The TPM25 Challenge Cup is set to return on March 2, bringing together competitive sailors, corporate teams, and maritime enthusiasts for a day of high-energy racing aboard the renowned Catalina 37 yachts. Now in its fifth year, this regatta has become a staple event in the sailing community, offering not just a test of skill on the water, but an opportunity for team building and networking against the backdrop of Long Beach’s iconic waterfront.
“The TPM Challenge Cup is the product of Willy Bell of LAYC, who asked me if we could organize a sailing race for the industry,” said Eric Caris. “The answer was yes, and this should be organized during the Transpacific Maritime Conference (TPM).”
Eric explained that he sees the TPM Conference as the premier industry event, bringing together thousands of shipping line executives, sales organizations, marine terminals, port authorities, railroads, trucking companies, importers, and exporters from around the world for four days in Long Beach. To set the sailing race in motion, S&P Global reached out to Peter Tirschwell from the TPM organizing group, IHS Global. As a member of the New York Yacht Club (NYYC), Tirschwell was looking for an additional social event to take place before the official start of the TPM Conference.
“Last year’s winning team was the first all-women’s team sponsored by the port of Los Angeles,” said Caris, The Director of Cargo Marketing. “Generally 6 or 7 short races take place. Each boat has two coaches, which means that not all 8 participants on each boat need to have sailing experience, adding to the team building, and fun and excitement element of this race. Randy Smith coordinates all, from providing coaches, setting the racecourse, and making sure all stay safe and fun.”
At the heart of the competition is the Long Beach Sailing Foundation’s fleet of Catalina 37s, a one-design class known for its use in internationally recognized regattas such as the prestigious Congressional Cup. These high-performance boats ensure an even playing field, making strategy, teamwork, and skill the deciding factors in victory. The Los Angeles Yacht Club, which officiates the event, will once again award the historic Morrow Cup to the winning team, a prize that carries with it a legacy of excellence in competitive sailing.
Beyond the thrill of racing, the TPM25 Challenge Cup is also a platform for sustainability and community impact. Recognizing the importance of environmental stewardship, S&P Global, the event’s organizer, is making a charitable contribution to Grades of Green, a nonprofit dedicated to educating and empowering students to lead environmental change. This contribution will help fund recovery efforts for schools and communities affected by recent wildfire devastation in the Los Angeles area.
The Challenge Cup is not just about competition — it’s about fostering camaraderie and strengthening connections among professionals and sailing enthusiasts alike. With a full day of racing from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. PST, participants will navigate the waters of Long Beach in a true test of skill and coordination. The event has steadily grown in prominence, drawing teams eager to experience the thrill of sailing while engaging in meaningful environmental initiatives.
As the regatta continues to build its reputation, its legacy as both a premier sailing event and a force for positive change solidifies. With a focus on both the sport and its broader impact, the TPM25 Challenge Cup is set to deliver another exciting chapter in its history, bringing together competitors who share a passion for sailing and a commitment to sustainability.
