2025 Kai Cup Memorial Yacht Race

We are absolutely thrilled to announce that the first annual Kai Cup Memorial Yacht Race and Social was an amazing success!

In Year 1 we brought on a local Twin Ports non-profit organization, Trans Northland, to co-host the event and to be the financial beneficiary of the fundraising. The community social event on Friday, September 12 had an estimated 100 attendees, 4 local organizations tabling with information, live music from a local musician sponsored by another local non-profit, $3000 in raffle prizes donated from over 20 businesses and individuals, and raised over $2000 for Trans Northland. Leading up to Saturday, September 13, we had 41 boats (with average crew sizes of 6) registered for the memorial sailboat race, of which at least 10 had no plans to race but entered in spirit.

Sailors were encouraged to raise funds for Trans Northland in exchange for “buying up” their boat’s handicap rating to be more competitive on the race course. This generated an additional ~$23,000 in donations for Trans Northland. We were blown away by the generosity (and competitiveness) of our community!

The day of the race was hallmark Duluth weather – dense fog and waves. But the Race Committee was determined to pull off a race. After a couple postponements and an altered course, 18 boats braved the weather and raced in the first Kai Cup. In total over $25,000 was raised for Trans Northland in honor of Kai Hoenig. This event was hugely successful thanks to generous donors and sponsors like you. We are immensely grateful for your support, especially for an inaugural grassroots event. Now more than ever, support for the LGBTQ+ community is needed and we are proud of our work and hope you are, too.