RORC CARIBBEAN 600

Crews enjoyed the 2017 RORC Caribbean 600 Welcome Party with dancing to the sounds of Panache Steel Orchestra and 1761 band © Tim Wright/Photoaction.com

Press Release - Sunday, February 19th, 2017, Antigua, W.I.

With less than 48 hours to go, it's a busy scene around the docks as crews prepare for the start of the RORC Caribbean 600 on Monday, February 20th, but on Saturday evening it was time to officially open the race and welcome everyone to Antigua for the 9th edition.

Skippers from the 80 boats attended a briefing at Antigua Yacht Club where RORC Racing Manager, Nick Elliott highlighted some key points for the race and a few administrative requirements before they head off. It was standing room only for the 200 or so highly experienced skippers and navigators from the record fleet, but all were fully focused, listening attentively to the briefing for the 600-mile offshore race.

Nick Elliott, RORC Racing Manager addresses the 80 Skippers in the 2017 RORC Caribbean 600 at the Skipper's Briefing © Tim Wright/Photoaction.com

Following the briefing, race crews and guests were welcomed to the official opening at Antigua Yacht Club which was packed to capacity. RORC Commodore, Michael Boyd introduced the guest of honour, Shirlene Nibbs, Consultant in the Ministry of Tourism who welcomed competitors from 30 different nations to Antigua and Barbuda. She ended her speech with a quote from Mark Twain."
 
"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So, throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbour, catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover."

Shirlene Nibbs, Consultant in the Antigua & Barbuda Ministry of Tourism welcomed crews © Tim Wright/Photoaction.com

Sailors enjoyed a traditional Caribbean welcome with the Panache Steel Orchestra opening the musical entertainment, complimentary drinks and fine Caribbean fayre. The highly acclaimed Antigua Band 1761 then took to the stage and lit the blue touch paper. By the end of the evening the dance floor was buzzing and the second encore produced a giant conga amongst the sailors to give a great finale to a memorable evening.

The 2017 RORC Caribbean 600 starts at 11:00 on Monday, February 20th, 2017. To keep up to date with all the news and to follow the race: www.caribbean600.rorc.org