ANTIGUA CLASSIC YACHT REGATTA

Patchy blue skies, brisk easterly winds and moderate seas – but thankfully no rain – greeted the vast fleet of classic yachts and spectator boats for the third race in the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta this morning.

A perfect easterly trade wind day developed, resulting in an exciting and closely challenging day of sailing as the beautiful classic yachts fought for position during the 24-mile reciprocal “Cannon” course …” a photographer’s dream ticket!’ This is the one race of the regatta when the crew of the smaller yachts are lucky enough to experience the awe inspiring atmosphere emanating from large contenders. This year it was Rebecca, Windrose, Velsheda and Ranger who skillfully wove their way through the fleet  passing as close as just three boat lengths away; as reported by the crew of a Carriacou sloop “this is a truly awesome experience!” 

 The Parade of Classics in English Harbour, where competing yachts show off their finery to the delight of the throngs of spectators lining the shore, occurred immediately after the conclusion of today’s race.  This annual event is very popular with racers and spectator’s alike, with hundreds of people ashore brandishing cameras, and loudly cheering each parading yacht as ‘the voice of English Harbour’, the infamous veteran schooner man, Joel Byerley provided an entertaining, informative and descriptive commentary.

 Today’s festivities concluded with the sumptuous Sail Maine Party, hosted by Portland Yacht Services at the Antigua Yacht Club.  Wayfarer Marine, Brooklin Boat Yard, Rockport Marine, Robin Hood Marine Center, Lyman-Morse Boatbuilders, and Port Clyde Lobster were co-sponsors of the feast, which included free drinks, Maine lobster bisque and seafood in addition to an assortment of hors d’oeuvres.
 
On the AYC waterside lawn the merchandise marquee features a full line of official Regatta clothing produced by Studio Tom Tom, the Silver Sponsor of the 23rd annual Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta.  Studio Tom Tom has had an 11-year association with the Regatta and continues to enjoy brisk sales of their uniquely screened cool, durable Regatta clothing.