SDYC's Women's Winter Invitational returns
by Karina Sandhu, SDYC 12 Feb 14:59 PST
February 13–15, 2026
Women's Winter Invitational Regatta (WWIR) © Bronny Daniels / Joysailing
San Diego Yacht Club's annual Women's Winter Invitational Regatta (WWIR) returns to the La Playa Basin in San Diego February 14-15, 2026. As one of the earliest established women's sailing challenges in the country, this invitation-only event celebrates competition, camaraderie, and the advancement of women in sailing. Racing takes place in SDYC's J/22 fleet and features fast, close-quartered, short-course racing that emphasizes teamwork, tactics, and skill.
The regatta draws teams from across North America - including California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, Texas, and Washington - with more than 80 competitors escaping colder climates to enjoy San Diego's warm winter temperatures. Beyond the action on the racecourse, the weekend is known for its welcoming atmosphere and thoughtfully planned social events that foster connection among sailors and their guests. Festivities begin Friday afternoon with a practice session, followed by a welcome reception to reconnect with friends old and new.
Saturday, February 14, marks the first full day of racing and concludes with a post-regatta dinner and after party at SDYC. Racing resumes Sunday, February 15, followed by awards and farewells celebrating the weekend's accomplishments and memories. Spectators are welcome dockside, aboard private boats, or along Point Loma's Bessemer Path - just boat lengths from the course.
"This regatta is incredibly special," said Marnie Jenkins, WWIR Regatta Chair. "It's an honor to get to know the remarkable sailors competing this year. Their talent, dedication, and passion are truly inspiring. I'm excited for a weekend filled with great sailing, new friendships, and unforgettable memories."
Returning competitors echo that sentiment. AnaLucia Clarkson of Seattle Yacht Club, who finished fourth in 2025, praised both the racing and the experience. "The racing is amazing, but spending the weekend in San Diego with two close friends, sailing against other incredible sailors - what could be better?" she said. Clarkson added that familiarity with the boats and taking advantage of the Friday practice are key to preparing for the regatta's unique short-course format.
Skipper Derby White of California Yacht Club, the 2025 runner-up, highlighted the event's competitive yet supportive environment. "The format keeps the scoreboard tight, the J/22s are fantastic, and La Playa feels like college sailing - fast and fun," she said. "WWIR creates a space for competitive women at all stages of life and sailing careers, which is rare and invaluable."
For Bayview Yacht Club's Sandra Svoboda - 2026 Commodore and a returning competitor - the regatta stands out for both its intensity and its hospitality. "This event is a genius-level blend of short-but-intense racing in a great setting, paired with spectacular hospitality," Svoboda said. "It's one of our favorite regattas of the year, and we've even borrowed elements of it for our Women on Water event in Detroit. I'm especially looking forward to sailing with women from across the country and seeing what flamingo-inspired outfits everyone brings."
The event will be sailed in the club's fleet of J/22s, featuring brand new sails sponsored by long time partner Mount Gay Rum, who is also providing specialty cocktails for the competitors after racing.
San Diego Yacht Club thanks this year's sponsors - Helly Hansen, Mount Gay Rum, 10 Knots Clothing, and The Bay Club Hotel & Marina - for their continued support in making the Women's Winter Invitational Regatta possible.
For more information visit event page.