World Record Entries for Optimist World Championship in Antigua
The 2019 Optimist World Championship will welcome junior sailors from 64 countries July 6 to 16, setting a new record for the most countries competing in a single class regatta.
Even more fantastic is that this is happening in one of the smallest countries on Earth, the 108-square-mile island of Antigua. The Antigua Yacht Club, host of internationally renowned events such as the RORC Caribbean 600 (February) Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta (April) and Antigua Sailing Week (April/May), is no stranger to running world class events and is more than ready for the 262 sailors, their coaches, siblings, family, and friends.
“For such a small island to be able to host 64 countries is quite an achievement, and I think it reflects how Antigua is seen as such a great place to sail,” says Paola Vittoria, head of the local organizing committee, who also orchestrated Antigua’s hosting of the Optimist North American Championship in 2015 and 2016.
“There are many fantastic ways to watch the Championship. We have an official spectator boat provided by Wadadli Cats, which will be available to book each day. Or, if you are on land, excellent vantage points include Fort Charlotte, Fort Berkley, Shirley Heights, and Snapper Point.” 2019worlds.optiworld.org
By Carol Bareuther for Southern Boating, July 2019
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