US Sailing has announced the finalists for the 2025 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Awards, recognising the standout performances by American sailors over the past season.
The shortlist for Rolex Yachtsman of the Year brings together three sailors who have delivered results across a wide range of classes and conditions. Justin Callahan is nominated following his title as Snipe Western Hemisphere Champion. Taylor Canfield earns his place after a dominant year that included J 70 and M32 World Championships, alongside a second place finish at the Melges 24 Worlds. Paul Cayard rounds out the list after claiming the Star World Championship, adding another major title to an already distinguished career.
The Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year finalists reflect an equally diverse set of achievements. Offshore success features strongly through Alli Bell, skipper of the overall winning yacht in the Transpac Race. Laura Grondin is recognised for her J 70 World Championship victory and a second place result at the Melges 24 Worlds, while Pearl Lattanzi earns her nomination after securing the WASZP Women’s World Championship.
Winners are selected by a vote of past Rolex Award recipients and senior members of the sailing media, with emphasis placed not only on results, but also leadership and sportsmanship.
The 2025 award recipients will be announced at the Champions Dinner hosted by the New York Yacht Club on 12 February 2026 in New York City, co-hosted with US Sailing. The evening will also see presentation of the Kevin Burnham Memorial Award and the Nathanael G. Herreshoff Trophy.
Established in 1961 and supported by Rolex, the awards remain the highest individual honour in American sailing, celebrating performances that set benchmarks on the water and inspire the next generation.
