Peter Wagner's Skeleton Key crowned J/111 North American Champion in Key West
by Julie & Christopher Howell 26 Jan 10:22 NZDT
January 20-24, 2025
The fifth and final day of The Southernmost Regatta delivered a thrilling conclusion to an incredible week of racing in Key West, Florida. With the course axis set at 000 degrees and wind velocities holding at 17 knots, gusting to 24, the conditions brought a fittingly dramatic end to this year's competition. Ten J/111s competed to determine their 2025 North American Champion from January 20-24.
Under the direction of Chip Till and his efficient Race Committee, the 10th race was turned around seamlessly, ensuring competitors got the best possible conclusion to the regatta. The tight leaderboard in the J/111 fleet saw just 3 points separating the top three finishers, with Skeleton Key, Fireball and Shamrock claiming the podium positions. Congratulations to Peter Wagner's Skeleton Key of California for earning another J/111 North American title! The crew included Seadon Wijsen (tactician), Ryan Kern (spinnaker trimmer), Cory Schillaci (pit), John Collins (bow), John Hayes (mast), Dave Lyons (spinnaker trimmer) and Nicholas Gibbens (headsail trimmer).
Overall Results: (top three, 10 races)
1. Peter Wagner's Skeleton Key, 29 points
2. Bill Baxter's Fireball, 30 points
3. Jeff Davis' Shamrock, 32 points
A special thanks to the Race Committee, organizers, event supporters and the fantastic teams at Galleon Marina and Tiki Bar for their hospitality and seamless operations.
This event wouldn't have been possible without the incredible support of sponsors: Mount Gay Rum, The Sailing Inc., Rob & Abby Ruhlman, J/Boats, Evolution Sails NZ, Harken/Harken Derm, EWE Spirit Foundation, Blue Aqua Productions, AA Dive Services and the Greater Key West Chamber of Commerce.
Full results available here: www.sailwave.com/results/NYC/j111.htm