6 legends announced for the National Sailing Hall of Fame Class of 2026
SIX REMARKABLE SAILORS TO BE INDUCTED INTO
THE NATIONAL SAILING HALL OF FAME – CLASS OF 2026
Newport, R.I – April 2, 2026. The National Sailing Hall of Fame (NSHOF) proudly announces the induction of six individuals whose achievements, leadership and enduring impact have shaped the sport of sailing in profound and lasting ways. The Class of 2026 represents a compelling cross-section of sailing excellence, spanning record-setting navigation, Olympic triumph, innovative yacht design, competitive mastery and dedicated service to the sport.
The 2026 inductees are: Eleanor Prentiss Creesy, Gino Joseph Morrelli, Herman Frasch Whiton, Judson Andrew Smith, Lorna Whittelsey Hibberd and Mary Male Savage. Together, they embody the spirit of sailing: courage, ingenuity, resilience and a lifelong commitment to advancing the sport. From the age of clipper ships to modern multihulls, the Class of 2026 spans more than a century of sailing evolution.
“Great sailors leave more than wake behind them, they leave a legacy. The Class of 2026 reminds us that sailing is more than a sport. It is a proving ground for courage, innovation and character. These inductees changed the game and expanded what was possible for everyone who followed.” said Gary Jobson, Inductee America’s Cup Hall of Fame ’03 and National Sailing Hall of Fame ’11, Co-President of The Sailing Museum & National Sailing Hall of Fame. “Our six new inductees chased horizons others couldn’t yet see; and in doing so, redefined what sailing could be. Their impact reaches far beyond the finish line, inspiring generations to push further and dream big.”
A LEGACY ACROSS OCEANS AND GENERATIONS
Eleanor Prentiss Creesy was a pioneering navigator whose expertise guided the clipper Flying Cloud to record-setting passages around Cape Horn. At a time when few women went to sea, she advanced navigation through oceanographic research and meticulous recordkeeping, helping achieve one of the most remarkable voyages in maritime history: 89 days and 21 hours from New York to San Francisco.
A century later, Gino Joseph Morrelli redefined performance through innovative yacht design. A self-taught naval architect, his work spans America’s Cup campaigns and record-breaking offshore multihulls. His designs, including PlayStation, set transatlantic records and helped shape modern multihull racing.
CHAMPIONS WHO ELEVATED THE SPORT
Herman Frasch Whiton combined elite competition with a commitment to mentorship. A two-time Olympic gold medalist in the 6 Meter class (1948, 1952), he also created the Sailing Facility program, bringing sailors together to share knowledge and promote understanding.
Judson Andrew “Jud” Smith is synonymous with elite one-design racing. Known for his relentless pursuit of performance and generous approach to teaching, he has won world championships across multiple classes, including Etchells and J/70. A two-time Rolex Yachtsman of the Year, he continues to influence sailors as a competitor, coach, and sailmaker.
TRAILBLAZERS AND COMMUNITY BUILDERS
Lorna Whittelsey Hibberd was a dominant competitor from a young age, winning the Adams Cup five times beginning at just 15. At a time when female skippers were rare, she competed across a wide range of boats while mentoring young sailors and fostering enthusiasm.
Mary Male Savage transformed early challenges into a distinguished career in officiating. As one of the first female certified judges and later an International Judge, she helped shape the fair application of the Racing Rules of Sailing. Officiating at dozens of regattas each year, she earned recognition for her integrity and was awarded US Sailing’s highest honor, the Nathanael Greene Herreshoff Trophy.
Selection Committee Chair Spike Lobdell encourages people to learn more about the journeys taken by this year’s inductee selection. “Every year, we’re struck by the quality of the nominees, and the Class of 2026 is no exception. What stands out isn’t just what these six individuals have accomplished, but how they’ve gone about it. They reflect the best of our sport, bringing creativity, determination, and a lasting dedication to sailing that continues to inspire.”
Class of 2026 National Sailing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony festivities will take place in Newport, Rhode Island on Tuesday, October 6 and Wednesday, October 7. A celebratory welcome cocktail party is set for the evening of October 6 at The Sailing Museum & National Sailing Hall of Fame, while the official daytime ceremony with special luncheon is planned at New York Yacht Club Harbour Court on October 7. Details soon available on our website.
About The Sailing Museum & National Sailing Hall of Fame
Located in the heart of Newport, The Sailing Museum & National Sailing Hall of Fame is a dynamic, hands-on destination where sailing, innovation and education converge. Immersive exhibits engage all ages and showcase the science, skill and excitement of the sport. A strong STEM lens highlights wind, water, design and engineering in action. Modern, flexible event spaces provide a distinctive setting for gatherings, corporate offsites and special events. For more than a decade, the National Sailing Hall of Fame has honored those who have shaped the sport. Their legacy and stories are woven throughout the museum, inspiring all who visit. Learn more at thesailingmuseum.org.