8:49 PM Wed 31 Mar 2010 GMT
The BVI is arguably the finest cruising area in the Caribbean. But here's the good news - we're here for the racing.
Here's the back story from the press info
In 1972, local sailors felt it was the right time to organize a major regatta. By that time bareboat charters had established themselves in the BVI, there were small Squib and Sunfish fleets and other privately owned yachts. Additionally, the BVI sailing contingent had a five-year history of organizing sailboat races.
As members of the then BVI Hotel and Tourist Association, Peter Haycraft, Albie Stewart and others, used their influence to establish the first BVI Spring Regatta, Over 20 boats, including Squibs, competed in the first regatta which was won by the yacht Nutmeg skippered by Alex Forbes of the United Kingdom.
The very next year, with the formation of the BVI Yacht Club, the Spring Regatta became a joint effort between the BVI Yacht Club and the Hotel Association. From its early success the Spring Regatta has grown in size and strength due largely to the support of racing enthusiasts from around the world who return year after year to compete.
In addition to the charter and private boats racing, there is a one-design course. It is on that course that I, along with a crew of journos from Argentina, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil and yes, the USA will be racing a pair of IC24s. Tomorrow is the briefing day. I may have more info on what to expect after we get the official lowdown.
In the photo, you'll see Paige, a writer from San Francisco who only discovered Canadian Yachting on the plane. Well, to be honest, I gave it to her and asked her to pose, but it's a cool shot
More tomorrow...
by John Morris
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Manly, QLD
