four days – was challenging but “very exciting and fantastic for competitors”, says Rana Lewis, who heads marketing and race logistics. “We had a lot of positive feedback. People were amazed that we managed to have everything so well organised,” she adds. A major highlight was the ‘Riddim & Tides’ bash at Ffryes Beach which included a performance by the legendary Burning Flames and attracted hordes of local residents, says fellow organiser Shari Martin. “There were lots of boats there and it felt like the old days of Dickenson Bay,” Alison adds. “It confirmed for us that this is still relevant.” A new location at Falmouth Rectory Grounds for the annual Reggae in the Park concert, this time headlined by Jamaican roots reggae singer Luciano, was deemed a success and looks set to continue. Set on the fringes of English Harbour, it benefits from its ample parking and absence of noise restrictions. Sailing Week started life in 1968, emerging from a group of friends’ desire to help extend the island’s tourist season. It has been staged every year since, halted only for the Covid pandemic in 2020 and 2021. The 2026 edition is estimated to have generated more than EC$6 million in revenue for the country. Putting it all together – and securing the all-important sponsorship – is a year-round affair, aided in the final stretches by scores of volunteers. The team is now hard at work laying the groundwork for the 2027 edition, taking place from April 21-25. Several boats have signed up already, and organisers are deciding whether to stick with the new venues or tweak the locations. The Racing Cup will be held a little earlier in the season, from March 17-21. The two events will flank the Classic Yacht Regatta which sees many of the globe’s most venerable vintage vessels descend on Sailing Week started life in 1968, emerging from a group of friends’ desire to help extend the island’s tourist season. It has been staged every year since, halted only for the Covid pandemic in 2020 and 2021.
32
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online