Bacardi Cup Invitational Regatta set to build on success for 2019

Bacardi Cup Invitational Regatta © Icarus Sports

The Coconut Grove waterfront has no sooner emptied on the hugely successful Bacardi Cup Invitational Regatta 2018, than plans are ramping up for 2019.

Celebrating over nine decades of competition, the fleets will once again congregate next year on Biscayne Bay for the 92nd Bacardi Cup and Bacardi Cup Invitational Regatta from March 3rd-9th 2019.

"2018 was exceptional," commented Sara Zanobini, event director. "Everyone loved the intimate atmosphere and the fact the event was back at the Yacht Club. 2018 exceeded expectations, as we did not expect such a massive turnout and so many top sailors."

There is no holding back the vast number of headline sailors and lesser known faces who make racing here on stunning Biscayne Bay a #1 priority on their annual calendar, attracted by the heritage and prestige of the event; although far more than just racing is on offer. For any sailor, competing at the Bacardi Cup is considered an achievement itself. Shore side the atmosphere is unique, exuding bonhomie and fun, as sailors unwind boosted along by the exceptional Bacardi hospitality at the nightly after parties.

Sharing an insight into what is in the planning for next year, Zanobini said, "The 2019 Bacardi Cup Invitational Regatta is set to be even better. The racing is already guaranteed to be world class, so the aim is to invite more classes and extend the hospitality, ensuring the impact of competing continues to exceed expectations of competitors and the many fans that join the mix."

Laying down a final teaser for next year, Zanobini concluded, "There will be plenty that is new and exciting to enjoy in 2019."

2018 featured a massive line-up of names in the Star and J/70 fleets, with plenty of opportunity for first hand masterclasses from the multiple Olympic and World Champions competing.

Featuring many of the sport's most acclaimed names, the Star Class fleet was a battle to the end, with Diego Negri / Sergio Lambertenghi making history as the first Italian team to ever win the Bacardi Cup. Five-time Olympic medallist Robert Scheidt of Brazil scooped second with Brian Fatih (USA), whilst the reigning Star Class World Champions, Eivind Melleby (NOR) / Joshua Revkin (USA), were relegated to third.

In the J/70, podium places dialled down to the last race in a fleet dominated by former and reigning World and European Champions. Ultimately, Joel Ronning, the 2016 J/70 World Champion, and his team on 'Catapult' seized the crown, with a stylish display of form and consistency around the race track. Picking up second on a 6 point deficit was reigning J/70 World Champion Jud Smith and his team on 'Africa', with third going to Brian Keane and crew on 'Savasana'.

The venerable Bacardi Rum brand and the Bacardi family, who have been active patrons since the inaugural Bacardi Cup was presented in 1927 will continue their active partnership in 2019, bringing their unique style to the event.