A New Evolution for Team DEFIANT
Team DEFIANT is proud to announce its entry into the 2026 Rolex New York Yacht Club International Women’s Championship—an event that marks a defining moment for women in global sailing. This inaugural championship celebrates the talent, leadership, and collaboration of top female sailors from around the world.
Building on Team DEFIANT’s legacy at the Rolex NYYC Invitational Cup, this next chapter reflects a continued commitment to excellence, progression, and inclusivity in international keelboat sailing.
Led by Olympian Sarah Douglas, the team brings together an accomplished roster of athletes including past Olympic sailors, IC37 sailors, and former National and Provincial Team members. The lineup features Lauren Laventure (Tactician), Mariah Millen, Chantal Hearst, Ingrid Merry, Briar Robertson, Sydney Bowman, Tate Howell and Alex Thayer. Together, they will represent Canada and the Royal Canadian Yacht Club on one of the sport’s most prestigious stages—marking both a historic moment for women’s sailing and the next evolution of Team DEFIANT.
Hosted by the NYYC in Newport, this championship will unite the world’s top all-women teams in matched one-design IC37 racing—showcasing elite skill, strategy, and teamwork. Twenty all-female teams have been confirmed for the inaugural event, taking place September 12–19, 2026.
Team DEFIANT will prepare by training and competing throughout the 2026 IC37 Summer Season. Team DEFIANT plans to continue to compete in the Rolex NYYC Invitational Cup and International Women’s Championships in alternating years, building a sustainable program that can proudly represent Canada for years and decades to come.
Learn more about the NYYC International Women’s Championship.