UBC Sailing Crowned Keelboat National Champions

By agmiu on February 26, 2026

UBC Sailing delivered a statement performance this weekend in Vancouver, capturing the Keelboat National Championship in dramatic fashion after a regatta defined by challenging wind, tough conditions, and high-pressure racing. With the fleet pushed to its limits, the Thunderbirds pushed through when it mattered most returning the trophy to Point Grey for the first time since 2018.

UBC Boat 1 rose to the challenge and, after two days, sat tied for third with Dalhousie in a four-way battle for the win alongside two UVic boats, with all four universities sitting 45 points ahead of the rest of the fleet. In a winner-takes-all final race, UBC finished first, launching them to the top of the standings and breaking the tie by four points, and sealing the national title.

 


Crew of winning UBC Boat 1: (Angela Ying, Kaina Reinos, Dylan Jones, Rory Walsh (left to right).

UBC 1 battling with a University of Victoria boat in English Bay

 

Through equipment breakdowns and difficult tactical calls, the weekend proved a true test of sportsmanship, athleticism, and determination putting UBC in the running for the overall Canadian national season title.

Angela Ying, Club Lead of the Sailing Team and a member of the winning Boat 1 crew, has been representing UBC on the water since 2022. Reflecting on the win, she said:

“Winning a national title is an incredible achievement for our team. I know every sailor gave their all, and this moment reflects years of hard work, resilience, and camaraderie. From rebuilding the team after the pandemic, to training without a home venue. Our team overcame every challenge, and I couldn’t be prouder. Every member of this team is invaluable, dedicating all they can to the sport and the team as a whole, I could not ask for a better group of young athletes to sail alongside. We celebrate this win and look forward to even greater successes ahead.”   – Angela Ying, Sailing Club Lead

With this milestone victory, UBC Sailing not only celebrates a national championship but also the trajectory of the program moving forward. As the team now sets its sights on the overall Canadian national season title, this weekend stands as a testament to the commitment and competitive spirit that continue to drive the Thunderbirds on the water.

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