Caribbean Dinghy Championship To Be Held
The Caribbean Dinghy Championship officially opened with strong participation and competitive energy as sailors from eight Caribbean countries gathered in St Maarten for the highly anticipated regional event. The championship began on Friday with ideal sailing conditions and a large turnout of athletes, coaches, and supporters along the island’s shoreline.
From the opening ceremony through the first two days of racing, 38 sailors competed across multiple classes, completing a demanding series of 12 races. The event has brought together emerging talent and experienced competitors, highlighting the depth and growth of dinghy sailing across the Caribbean.
Challenging Conditions Test Sailors’ Skills
Day one of the championship featured near-perfect conditions that required sailors to stay composed while focusing on boat speed and clean execution. Consistent winds allowed competitors to push their limits while maintaining control across the course.
Conditions shifted on the second day, presenting new challenges for the fleet. Winds increased to approximately 13 knots, demanding quick decision-making and adaptability. Later in the day, wind speeds dropped to between six and seven knots, turning the final race into a true test of endurance, patience, and technical skill.
These changing conditions ensured that success depended not only on speed, but also on tactical awareness and the ability to adjust under pressure.
Strong Regional Representation
The championship has drawn participants from across the Caribbean, reinforcing its status as a key regional sailing event. Countries represented include:
- St Maarten
- St Martin
- Guadeloupe
- St Vincent
- St Kitts and Nevis
- Barbados
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Antigua and Barbuda
- St Barts
The opening ceremony welcomed teams with a festive atmosphere, featuring live performances by local artists and cultural music that reflected the host island’s heritage.
Opening Parade and Social Events
In addition to the racing schedule, the event included an opening parade on October 24, 2024. Sailors and officials gathered at the Simpson Bay Yacht Club for dining, networking, and social interaction, providing opportunities for athletes to connect beyond the competition.
These events play an important role in building camaraderie among sailors and strengthening relationships across national sailing programs.
Competition Schedule and Objectives
The Caribbean Dinghy Championship runs through October 27, 2024, and features a full weekend of competitive racing. Organizers aim to promote regional engagement, sportsmanship, and youth development while delivering an exciting sporting experience for participants and spectators alike.
The championship continues to grow each year, attracting increased participation and reinforcing the Caribbean’s reputation as a strong sailing region.
St Kitts and Nevis Expands Its Presence
St Kitts and Nevis entered the championship with a team of seven sailors, marking a significant increase from the previous year when only two athletes represented the country. The expanded team began their campaign on a positive note, displaying confidence and enthusiasm throughout the opening races.
The St Kitts and Nevis team includes competitors across several classes:
- Optimist: Greyson Burrell, Skyla Connor, Abhijith Srinivasan
- RS Quest: Jazzelle Connor, Emily Samaroo
- ILCA 4: Melroy Henry
- ILCA 6: Amadi Byron-Hendrickson
The sailors have shown determination and excitement as they pursue strong finishes and valuable experience at the regional level.
Trinidad and Tobago Fields a Deep Team
Trinidad and Tobago arrived with a strong delegation of eight athletes competing across six classes. The team brings experience and versatility, with sailors entered in ILCA, RS Quest, RS Zest, and Optimist categories.
The Trinidad and Tobago lineup includes:
- ILCA 7: Stefan Stuven
- ILCA 6: Josiah Alexis
- ILCA 4: Zev Bowman
- RS Quest: Triston Regis Munroe, Akeme Wilson
- RS Zest: Sion Gachette, Mikhaela Browne
- Optimist: Sariyah Stoute
Antigua and Barbuda Defends a Strong Legacy
Antigua and Barbuda, the defending champions, continue to be a dominant force in the Caribbean Dinghy Championship. The country has secured championship titles in 2018, 2019, 2022, and 2023, with last year’s event hosted on home waters.
The 2024 Antigua and Barbuda team includes competitors across multiple classes, aiming to maintain their winning tradition while facing strong regional competition.
A Showcase of Caribbean Sailing Talent
As the championship progresses, sailors from across the region continue to demonstrate skill, resilience, and sportsmanship. The Caribbean Dinghy Championship remains a vital platform for developing talent, fostering regional unity, and celebrating sailing excellence throughout the Caribbean.