The Hobart and William Smith sailing team is set to host the David Lee Arnoff Trophy for the 13th consecutive year, welcoming top collegiate programs to Seneca Lake this weekend, Oct. 17-18. The regatta, held at the Bozzuto Boathouse in Geneva, carries deep significance for the HWS community, and the Statesmen have dominated the event, winning nine of the past 12 editions.
The home regatta is named in memory of David Lee Arnoff ’82, a devoted Hobart alumnus and passionate sailor who passed away unexpectedly in 2012. The event was officially renamed in 2014 to honor his enduring contributions to HWS and his love of the sport.
Racing is scheduled to begin Saturday at 11 a.m. on Seneca Lake. This year’s field features Cal Poly, Cornell, Princeton, Maritime, Merchant Marine, Michigan and Vermont, promising a competitive weekend of collegiate sailing in the Finger Lakes.
In the 2025 edition, HWS turned in a commanding performance, claiming the trophy with a 39-point victory. With only seven teams competing, the regatta was sailed as one combined division. The HWS boats finished one-two, with the “B” Division boat taking first place on 44 points. Nico Garcia-Castrillon ’26, Kenelm Guinness, Cara Brickhouse and Molly Pile combined to win three races and finished second four times. The “A” Division boat came in second with 51 points. James Kopack, Sam Carson, Laura Therien ’26, Jamie McGuffee and Cara Brickhouse combined to win two races and placed second four times.
Beyond the Arnoff Trophy, HWS sailors will be busy elsewhere this weekend. The program will also send competitors to Kings Point, New York, for the Nevins Trophy. William Smith sailors will head to St. Mary’s City, Maryland, to compete at the Women’s ACC Finals.
