National Sailing Hall of Fame Announces New Inductees

The National Sailing Hall of Fame 2025 class features champions of the sport on the water and off. National Sailing Hall of Fame

The Sailing Museum & National Sailing Hall of Fame announced its Class of 2025, which will be inducted into the National Sailing Hall of Fame later this year. The new inductees include a diverse group of influential figures in the sailing world, from Olympians and champions to yacht designers, coaches, educators, and more.

Among the inductees are individuals whose exceptional contributions have shaped the course of sailing. David Dellenbaugh (b. 1953), a skilled sailor and tactician, is renowned for helping defend the 1992 America’s Cup with America3. Hal Haenel (b. 1966), a gold and silver Olympic medalist in the International Star Class, also led the US Sailing Team for the 2000 Olympics. Sally Helme (1953-2024) became the first female publisher of Cruising World and Sailing World, leaving a powerful legacy through her leadership and advocacy for equality in the sport and industry.

“The Sailing Hall of Fame Class of 2025 includes an inspiring group of sailors and designers who have achieved excellence at the highest levels of the sport,” said fellow Hall of Fame inductee and Co-President Gary Jobson. “Each Inductee has contributed lasting innovations and remarkable achievements. They have all helped educate sailors on how to sail fast, race with integrity and lift the game of aspiring young sailor athletes.”

Known for their achievements both on and off the water, the Class of 2025 will also honor Greg Fisher (b. 1954), a 25-time champion across seven sailing classes, recognized for his versatility, dedication, and work as a coach, educator, and advocate for accessible sailing; Chuck Hawley (b. 1955), a skilled sailor with over 40,000 miles at sea, known for his contributions to maritime safety, education, and leadership in Safety-at-Sea seminars; and Ken Read (b. 1961), a two-time Rolex Yachtsman of the Year, who has won over 50 titles, helmed three America’s Cup campaigns, and now leads at North Sails while racing worldwide.

Nominations are open to the public sailing community, and each year, the National Sailing Hall of Fame’s selection committee carefully reviews submissions to elect individuals for its prestigious fellowship, honoring exceptional achievements and contributions to the sport.

“If there’s one word that truly captures the essence of all our candidates, it’s passion. A passion for excellence, both on and off the water, and a commitment to enriching our community,” said Spike Lobdell, Selection Committee Chair. “These inductees embody the spirit of sailing as more than just a sport. The skills they demonstrate in their pursuit of sailing extend beyond the water, offering life lessons that will inspire and guide future generations.”

This year’s inductees include prominent boat designers and innovators recognized for their significant contributions to the sport. Alfred “Bill” Luders, Jr. (1909-1999), a pioneering yacht designer, revolutionized hull construction with epoxy resin and anti-fouling paints, earning acclaim for boats like Weatherly and American Eagle in the America’s Cup. Bruce King (b. 1939), known for designs like Ericson Yachts and White Hawk, transformed modern yacht design with over 40 creations. John Reichel (b. 1955), co-founder of Reichel/Pugh, has shaped modern yacht design with groundbreaking creations like the Melges 24. Carl Schumacher (1949-2002), a gifted naval architect, designed 57 sailboats, including the Express and Alerion Express lines. Olympic gold medalist and World Champion, James “Sham” Hunt (b. 1936), led O’Day Yachts in producing over 50,000 boats and became the second father-son pair inducted, following his father, C. Raymond Hunt.

Full profiles of the Class of 2025 National Sailing Hall of Fame and others are online at Hall of Fame.

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