The so-called
‘Granddaddy of them all’ returns with a new high-profile sponsor
for its 39th edition. Rolex Antigua
Sailing Week will run from April 30 to May 5. As usual, a combination of A-list
big boats, bareboats and popular Caribbean entrants
will bust around Antigua’s coastline, around Dickenson Bay, Jolly Harbour
and English Harbour, stopping off in the evenings for the legendary parties
that culminate in the Lord Nelson’s Ball.
Some 200+ yachts are expected, which means 1,500 participants and around
5,000 spectators and press. With vantage points such as Shirley Heights, this
is really a regatta that can be enjoyed by those left on dry land.
Last year, Tom Hill’s Titan
XII dominated, taking the Lord Nelson’s Trophy with a string of
bullets, but the week was struck with the curse of much of the 2005 season
– light winds. Many races had to be cancelled and the 50-mile Round the
Island race had to be postponed until the breeze picked up.
Trinidad’s entries will again be hoping to pick up from where they
left off last year, as will the nearer contingent from Guadeloupe, and the
ongoing duel between Antigua and St Maarten will resume from its premature
interruption in the Heineken.
Entry forms are now available on the ASW website www.sailingweek.com or by contacting the
office on (268) 462 8872.
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