The 2025 Weta West Coast Championship made a triumphant return as part of Eugene Yacht Club’s “Live on the Edge” Multihull Regatta this past weekend, June 7–8. This marked the first West Coast Championship for the Weta fleet since the 2017 Nationals in Hood River, and anticipation was high among competitors and organizers alike.  EYC hosted a fantastic even with camping or RVing, easy launching off the lawn/beach, delightful, nutritious, and filling meals starting with Friday dinner and ending with leftovers after the Sunday awards.  The race committee did an amazing job keeping the fleets moving and adjusting the SailGP or AC type course as needed.  With a reaching start, turning mark and gates at each end of the course, splits and tactics were challenging and just like as seen on TV, or YouTube, these days.

Racing Recap

Saturday delivered classic Fern Ridge conditions, with moderate winds allowing the race committee to run four competitive races. The fleet took full advantage, with tight mark roundings and tactical battles throughout the day. Sunday brought a dramatic shift: light and fluky winds tested sailors’ patience and finesse.  Regardless, two additional races were completed to round out the series and allow one throw out.

Results (After One Throw-out Per Sailor):

Place   Skipper               Points

1st         Mark Simmel                  9

2nd       Andrew Amenta           11

2nd       Dale Werkema               11

4th        Nick Tabet                       13

With every racer earning at least one first-place finish, the regatta showcased the depth and competitiveness of the fleet. Mark Simmel emerged as the 2025 West Coast Champion, edging out Andrew Amenta and Dale Werkema, who finished tied on points with Andrew winning the tiebreaker. Nick Tabet rounded out the top four, just four points off the lead.

Fleet Highlights

·  The event was notable for its parity: no single sailor dominated.

·  The return of the West Coast Championship energized the Weta community, with sailors traveling from across the region to compete.

·  The regatta was part of a larger multihull celebration, with Seaspray and Hobie 16 fleets also contesting their own championships alongside the Wetas.

Looking Ahead

The success of this year’s championship bodes well for the future of Weta racing on the West Coast. With strong participation, challenging conditions, and a spirit of camaraderie, the 2025 event set a high bar for years to come.  Mark your calendars for the first weekend in June 2026

Congratulations to all competitors and a special thanks to Eugene Yacht Club for hosting a memorable regatta!