THE INN AT ENGLISH HARBOUR

This exciting new contest sees Mariella, the majestic 80-foot 1938 yawl, throwing down the gauntlet to challenge similar classic yachts of traditional rig and appearance, to compete in an 'America's Cup' style match race competition - the Mariella Challenge. The Inn Challenge Trophy will be raced in Antigua between 17th and 18th April 2013 and the deadline for entries is 7th April 2013.
 
The Inn at English Harbour's General Manager, Fabio Giorgi comments:

"After the success of our association over the last two years with the Royal Ocean Racing Club's prestigious race, the Caribbean 600 and other Caribbean regattas, it is a natural development for The Inn to play a more important role in the regatta scene. We anticipate that The Inn Challenge Trophy will develop over time and will also become an important fixture on the Caribbean sailing calendar, attracting competitors and visitors from around the world."
 
Mariella, the Alfred Mylne-designed and Fife built classic is owned by Carlo Falcone of Antigua Yacht Club Marina, but The Inn Challenge Trophy and challenge concept is the creation of The Inn at English Harbour's Marketing Manager, Gianluca Mazzetti:

"It's always been a dream of mine to organise a race for classic yachts in the style of the America's Cup. I am very proud to say that we've managed to achieve this," says Gianluca 'Lillo' Mazzetti.

"To bring back the excitement, grandeur and spectacle of big boat match racing and a challenge of this kind is fantastic. Racing will take place off the south coast of Antigua where the perfect trade wind sailing conditions and turquoise Caribbean waters will offer quite a spectacle as the defender, Mariella and Challenger, go head to head," continues Mazzetti.
 
Owner of s/y Mariella, Carlo Falcone says: "I am very happy to start off this Challenge with Mariella as it will allow these beautiful yachts to race in the warm waters of Antigua. 'Thank you' to The Inn at English Harbour for the starting this contest. The Challenge is on and everyone will be welcome at Antigua Yacht Club Marina, home base of Mariella."
 
Competing for The Inn Challenge Trophy, a specially commissioned Lalique Victoire crystal statue and a prestigious Cup for the winning yacht, the competition will take place over two days. Starting with registration, inspection and a Skipper's Briefing at the exclusive hotel and resort, The Inn at English Harbour on Wednesday 17th April, followed by the 1st edition of the Mariella Challenge itself, with racing over the 12 mile course on Thursday 18th April. The Prizegiving and Dinner will take place the same evening at The Inn.    
 
Registration is located at Antigua Yacht Club Marina who, along with Antigua Slipway is supporting The Inn Challenge Trophy.
 
The Inn Challenge Trophy is being run to coincide with the 26th Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta (18th-23rd April), part of the Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge 2013 circuit and is also a wonderful spectacle of sail.