From humble but enthusiastic beginnings, the Antigua Classic
Yacht Regatta has grown to one of the premiere classic regattas in the world.
Held annually in April, the regatta begins what has become the famous one-two
event that closes the yachting season – the renowned Antigua Sailing Week
immediately follows it. The gentleman’s regatta has an avid following by both
participants and lovers of the classic sailing vessel with participants
returning year after year.
The 2004 regatta
proved a grand success with both the amount of participation as well as the
amount of international media coverage. There were fifty-nine entrants
registered in the following classes: Traditional, Classic, Vintage, Spirit of
Tradition and Tall Ships. Photographers Onne Van deWal, Roddy Grimes-Graeme and
Roger Lean-Vercoe were in attendance as well as press from sponsor, Boat
International, Yachting World and Marine Bateau.
This year’s event
will be held from April 14th through April 19th. Racing
will commence on Saturday and each course is approximately 24 miles. All starts
will be at 10:00 immediately outside Falmouth Harbor. Scoring penalty RR 44.3
will apply as well as the Low Point scoring system, rule A4.
The folks at the
Antigua Yacht Club Marina and the National Parks Authority among others have
generously donated dockage days. Combine free dockage with a chock-a-block
social events calendar (which includes a Mount Gay Cap Party for those coveted
red caps), beautiful boats, Antigua’s picturesque Southern Coast and, of
course, the racing and you have an event that shouldn’t be missed!
A category A event, registration for the
2005 Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta is now open. Pre-entry forms and further
information can be obtained from the Antigua Yacht Club secretary at
268-460-1799 or by visiting the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta website at www.antiguaclassics.com