Earlier this month, the 2024 Buccaneer North American Championship (BNAC) races were held in Tampa, Florida. Four AYC sailors trailered two Buccs across the county and back to join the competition. Sean Keanely crewed for Tony Chapman for a 4th place win, and Emory Heisler paired up with skipper Bruce Lee, coming in at 11 out of 16 boats. The entire fleet of Bucc sailors held fast despite the high temps and higher humidity for the three days of racing. Scores can be viewed here.
A capstone of the awards ceremony was the recognition of AYC’s Bruce Lee as the “2024 Cup Bearer” for the MacAlpine-Downie/Gibbs Cup. This prestigious award recognizes those who embody the Buccaneer spirit of dedication, enthusiasm, and fun.
Each year, the Buccaneer Class Association Commodore selects a standout sailor who reflects these values, and their name is recorded on the perpetual plaque. The Cup-Bearer also retains the award cup for the year—a Scottish Quaich, a traditional “cup of friendship” that symbolizes the camaraderie and connection among Buccaneers.
This year’s BCA Commodore Jeff Neurauter thanked Bruce for his significant contributions to building the Buccaneer class in Arizona and Alaska, offering his expertise in fiberglass repairs and trailer bunk fabrication and supporting the Fleet’s growth. Bruce humbly accepted the top part of the award but first had to guzzle down the rum it contained before he was handed over the entire award. (video below)
Lew Volk, the publicity coordinator for the Class, wrote, “While one-design racing helps sustain our Class, it’s the dedication of individuals like this year’s honoree that allows it to survive and thrive. Their unselfish efforts have mirrored the legacy of Dick Gibb’s devotion to the preservation of the Buccaneer design.” Tony Chapman and Emory Heisler were also “Cup Bearers” for this award in previous years.
Designed in 1966 by Rod Macalpine-Downie and Dick Gibbs, the Buccaneer incorporates classic elements that have made this racing dinghy a consistent performer for more than 50 years.
Watch the YouTube video below to see Bruce Lee accept the MacAlpine-Downie/Gibbs Cup award. Congratulations, Bruce! Arrrrr!