Port Washington Yacht Club’s Make-A-Wish Regatta 2025
written by Megan Cahill-Assenza
Port Washington Yacht Club’s annual Make-A-Wish Regatta is more than just a day on the water—it’s a celebration of compassion, community, and the power of kids helping kids. Now in its 24th year, the event brought together almost 110 junior sailors from across Long Island Sound for a day of spirited competition and heartfelt giving.
Founded by a high school sailor looking to combine her love of the sport with a mission to give back, the regatta has grown into a cherished tradition. Every year, junior sailors raise money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, helping grant life-changing wishes to children with critical illnesses. While there are trophies for top sailors, the real winner is the child who raises the most funds.
Sailors competed in Optimists, Fevas,ILCAs, and Club 420s, with Optis making up the largest fleet. But racing is only part of the story. After the regatta, sailors gathered for a BBQ and an inspiring awards ceremony, where the top 10 fundraisers were celebrated with prizes. Each year, the club invites a Make-A-Wish recipient to share their story. This year, two families joined the celebration: Meredith, a young woman who received a wish to meet Pope Francis during her illness and now speaks with poise and gratitude,and an 8-year-old boy whose wish to attend the NBA All-Star Game came true. Both were invited to speak to the crowd of young sailors—Meredith returning for a second year, and the young boy excited, but shy to stand up and talk to the junior sailors for the first time.
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“This regatta is really the life blood of our club,” said Sal Russo, one of the organizers. “It’s about using our kids’ passion for sailing to make a difference.”
The day wouldn’t have been possible without the club’s dedicated volunteers, race committee, and generous families. With perfect breeze, heartfelt stories, and a powerful cause at the center, the 2025 Make-A-Wish Regatta proved once again that sailing can change lives—on and off the water.
