Antigua Sailing Week 2024

Spectacular Racing and Winners

The 2024 Antigua Sailing Week (ASW), held from April 27 to May 3, 2024, saw some thrilling victories across its 13 competitive classes. Dawn Treader, a JPK 1180 from Great Britain, dominated the Peters & May Round Antigua Race and secured the overall trophy. In the Club Class Max division, Matthias Maus' Swan 65, Alpha Centauri of London, achieved victory after a fierce battle with Saida, another Swan 65. Meanwhile, Strada Geothermal - Escapado claimed the Sanhall Trading Cup in the highly competitive CSA 4 class, showcasing remarkable team cohesion and tactical expertise.

Tactical Battles and Weather Challenges

The 2024 edition of Antigua Sailing Week was defined by its tactical racing, particularly during lighter wind conditions earlier in the week. Sailors had to make quick decisions as they navigated the tricky conditions. One standout moment was the close race in CSA Club Class Max between Alpha Centauri and Saida. The tight racing between these two similar Swan 65s created intense competition, with victory being decided by just one point. Additionally, the variable conditions in the offshore races demanded skillful maneuvering, keeping the competition alive throughout the week.

High-Profile Celebrity Attendees

As with past editions, Antigua Sailing Week 2024 attracted several high-profile attendees. Among them was British actor and yachtsman Eddie Jordan, known for his passion for sailing and previous participation in regattas across the globe. Jordan joined the fleet of high-profile sailors and racing enthusiasts. Additionally, Olympic sailor Sir Ben Ainslie made an appearance, adding prestige to an already star-studded event. The combination of top-tier sailors and entertainment figures cemented the event’s status as a key meeting point for the yachting elite.

Legacy and Newcomers at the Event

This year’s edition featured a mix of experienced sailors and newcomers. In the Legacy Class, Absolute Properties Blue Peter, a J/30 co-skippered by teenagers Carrack and Tyden Jones, took home the West Indies Publishing Cup Trophy. The team, which included a crew as young as 12, earned praise for their perseverance and teamwork throughout the competition. Meanwhile, new faces like Andreas Bock’s Karin, a custom-built KK28, added fresh excitement to the race, bringing a new wave of competitors to the regatta.

Conclusion: A Week of Unmatched Racing and Festivities

Antigua Sailing Week 2024 was a huge success, filled with intense competition, tactical brilliance, and a lively social atmosphere. With winners in various classes showcasing their mastery over the challenging conditions, and the presence of sailing legends and celebrities adding to the event’s prestige, the regatta once again proved why it remains one of the top yachting events in the Caribbean. The combination of thrilling racing and vibrant shoreside events makes ASW a must-attend for both sailors and spectators alike.

‍