Thrilling Final Races Mark the End of the 2025 Etchells Biscayne Bay Winter Series Amidst Fierce Competition

The prestigious 2025 Etchells Biscayne Bay Winter Series sailed to its close with the US East Coast Midwinters. Wrapping up the series, these races were an adrenaline-fueled spectacle, doubling the total number of races completed across the previous three events combined. The dramatic conclusion showcased the depth of talent within the Etchells fleet, with seven different winners claiming victory in the eight races. The only sailor to clinch two race wins was none other than Etchells Class President and defending series champion, the formidable Jim Cunningham and his crew aboard Lifted (USA 1504). Despite their fierce performance, they concluded fifth overall in both the Midwinters and the Winter Series. Cunningham reflected on the past season, noting the challenges alongside the triumphs that tested his crew’s mettle. Yet, he emphasized the resiliency and depth of the class, demonstrated by the participation of more than 40 boats consistently on the starting line, with 57 boats from seven nations locking horns throughout the three-month winter series.

Making waves and emerging victorious in the season was the accomplished British sailor Lawrie Smith who led the series from start to finish aboard Mila (GBR 1511). This Olympian and four-time Whitbread Round the World Race veteran, alongside his exceptional crew, dominated the season managing top finishes in all four regattas. The highlight of their season was their victory at the Sid Doren Memorial in January. The team demonstrated their expertise and tenacity, battling their way to victory after a tough start at the Midwinters where they had to recover from 16th and 17th finishes.

Hot on Smith’s heels was Midwinter’s winner Andrew Macrae of Canada’s CruelJane 2.0 (CAN 1501). Finishing second overall, Macrae attributes his team’s success to consistent improvements, team harmony, and the natural skill of sailor Luke Lawrence. A notable contributor to their triumph was the valuable tuning and insights they received from Jud Smith before the Midwinters.

The third-place laurels went to Rick Merriman and his crew aboard Big E (USA 1453). After their significant win at the Florida State Championship two weeks prior, their success at the Winter Series saw them climb the overall ranks. Their dynamic strategy and rig-tune adjustments were key to their victorious performance. Andrew Lawson’s No Dramas (GBR 1490) from the UK, who topped the Corinthian podium and finished fourth overall, also deserves recognition.