Polish Veteran Claims DN Ice Yacht North American Crown
In the heart of a frozen Wisconsin winter, the DN North American Championship unfolded as a spectacle of speed and survival from January 24-31, 2026, on the pristine ice of Green Lake. Amid wind chills plunging to -30°C, erratic gusts, and the relentless glare of hard-packed ice, Poland's Karol Jablonski, a 63-year-old legend in the sport, clinched the title. This victory wasn't just a win; it was a testament to the unyielding spirit of ice sailing, where human endurance meets the raw power of wind over frozen waters.
A Grueling Arena of Ice and Wind
Green Lake, known for its reliable ice conditions, transformed into a battleground for over 50 competitors from across North America and beyond. The DN class—Developmental North, one of the oldest and fastest ice yacht designs—demands precision on three razor-sharp runners, propelling sleek 100kg vessels at speeds exceeding 100 km/h. But this year's event pushed limits further than ever. Shifting winds turned short courses into tactical minefields, where a single misjudged gust could send sailors plummeting down the fleet.
The regatta's Race Committee, praised for their professionalism, squeezed in seven races over three days despite the adversity. Competitors faced not only the elements but also the psychological toll of hours on the ice, with glare-induced headaches and frozen extremities as constant companions. For UK sailing enthusiasts eyeing this niche winter pursuit, it's a reminder of how extreme conditions amplify the sport's allure, much like the frozen fjords of Scandinavia or the icy expanses of the Baltic Sea.
Jablonski's Path to Glory
Karol Jablonski, with a trophy cabinet boasting multiple world and European titles, entered as an underdog against a formidable American contingent. At 63, his experience proved invaluable. Starting the final day in third, just points adrift, Jablonski navigated the 'American conditions'—strong, shifty winds that typically favor homegrown speed demons—with surgical precision.
'I started from the left side where the wind was weaker and had to recover a big deficit. Good speed and proper wind reading helped me overtake my rivals,' Jablonski reflected post-race. In the decisive trio of sprints, he notched a 3rd, 2nd, and 1st, sealing the deal. 'These were sprint races. It was easy to get lost because the wind was unstable... Smart tactical sailing made the difference.'
His win over the likes of reigning world champion Matt Struble, multi-time champ Ron Sherry, and former North American titleholder Steve Orlebeke highlighted a transatlantic duel. Jablonski's resilience in conditions he'd never faced before—'I had never raced in such conditions'—underscored why he's the most decorated ice sailor ever. This triumph regains his edge, proving age is no barrier in a sport where wisdom trumps youth.
Strong American Challenge and Fleet Breakdown
The US fleet was the deepest in years, blending veterans with rising talents. Struble, a consistent podium threat, led early but faltered in the finale. Sherry and Orlebeke, both world champions, kept the pressure on, while James Thieler rounded out a star-studded top five dominated by Americans.
Overall Top 5 - Gold Fleet:
- 1. Karol Jablonski (POL) - Champion
- 2. Matt Struble (USA)
- 3. Ron Sherry (USA)
- 4. Steve Orlebeke (USA)
- 5. James Thieler (USA)
Fleet Champions:
- Gold: Karol Jablonski (POL)
- Silver: Jim Grogan (USA)
- Bronze: Mike Rian (USA)
This American stronghold, with four of the top five spots, signals the growing depth in US ice yachting. Yet Jablonski's intrusion sparked excitement about international rivalry, potentially drawing more European entries to future North American events.
The Broader Impact on Ice Sailing
Beyond the podium, the championship fostered a tight-knit community spirit. Organized by the International DN Ice Yacht Racing Association (IDNIYRA), it blended cutting-edge tech—like lightweight carbon hulls—with time-honored traditions. Sailors shared tips on frostbite prevention and runner sharpening, turning the regatta into a hub for innovation.
For the sport's future, this event bodes well. Climate variability threatens ice coverage, but dedicated venues like Green Lake ensure survival. Jablonski's victory, especially at his age, inspires newcomers: 'This is an exceptional success... What pleases me most is that I have regained my speed and handled the demands very well.'
As ice sailing eyes global expansion, with parallels to foil racing in warmer climes, the DN North American Championship stands as a pinnacle. UK sailors, perhaps inspired by events like the British Ice Yachting Association's gatherings, might find parallels in this high-octane winter thrill. With the 2026 edition already a classic, anticipation builds for what's next on the frozen frontier.
In a world of variable winters, events like this remind us why ice sports endure: they challenge the body, sharpen the mind, and unite souls across borders. Jablonski's crowning moment on Green Lake cements his legacy while igniting the flame for the next generation of ice warriors.
