The Congressional Cup

The Congressional Cup is an annual match racing regatta presented by the Long Beach Yacht Club. This prestigious and thrilling yacht race takes place at the Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier, April 24-28, 2024.

What is The Congressional Cup?

The Congressional Cup is a premier event and a part of the prestigious World Match Racing Tour. The oldest continuously-held sailing match race regatta in the world, The Congressional Cup is the only match race regatta in the United States to qualify for World Championship status from World Sailing. Match racing is a sailing race in which identical boats race against one another.

Since 1965, the world’s top ranked skippers have come here to compete for the Crimson Blazer, yacht racing’s equivalent to the Masters golf tournament’s Green Jacket. Not only is this one of the most prestigious yacht racing events in the world, but a gateway to the America’s Cup. Past Congressional Cup winners include the likes of such America’s Cup legends as Dennis Connor and Ted Turner.

The 2024 event features many compelling storylines. Great Britain’s Ian Williams is looking to win his sixth Crimson Blazer in 2024, which would give him more Cup championships than any skipper in history. Attempting to beat him and join him as a five-time champion is American Gavin Brady who, after a 12-year hiatus, is back in the race, having won four times (1996, 1997, 2006, 2008).

How Do I Watch?

Locals can enjoy stadium viewing of the Congressional Cup for free at the Belmont Veteran Memorial Pier, designated “Congressional Cup Stadium,” with live commentary, starting Wednesday, April 24. Live results are also available online.

For live streaming footage of The Congressional Cup on Friday through Sunday, tune in on Facebook and YouTube.

Watch Here

Transportation & Parking

Parking is available in the lot adjacent to the Belmont Veteran Memorial Pier at 3998E Allin Street. This self service lot rate is $2 per hour, cash and credit cards accepted.

The nearest Long Beach Transit bus stop is at Ocean Boulevard and 38th Place, a short walk from the pier. Biking is also a convenient option, with bike parking available at the shore end of the pier.

Where to Stay

Long Beach offers an array of ideally located and relaxingly comfortable accommodations — just what you need after a day of non-stop action on the water.

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