2026 U.S. Multihull Championship

The 2026 U.S. Multihull Championship took place April 30-May 3 on Lake Murray in Columbia, SC. With racing in the Weta Trimaran Class, Bob Hodges dominated the 20 competitors, finishing 13 points clear of Gareth Ferguson in second with Bill Swanson three points back in third. Hodges won three of the 11 races, with all but two races in the top three. – Details

Update from US Sailing:
Racing conditions over the four-day championship tested the fleet with a wide range of weather, from light and variable winds to more challenging and unsettled conditions. The opening day proved particularly difficult, with only one race completed in light air before deteriorating conditions forced multiple abandonments. Bill Swanson won the first race, followed by Alan Taylor and Bob Hodges.

Conditions improved on the second day, allowing the race committee to complete four races in shifting 7–10 knot breezes. Gareth Ferguson posted an impressive performance with two race wins, while Hodges maintained the overall lead through consistent finishes. Across the remainder of the championship, competitors navigated fluctuating conditions that demanded adaptability and precision.

Day three brought capsizes and craziness. Winds built from 9-10 knots to gusts in the low 20s bringing a dramatic start, two capsizes, and a thrilling, high-speed finish led by Hodges and Carroll as boats flew across the line. The final race saw lighter but shifty conditions, with Ferguson edging Hodges in a two-boat battle, while strong gusts again tested sailors downwind.

The final day began under clear skies but with cool temperatures and dense fog over Lake Murray. An inversion layer, created by warm water and cold air, significantly reduced visibility across the course area and raised uncertainty about whether racing would proceed. As conditions stabilized, the race committee successfully completed the series, bringing the championship to a conclusive finish.

This marked the third time the Columbia Sailing Club has hosted a US Sailing National Championship, and the event was distinguished by both high-quality race management and exceptional shoreside hospitality.