2024 was active for the Hobie class, with regattas, international championships, and growing global participation. Additionally, the Hobie Cat Company went back to building Hobie Cats!
Global Highlights
Europe
- Poland & Germany (August): A combined national championship was a competition and training for the upcoming 2025 Hobie Multi Europeans in Ustka, Poland.
- Italy (July): Hobie Italy hosted several Hobie Raids—unique multi-day events combining sailing, overnight stays, and social gatherings. These have surged in popularity across Europe, reinforcing the spirit of Hobie camaraderie.
- Lake Garda, Italy (July): Australian sailors joined the 50th Hobie Europeans at Lake Garda. Special congratulations to Cam Owen & Suz Ghent for securing victory in the Hobie 16 Open.
- Denmark: The country saw record participation in the Hobie 16 National Championships, demonstrating the class’s growing appeal.
North America
- US Multihull Championship: The Hobie 16 was selected as the multihull class for the 2024 US Sailing Multihull Championship, continuing a tradition that traces back to the “Alter Cup,” named after Hobie Alter.
- Production (September): Hobie Sailboats announced the first 2024 Hobie 16s rolled out of the California factory.
Asia
- China: China remains the global leader in Hobie regattas, hosting over 30 major events throughout the year. These events continue to attract new sailors and grow the Hobie community.
Class Rules
The IHCA Rules Committee conducted multiple surveys in 2024, encouraging class members to contribute feedback. This initiative led to valuable suggestions, and Hobie Cat Company began testing new rule proposals on Hobie 14 models. The results will inform potential class rule adjustments, with public commentary on proposed changes expected in early 2025.
Looking Ahead: 2025 and Beyond
- 2025 Hobie Multi Europeans: Scheduled for July/August in Ustka, Poland.
- North American Events: Final paperwork is underway to confirm key regattas for 2025.
- Australian Championships 2025/26: Busselton, WA, will host Series One from December 28 to 31, 2025, and Series Two from January 2 to 5, 2026.
- Hobie 14 European Cup 2024: The EHCA are thrilled to announce the first-ever Hobie 14 Euro Cup – an international series designed to bring sailors together for unforgettable racing and camaraderie. Every H14 sailor is eligible to participate, so let’s make history together! The events include:
- Cesenatico, Italy | 19–21 April
- Bostalsee, Germany | 21–22 June
- Ustka, Poland | 14–17 August
- Hobie 14 Worlds 2026: Planning is progressing, with Europe being a potential host location.
- Hobie 16 Worlds: Delays have shifted sponsor allocations and commitments to make the announcements we hoped for this year. Further announcements are anticipated in the new year.
Conclusion
As the IHCA looks toward 2025, the focus remains on increasing membership for financial independence, refining class rules, and expanding participation in international events.
Thank you to all the sailors and volunteers, who contributed to another successful year for the Hobie class.
Have a Hobie year.
David
