RORC CARIBBEAN 600

RORC Caribbean 600 Prizegiving © Tim Wright/RORC
The 15th edition of the RORC Caribbean 600 started in glorious conditions on Monday 19th February 2024. Sixty-four boats took on the challenge, with 561 sailors from all over the world competing in the 600-mile race around 11 Caribbean islands. A glorious start with tradewinds pumping up to 17 knots prevailed for 48 hours. Towards the end of the race, more unstable weather conditions produced a complex and tactical battle with wind reports ranging from flat calm to 30 knots in squalls.

The prizegiving for the RORC Caribbean 600 was held on the lawn at the Antigua Yacht Club. Guests of honour were the Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda, Sir Rodney Williams and Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Charles 'Max' Fernandez. RORC CEO Jeremy Wilton was master of ceremonies and introduced RORC Commodore Deb Fish to the main stage.

Overall race winner Leopard 3 was one of the RORC Caribbean 600 founding entries, setting the original monohull race record in 2009, and taking Monohull Line Honours again in 2013. However, this year was the first occasion in nine attempts that Leopard 3 has won the race overall under IRC. Leopard 3 is now 17 years old but is faster than ever due to a major refit by the new owners.

Carkeek 52 Rán © Tim Wright/RORC

The 2025 Caribbean 600 will start from Fort Charlotte on 17th February, it will be preceded by the third edition of the RORC Nelson’s Cup Series. RORC racing now switches to European racing with the RORC Easter Challenge 29-31 March. The world’s largest offshore racing series, the RORC Season’s Points Championship, continues with the Cervantes Trophy Race starting on 20th April.

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