2016 Superyacht Challenge Antigua preview

by Superyacht Challenge Antigua on 18 Jan 2016 The sixth edition of the Superyacht Challenge Antigua has attracted eleven magnificent ocean-going yachts. The impressive fleet will take part in three days of competitive racing along the stunning south coast of Antigua, complimented by laid-back social events, The Superyacht Challenge Antigua is a wonderful celebration of sailing and parties, dedicated to pure fun afloat and ashore, where all participants enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, free from commercial endorsements.

This year's entry includes yachts from 90 to 147 feet, including two of the latest superyachts to be commissioned. which will be making their racing debut at the Superyacht Challenge Antigua. The regatta is designed to be solely for the pleasure of superyacht owners, their guests and crew. The philosophy of the Superyacht Challenge Antigua has always been the same; back to how Superyacht racing started. Then the focus was on a bunch of mates who run big boats getting together to provide some fun racing and shoreside events for their owners' enjoyment.

The Superyacht Challenge Antigua has no overall winner, however yachts are separated into two classes, Corsairs and Buccaneers. The top three yachts in each class win a barrel of Antiguan rum to celebrate their achievements. Awards are also made for the fastest yacht on the water and the best corrected time, using the ORC SuperYacht Rule. The best crew work observed by the race committee, led by International Race Officer John Coveney, will also receive an award.

In keeping with the ethos of the regatta, the shoreside fun is also rewarded with culinary prizes for the Best Coal Pot Dish and The Famous Cook-Off, with Superyacht chefs providing a gourmet supper for all competitors. Owners and crew also have a tailoring challenge; the Loudest Caribbean Shirt and the Best Dressed Crew Competition are all part of the fun. Antigua Barbuda Search and Rescue (ABSAR) will be supporting the regatta and is the chosen charity for the event.

A new trophy will be awarded this year, donated by the superyacht Timoneer, who have been firm supporters of the Superyacht Challenge since its conception. The Gosnell Trophy will be awarded to the yacht, who in the opinion of the competitors and the race committee, has competed in the Spirit of the Regatta, where they have sailed as hard as they can with the equipment available while still representing the yacht well ashore. A fitting tribute to Mrs G, the spirit of Timoneer and the Superyacht Challenge Antigua.