San Diego Yacht Club win sixth Annual Annapolis Yacht Club 3-2-1 Invitational

San Diego Yacht Club win sixth Annual Annapolis Yacht Club 3-2-1 Invitational © Lexi Pline Photography

After three days of fast-paced, multi-format racing on the Chesapeake Bay, San Diego Yacht Club claimed the 2025 Annapolis Yacht Club 3-2-1 Invitational title, bringing the trophy home for the first time.

The team of Johannes McElvain, Jack Reiter, Jack Egan, Jack Plavan, Vince Yannelli and lead by team leader AJ Reiter finished with a 13-4 record across match racing, 2v2, and 3v3 team racing. Their dominance in the 3v3 discipline—where they went undefeated—helped secure their victory in this one-of-a-kind regatta that tests versatility, teamwork, and skill across multiple formats.

"The cool thing about this event is that you're constantly changing positions - from driving to mast to bow or anything in between - which always keeps you on the back foot, so all the competitors have to limit mistakes," said Jack Reiter.

"We started out hot, which really helped," said Jack Egan. "AYC puts so much into this event it makes competitors really want to try their best - we went out there and out it all on the line."

Royal Thames Yacht Club, last year's champions, finished second with a 10-6 record, edging out St. Francis Yacht Club in a hard-fought tiebreaker for the runner-up position. St. Francis closed the weekend in third, also with a 10-6 record.

The 2025 edition of the 3-2-1 brought together eight world-class yacht clubs from the U.S. and abroad. Unique in format, the event challenges each six-sailor team to rotate through 3v3 team racing, 2v2 team racing, and match racing—rewarding breadth of knowledge, adaptability, and tactical prowess.

Beyond the racing, competitors enjoyed Annapolis Yacht Club's renowned hospitality, including social events, waterfront camaraderie, and a chance to connect with sailors from across the globe. Each night brought a new social scene, from a formal dinner on Sunday to S'mores and appetizers by the pool on Saturday.

"It was great having everyone for the 2025 edition of the Annapolis Yacht Club 3-2-1 Invitational, a signature event here at AYC," said Event Co-Chair Sophie Podlich. "We always look forward to hosting this regatta—it's a fantastic opportunity to bring together incredible sailors, great competition, and the vibrant camaraderie that defines our club."

Final Standings:

• San Diego Yacht Club (USA) - AJ Reiter, Johannes McElvain, Jack Reiter, Jack Egan, Jack Plavan, Vince Yannelli
• Royal Thames Yacht Club (GBR) - Jemima Lawson, Evert McLaughlin, Richard Thomas, Tim Gratton, Lauren Donaghy, Guy Breary
• St. Francis Yacht Club (USA) - Sam White, Kate Shiber, Helen Lord, Ty Ingram, Shawn Bennett, Elena VandenBerg

The Annapolis Yacht Club 3-2-1 Invitational will return in 2026 - mark your calendars and send in a request for an invite!