ANNAPOLIS, Md. – The Navy offshore sailing team held the first of three home intercollegiate events this weekend, hosting the annual Shields Trophy Regatta. Racing in the vicinity of Thomas Point Lighthouse on the Chesapeake Bay, the event had ten teams primarily consisting of service and maritime academies competing for the top spot.
 
The weather gave optimal conditions for weekend racing, as moderate northerly breezes provided challenging decisions on the race course. The Midshipmen finished fifth overall behind first-place Charleston, runner-up Merchant Marine, third-place Maine Maritime and fourth-place Cal Maritime.
 
Navy's team was skippered by senior Nick Gibbons and helmed by junior Nancy Rhodes, with the crew also including seniors Elliott Brandicourt and Chris Cordner, juniors Eddie Konjoyan, Matt Irving, Connor McKee and sophomore Nico Martinez. 
 
Additionally, Avenger took 11th in the J/105 division of Saturday's Hospice Cup, skippered by senior Isabelle Navolio.
 
Up next for Navy are the IC 37 North American Championship in Newport, R.I., and the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Offshore Regatta in Chicago, Ill., with both being held Sept. 20-22.