WHAT'S NEW AT VYC
Wind, Waves, and Wild Racing at the J70 Mexican Nationals!
The J70 Mexican National Championships had it all: big winds, fierce competition, and a few white-knuckle moments that made for a weekend to remember! Mother Nature turned on the fan with southerly gusts hitting 20 knots and beyond, putting the fleet’s skills to the ultimate test.
Saturday’s two races were fast and furious, setting the stage for an epic Sunday showdown. Zaguero came in hot, fresh off their European triumph at the Corinthian Championship. But with this much talent on the water, the crystal ball was foggy—no telling who’d take the cup!
A Big Thank You and Farewell to Coach Cris Ortiz!
It’s not every day you watch a 10-year-old grow into a national champion, world traveler, and inspirational coach—but that’s exactly what Vallarta Yacht Club witnessed with Cris Ortiz. Cris has been part of the VYC family since she was just 10 years old. Her mother, Marie Elena Vivas, moved the family to the area after recognizing that her three children were exceptionally talented sailors who needed regular training in Banderas Bay to reach their full potential.
Cris grew up in the Junior Sailing program at VYC and, along with her twin sister Andrea, was a force to be reckoned with. The two dominated WesMex Regattas, often leaving with three trophies apiece. Early in her sailing career, Cris earned spots in several prestigious international competitions during her Optimist (Opti) days.
VYC’s Team Zaguero Shines at 2025 J/70 Corinthian European Championship
4th Place Finish + International Burgee Exchange in Cascais, Portugal
A huge shout out to Team Zaguero, who secured 4th place in the 2025 J/70 Corinthian European Championship held in Cascais, Portugal. Representing VYC on the international stage, skipper Ignacio Peréz and crew showed their skill, determination, and true Corinthian spirit.
The regatta featured top amateur teams from across Europe and beyond, and Team Zaguero’s impressive finish placed them among the elite in this highly competitive fleet.
Annual General Meeting 2025
If it’s gonna happen, we’re gonna make it happen right here!!!
Interim Commodore Eric Bloomquist inspired members at the Annual General Meeting on March 25th by highlighting all of the progress the yacht club has made in this past year by coming together to rise above the challenges that faced us and looking forward to continuing the momentum we started. He is committed to the club “doing BIG things” in the sailing world and to improving its financial stability. Taking a slogan from the recent BBR’s theme from Captain Ron, Eric declared that “If it’s gonna happen, we’re gonna make it happen right here!” Those in attendance rallied to that battle cry with enthusiasm and optimism for the bright future. Many brought forth ideas on how they can help move the club forward into a club that thrives socially, fiscally and as a boating venue.
WesMex 2025 Was a Huge Success!
The 19th Annual WesMex International Small Boat Regatta concluded triumphantly at the Vallarta Yacht Club, celebrating the remarkable skills and sportsmanship of all participants. Over three days of intense competition, sailors from various Optimist, ILCA, and C420 classes showcased their talents against the stunning backdrop of Banderas Bay.
This year’s regatta was particularly significant, serving as the 4th and final qualifying event for these 2025 international events: Optimist North American Championship, Optimist South American Championship, and Optimist World Championship in the Optimist class, as well as for the World Sailing Youth World Championship in the ILCA 6 and C420 classes. The challenging conditions tested the mettle of all competitors, with fluctuating winds and dynamic sea states demanding both strategic acumen and physical endurance. In the Optimist Avanzado category, the competition was fierce, with young sailors vying for top honors and a coveted spot on the national team. The ILCA Dinghy and C420 classes also witnessed thrilling races, with athletes demonstrating exceptional prowess and determination.
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