For the first time in the program’s history, the Herons have qualified for the prestigious Mid-Atlantic Scholastic Sailing Association (MASSA) Championships, marking their place among the top high school sailing teams on the East Coast. With the Championships scheduled for October 19-20 in Fort Monroe, Va., our sailors are gearing up for the most significant regatta of the season!

In the recent MDISA Tier 1 Fleet Race at DC Sail, the Herons secured a commendable 2nd place finish, putting them in an excellent position to qualify for the championships. To secure a spot, the team needed to be ranked 6th in the Maryland Interscholastic Sailing Association (MDISA). This first regatta in D.C. placed the Herons in second, with the following regatta at SCC as the crucial deciding factor. A strong performance there would guarantee their entry into the MASSA Championships!

At SCC, the Herons encountered tough competition and ultimately finished in 8th place. However, their collective efforts earned them an overall 6th place ranking in the league—an impressive accomplishment in such a competitive season. The Herons outperformed rivals like Saints Peter and Paul, Archbishop Spalding, Kent Island, and Walt Whitman to secure their berth.

Head Coach Tom Chafey expressed immense pride in the team, stating, “This group has worked tirelessly all season, and their commitment and drive have brought them to this milestone. We’re thrilled to represent Gunston at the MASSA Championships for the first time in program history!”

As the countdown to the MASSA Championships begins, the Gunston Herons are hard at work on the Corsica River, ready to take on the challenge ahead.