The 50th Gov Cup is won again by Nevin Snow

Nevin Snow and his team from San Diego Yacht Club were victorious this year, defeating Sam Gilmour and his team from the Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club. Each had defeated their opponent in the final four.

In addition, each had won the Gov Cup in the past.  Nevin won in 2011 and Sam in 2013 and 2014.

To get to the finals, there was a battle of the Australians between Sam and last year’s winner, Harry Price, from Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, Sam was able to win two out of three competitive races to move on to the finals. Nevin had raced Christophe Killian’s team from the host club, winning both races. CYCA then raced BYC in the Petit Final. Christophe was able to win the second and third races of their match, sewing up third place for the third time in three years.      

Because the upper age limit was increased this year to 22 years of age, many past winners were involved in the week long events. All the racers have impressive resumes, having competed in exciting races throughout the world.

The other teams were paired up to race to determine their final placement. Ryo Takahashi from Japan Youth Match Racing Association defeated Chris Weis from Del Rey Yacht Club to place fifth. William Dargeville from Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club defeated Lachy Gilmore from RFBYC to place seventh. George Anyon, in ninth, from Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron defeated Charles LaLumiere from Portland Yacht Club. For 11th, Romain Screve of San Francisco Yacht Club won two out of three races to defeat Will Boulden of RFBYC.

The last day of the 2016 Gov Cup was a day of contrasts, starting with heavy fog. A lot lot of racing was scheduled, with all of the consolation rounds, Semi-finals, and Finals to fit in. Racing was expected to start at noon.  However, the PRO, Don Becker, waited to start until visibility improved. Between 1:30 and 2 pm, wind increased and the competition began. The conditions were a stark contrast to the day before, when racing was abandoned about 4 pm due to lack of wind. The wind gusted to 18 knots, accompanied by heavy swells. Some of the many spectators chose to go back to the dock due to the conditions.

After racing, the winning boats were greeted at the Balboa Yacht Club dock by a cheering crowd. Trophy presentations were enjoyed by all. The team from San Diego hoisted the venerable Governor’s Cup Trophy in celebration. Trophies were awarded to the second, third and fourth place teams. In addition, the team from Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club was awarded the Sportsmanship Award, a special honor which is voted on by the team members and umpires. The team consists of Skipper Will Dargaville with crew members Evelyn Foster and Malcolm Parker. RPAYC is located near Sydney, Australia.