Winds of excitement: Antigua Wingfoil Championship, part of Antigua Sailing Week, sets sail
by Caribbean Foiling 25 Apr 12:20 NZST
April 25-27, 2024
Antigua Wingfoil Championship 2024 © William Simpson Photography
Registration Day is now closed, with a total of 11 enthusiastic Wingfoilers gearing up for an exhilarating experience at this year's Antigua Wingfoil Championship part of Antigua Sailing Week (ASW).
Tomorrow marks the beginning of the event, featuring two Course Racing Days and a downwinder. Traditionally, the downwinder takes place on the last day (Saturday, April 27), following the first two days dedicated to establishing the participants' skill levels. However, due to anticipated light wind conditions, there's a possibility it may shift to Friday this year.
Wind-dependent and aiming to optimize the foiling adventure, this year's edition offers two potential start areas: Racing inside Falmouth Harbour or at an alternative location, Cades Reef. Given the forecasted conditions, tomorrow's first race will kick off at Cades Reef. Maxim van den Pol, organizer of the Caribbean Foiling Championships, shares, "We've learned from last year's experience with light winds and made adjustments accordingly. Cades Reef, nestled between Johnson's Point and the reef, promises minimal seaweed interference and enhanced breezes, thanks to coastal wind channeling. Get ready for stunning scenery, excitement, and, most importantly, favorable wind!"
Antiguan Wingfoiler Alexander Portman, competing in the Leisure Class, expresses, "Despite the overall unusually light wind season, I am happy to have this event happen again on Antigua!'' Idani Edwards, competing in the Pro Class, adds on, "I am fully prepared for any conditions this year with my new North gear. Let's go!".
To ensure a seamless transition to Cades Reef, all competitors will be ferried aboard one of the ASW Sunsail Committee catamarans, accompanied by a Rib serving as a mark-laying and safety vessel.
Local kitesurfing school Kellsick Kiteboarding, a proud supporter of the event, is thrilled to host such an exhilarating competition on Antiguan shores. Jake Kellsick, owner of Kellsick Kiteboarding, expresses his excitement, stating, "We're absolutely stoked to be part of this event and witness our local community coming together in the spirit of adventure!"
Exciting prizes await, but above all, participants are in for an unforgettable experience filled with adrenaline, camaraderie, and the thrill of foiling across Antiguan waters!