US Sailing has revealed the 2025 ROLEX Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Awards, with Paul Cayard and Laura Grondin recognized for the most outstanding performances in sailing by American athletes over the past year.
A nomination period submitted possible candidates, and a committee selected by US Sailing advanced the top three men and women. The award recipients were announced at the New York Yacht Club’s Champions Dinner on February 12, 2026, in New York City, co-hosted by the New York Yacht Club and US Sailing.
Each year, the awards not only recognize individual achievement but also inspire future generations of sailors to pursue excellence. The selection process emphasizes not only competitive success, but also the sportsmanship, leadership, and commitment that define exceptional sailors.
Laura Grondin made history as the first female helm to win the J/70 World Championship this past year, with the title coming down to the final moments of the final race. Grondin also finished second at the Melges 24 World Championship, overcoming a collision and two DNFs early in the regatta. Laura’s tactician in the J/70 Worlds was another Rolex Yachtsman of the Year candidate- Taylor Canfield!
A former International Melges 24 Class Chair, Grondin is also one of the Class’s most accomplished female owner-drivers, consistently demonstrating competitive excellence and leadership both on and off the water.
Established in 1961 by US Sailing and sponsored by Rolex, these awards are widely regarded as the highest individual honors in American sailing.