There are few events in the Caribbean during the winter that can rival the Classic Yacht Regatta in Antigua. For over twenty years some of the most beautiful restored and new classic sailing vessels have gathered here for this spectacular event. Of all racing events this one stands alone in presence with any of the classic events in the world. This year we had the opportunity to be out on the water to capture some really great shots of these wonderful boats doing what they do best. Sail>>>
It can be very thrilling to be in close when two of the worlds J boats are racing towards you. In this shot we have Ranger and Velsheda racing for the finish only seperated by seconds and only a few hundred yards from where we were watching.
During the event we became friends with a small yacht that had sailed from England with three women aboard. She was the second smallest boat in the fleet of 57 but had the sprit to capture the attention of every one there. Pouncer may not have been the fastest and the most spectacular but she was a very beautiful little classic. Proudly owned and Captained by
Charlotte Ashburner and first mate Jane O'connor, the pouncer won the "Sprit of Regatta Cup".
Well done gals. It is a long way in a small boat to come across an ocean to go racing. We wish them godspeed in their voyage home.
It has been a long winter here in the Islands and I can not think of a better way to have finished the season than the Classic's in Antigua. This time of year the Caribbean Yacht fleet begin the process of heading back to the North Land. Weather it is the European waters or the East coast of the USA, many will be sailing home to enjoy the beggining of a new season. One door closes another one opens. This past season was a year of Big Winds and Big Seas. Unusual for the Caribbean but nonetheless a tough sailing season. We wish all of our friends who will be voyaging in the next few weeks Fair Winds and Following Seas.
