SAN DIEGO — The 2025 Etchells Midwinters West brought three days of high-stakes, high-skill sailing to the waters off San Diego, where local sailor Chris Busch, alongside crewmates Chuck Sinks and Patrick Powell, emerged victorious aboard Buschido (USA 969). Held March 28 through 30, 2025, the regatta was hosted by the San Diego Yacht Club and sailed on the renowned Coronado Roads. It marked the third leg of the Etchells West Coast Spring Series, which solidified San Diego’s standing as a competitive stronghold in the class.
photo credit: Mark Albertazzi
With 30 boats on the line and a mix of light breeze, big swells, and shifting conditions, sailors faced a classic Southern California test of seamanship and strategic adaptability. After a slow start on Friday due to fickle winds, the fleet powered through the weekend with more consistent conditions by Sunday, completing five races in total.
“It was tight, but great sailing by everyone out there,” Busch said after sealing the win. “This weekend had a little bit of everything. I’m really grateful to Chuck and Patrick — they kept us fast and focused, especially when the swell made it tough to keep rhythm. That’s the sweet spot for...
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