The Dutch Shoe Marathon (DSM) marks a special moment in a junior sailor’s life, and is even considered a rite of passage. It is the day where you sail for hours – your longest distance yet – against friends and peers, with family or for most, totally solo. Winning the Dutch Shoe Marathon gives the champion more than just bragging rights – it provides them the practice, experience, and confidence that they will carry with them on the water for years to come.

This year, the 49th DSM Champion title goes to C Fleet’s Ronan Servais! Ronan’s interview can be viewed HERE

Conditions were perfect for the multi-hour journey from La Playa Cove (San Diego Yacht Club) to Glorietta Bay (Coronado Yacht Club). Junior sailors from eight local yacht clubs sailed in an average of 8.5 knots with winds coming from the SSW. The entire race was about seven miles long.

C Fleet is always the first fleet to start and houses the youngest and most novice sailors. A typical Dutch Shoe Marathon sees C Fleet sailors lead the fleet through a good portion of the race, and B and A fleets have their fun by trying to catch up – it’s the thrill of the chase! And while the B and A Fleets might have more experienced sailors on their roster, the best C Fleet sailors often show up ready to fight to stay ahead.

Finishing first in the B Fleet was SDYC’s Kylie Peterson. Julia Stewart, also from SDYC, finished first in the A Fleet. “I had a rough downwind but I was able to get a good upwind and that helped. I feel really happy and proud of myself, it was a success from last year,” said Stewart. Some sailors, like Julia, return to the Dutch Shoe every summer and use their year practicing to perfect their skills for the race!

The Senior Fleet this year saw a turnout of a solid 52 boats on the course. SDYC’s Chuck Sinks won first place representing the Seniors. Sinks is no stranger to the Dutch Shoe Marathon, and placed first in his Fleet last year as well.

The leaders and the 130+ boats coming in behind them were all greeted in Glorietta Bay with horns and cheers from family, friends, and spectators. After the race, competitors enjoyed an Awards Ceremony, food, and beverages at the Coronado Yacht Club. Iconic red Dutch Shoes were handed out to the winners, not only for those like First in Fleet, but even for fun awards like First to Capsize (congratulations goes to Coronado Yacht Club’s Sebastian Clark for that one!).