Monday, July 7, 2025
Antigua and Barbuda, celebrated as the Caribbean’s premier sailing destination, is poised to once again take center stage as the host of the 15th Annual Antigua & Barbuda Hamptons Challenge Regatta. The prestigious event will take place in Sag Harbor, New York, on August 9, 2025, and will be led by the Hon. H. Charles ‘Max’ Fernandez, the Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation, and Investment for Antigua and Barbuda. This event is a vital celebration of the maritime ties between the Caribbean islands and the Hamptons, showcasing both the sport of sailing and the region’s commitment to youth empowerment.
A Cultural Celebration with a Purpose
The Antigua & Barbuda Hamptons Challenge Regatta is not only a sailing competition but also a platform for promoting youth development through sport. In collaboration with i-tri, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering young women on the East End of Long Island, the event combines mentorship with triathlon training, highlighting the islands’ commitment to supporting the development of future leaders.
The celebration kicks off on August 7 with a cocktail reception hosted by Diego Binetti, an Argentinian-born designer renowned for his creative vision. The reception will take place at his concept store, Love Binetti, in Sag Harbor, offering a stylish preview of the weekend’s events. This exclusive gathering will set the tone for a weekend filled with networking, cultural exchanges, and the shared love of sailing.
A Day of Racing and Rewards
On August 8, Minister Fernandez will host an exclusive media luncheon, gathering journalists and influencers to discuss the significance of the event and Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to both tourism and youth development. The main event on August 9 will see over 20 yachts competing in a thrilling handicapped race around Noyack Bay. Organized by the Peconic Bay Sailing Association, the regatta promises fierce competition among skilled sailors from various regions.
The ultimate prize at the regatta is an all-expenses-paid trip to Antigua, where the winning team will participate in the world-famous Antigua Sailing Week, scheduled for April 25–May 1, 2026. This prestigious prize not only recognizes the victors but also fosters a lasting connection between the two iconic sailing destinations, Antigua and Sag Harbor.
A Culinary Celebration: The Taste of Antigua and Barbuda
The regatta festivities will conclude with a vibrant “Taste of Antigua and Barbuda” Awards Celebration at Bell & Anchor, a popular dining venue in Sag Harbor. The event will honor the regatta’s winners and offer guests a chance to experience the culinary delights of Antigua and Barbuda. The awards ceremony is set to attract an eclectic mix of sailing enthusiasts, dignitaries, and community members, making it a highlight of the weekend.
Notable attendees are expected to include current Sag Harbor Mayor Tom Gardella and former Mayor James Larocca, alongside other special guests, ensuring the event will be both a celebration of maritime culture and a gathering of influential figures from the local community.
A Strong Partnership Between Antigua and the Hamptons
The Antigua & Barbuda Hamptons Challenge Regatta serves as an important reminder of the strong cultural and maritime bonds between Antigua’s historic English Harbour and the Hamptons’ Sag Harbor. This event offers more than just a sailing race; it represents a partnership dedicated to promoting youth engagement, fostering international relationships, and celebrating the beauty of the Caribbean islands.
Antigua and Barbuda’s involvement in the regatta highlights the islands’ standing as a prominent force in both the sailing world and the global tourism sector. As the event grows in prominence, it continues to strengthen the ties between the Caribbean and the United States, offering attendees an unforgettable experience while supporting meaningful community initiatives.
