The AYC Foundation Competition Sailing Grant Awarded to Caroline Bayless: U.S. Match Race Qualifier in Annapolis, Maryland

Team Something Chill recently competed in the U.S. Match Race Qualifier hosted by Eastport Yacht Club in Annapolis, Maryland. The team delivered an outstanding performance, winning the event with a dominant 10-1 record and qualifying for the Prince of Wales Cup, the US National Match Race Championship, which will take place in San Diego, California from October 16–18.

The regatta was sailed in J/22s and featured a wide range of conditions throughout the weekend. The first day brought strong breeze averaging around 15 knots, creating exciting and physical racing conditions. The second day proved much more challenging, with light and highly variable winds shifting across the course area. After a long postponement and only one completed race on the final day, Team Something Chill secured the victory and the qualifier title.

The team was comprised of Caroline Bayless (skipper), Nora Ong (pit and jib trim), Maddy McGrath (main trim), and Noelle Owen (bow). Caroline, Nora, and Maddy all competed at Brown University, while Noelle sailed for the College of Charleston. All four women earned All-American honors during their collegiate careers.

We are incredibly grateful to the AYCF for its continued support of our team. Opportunities like this would not be possible without the foundation’s generosity. AYCF support allows us to travel to high-level events, continue developing as competitive sailors, and represent women’s match racing at the national and international level. We deeply appreciate the foundation’s investment in our team and in the future of the sport.

The team is currently ranked 15th on the Women’s World Match Racing Tour and is excited to continue building momentum throughout the season. Upcoming goals include competing at premier international and domestic events such as the Santa Maria Cup, the NORDEA Women’s Trophy – GKSS Match Cup Sweden 2026, and US Women’s Match Race Nationals.

Thank you again to the AYCF for helping make this experience possible. We are excited for what lies ahead and proud to represent the foundation throughout the remainder of the season.