Category: Special Events

Public model boat event info

🎙️ Argonauts Radio – Episode 9: 100+ Powerboats at the Pond!

The latest episode of San Diego Argonauts Radio is now live!

Host Jess Atkinson sits down with Vice Commodore of Power, Bill Bridge, to discuss one of the biggest events of the year at the Mission Bay Model Boat Pond: the upcoming NAMBA District 19 Powerboat Race, taking place June 12–14, 2026.

More than 100 high-performance RC powerboats are expected to converge on San Diego for three days of racing, testing, camaraderie, and excitement. Bill shares the history of powerboat racing at the pond, how he became involved with the Argonauts, and what it takes to organize an event of this scale.

Also available on Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/100-powerboats-at-the-pond-in-june-how-vc-bill-bridge/id1874110517?i=1000769445722

Among the topics discussed:

  • The evolution from nitro-powered “thunderboats” to modern gasoline-powered racers
  • Boats capable of reaching speeds approaching 60–90 mph
  • The different classes of mono hulls, catamarans, and scale-inspired race boats
  • Why Mission Bay remains one of Southern California’s premier RC boating venues
  • What visitors can expect during the June District 19 event
  • How the Argonauts’ sail and power divisions work together to support major regattas and races

Bill describes the event as an “organized circus”—and in the best possible way. Racers from across Southern California and neighboring states will bring hundreds of boats, trailers, tools, and equipment to the pond for a weekend of intense competition and fun.

Spectators Welcome

The event is free to attend and offers a fantastic opportunity for club members, families, and the public to experience RC powerboat racing up close.

Event Details

  • Event: NAMBA District 19 Heat Race #5
  • Dates: June 12–14, 2026
  • Location: Mission Bay Model Boat Pond
  • Admission: Free

Bring a chair, enjoy the sunshine, and watch some of the fastest RC boats in the region battle it out on the water.

Also in This Episode

  • AMYA President Len Boes provides a brief update on upcoming radio sailing events and the latest issue of Model Yachting magazine.
  • Jess recaps the recently completed IOM World Championship, highlighting one of the strongest performances ever by the U.S. team, with seven American skippers finishing in the top 18.
  • Upcoming Argonauts activities for June, including ODOM, Soling, IOM, Scale Division, and Power Division events.

Whether you’re a sailor, power boater, scale enthusiast, or simply curious about the hobby, this episode offers a great look at another exciting corner of the San Diego Argonauts community.

🎧 Listen now, and we’ll see you at the pond!

đź“şSan Diego Argonauts on CBS News

A piece of fun news 🙂

The San Diego Argonauts were featured on CBS8 San Diego today!

CBS8 story on their website:
https://www.cbs8.com/article/news/local/zevely-zone/san-diego-argonauts-affordable-water-sport/509-d67e58f9-79ec-4434-a3a1-ebc6330861a7

On a related note:
The CBS8 crew helped promote our STEM/Robotics initiative for high school & college students involving GPS-guided robotic buoys and autonomous marine systems. If you know any students, robotics teams, or STEM advisors who might be interested, please send them our way!

More info here:
https://www.sandiegoargonauts.org/2026/05/02/%e2%9a%93-calling-san-diego-socal-robotics-stem-students/

âš“ Age of Sail Schooner Day (May 9, 2026)

The San Diego Argonauts Scale Division held a beautiful “Age of Sail” gathering at the Mission Bay Model Boat Pond on May 9th, featuring an impressive collection of classic schooners and traditional sailing vessels.

Members brought out a variety of finely crafted scale sailboats inspired by the great Age of Sail era — from elegant schooners to detailed tall ship models — creating a scene that looked like a miniature historic harbor brought to life.

The combination of steady winds, detailed craftsmanship, and camaraderie made for a memorable day at the pond. Spectators and fellow members enjoyed watching the graceful sailing characteristics of these classic vessels as they navigated the water under full sail.

A special thank you to everyone who participated, helped organize the event, and shared their beautiful boats with the club and visitors.

Photo Gallery & Videos Below

Interested in scale model boating or RC sailing?

Come visit the San Diego Argonauts at the Mission Bay Model Boat Pond and learn more about our Sail, Scale, and Power divisions.

đź”— Membership information and upcoming events can be found on this page.

🎙️ Argonauts Radio – Episode 7: Pacific Northwest Ponds: Oregon, Washington, Idaho & Beyond

In this latest episode of San Diego Argonauts Radio, Commodore Jess Atkinson takes us on a tour of the Pacific Northwest RC sailing scene—highlighting some of the most active clubs, unique sailing venues, and passionate communities from Oregon to Washington to Idaho, and even up to Salt Spring Island.

Also available on Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pacific-northwest-ponds-oregon-washington-idaho-salt/id1874110517?i=1000763767536

From the diverse fleets of the Rose City Model Yacht Club in Portland, to the strong IOM and DF95 presence in Seattle and Olympia, and the scenic sailing spots like Seafarers Memorial Park in Anacortes, this episode is packed with insights for anyone looking to travel, explore, or connect with other RC sailors.

You’ll also hear stories of legendary regattas like the Hood River Carnage, a look into grassroots boat-building culture (including T37 workshops at the Wooden Boat Museum), and tips on how to use the AMYA website to find clubs, regattas, and class info anywhere in the country.

The episode also wraps with updates on the DF95 Traveler Series stop in Sacramento, the IOM World Championships in the UK, and the always-popular Battle in Seattle.

Whether you’re a seasoned racer or just getting into RC sailing, this episode is a great reminder: there’s a whole world of ponds—and great people—waiting out there.

🎙️ Argonauts Radio – Episode 6: History & Community of RC Sailing in California

A Deep Dive into the History & Community of RC Sailing in California

In this episode of San Diego Argonauts Radio, Commodore Jess Atkinson takes the mic solo to deliver a rich, insider tour of RC sailing across California. Drawing on decades of experience and deep connections throughout the community, Jess offers a deep-dive perspective on the people, ponds, and clubs that shape the Region 8 sailing scene.

The episode takes listeners on a journey up the coast—from San Diego to Northern California—highlighting the diversity of clubs, racing styles, and fleets. From tight, shifty local ponds to world-class venues, Jess breaks down what makes each location unique, how different classes demand different techniques, and how sailors stay connected through shared events, competition, and long-standing relationships.

Also available on Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/exploring-californias-region-8-ponds-regatta-results/id1874110517?i=1000761135006

One listener on Spotify captured the spirit of it perfectly:
“So cool how plugged in you are with the other chapters! You should do a big episode with some other commodores! Kinda like the meeting of the families in The Godfather.”

We couldn’t agree more—this episode feels exactly like that: a behind-the-scenes look at a tightly connected network of clubs and personalities that together form the backbone of RC sailing in California and beyond.

Jess also covers major international and domestic racing & clinic highlights, including standout U.S. performances at the British Nationals and a preview of the upcoming IOM World Championships.

Closer to home, the episode wraps with a full recap of the 2026 DF95 Region 8 Championship at the San Diego Model Boat Pond—an outstanding weekend of racing, great conditions, and classic Argonauts hospitality, made possible by a dedicated group of volunteers and competitors from across the country.

Whether you’re a seasoned racer or just discovering RC sailing, Episode 6 of the Argonauts Raido is a must-listen—a blend of history, storytelling, and competitive insight that captures what makes this community so special.

Youth Sailing Meets RC Sailing (April 1st, 2026)

Sabot Racers Visit the Argonauts Pond

A Unique Cross-Over Experience

On Wednesday, April 1st, the San Diego Argonauts will host a special Spring Break field trip led by Coach Jon Rogers, bringing 6–12 junior Sabot racers to the pond for a hands-on introduction to RC sailing.

This event creates a rare bridge between full-scale youth sailing and the precision world of model yacht racing—giving young athletes a chance to experience tactics, wind reading, and race strategy from a completely new perspective.

How the Session Will Work

The format is simple, fast-paced, and fun:

  • Start time: 11:30 am PT
  • Each sailor will compete in two short races using Argonauts’ loaner DF95 boats
  • The top six performers will advance to a final race
  • The session will be captured on video to showcase the experience and community

This is more than just a fun day—it’s a great opportunity to:

  • Introduce young sailors to a lifelong hobby
  • Showcase the Argonauts as a welcoming, intergenerational community
  • Potentially bring in new families and future members

For many of these kids, this could be their first exposure to RC sailing—and possibly the start of a deeper connection to the sport.

Call for Volunteers & Boats

We’re asking Argonauts members to help make this event a success:

  • Lend a boat for one or more races
  • Assist with race coordination
  • Provide light mentorship and guidance

Even showing up and supporting the event will go a long way in creating a great experience.

Get Involved

Interested in helping or lending a boat?
Please reach out to Jon at buenorogers @ gmail or simply join us at the pond on April 1st!

🎙️ Episode 4 of San Diego Argonauts Radio Is Live!

Episode 4 of San Diego Argonauts Radio captures the energy and diversity of activity at the Mission Bay Model Yacht Pond, from competitive sailing to the creativity of the scale division. Host Jeff Atkinson recaps a successful and highly social “Chair Challenge” regatta, where borrowed boats, tight racing, and friendly rivalry highlighted the inclusive spirit of the club. With nine competitors and a dramatic tie at the top, the event showcased both skill and camaraderie—hallmarks of the Argonauts community.

The episode also looks ahead to upcoming events, including the Open House and Swap Meet, inviting members, families, and newcomers to experience the hobby firsthand.

The heart of the episode is a fascinating conversation with Vice Commodore of Scale Division, Jeff Sparksworthy, who shares his journey from model-building enthusiast to master craftsman of fully scratch-built boats. His perspective reveals the dual nature of the hobby—part engineering challenge, part peaceful escape—as well as the deep historical inspiration behind many scale models.

Also available on Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/it-crosses-between-a-hobby-versus-an-obsession-some-days/id1874110517?i=1000755524136

Sparksworthy also introduces an exciting vision for the future: engaging local students through a robotics-based buoy challenge that blends traditional craftsmanship with modern technology.

The episode ultimately highlights what makes the Argonauts special—a community where obsession-level craftsmanship, lifelong learning, and intergenerational connection all come together on the water.

A special thank-you is also given to Rod Messenger for his craftsmanship and generosity in restoring the club’s dinghy—an essential workhorse for race operations—ensuring it’s ready for many more days on the pond.

DF95 Chair Challenge Results (Mar 7th, 2026)

Summary from Commodore Jess Atkinson:

Today was a blast at the mission bay pond. Chair Challenge. 12 races without leaving your seat.

A look into adaptive sailing for mobility challenged sailors not able to walk the long distance of 12 races. All skippers remain seated. Short course, and a big start line.

9 skippers did the challenge with their DF 95’s. The weather was perfect.

Even had one of the skippers put on a B rig. He was flying in the last race. Super fast!

At the ribbons presentation, Steve Ross, in 5th place, said it was the first radio sailing award he’d ever received. Tom WARREN, in fourth place, was just nothing but smiles and said he had a wonderful time. Third place went to Kerim Baran, who brought a whole fleet of boats, so everyone gets to sail. Thank you, Kerim.

Big tie there between Pat Nevit and Chris Davidson, with Chris Davidson winning the countback for the tie. Pat sailed masterfully, with 29 pts before throwouts 11pts ahead of Chris. After the dust settled, it was a 21-point tie. Chris also sailed like a superstar. Having won 7 races on the day.

Was fun for the RD, too.


Videos were uploaded to Facebook:

1)https://www.facebook.com/100012585552614/videos/pcb.26213245328338096/893760663272089

2)https://www.facebook.com/100012585552614/videos/pcb.26213245328338096/1970988923486765

🎙️ Episode 2 of San Diego Argonauts Radio Is Live!

The second episode of San Diego Argonauts Radio dives straight into what’s been an action-packed start to the season for the San Diego Argonauts. From the Traveler Series regattas in Arizona and Eldorado—where Argonauts sailors filled the top 10—to the excitement building around the upcoming Region 8 Championship, this episode captures the competitive spirit and camaraderie that define sailing at the Mission Bay Model Boat Pond.

A major highlight is a thoughtful and personal interview with IOM Regatta Chair Gil Jansky. Gil shares how a childhood gift—a vintage Marblehead built by his father—sparked a lifelong passion for sailing that began on Lake Michigan and continues today in San Diego. His reflections on preparation, race organization, and what keeps him coming back to the pond remind us that this hobby blends craftsmanship, competition, and community in a way few others do.

Also available on Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/preparing-for-the-region-8-iom-championship/id1874110517?i=1000749937891

The episode also looks ahead to the highly anticipated Region 8 IOM Championship, welcoming competitors from across the country for three days of top-tier racing. With 31 skippers and a wide range of designs—from Britpops to Vickers models—the fleet promises tight competition and spectacular sailing.

Beyond the big regattas, the show highlights the heart of the club: volunteerism, inclusion, and innovation. From Len Bose’s DF95 outreach day at Dana Point Yacht Club to the launch of the new “Chair Challenge” event—designed to make racing accessible for sailors with mobility challenges—this episode celebrates the Argonauts’ commitment to growing and supporting the RC sailing community.

It’s a great listen for members, prospective sailors, and anyone curious about what makes this club so special.

🎧 Tune in to the episode, and we’ll see you at the pond!

Argonauts Annual Banquet Dinner at the Southwestern Yacht Club

San Diego Argonauts recently gathered for a memorable evening at the beautiful Southwestern Yacht Club in Point Loma. With brisket on the buffet, a lively no-host bar on the deck overlooking the slips, and display tables showcasing the craftsmanship of our scale and racing divisions, the setting was perfect for celebrating another great year at the pond.

A highlight of the evening was the debut of a spectacular 22-minute video produced by former Commodore Tom Warren — a true labor of love capturing scenes from regattas, casual sailing days, boat builds, cookouts, and the countless moments that define our club culture. The video beautifully reflects the spirit of the Argonauts: competitive yet supportive, serious about rc boating & sailing yet never taking ourselves too seriously.

The banquet once again reminded us that the Argonauts are about far more than toy boats. It’s about friendship, shared stories, good-natured banter, and recognizing the accomplishments of members across all divisions. Awards were presented, laughter filled the room, and spouses and guests were warmly welcomed into our unique world of wind, water, and meticulous detail.

We invite you to relive the memories — or see what you missed — by watching this video. It’s a celebration of our boats, our pond, and our community.