The National Sailing Hall of Fame is seeking applicants for the Class of 2026. The nomination window is from October 1 through December 1.
“Our process is unique in that it begins with nominations from the broader sailing community,” says Spike Lobdell, Selection Committee Chair. “This ensures we consider the wide range of talents and contributions that strengthen sailing at a national level. We’re looking for sailors, designers and contributors whose impact has left a lasting mark, and it is the public who helps us identify these truly deserving legends.”
Nominations must be submitted through The Sailing Museum and National Sailing Hall of Fame website. Appropriate candidates have demonstrated “extraordinary skill, commitment, and a meaningful positive influence on the sailing community” according to the submission guidelines. Candidates must also meet age requirements (be at least 55 years old, deceased for greater than five years, or be a historic figure), nationality requirements (be a US citizen or have had significant impact on American sailing), and must not have been already nominated. The website lists all previous nominees for reference. They also emphasize that this honor is not just for pioneering sailors but also boat designers, educators, artists and other figures in the sailing community who have had an enduring impact on the sport.
“Preserving the legacy of sailing means honoring those whose achievements have defined and elevated our sport,” says Gary Jobson, Co-President and Dual AC/NSHOF Hall of Fame inductee. “Through nominations and inductions, the National Sailing Hall of Fame makes certain that the trailblazers throughout time will be remembered as the legends who inspire tomorrow.”
Now in its 15th year, The National Sailing Hall of Fame has inducted 147 of sailing’s most prominent figures, both contemporary and historical.
Click here to fill out an application.
