Selma Star dominates BPI Corregidor Cup 2024
by Abi Matsuzawa 29 Nov 2024 18:24 AEDT
14-17 November 2024
Team Selma Star in action, expertly navigating the waters during the BPI Corregidor Cup 2024 © EA Sacramed: Studio H2O
The BPI Corregidor Cup 2024 kicked off the much-anticipated second season of the BPI Private Wealth Signature Yacht Race Series.
Organized by the Ocean Racing Club of the Philippines (ORCP) in partnership with BPI Private Wealth and WWF Philippines, the regatta was held on November 14 to 17 around the surrounding islands of Corregidor. This year's regatta saw new boats and sailing teams, bringing fresh energy to the fleet and inspiring greater competition. With 15 competing yachts and 2 spectator yachts, the diverse mix of seasoned and new sailors created a dynamic atmosphere, making the BPI Corregidor Cup 2024 an unforgettable experience for both participants and spectators.
Despite calm yet challenging winds and a race shortened by an incoming typhoon, participants navigated the course with remarkable skill and determination. The event not only showcased the enduring spirit of competition but also celebrated teamwork, resilience, and camaraderie.
"There is more skill involved in sailing in light air than when the wind is strong," said John-John Torres, Principal Race Officer of the BPI Corregidor Cup 2024 and a member of ORCP. Reflecting on the challenge of light winds, he added: "With strong winds, even a milk carton will move on the water. But when the breeze is as light as this, it takes precision—adjusting your sails, positioning the hull just right, and balancing the boat properly. It's mentally exhausting for the sailors, requiring focus and strategy with every move. This will be a true test of their skill today."
Selma Star, a Beneteau First 36.7 skippered by Jun Avecilla of Subic Sailing, triumphed as the Overall Winner of the BPI Corregidor Cup 2024, besting 6 boats that raced the IRC class.
New race contender Raw Honey, a Farr 40 skippered by James Villareal won second place and 2023 overall winner Karakoa, Ray Ordoveza's Excel 53 bagged 3rd place in IRC. Meanwhile, John Quirk's 52ft Lyons 47, Allusive, emerged victorious in the Cruising Class, demonstrating exceptional skill on the water. Pablo Lobregat's Beneteau 51.11 Oceanis Despacito secured second place and newcomer Cyril Rocke's 44.7 Beneteau First 2007 Belle Poule clinched third place in the Cruising Class. In the Ocean Multihull category, new race contender Hans Worldring's Ballistic 31 Ikapati claimed first place, showcasing their strategic prowess, while Roman Azanza's 39 ft Fontain Pajot Tutu Tango won 2nd place and David Sutton's Leopard 45 Catamaran Poco Loco rounded out the podium at 3rd place.
The event also served as an excellent platform for the ORCP to discuss the 2025-2028 World Sailing Racing Rules of Sailing (RRS) led by International Sailing Juror Leonard Chin from Malaysia. Updated every four years to align with the Olympic cycle, the RRS governs competitive sailing worldwide. Local sailors gained valuable insights on the new provisions, further enriching their skills and understanding of the sport.
"We are excited to reignite the spirit of yacht racing in the Philippines with the BPI Corregidor Cup 2024. Our goal is to create a dynamic platform that fosters adventure, achievement, and inspires more people to embrace their passion for sailing," said Maria Theresa Marcial, President and CEO of BPI Wealth. "Through events like this, we celebrate not just the thrill of the sport, but also the important qualities of resilience and teamwork. This season is a powerful reminder of the limitless possibilities that arise when passion is driven by purpose."
The BPI Corregidor Cup 2024 sets the stage for an exhilarating season ahead. Watch out for the upcoming legs of the BPI Private Wealth Signature Yacht Race Series, with the BPI Busuanga Cup 2025 happening on January 9-12, 2025, BPI Boracay 200 on February 20-25, 2025 and the BPI Subic Regatta on March 27-30, 2025. For more updates, visit signatureyachtraceseries.com or follow our social media channels @signatureyachtrace_series.