Record number of yachts participate in Dark and Stormy Regatta.
The 10th annual Dark and Stormy Regatta was largest turnout ever. Thirty two yachts signed up for the three day event. The race to Anegada was from Trellis Bay this past Saturday, in perfect weather. The winds were 15 to 20 and the seas cooperative, which proved to be glorious sailing for all the yachts. In a sixteen mile race, the first boat to finish was Hotel California, in approx. 2 ˝ hours. The rest of the 31 yachts were safely at anchor in no time and by happy hour everyone was at Neptune’s Treasure talking about the fabulous sail, ratings and finish times.
Being the 10th annual, some participants were delighted to see a bunch of their old buddies and the party began. Vernon Soares, Foxy, and Tony Snell were seen hanging out together. Martin Halpern, one of the original founders of this race was hanging out with his long time friends, Lyle Jacobsen and Harry Berfelz. It was a just the beginning of some great memories of the 10th Annual Dark and Stormy.
Fun day – Sunday we awoke to the clanging of horse shoes. The practicing had begun and the inter-island horse shoe competition between the USVI and the BVI was ready to go by 10:00 am. The tournament went on into late afternoon, with the Saint Thomian men “A’s” winning in both double and single competition. Captain Bill, from the BVI ( S/V Jenerus), won in men’s single “B’s “ The women singles and doubles were won by the ladies from Saint Thomas in friendly competition.
While horseshoes were getting played, there were sounds of children heard from the beach. The children were competing for prizes in sand sculpture, with Mom’s and Dad’s helping, and were taking it very seriously. Ten children, from 3 to 12 years of age competed and all were delighted when they received prizes in the award ceremony for their efforts! After the dinghy race, competition came to a close. Music and dancing ensued and wonderful Sunday night was had by all.
Monday, the second leg proved to be quit different. The winds were antagonizingly light and the race was called to an end by the commodore of the Loyal West End Yacht Club, Martin VanHouton. The course between Anegada and Soper’s Hole always has surprises. A pod of whales were sighted and a half a dozen boats joined in whale watching. There were reports of whales breaching and moms with calves. With the sea so calm and clear it was a sight to see.
At the Jolly Roger awards ceremony, Martin Van Houten, the Commodore of the Loyal West End Yacht Club and Mark Soares from Neptune’s Treasure were delighted with the overall three day event. Together they handed out prizes to all participants and congratulated all of the 32 yachts, skippers and crews.
Results:
1st - Rainbow Maker- USVI ( St. John)
2nd - Hotel California- BVI
3rd- Absara
West End Yacht Club
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