Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta: Champagne Sailing in Antigua

Race one of the 2023 Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta was sailed on the Old Road Course in perfect sailing conditions in English Harbour, Antigua today. Competitors reported superb 15-20 knot trade winds with moderate swells on the race course and the crystal blue water of the Caribbean sparkling under the sun. Nicky, guest on board The Blue Peter commented "It was the most magical day of my life sailing on The Blue Peter. She is stunning and it was such a privilege to be on board. I cannot really put into words how magical it was."

The 39 boat fleet ranged from Jamie Botin's 178 foot, triple masted schooner, Adix to Carrick Jones' J30, Absolute Properties (Blue Peter). The Schooner Class was won by Scott DiBiaso's 65 foot, Nat Benjamin designed, Juno while The Blue Peter, Mathew Barker's 65 foot Alfred Mylne cutter took first in the Vintage & Classic division and Phillip Cogdell's Heard 35, Alice finished first in the Traditional Class. Don Ward's Freya took first in the Spirit of Tradition class. The racing was very competitive in Modern GRP A with Bernie Evan-Wong's modified Cal 40, Huey Two taking first by under two minutes over Sandy Mayer's First 35, Cricket and Markus Bock's Montana only a minute behind. Sarah Schelbert's 35 foot Gurney sloop came in first in the Classic GRP B. The second race starts off English Harbour on Saturday morning, April 22nd at the amended first start time of 9am.

Yesterday's Caribbean Night was sponsored by National Parks and featured the talented Hells Gate steel orchestra, the colourful cultural dancers and stilt walkers and the fearless fire eater and limbo dancer, Charm Livingston.