May 15 Registration Deadline Beckons for Grand Rolex Big Boat Series at St. Francis Yacht Club

On May 15, the markers will be set just four months shy of the most awaited annual regatta on the West Coast - the Rolex Big Boat Series, all set to enliven the San Francisco Bay from September 16-20, 2026. And, this isn’t just any regatta, but one that also doubles up as the 2026 Offshore Racing Congress (ORC) North American Championship.

This registration deadline isn’t just a date drawn on the calendar, but a golden ticket to fantastic savings on registration for those skippers eager to test the waters alongside top-ranked peers. The shimmering sail canvas already boasts 30 teams enlisted to compete, including dramatic tales of old and new champions and sweeping boat revivals.

Among the early birds swooping towards the rhythm of the tide is the Rolex Sydney Hobart division winner Bacchanal, helmed by owner-skipper Ron Epstein. The skipper’s passion for the series is rivaled only by a crisp, high-stakes Fear Of Missing Out (FOMO) - having podiumed in the 2023 and 2024 showcases under the same banner.

“With the ORC Championship being the crest of the Rolex Big Boat Series this year, we’re getting ready to bring our best game to the waters,” shared an excited Epstein. His well-seasoned crew is in stride with the nuances of their vessel, thanks to over 2,000 miles spent together navigating the seas in the past year. His anticipation is eagerly infectious, “We’re looking forward to gleaning from our experience in Australia and seeing how well it translates to the racecourse!”

The other one to catch the breakers is the painstakingly restored Santa Cruz 52 Rosebud, that had once gloriously clinched the 1999 crown of the Rolex Big Boat Series. Revived from nautical oblivion by owners Blaine Pedlow, Bruce Edwards, Mike Holt, and Rob Woelfel, Rosebud will be gracing the waves of the Rolex Big Boat Series after nearly two decades. Rosebud’s eager to show off her stunning new look, along with her team’s fierce camaraderie and devotion to their dear friend Susan Ruhne, Commodore of the St. Francis Yacht Club for 2026.

Sailing aficionados worldwide are eagerly watching, as this maritime ballet of precision, endurance, and sheer thrill is once again poised, ready to unleash the spirit of the race.