The Antigua Mega Yacht Challenge Moves Forward
2006 brings with it the unparalleled spectacle of the 5th Annual Antigua Mega Yacht Challenge. Responding to suggestions of past contestants, the Race Committee has moved this year’s Mega Yacht Challenge forward to the weekend of March 25th, 26th and 27th.
Open to Mega Yachts of 100’ or more, the Antigua Mega Yacht Challenge has proven itself a popular event with both yachtsmen and spectators. For three days these Mega yachts battle it out with six pursuit races, the slowest yacht starting first. The races can be anywhere from twelve to thirty miles in length. A handicap is mathematically adjusted for each race so that every vessel has the opportunity to win.
Over the years, fifteen mega yachts from around the world have raced the southern Antiguan waters. Sariyah, Kokomo, Mari Cha III, Georgia, Victoria of Strathern, Salperton, Beagle V, Velsheda, Gibian, Unfurled, Ipanema, Destination Fox Harbour, Zingaro, Cambria and Anemos have all participated. At 132’, S & S Sariyah has met the challenge the most consistently, entering almost every year.
Prizes for the Challenge are based on race results and additional prizes are awarded in the categories Best Owner Driver and Best Elapsed Time. The “bottomless” barrels of English Harbour Rum decorated with a scrimshaw plaque have become collector’s items. Not only for their beauty but also for the winners ability to fill the barrel with English Harbour Rum whenever they return the barrel to the Antigua Yacht Club.
The Antigua Mega Yacht Challenge provides a wonderful opportunity for the big guys to race each other, warm up for the popular St. Bart’s Bucket and have some fun before the Caribbean season comes to an end. For the spectator, it provides the excitement of speed and spectacle and for Antigua, it further adds to our reputation as one of the sailing capitals of the world.
Registration for the 2006 Mega Yacht Challenge is now open and will remain so until March 23rd. There is a $1500.00 entry fee and a 10% discount will be applied to all yachts entering by March 1st.
For more information about the Mega Yacht Challenge, contact the Antigua Yacht Club website at www.antiguayachtclub.com.
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