The Antigua Yacht Club (AYC) proudly set sail on another chapter of regional sporting excellence on Thursday, 23rd October 2025, with the official Opening Ceremony of the Caribbean Dinghy Championship (CDC) 2025. The event began at 7:00 p.m. at the AYC Multipurpose Centre, marking the start of a highly anticipated weekend of sailing, skill, and Caribbean camaraderie.
Opening Ceremony and Key Remarks The proceedings were smoothly directed by Mr. John Gaillard, AYC’s House and Grounds Director, who welcomed guests and introduced the distinguished speakers. Dr. Clarence E. Pilgrim, Commodore of the Antigua Yacht Club and Chairman of the 2025 Caribbean Dinghy Championship, delivered an inspiring address emphasizing that the championship is not solely about competition, but also about fostering friendship, learning, and the collective growth of sailing across the Caribbean.
He extended a heartfelt welcome to all participating nations and offered special praise to the young sailors, describing them as “the future of the Caribbean maritime industry.” His remarks drew a strong round of applause from the audience, setting a tone of pride, optimism, and unity. The Chairman also showered glowing praises on the 2025 proud sponsors of CDC. They are the National Parks Authority and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority.
Representing the Caribbean Sailing Association (CSA), Mrs. Alison Sly-Adams commended the inclusive format of the modern championship, which enables greater participation from across the region. She also highlighted the CSA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration among islands through an updated racing calendar and the continued evolution of the event under the Association’s governance, established in 1967.
The Hon. Paul ‘Chet’ Greene, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Barbuda Affairs, and Parliamentary Representative for St. Paul’s, (the present home of the Championship) then delivered an encouraging address to the young competitors. He urged them to embrace discipline, teamwork, and perseverance, reminding them that these qualities are as valuable in life as they are in sailing.
Symbolic Opening of the Championship Following the speakers’ presentations, Commodore Dr. Pilgrim rang the Sailors’ Bell, officially declaring the Caribbean Dinghy Championship 2025 open. The resonant sound of the bell symbolized the beginning of three days of spirited racing and regional fellowship. Antigua and Barbuda’s Continued Excellence. As host nation, Antigua and Barbuda enters this year’s championship with a proud record of success.
The national team captured the Nation’s Cup in 2024, held in Sint Maarten—its fifth consecutive victory following previous wins in 2019, 2022, and 2023. This remarkable run has solidified Antigua and Barbuda’s status as one of the leading forces in Caribbean sailing.
Dinner and Fellowship After the formal proceedings, attendees enjoyed a sumptuous dinner prepared by Bar-B’s, followed by an evening of fellowship among sailors, parents, and race officials. Bar-B’s has long been a trusted partner and loyal supporter of AYC events and members, and their continued generosity once again added warmth and hospitality to the occasion.
Competition Schedule Teams representing St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, Sint Maarten, and host nation Antigua will compete in a series of races over the coming days. The championship concludes on Sunday with the Prize-Giving Ceremony at 12:00 noon, when the top-performing sailors and teams will be formally recognized.
After the Skippers’s Briefing on Friday morning, anticipation is high for a weekend defined by excellence on the water, regional unity, and the enduring spirit of Caribbean sailing.
