The 2010 Grenada Classic Yacht Regatta dates have been moved forward, to March 4 to 7, to tie in with exciting plans for a Virgin Islands to Grenada Challenge Race for yachts from the U.S. Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands coming down to take part.
The second Annual Grenada Classic Yacht Regatta held earlier this year was marked as a great success, with nearly three times the number of entries. The weather was a little rougher than hoped for, resulting in some of the skippers of the more tender vessels opting to stay anchored, but making up much appreciated extra crew ‘muscle’ on the boats that did go out. There were two boats over 100 years old that did sail with no problem.
It was unanimously agreed that the three days of racing had been demanding, but with great sailing and some of the most exhilarating conditions that many of the crews had experienced in a while. The spirit throughout the event also has guaranteed that crews are already looking forward to the next Grenada Classic and an opportunity to challenge old and new rivals.
Back on land crews continued to be blown away by great after–race parties: Friday night at Bel Air Plantation in St. David’s Harbour; Saturday night at Le Phare Bleu Marina in Petite Calivigny Bay and a final Awards Dinner back at Bel Air Plantation’s Waterside Restaurant. Every night participants enjoyed great food and live entertainment from local musicians including Gylfi and Fred, Gylfi and the Toms, and special guest Janus, a blues singer over from the USA to perform at the Regatta.
Internationally renowned yachting photographer Cory Silken took advantage of the conditions to get dramatic still photos and the Grenadian video company T&R Communications got plenty of great video footage which will be posted on the site.
Very big thanks go to the Grenada Board of Tourism for its continued support of this young event and to sponsors: Le Phare Bleu Marina; Carib; FedEx; Grenada Marine; Horizon Yacht Charters, and the Maritime School, West Indies.
Thanks also go to event organizers Susan Fisher and Fred Thomas of Bel Air Plantation and Shipwrights Ltd., and to Race Officer James Benoit who has provided very strong support and assistance presiding over the Classic Regattas. Kenny Combs from Antigua was also a very welcome guest for the second year, sailing on Apollonia as well as presiding over the event in his usual gracious manner. Thanks to Mike Bingley and Lucy Murchie of Palm Tree Marine, photo and safety boat operators, and to all volunteers who are essential in making the event work.
Report submitted by Grenada Classic Yacht Regatta
Overall Results 2009
Vintage Division
First Place – Thalia
Second Place – Lily Maid
Third Place – Buxom 2
Classic Division
First Place – Apollonia
Second Place – Zeevonk
Third Place – Blues Traveler
Overall Winner
Perpetual Trophy – Thalia
Spirit & Style Award
Lindsey of Buxom2 was presented this award personally
Best Dressed Crew
Blues Traveler
Perseverance Award
Buxom2
