ANTIGUA YACHT CLUB

Across oceans and continents, Antigua is known as an island of sailors — and at the centre of that reputation, part of the fabric of Caribbean and World sailing,  stands the Antigua Yacht Club. It is here that many of the island’s greatest talents first touched the tiller: Junella King, Rocco Falcone, Shannon Falcone, Louis and Alex Sinclair, the legendary Karl James… the list goes on of Olympians and world champions who learned their craft in these waters. AYC is more than a club; it is the cradle of Antigua’s global sailing legacy.

This year’s Annual General Meeting came at the close of a period marked by significant hard work, careful planning and quiet determination from the Board. Over the past year, the volunteer team has dedicated countless hours to stabilising the club, strengthening operations, and laying the groundwork for long-term growth. This AGM was not just a meeting — it was the culmination of a year of steady vision and a renewed commitment to the club’s future.

Despite past differences, recent discussions between AYC leadership and Marina Resorts Ltd have established a shared vision for a world-class club and marina. One of Antigua’s most accomplished sailors, Shannon Falcone of Americas’ Cup fame, addressed the meeting, speaking passionately about his love for the sport, Antigua’s unique place in global sailing and the role the club has played in his own children’s lives. He underscored the importance of moving beyond previous contention and embracing collaboration.

Falcone highlighted a vision centred on community, youth sailing, and expanding opportunities for Antiguan sailors across the industry — from grassroots development to the superyacht and professional racing sectors. He reiterated that the AYC has a long tradition of producing exceptional sailors who now compete on the world stage, including in the America’s Cup and the Ocean Globe Race.

AYC leadership echoed this sentiment, stressing that youth engagement is essential to the future of sailing in Antigua. Financial challenges remain, including outstanding sums owed to the club, but the Board emphasised its commitment to strengthening youth programmes, expanding events, and enhancing facilities that support both local talent and the wider sailing community.

The meeting also reaffirmed the importance of Saturday racing, which remains the heart of the club throughout the year. Excitement continues to build for the upcoming Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, with Robyn Stout reporting strong international interest and praising Nelson’s Dockyard as the perfect home for the event. Volunteers were warmly welcomed.

The AYC Board, comprised entirely of volunteers, thanked members for their support and confirmed the following positions for the coming year:

• Commodore: Dr. Clarence Pilgrim

• Vice-Commodore: Cdr Richard Fear

• Rear-Commodore: Sandy Mair

• House & Grounds Director: John Gaillard

• Honorary Treasurer: Lorraine Gaillard

• Fleet Captain: Tommy Patterson

• Classics Fleet Captain: Robin Stout

• Director-at-Large: Jeff Hadeed

• Social Director: Gina di Renzo (newly appointed)

• Dinghy Captain: Sophie Brookes (newly appointed)

• Honorary Secretary:The AYC is still seeking an appropriate candidate.

Recognising the amount of work done by the board and the need to keep members engaged, it was agreed to form a five-person, members committee to support the board in driving forward future initiatives. Five volunteers stepped forward—perhaps not exactly with eagerness, but certainly with a commendable willingness to serve.

With the new Board confirmed — and after a year defined by resilience, planning, and renewed vision — AYC looks to the horizon with confident purpose, ready to steer Antigua toward a future where community, collaboration, and opportunity come together to inspire the next wave of sailors who will carry the island’s legacy across the world’s oceans.