The 2024 Championship of Champions attracted 20 skippers for this ‘best of the best’ competition held October 4-6 on Lake Maumelle in Roland, Arkansas. Using the Y-Flyer dinghy, it was Lightning class champions David Starck and Jenna Probst that took the title.

Lake Maumelle provided an ideal yet challenging backdrop for this year’s championship. Known for its shifty winds and unpredictable conditions, the venue tested each sailor’s ability to adapt on the fly. Races were marked by lighter winds, giving way to an eventual cancellation of racing on the final day, due to the cutoff time.

“What a great several days here in Little Rock at an awesome event,” said Starck. “It was a great fleet, and we had a lot of luck on our side. Everything worked out for us.” This was Starck’s fourth time competing in the Championship of Champions, and his first win.

Probst added, “It has been so great meeting all of the competitors from the other classes. It was very puffy and very shifty, so keeping the head out of the boat and not getting too committed to a side.”

The Championship of Champions annually attracts national, North American, and World champions from a variety of one-design classes, bringing a diverse array of talent to the starting line.

Among the 19 competitors was mystery guest – longstanding Etchells champion, Jim Cunningham, with crew, Max Albert – to add an extra element of surprise to the competitive event.

In the 6-race series, Starck and Probst closed with two bullets to hold off Snipe champion Arthur Blodgett and Caroline Atwood in second with Interclub Dinghy champ Ted Ferrarone/ Meredith Killion finishing third.

Event information – Results – Photos