The Storm Trysail Foundation had an incredible year in 2025. Our mission—to advance safety, seamanship, and leadership within the sailing community—continues to grow in both reach and impact. Through expanded programs, new partnerships, and the generosity of our donors and volunteers, the Foundation is reaching more sailors than ever before.
We invite you to get involved: join as a volunteer, attend one of our Safety-at-Sea Seminars, or support our work through a tax-deductible donation.
Safety-at-Sea: Expanding Knowledge Coast to Coast
Our hallmark Safety-at-Sea (SAS) programs remain at the heart of the Foundation’s mission. In 2025, more than 500 sailors—both adults and juniors—participated in SAS events across the country.
We hosted the International Offshore Safety-at-Sea Seminars at SUNY Maritime College (NY) and Lakewood Yacht Club (TX), with additional junior and regional sessions in Annapolis, Buffalo, Chicago, Larchmont, Marblehead, and Raritan Bay.
Through these seminars, Storm Trysail Foundation continues to set the standard for offshore safety education and leadership training in the United States.
Supporting Community Sailing and Sea Scouts
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Foundation awards grants to organizations that share our commitment to safe, inclusive sailing education.
In 2025, the Foundation provided 25 grants totaling $64,000—a 36% increase over 2024—to community sailing programs and Sea Scout “ships” nationwide. These grants were made possible in part by fundraising at the Chicago-Mac Race fireworks event, generously underwritten by new member Jerry Gurthet.
The Foundation’s Grant Program, initiated by Bo and Edie Lycke in honor of Edward du Moulin, helps bridge access for those outside traditional yacht club networks. Each grantee is supported by a Storm Trysail liaison, volunteer coaches, and access to our online educational resources.
Building the Future of Offshore Sailing
Our Intercollegiate Offshore Regattas (IORs) continue to inspire the next generation of offshore sailors.
- Larchmont IOR (NY): 45 teams / 350+ sailors
- Great Lakes IOR (Chicago): 14 teams / 100+ sailors
The Callisto Cup, donated by Jim and Kate Murray, recognizes the top collegiate team across both events. Looking ahead, a new Pacific Northwest IOR will debut in 2026, with additional discussions underway for Charleston and Texas events—expanding the IOR into a truly national competition.
Recognizing Acts of Seamanship
One of our most inspiring new initiatives is the Safety Burgee Program, launched by Great Lakes member Ben Hirdes to honor acts of seamanship.
In 2025, seven Safety Burgees were awarded for remarkable rescues and assistance at sea, including:
- Two jet skier rescues
- Two man-overboard recoveries
- Standing by a dismasted yacht
- Mid-Atlantic aid by a double-handed Transatlantic crew, including an underwater repair at sea
Learn more or nominate someone at stormtrysail.org/seamanship-burgee.
Innovation and Thought Leadership
The Foundation’s leadership role in safety research continues to expand.
- Our Lifesling Advisory, adopted by US Sailing, was cited in the 2025 Chicago-Mac Race.
- Seahorse Magazine published a three-part feature on Storm Trysail’s evolving Man Overboard recovery practices.
- The Level 200 SAS at SUNY Maritime introduced new Damage Control and Abandon Ship modules.
These advancements reflect the expertise and dedication of Storm Trysail members nationwide.
The Financial Reality: Every Gift Makes a Difference
In 2024, 160 members and friends supported the Foundation financially. With more than 1,000 members, there’s tremendous potential to grow our donor base and strengthen our impact.
Consider becoming a Sustaining Member with an automatic monthly contribution of $10, $25, $50 or more. Small recurring donations add up to big results.
Your gift directly supports safety education, youth programs, and community sailing access.
Thank You
None of this would be possible without the hundreds of volunteers, sponsors, and donors who make our programs a success. Special thanks to our partners and to our sponsor:
We encourage all members to join us on the docks, in the classroom, and on the water. Whether you volunteer, attend an event, or make a donation, you’re part of a legacy that saves lives and inspires sailors.
With gratitude,
Richard du Moulin
Chairman, Storm Trysail Foundation
Donate online: StormTrysailFoundation.org
Or mail a check to:
Storm Trysail Foundation, 1 Woodbine Avenue, Larchmont, NY 10538
Your donation is tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
