Despite the majority of members being freshmen, the sailing team had an unprecedented season. For the first time, they qualified for the prestigious Phoebe King National Invitational Regatta in Annapolis, Maryland. The race will take place on May 30 and May 31, and will feature 18 of the nation’s top high school sailing teams. 

Captain Teddy Bower ‘26 emphasized that the achievement highlights the whole team’s commitment to improvement. “We’ve all been super-focused on advancing our racing skills. We’ve gotten better at strategy and tactics, and we’re hoping to bring our best to the upcoming competition.” 

Selection for national high school sailboat racing is based on a tiered-qualifying series. In April, Bower and Katie Gammack ‘29 competed alongside Olly Bower ‘29 and Cy Skibell ‘29 at the pre-qualifying regatta in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. After winning that event, they advanced to the regional qualifier on Lake Minnetonka, where they placed seventh, high enough to qualify for the National Invitational. 

“Coming into regionals after winning the prequels was a huge boost for the team, “ said Bower. “We were confident going into each race, and we were fast.”