US Sailing recently announced the winners of the prestigious 2024 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year Awards. Ian Barrows and Hans Henken were named the Rolex Yachtsmen of the Year, while Cole Brauer has been named the Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year. The winners were honored earlier today at an awards ceremony during the US Sailing Awards Ceremony at the 2025 US Sailing Leadership Forum in Coronado, California. The selection process involved a vote by past Rolex Award winners and prominent members of the sailing media.
StFYC member Hans Henken and his crew Ian Barrows secured a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games in the Men’s Two-Person Skiff – the 49er, breaking an eight-year Olympic medal drought for the United States. Despite weather delays that added stress to their final medal race, the duo executed a remarkable performance, clinching the bronze medal on the final leg of the race.
“The St. Francis Sailing Foundation’s unwavering support during this past quad was pivotal in my Olympic journey,” Henkens stated. “Their quarterly grants made it possible to campaign effectively, focusing my time and energy to training on the water, which ultimately led to winning a bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. I am deeply grateful for their belief and investment in my dreams and in the future of sailing in the United States for many generations to come.”
Following their Olympic success, Henken has returned to the roster of the USA SailGP Team, serving as a flight controller and grinder. Barrows joined the coaching staff at the College of Charleston, where he continues to inspire and develop future sailing talent. Their resilience and skill on the international stage have earned them recognition as the best in American sailing for 2024.
Congratulations Hans and Ian from all of us at the St Francis Sailing Foundation!