Bacardi Cup Invitational Regatta expands for 2019 edition and launches new 2018-2019 Winter Series
by Icarus Sports 13 Jun 2018 12:33 PDT
3-9 March 2018
The renowned Bacardi Cup Invitational Regatta is expanding for the 2019 edition, with invitations extended to the Melges 24 and Viper 640 classes, who will join the J70 Class and Star Class.
Celebrating over nine decades of Star Class racing, the fleets will once again congregate at Coral Reef Yacht Club and Biscayne Bay Yacht Club for the 92nd Bacardi Cup, which is incorporated within the Bacardi Cup Invitational Regatta from March 3rd-9th 2019.
Building up to the finale of the Bacardi Cup Invitational Regatta, a brand new Bacardi Invitational Winter Series is launched for the J70 and Melges 24 Classes. The first race weekend for the Bacardi Invitational Winter Series will be 1st-2nd December 2018, with the next face-off on 19th-20th January 2019.
"Miami has always been a home for Star Class racing, and the growing interest for an equally strong winter series for the best sailors in the J70 and Melges 24 Classes motivated the launch of these two new Bacardi Invitational Winter Series events," said Sara Zanobini, Event Director of the Bacardi Cup Invitational Regatta.
"In 2018, we couldn't invite all the usual classes to the Bacardi Cup Invitational Regatta because of the damage caused by Hurricane Irma. Now with the waterfront virtually 100% repaired, it was a natural step to respond to the demand for more class racing, and we are really excited to launch the new Winter Series and expand the Bacardi Cup Invitational Regatta race programme. The whole waterfront area is working with us to ensure the event is as attractive for the competitors, as it is for the numerous spectators who join us to watch the racing and soak up the shore side atmosphere."
"Winter racing in Miami capitalizes on the warm, sunny climate and superb race track conditions," continued Mark Pincus, Regatta Chairman. "The race area is vast, so each class has its own course, with flexibility to switch course areas so everyone can experience the different weather and challenges of racing on Biscayne Bay."
The Bacardi Cup is known the world over, attracting an international and star-studded line up of America's Cup, VOR, Olympians and World Championship names racing alongside the talent of amateur teams. It has long been a 'must-do' event for everyone's sailing calendar guaranteeing world-class racing, backed up by the intrigue of the immense heritage and prestige of the event. Mixed in with the Bacardi Cup International Regatta is the perfect combination of racing on warm turquoise waters and unique post-race atmosphere. The shore side exudes bonhomie and fun, as sailors unwind boosted along by the exceptional Bacardi hospitality at the nightly after parties.
"Bacardi is eagerly anticipating the 2018 and 2019 events, and we are excited to support this extended regatta programme," said Eddie Cutillas of Bacardi USA. "Bacardi has long been synonymous with world class sailing. We are proud to host a new and exciting event line-up in Miami and showcase the legendary Bacardi brand."
For nearly one century, the Bacardi Cup has continued to attract the world's top sailors and fans with its popularity and intrigue and in 2019 will celebrate its 92nd anniversary on Biscayne Bay, the event's home for the past 57 straight years. What started out as a 3-day event with less than 10 boats in 1927 in Cuba, is set to attract well over 160 boats in 2019 from 4th-9th March. Racing for the J70, Melges 24 and Viper 640 Classes will unfold from 7th-9th March.
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.
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