WHAT'S NEW AT VYC
Vallarta Sailing Foundation: Helping to make a passion for sailing a reality
Sailing isn’t just a sport - it’s a passion, a challenge, and a lifelong adventure.
The Vallarta Sailing Foundation (VSF) is at the heart of this spirit in Banderas Bay, working tirelessly to give young sailors the opportunity to chase their dreams on the water.
Their mission is simple yet powerful: to support young Mexican sailors as they grow from beginners to national, international, and even Olympic-level competitors. Thanks to their efforts, local sailors have had the chance to race in major events like the Nacionales CONADE, the National Optimist Championships, and the Mayan Wind Fest. Some such as Elena Oetling have even gone on to represent Mexico on the world stage during the Olympics in Paris!
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.
The 19th WesMex International Small Boat Regatta Sets Sail!
Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico – The highly anticipated 19th WesMex International Small Boat Regatta is set to kick off, bringing together some of the best young sailors from Mexico and beyond. As part of the prestigious MEXICANA de Vela circuit, this regatta continues to play a key role in developing competitive sailing in the region and serving as a stepping stone for future champions.
Hosted at the world-class Vallarta Yacht Club, the WesMex Regatta has earned a reputation for delivering top-tier racing conditions, challenging courses, and a vibrant sailing community. With its consistent winds, warm waters, and stunning backdrop of Banderas Bay, the venue provides the perfect setting for intense yet thrilling competition.
24th Annual Great Chili Cookoff - A Big Success!
The 24th Great Annual Chili Cook-Off, held Sunday, December 15th, 2024, continued a beloved tradition of combining fun and fundraising for our community. This year’s event carried on the legacy that began over two decades ago in the VYC parking lot.
Members, local residents, and visitors gathered to sample 10 "regular" and 3 "vegetarian" chilis to help decide the "Most Popular Chili" winner along with a panel of three judges. The judges showed incredible stamina tasting all of the chilis to judge the other three categories.
Vallarta Yacht Club Renovation Updates!
As we move closer to the completion of our club's renovation project, I have some exciting updates to share. We have changed most of the lighting throughout the club and restaurant and painted the club a rich blue which adds a warm, nautical style and feel to our club. We have also added a beautiful custom made trophy case to display our many trophies, awards and photos with room for more! There is a relaxing lounge area and the Game Room tables and chairs have been changed to add more comfortable seating. We still have more to do but our goal of completing the project by the end of October is on track. VYC Opening Day and the Re-Grand Opening of Picante Grill will be Saturday, November 9th where we will showcase our newly renovated club! We look forward to welcoming you! Please feel free to invite friends and family to the Opening Day festivities. More information will be coming soon.
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