The AYC Foundation Competition Sailing Grant Award to Koralina McKenna: 2026 ILCA 6 Masters World Championship in Athens, Greece

Koralina at the opening ceremonies at the Nautical Club of Kalamaki in Alimos, Greece.

The Annapolis Yacht Club Foundation supported Koralina McKenna’s trip to compete in the 2026 ILCA 6 Masters World Championship in Athens, Greece. Over six days of racing, 159 competitors from 24 countries came together to compete at a world-class level. Among the 159 competitors, only 28 were women, and just 3 from the United States. Koralina described being one of the minority sailors competing remarking, “representing not only my country, but also women in the sport was both humbling and deeply meaningful.”

Sailing to the racecourse under the Acropolis in Athens, Greece

From the first start to the final (unraced) day, the regatta demanded everything—physically, mentally, and emotionally. The conditions challenged every aspect the sailors’ preparation. Long upwind legs in building breeze tested endurance. Downwind, once Koralina’s weakest link, became an opportunity for growth and, at times, gains.

Over months of disciplined training—lifting, cardio, and time on the water—she developed not only strength but trust in her ability to compete. That preparation paid off in moments both big and small: hiking a little longer, making one more tactical adjustment, or holding position in a tight pack.

The highly competitive reach legs were some of Koralina's favorite memories; turns out all the reaching home after racing on the Chesapeake Bay gave her a distinct advantage.

Koralina recalls that what stood out most to her, however, were the races where she felt fully in it—trading tacks, fighting for position at the marks, and finishing close enough to competitors to measure success in seconds, not places.

“A breakthrough moment came late in the regatta with an 8th place finish, the result of a clear plan, decisive execution, and a willingness to 'sail my own race.' It wasn’t just the result that mattered, but the validation that I can compete at this level when I trust my instincts and apply what I know.”

Equally impactful were the lessons she learned on the course-refining her starting approach, learning to be more aggressive and position herself for success at the gun. Koralina became more disciplined with race strategies— balancing commitment with adaptability—and more attentive to the subtle cues of wind shifts and pressure.

“And perhaps most importantly, I reinforced a mindset that has kept me in this sport: success is not defined solely by standings, but by growth, resilience, and the ability to remain engaged and competitive throughout the racecourse.” 

The regatta ended unexpectedly, with the final day lost to lack of wind—a reminder that in sailing, some outcomes remain unknowable. Yet even without that last race, her experience felt complete. From pre-race strategy talks with international competitors to post-race reflections and shared camaraderie, this event reinforced the tight-knit and connectedness of the global sailing community.

Koralina proudly wearing Annapolis Yacht Club Foundation (AYCF) while representing Team USA.

This opportunity would not have been possible without the support of the Annapolis Yacht Club Foundation and the Chesapeake Bay Yacht Racing Association. 

“Their investment not only allowed me to compete on an international stage but also contributed to the broader effort of increasing access and representation for women in sailing. For that, and for their continued support of sailors pursuing meaningful goals in the sport, I am incredibly grateful.”