11 Visionaries Inducted into the National Sailing Hall of Fame in 2025
David Kent Dellenbaugh
Gregory Vance Fisher
Sally Elizabeth Helme
Hal Herman Haenel
Charles “Chuck” Hawley
James Henry “Sham” Hunt
Bruce P. King
Alfred Edward “Bill” Luders, Jr
Kenneth Wheaton Read II
John Steven Reichel
Carl Sherman Schumacher
We’re excited to announce the 11 individuals who will be inducted into our prestigious National Sailing Hall of Fame Class of 2025. This new group includes a diverse range of influential figures in the sailing world, from Olympians and champions to yacht designers, coaches, educators, and more. The 15th Induction Ceremony will take place at the New York Yacht Club in Newport on September 24-25, accompanied by a welcome event on September 24 at The Sailing Museum, featuring a new exhibit and a new patio deck.
Among the 2025 inductees are individuals whose exceptional contributions have shaped the course of sailing. David Dellenbaugh (b. 1953), a skilled sailor and tactician, is renowned for helping defend the 1992 America’s Cup with America3. Hal Haenel (b. 1966), a gold and silver Olympic medalist in the International Star Class, also led the US Sailing Team for the 2000 Olympics. Sally Helme (1953-2024) became the first female publisher of Cruising World and Sailing World, leaving a powerful legacy through her leadership and advocacy for equality in the sport and industry.
“The Sailing Hall of Fame Class of 2025 includes an inspiring group of sailors and designers who have achieved excellence at the highest levels of the sport,” said fellow Hall of Fame inductee and Co-President Gary Jobson. “Each Inductee has contributed lasting innovations and remarkable achievements. They have all helped educate sailors on how to sail fast, race with integrity and lift the game of aspiring young sailor athletes.”
Known for their achievements both on and off the water, the Class of 2025 will also honor Greg Fisher (b. 1954), a 25-time champion across seven sailing classes, recognized for his versatility, dedication, and work as a coach, educator, and advocate for accessible sailing; Chuck Hawley (b. 1955), a skilled sailor with over 40,000 miles at sea, known for his contributions to maritime safety, education, and leadership in Safety-at-Sea seminars; and Ken Read (b. 1961), a two-time Rolex Yachtsman of the Year, who has won over 50 titles, helmed three America’s Cup campaigns, and now leads at North Sails while racing worldwide.
Nominations are open to the public sailing community, and each year, our selection committee carefully reviews submissions to elect individuals for its prestigious fellowship, honoring exceptional achievements and contributions to the sport.
“If there’s one word that truly captures the essence of all our candidates, it’s passion. A passion for excellence, both on and off the water, and a commitment to enriching our community,” said Spike Lobdell, Selection Committee Chair. “These inductees embody the spirit of sailing as more than just a sport. The skills they demonstrate in their pursuit of sailing extend beyond the water, offering life lessons that will inspire and guide future generations.”
This year’s inductees include prominent boat designers and innovators recognized for their significant contributions to the sport. Alfred “Bill” Luders, Jr. (1909-1999), a pioneering yacht designer, revolutionized hull construction with epoxy resin and anti-fouling paints, earning acclaim for boats like Weatherly and American Eagle in the America’s Cup. Bruce King (b. 1939), known for designs like Ericson Yachts and White Hawk, transformed modern yacht design with over 40 creations. John Reichel (b. 1955), co-founder of Reichel/Pugh, has shaped modern yacht design with groundbreaking creations like the Melges 24. Carl Schumacher (1949-2002), a gifted naval architect, designed 57 sailboats, including the Express and Alerion Express lines. Olympic gold medalist and World Champion, James “Sham” Hunt (b. 1936), led O’Day Yachts in producing over 50,000 boats and became the second father-son pair inducted, following his father, C. Raymond Hunt.
Explore the complete profiles of the Class of 2025 inductees on our website, and see their names proudly displayed on our exhibit wall onsite. To purchase Induction Celebration Tickets, Tables and Sponsorships, please visit our Induction Ticketing page.