Antigua & Barbuda’s Minister of Tourism, Charles ‘Max’ Fernandez led a delegation to the fourteenth annual Antigua and Barbuda Hamptons Challenge Regatta in Sag Harbor, New York.
The delegation included Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority’s (ABTA) CEO, Colin C. James, and ABTA Board Deputy Chairman, Alan Hosam. This event promotes the beautiful twin-island’s rich sailing tradition to the Hamptons’ sailing community, a collection of affluent enclaves on Long Island’s South Fork. In the lead-up to the Regatta, the ABTA hosted a media reception at Baron’s Cove, attended by prominent figures from the Hamptons community.
Interviews were conducted with radio station WLNG 92.1 FM and several local newspapers. Perfect weather welcomed the crews that competed in the Regatta staged on Saturday, August 11.
The event connects Antigua’s English Harbour to the Hamptons’ Sag Harbor. Also, it supports the local charity i-TRI, a community- based non-profit founded by Theresa Roden that empowers young women through the sport of triathlon.
Twenty-two fully crewed yachts competed in a handicapped race around Noyack Bay, organized by the Peconic Bay Sailing Association.
John Pearson was the regatta’s overall winner and received the Northeast’s most prestigious sailing prize – an all-expenses-paid trip to Antigua to race in the spectacular 2025 Antigua Sailing Week (April 27th – May 3rd, www.sailingweek.com).
John Pearson, Winner of the Antigua and Barbuda Hamptons Challenge Regatta with Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Minister, Hon. H. Charles Max Fernandez
A notable highlight of the regatta was the presence of young Antiguan sailor Tyrique Adams, who came to Sag Harbor to compete in the race. Commenting on the event, after a successful day out on the water, Minister Fernandez said, “We are thrilled to continue raising awareness of Antigua and Barbuda as the Caribbean’s sailing capital.
Youth 2 Keel (Y2K) Alumni Tyrique Adams (2nd from left)
“Tyrique’s presence as a participating sailor was truly spectacular to watch, as he showcased the sailing prowess and skill emerging from our twin-island destination during the race. “We look forward to having this year’s Antigua and Barbuda Hampton Challenge winning crew in Sag Harbor, join us inEnglish Harbour for what is anticipated to be a riveting Antigua Sailing Week 2025.”
Other Antigua and Barbuda delegation members attending the regatta included Dean Fenton, Director of Tourism, USA, Marilyn Pires, ABTA USA and Devin Joseph, Yachting Business Development Manager. The regatta was sponsored by English Harbour Rum.
Following the regatta, the Taste of The Caribbean Awards Party was held at Bell & Anchor, a renowned restaurant in Sag Harbor. Former Sag Harbor Mayor James Larocca and current Mayor Tom Gardella, sailing enthusiasts, spectators, community members, and supporters joined the lively celebration.
