Sunsail Proudly Sponsors the Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta Series!
Every year, the Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta Series travels around the country, bringing sailors together for an unparalleled racing experience. This set of regattas is the most popular racing series in the US and caters to a diverse range of fleets from multihulls to dinghies and keelboats, offering something for every sailor. Beyond the thrilling races, these events are renowned for their legendary post-race parties!
The 2024 series just kicked off with its first regatta in St. Petersburg, FL, held from February 16 – 18 at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club in the heart of downtown. Here, 18 fleets and 240 boats took to Tampa Bay to brave the wet and wild conditions. Day 1 began with a postponement due to a lack of wind, which filled in later in the day for a beautiful race day. The Mount Gay Rum Cocktail Competition added an extra buzz of excitement after a day of on the water. This tradition, which began at the BVI Championship Regatta, has since made its way into each of the series events. It is always a lively and competitive affair and the perfect way to start the regatta.
The weather on Day 2 presented a formidable challenge with rains and a brisk cold front, making for tough racing conditions for many of those who came to Florida to escape the cold winter storms up north. Still, sailors came in with excitement and were happy to be greeted with a regatta social and daily awards party. Sunsail’s expert vacation planning team was present at the social event. “It was impressive for me to witness the resilience demonstrated by all the competitors in the weather conditions. As true sailors, they quickly turned the events of the weekend into the sailing stories we love. Everyone had a smile on their face!” – Melissa Johnson, Sunsail Charter Vacation Planner.
The final day of the event brought more rain and challenging weather, but many teams braved the conditions one more time for glory! The final party and award ceremonies at these events are always a highlight as all teams come together to celebrate success and a great effort on the water. The beautiful Helly Hansen dry bag awards are a huge plus, as well as the grand prize of a free Sunsail charter that goes to one well-deserving winner.
A berth to participate in the Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta Series British Virgin Islands Championship Event is awarded at each of the 5 regatta series events. The lucky winner of this prize is selected from a pool of class victors at each event. Every team that won their race class is placed into a hat, and from there, one team is chosen. Sunsail’s very own yacht charter expert experienced this St. Pete event for the first time and had this to say, “Since I am normally only present at the Championship in the BVI, it was exciting for me to see the qualifying races and the sheer amount of people that participate in this regatta. It was high energy, fun, and competitive! I hope to see a lot more of you in Tortola in October!” – Amanda Kurland, BVI Championship Booking Agent.
This year’s winners came from the Melges 24 class, Team The 300, with owners Steve and Cathrine Boho taking home the overall winner award and the first free yacht entry for the championship event! Learn more about their victory here.
Sunsail offers up to 15% off a yacht charter for racers and spectators alike who want to join in the fun of the BVI championship event! Come race in the open fleet or cruise alongside in a luxury catamaran and enjoy the unbeatable ambiance and atmosphere of the British Virgin Islands. Create your own unforgettable stories with us!
Contributor
Dominique Wright
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