Commodore Ed Willman Memorial 'Round the Island Race Trophy

From 1966 to 2002 the Yacht Club held this regatta. (Other trophies and plaques for subsequent years are also on display).

The Ed Willman Memorial Around the Island Race, held at the Key Biscayne Yacht Club in Miami, Florida, is a significant event with a rich history.

The race was conceived in 1966 by Past Commodore Edward "Ed" Willman and fellow member Ray Sullivan. It was designed to be a fun, yet competitive, event that engaged sailboats of all sizes. The course typically took boats from the waters of Biscayne Bay in front of the Yacht Club, south through the Stiltsville featherbeds and past Cape Florida, then north along the Atlantic coast of Key Biscayne, and around a mark at the island's northern tip before finishing.

Ed Willman, who passed away in 1994, was a highly accomplished sailor and a respected member of the Key Biscayne community. He was a World War II dive bomber, a third cousin to actor John Wayne, and participated in over 200 blue water races in his lifetime. In his memory, and at the suggestion of Ray Sullivan, the race was dedicated to Willman's name.

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The race is a testament to the club's commitment to competitive sailing and community engagement. It attracted sailors from the local area and beyond, with the Key Biscayne Yacht Club inviting all sailors to participate. The event's enduring legacy is a tribute to Ed Willman's passion for sailing and his contributions to the club.

Don't miss the Ed Willman Plaque with the Bombing Banshess Medalion!

Location: Seabelle Captain Room on the main floor.