September 20, 2026 was the scheduled race day for the Polonia Cup, hosted by the Chicago Corinthian Yacht Club, Joseph Conrad Yacht Club and of course the Polish American Sailors Association.
The Polonia Cup Regatta is just one of the programs of the Polish American Sailors Association and the main goal is to recognize the Polish sailing community, their history and culture around Chicago.
The city has a large Polish population as a consequence of the rapid population growth in the 19/20th century due to industrialisation. Poland also has a notable record in solo around-the-world sailing. Krystyna Chojnowska-Liskiewicz became the first woman to sail solo around the world in 1976.
Leonid Teliga was the first Pole to circumnavigate the globe single-handedly in his yacht Opty between 1967 and 1969 and of course, Poland is home to boat builders. Groupe Beneteau and Brunswick build many boats in Poland and many other OEMs do too including Axopar, Galeon, Parker and Saxdor. It shows just how globally connected the marine industry has become.
The Polonia event allows sailors and non-sailors to meet, race and have fun. The regatta is open for everyone, regardless of their roots – but, unfortunately, due to the unpredictable Midwest weather, the regatta had to be cancelled. We know that feeling having exhibited at the Windy City Boatshow and experienced a mini tornado the day before!
However, the organisers were still able to hold the event and have a celebration, including the prize draw, where a Digital Yacht GPS 160 was presented to the lucky winner. This is all thanks to Mirek, our new Chicago ambassador and a great way that Digital Yacht can get involved with local yachting communities. Thanks Mirek – and shame about the bad weather but we will not hold you responsible!
If you’re a local yacht club or interested in our Ambassador Program please reach out to Digital Yacht
