. But I also know that the sailing community is full of passionate, thoughtful people who want what’s best for the sport. That’s why we’re inviting you to be part of the conversation.
We’ve put together a short presentation that outlines the vision and details of the Refresh program. I encourage you to watch the Regatta Refresh Presentation.
And if you have thoughts, questions, or ideas—reach out to regattarefresh@yachtscoring.com. Let’s talk. It’s all of our initiative. No idea is a bad idea.
LOOKING AHEAD
The Regatta Refresh is just the beginning. It’s a signal that we’re ready to evolve, to innovate, and to make sailing events as thrilling and rewarding as the sport itself. I’m excited about what’s ahead—and I hope you are too.
📸 Daniel Forster
