The 2026 VX One North American Championship delivered everything sailors love about the VX One class: close racing, friendly rivalry, unforgettable laughs, and a week of memories on the stunning waters of Lake Michigan.
Hosted by the incredible team at Macatawa Bay Yacht Club in Holland, Michigan, this year’s championship welcomed 43 teams from across North America for nine races of high-performance sailing and plenty of fun both on and off the water.
Moore and Yale Capture Their Second North American Title
After nine races on Lake Michigan, Geoff Moore and Josh Yale aboard Ripple emerged as the 2026 VX One North American Champions.
Powered by exceptional consistency and four race victories, the duo finished with just 14 points, ending the regatta 17 points clear of the highly competitive 43-boat fleet.
The victory marks their second VX One North American Championship title and reinforces their position as one of the class’s standout teams. The team had also recently won the Canadian VX One Championships.
When reflecting on the win, Geoff highlighted something far more important than trophies.
“It’s become clear to me that the reason I do it is the connections, the friends, and the people we meet. We meet each other at these events year after year, decade after decade, and we make connections.”
It’s a sentiment that perfectly captures the essence of the VX One class. Championship titles are certainly sweet, but it’s the friendships, camaraderie, and shared experiences that keep sailors returning season after season.
2026 VX One North American Championship Results
Top Five Overall
- Ripple
Geoff Moore & Josh Yale – 14 points - Bacio
Michael & Mitchell Kiss – 31 points - Bro Safari
Marc Farmer & Tej Trevor Parekh – 42 points - Counterproductive
Chris Alexander, Madeline Baldridge & Ricky Welch – 43 points - Hoffdog Express
Evan Hoffmann & Nick Woviotis – 57 points
A Championship That Had It All
When the VX One fleet arrives in town, it’s never just about the racing. It’s about reconnecting with friends, meeting new competitors, sharing stories after sailing, and enjoying the unique atmosphere that makes the class so special.
The 2026 North Americans showcased exactly why the VX One community continues to grow. From intense mark roundings and tactical battles to dockside laughs and post-race celebrations, sailors enjoyed a championship that perfectly balanced elite competition with the welcoming spirit the class is known for.
Special recognition also goes to event sponsors Vela Sailing and Evolution Sails for their support of the championship and the VX One fleet.
Photography: Hannah Noll
