Back to the Future: Inside the New Antigua Racing Cup

The Antigua Racing Cup may be the newest regatta in the Caribbean, but its roots run deep in the sailing history of Antigua & Barbuda. Created as the evolutionary spin-off from Antigua Sailing Week, the Antigua Racing Cup represents a bold reset. Rather than stretching one large event to serve many types of teams, the Antigua Racing Cup delivers a focused technical racing environment aimed squarely at high-performance race boats, modern performance cruisers, and one-design classes.

As Race Director Jaime Torres (JT) explains, this is not simply a new addition to the calendar; it is a complete rethinking of how racing should be delivered in one of the world's most fabulous sailing destinations.

Q: The Antigua Racing Cup is a new regatta, but it clearly has deep roots. How do you describe what this event is trying to be?

JT: “The Antigua Racing Cup may be new, but its foundations are firmly embedded in Antigua’s sailing history. It has been created as an evolutionary step from Antigua Sailing Week, rather than a complete break from the past. The idea was not to stretch one large event to cover every possible type of boat and sailor, but instead to create clarity. The Antigua Racing Cup is designed as a focused technical racing event, aimed squarely at high performance race boats, modern performance cruisers and one design classes.

Rather than compromise to accommodate everyone, this event has been built with a clear purpose and a defined audience. It represents a rethink of how fantastic racing can be delivered in Antigua, with precision, intent and identity.”

Q: Why was it necessary to create a separate event rather than continue evolving Antigua Sailing Week?

JT: “Antigua Sailing Week began in 1968 and over time it tried to serve every possible group, from cruising boats and club racers through to maxis and professional race teams. That inevitably led to compromise. Race management had to satisfy very different expectations, which limited what could be achieved on the water.

By separating the events, each can now focus properly on the sailors it is designed for. The Antigua Racing Cup is unapologetically technical and competitive. Antigua Sailing Week, reimagined, can lean more fully into its own strengths. This clarity allows both events to flourish rather than dilute each other.”

Q: What makes Antigua the right location for a high performance racing event like this?

JT: “Antigua has long been the spiritual home of Caribbean yacht racing. It is where most European race boats arrive and depart from the region, where professional support teams base themselves and where the marine services infrastructure operates year round rather than being built temporarily.

The south coast of Antigua offers exceptional sailing conditions. There are reliable trade winds, manageable current, big ocean swell and dramatic coastal features. Courses are close to the harbours, meaning less motoring to start lines and more racing. Ashore, everything is concentrated in a small area. Bars, restaurants and social venues already exist, creating a real village atmosphere connected directly to the racing rather than a temporary pop up environment.”

Q: The Notice of Race talks about delivering the best racing in the Caribbean. What does that mean in practice?

JT: “Best racing means courses that are designed for the boats actually racing them. Fast boats want powerful reaching legs and sustained speed. One design fleets need tight windward leeward racing where boat handling and tactics are everything. Performance cruisers want challenge without being overwhelmed.

It also means listening to competitors. Bringing teams directly into the race office and asking what kind of racing they want is something rarely seen elsewhere, but it produces better outcomes. Virtual marks allow course designers complete freedom, removing historical constraints and allowing courses to be shaped purely around conditions and class needs.

An International Jury led by world class officials reinforces professionalism and trust, ensuring results are respected by both local and international competitors.”

Q: Why introduce optional IRC scoring alongside CSA for keelboats?

JT: “The CSA Rating Rule has been the backbone of Caribbean racing for decades and remains central to the region. At the same time, many international teams already arrive with IRC certificates through RORC participation. Allowing boats to race under both systems makes the Antigua Racing Cup more accessible and more globally relevant.

This is not an experiment but a collaboration. CSA still determines where boats race on the water, while IRC provides an additional competitive layer. The aim is to strengthen relationships between Caribbean events and the wider offshore racing world while respecting local heritage.”

Q: Why was early April chosen for the Antigua Racing Cup?

JT: ”Timing is critical. Traditional late season dates made it difficult for teams to return to Europe or North America in time for summer programmes. By moving earlier, competitors can enjoy top class Caribbean racing and still transition smoothly into their next campaigns.

The four day format strikes a balance between meaningful competition and sustainability. It allows for variety without excessive fatigue or cost. Nelson’s Dockyard provides a natural focal point, combining history, atmosphere and practicality, and ensuring crews share a genuine sense of community throughout the event.”

Q: How do you see the Antigua Racing Cup developing over the next few years?

JT: “Success is not just about fleet size. It is about consistency of experience. The ambition is for sailors to trust that the Antigua Racing Cup will deliver excellent racing every year. Adaptable, responsive and never static.

Splitting a fifty-eight year old event required conviction, but it allows both regattas to develop clear identities. The Antigua Racing Cup represents a willingness to make bold change in pursuit of better racing.”

The Antigua Racing Cup has found its purpose built on nearly 60 years of Caribbean racing experience, but with a firm focus on the future. Now it is ready to find its audience.

As of end December, eighteen boats have already entered: from the pocket-rocket Melges 24 Whiplash to the pro team on Rikki to Spirit of Juno, a race-charter powerhouse. The event is also open to performance Multihulls and One-Design Classes such as RS Elites and Diam 24s.