The first day of the 100th Lipton Cup felt every bit the phrase “calm before the storm.” The shifting winds were light, but proved to be a heavy challenge to the 12 J/105s racing on San Diego Bay. Jon Pinckney and his crew from Newport Harbor Yacht Club were up for the task, finishing the day with a total of 10 points in order to secure the day’s first place overall position.

"It is no less important to the Commodore as air or water," said Staff Commodore of the San Diego Yacht Club Chuck Nichols. The Lipton Cup is arguably one of the most iconic regattas in the sailing community. This three-day regatta is an invitation-only event where the best sailors from around the country compete to represent their yacht clubs. For the Commodores of these Yacht Clubs, winning the Lipton Cup for their club is often considered the highest accolade they can accomplish.

If you haven’t watched the Lipton Cup competition in recent years, your first reaction might be to yell “Fire!” because it can only be described as a fire drill. Hectic, close, boat on boat action on the race course separated by crazy musical chair flurries between races by the crews.

When I walk into the SDYC lobby I am stunned by the beauty and craftsmanship embodied in the Lipton Cup. Looking closely, you can find a record of 110 years of competition including the names of the yachts which have won.

The beautiful silver challenge cup presented to the Corinthian Yacht Club of San Diego by Sir Thomas Lipton is undoubtedly the most artistic trophy ever owned by a Pacific Coast yacht club.