Seawanhaka Optimist Race Team Shines at the 2025 JSA of LIS Championships

September 10, 2025
Written by Brian Reilly

Two months ago, the Seawanhaka Optimist Race Team proudly competed at the 2025 JSA of Long Island Sound Optimist Championships, hosted by the American Yacht Club. The event brought together more than 120 young sailors from across Long Island Sound, making it one of the most competitive and prestigious regattas of the summer season.

What made Seawanhaka’s participation truly exceptional this year was the outstanding leadership and preparation led by Head Coach Carlos Insa Fabregat, supported by Coach Inés Billoch. Under Coach Carlos’s vision, the team reached a new level of professionalism and cohesion. His commitment to long-term athlete development, strategic planning, and individualized coaching elevated the entire program, allowing Seawanhaka to field one of its largest and most competitive Optimist teams in recent history.

Throughout the season, Coach Carlos has built a strong culture of discipline, teamwork, and enthusiasm — qualities that were clearly reflected on the racecourse. Together, he and Coach Inés provided exceptional guidance both on and off the water, setting a new benchmark for what Seawanhaka’s junior sailing can achieve.

The regatta featured two days of intense racing, with shifting winds and challenging conditions testing every sailor’s skill and determination. Our sailors rose to the occasion, delivering outstanding performances across the fleets:

  • James Bell – 7th out of 126 (Blue Fleet)

  • Anderson Packard – 8th out of 126 (Blue Fleet)

  • Mimi Amante – 25th out of 126 (Blue Fleet)

  • Emilia Syversten – 27th out of 126 (Blue Fleet)

  • Mia Fuschetto – 7th out of 126 (White Fleet)

  • Nico Urdea – 11th out of 126 (White Fleet)

  • Rocco Amante – 13th out of 126 (White Fleet)

These results highlight not only the individual talent and commitment of our sailors, but also the collective strength and depth of the Seawanhaka Optimist Team — a testament to the structured training and mentorship provided by Coach Carlos and Coach Inés.

We are especially proud to share that Anderson Packard’s impressive season earned him the JSA of Long Island Sound Seasonal Award for the Optimist Class, a well-deserved recognition of his consistency, determination, and excellence throughout the summer.

Congratulations to all our sailors for their exceptional performances, and heartfelt thanks to Coach Carlos and Coach Inés for their tireless dedication and passion. Their leadership continues to shape a culture of excellence that inspires our young athletes to reach higher every season.

Bravo, Team Seawanhaka — and special congratulations to Anderson on this remarkable achievement! The best is yet to come.