THE SUPERYACHT CHALLENGE ANTIGUA

Photo Credit: Ted Martin, www.photofantasyantigua.com

Taking place from the 28th – 31st January, expressions of interest are in from a record 13 boats currently: Freya, Gloria, Marama, Nilaya, Nikata, Rebecca, SeaQuell, Silencio, Tenaz, Unfurled, Visione, Zenji and Zig Zag. The latter being the smallest at 82ft.

the philosophy of the Superyacht  Challenge Antigua has always been the same; back to how Superyacht racing started. Then the focus was on a bunch of mates who run big boats getting together to provide some fun racing and shoreside events for their owners' enjoyment.  Phil Wade and Timoneer were a catalyst in reprising this philosophy with the organizing committee. For the previous five editions the Superyacht Challenge Antigua has stuck to those guns and the regatta is working as they see steady growth in interest from the superyachts.

There is no silver trophy for the winners, just a barrel of rum and a lot of fun and after careful consideration it has been decided to award a perpetual trophy for Spirit of Regatta. The award will be named the Gosnell Trophy, in honour of the owner of Timoneer who has now passed away and will be awarded for the first time this year.

The owner and crew of Timoneer were firm supporters from the start and some of their best memories were seeing Mrs. Gosnell and her entourage enjoying the event. Thanks to them for the help in making this event happen and an award like this is a fitting tribute to Mrs G and the spirit of Timoneer.

The Gosnell Trophy will be awarded to the yacht, who in the opinion of the competitors and the race committee, has competed in the Spirit of the Regatta, where they have sailed as hard as they can with the equipment available while still representing the yacht well ashore.  

For interested parties it is important to note that this event is private and all events are open only to participating boats and their guests. Spectators however can get stunning views of the boats at full sail from Shirley Heights on each race day. Races are slated to start each day Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 11:00 am.