For four exhilarating days, the stunning waters off Antigua played host to the 14th edition of the Superyacht Challenge Antigua, bringing together a fleet of majestic yachts, passionate sailors, and an atmosphere charged with competition and camaraderie.
Close Competition and Perfect Sailing Conditions
With subtle changes in both the weather and course choices, sailors were presented with dynamic challenges, from tactical maneuvers in shifting winds to thrilling finishes where mere seconds made all the difference. Under clear Caribbean skies and 10-17 knots of moderate trade winds, over 250 sailors enjoyed ideal conditions. The SYCA Race Committee, led by PRO Hank Stuart, ensured that a variety of courses tested skill, precision, and teamwork.
Round Antigua Race
In the stand-alone Round Antigua Race, the 121ft (37m) Dykstra sloop Action, captained by Angus Fuller, emerged victorious, claiming the Antigua Rigging Trophy in honor of the late SYCA founder Stan Pearson. Fuller acknowledged Pearson’s impact on the sailing community, stating, “I think this event has been a fantastic celebration of what Stan’s done for yachting in Antigua as a whole.”
In the Half Round the Island Race, honors went to the 182ft (55.5m) Dykstra schooner Adela, with Oyster 885 Karibu, captained by Williams Dovey, taking the Corinthian Division prize.
Class Champions Crowned
Corsairs Class:
- Action (121ft, Dykstra sloop), captained by Angus Fuller, secured its third class win in four regattas.
- Gitana (148ft, Dubois sloop), captained by Greg Wilson, was runner-up.
- Nostromo (98’5″, Dubois sloop), co-captained by Ed Handasyde-Dick and Justin Blackmore, placed third and also won the Corinthian Division.
Privateers Class:
- Adela (182ft, Dykstra schooner), captained by Greg Perkins, claimed its third class title in eight regatta appearances.
- Rebecca (140ft, German Frers ketch), captained by Seumas Meharg, was runner-up.
- Catalina (148ft, Dubois ketch), captained by Sean Whitney, topped the Corinthian Division and placed third in class.
Buccaneers Class:
- Freya (90ft, Swan), owned by Don Macpherson and captained by Joph Carter, triumphed for the second consecutive year.
- Karibu (Oyster 885), captained by Williams Dovey, was the best boat in the Corinthian Division, finishing third in class.
- Zig Zag (Oyster 82), captained by Carl Raynes, placed fourth overall and was runner-up in the Corinthian Division.
Memorable Parties & Wonderful Moments
Beyond the competition, the regatta’s famed social events lived up to expectations.
- Freya claimed victory in the Famous Cook-Off, while Adela won Best Theme with a grand plywood-Jeep entrance.
- Karibu shone as the Best-Dressed Team on Caribbean Night, and Catalina took home the Loudest Shirt Competition prize.
- Rebecca won the Charity Paddleboard Race, raising $1,300 for PAAWS Animal Hospital.
The Gosnell Trophy
The prestigious Gosnell Trophy, awarded based on votes from competing boats and the SYCA Race Committee, went to Catalina (148ft, Dubois ketch), captained by Sean Whitney. Catalina, which previously raced as Timoneer, continues to be a beloved competitor at the regatta.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The 15th edition of the Superyacht Challenge Antigua is set for March 3-8, 2026.
Sailors and supporters alike eagerly anticipate another year of world-class racing and unforgettable parties. The 2026 event will introduce a new course mark at Green Island, “Claire,” in honor of the late photographer Claire Matches, a cherished figure in the sailing community.
“The Superyacht Challenge Antigua remains a celebration of exceptional sailing, friendly competition, and the unique camaraderie that makes this regatta truly special,” concluded PRO Hank Stuart.
For more information, visit superyachtchallengeantigua.com.
