The U.S. Melges 24 Class Association is super excited to congratulate Chelsea Simms, owner of USA-830 Straightarrow, on her nomination for the prestigious Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year award. This award is widely regarded as one of the highest individual honors in U.S. sailing, recognizing those who excel on the water at national and international levels, bringing global recognition to the sport in the United States.

Chelsea has been an integral part of the U.S. Melges 24 Class for several years, excelling not only as one of its most competitive and accomplished owners but also as a dedicated leader. She has served as Midwest District Governor, currently serves as Vice President of the U.S. Class and simultaneously represents the Americas at the international level as Vice Chair.

Her love and passion for the Melges 24 runs deep. Please join us in celebrating Chelsea’s well-deserved nomination!

She is not alone — so many other outstanding Melges sailors are also nominated this year such as reigning World Champion Jeremy Wilmot, former Rolex Yachtsman of the Year Harry Melges IV, Taylor Canfield, Erika Reineke, Cole Brauer, Paris Henken, Stephanie Roble and Francesca Clapich. View the Full Release from US Sailing here.

Onward and upward in 2025 to all who make the Melges 24 the greatest sport boat in the world!

Established in 1961 by US Sailing and in partnership with Rolex since 1980, US Sailing’s Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year award recognizes the individual male and female American sailors who have demonstrated on-the-water excellence at international and national events, bringing global recognition to sailing in the United States. Previous winners include world champions, offshore record holders, America’s Cup winners, and more.

“The strength of the 2024 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year nominee classes is a testament to the dedication, talent, and passion that drives our sport forward in America,” says Henry Brauer, President, US Sailing. “These sailors have shown extraordinary commitment to excellence, and we deeply appreciate the sailing community for recognizing and nominating them. Their achievements inspire us all and demonstrate the vitality of sailing across the country.”

New this year, US Sailing opened the nomination period in the spring, instead of the fall as in past years. This decision was made to enable a larger nomination pool and acknowledge the year-round participation of the sport.

Additionally, US Sailing has published its Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year selection process, which can be found HERE.

Following closure of the nomination period, US Sailing’s Yachtsman and Yachtswoman nominating committee, approved by the Board of Directors, will select three finalists for both the Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Award based on the merits of the nominees. The finalists will be posted to a ballot and presented to voting groups of past award winners and sailing media journalists who will vote for the winners. Winners will be announced in a ceremony in February 2025 at US Sailing’s Sailing Leadership Forum in Coronado, California. Details to be announced.