The Sailing Museum & National Sailing Hall of Fame has announced the 11 individuals who will be inducted into the National Sailing Hall of Fame Class of 2025. The new inductees include a diverse group of sailing world figures, from Olympians and champions to yacht designers, coaches, educators, and more.
Among the 2025 inductees are David Dellenbaugh (b. 1953), a skilled sailor and tactician who is renowned for helping defend the 1992 America’s Cup with America3; Hal Haenel (b. 1966), a gold and silver Olympic medalist in the International Star Class who also led the US Sailing Team for the 2000 Olympics; and Sally Helme (1953-2024) who became the first female publisher of Cruising World and Sailing World and advocated for equality in the sport and industry.
The Class of 2025 will also honor Greg Fisher (b. 1954), a 25-time champion across seven sailing classes and an advocate for accessible sailing; Chuck Hawley (b. 1955), a skilled ocean sailor known for his contributions to maritime safety, education, and leadership in safety-at-sea seminars; and Ken Read (b. 1961), a two-time Rolex Yachtsman of the Year who won over 50 titles, helmed three America’s Cup campaigns, and now leads North Sails.
This year’s class also includes prominent boat designers and innovators. Alfred “Bill” Luders, Jr. (1909-1999) was a pioneering yacht designer who revolutionized hull construction with epoxy resin and anti-fouling paints and earned acclaim for boats like America’s Cup contenders Weatherly and American Eagle. Bruce King (b.1939) is known for designs like Ericson Yachts and White Hawk and transformed modern yacht design with over 40 unique creations. John Reichel (b. 1955), co-founder of Reichel/Pugh, has shaped modern yacht design with groundbreaking creations like the Melges 24. Carl Schumacher (1949-2002) was a gifted naval architect who designed 57 sailboats, including the Express and Alerion Express lines. Olympic gold medalist and World Champion, James “Sham” Hunt (b. 1936) led O’Day Yachts in producing over 50,000 boats, and follows his father, C. Raymond Hunt into the Hall.
“If there’s one word that truly captures the essence of all our candidates, it’s passion. A passion for excellence, both on and off the water, and a commitment to enriching our community,” said Spike Lobdell, Selection Committee Chair. “These inductees embody the spirit of sailing as more than just a sport. The skills they demonstrate in their pursuit of sailing extend beyond the water, offering life lessons that will inspire and guide future generations.”
The 15th Induction ceremony and celebration will be held at the New York Yacht Club Harbour Court in Newport, Rhode Island, on September 25. It will be preceded by a welcome event on September 24 at The Sailing Museum.
Full profiles of the Class of 2025 National Sailing Hall of Fame may be found at thesailingmuseum.org
