The Tribune

By RENALDO DORSETT

Sports Reporter

rdorsett@tribunemedia.net

The 63rd Annual National Family Island Regatta got off to a quick start yesterday with a competitive series of “Cup” races.

Sloop sailing in Elizabeth Harbour, Georgetown, Exuma got underway with the Emeritus Cup in Class-C and the Governor’s Cup in Class-B.

The Bull Reg, skippered by Exuma native “Buzzy” Rolle, took the Emeritus Cup, followed by the Lady Diane and Whitty K, both out of Long Island, in second and third place respectively.

In the race for the Governor’s Cup in Class B, the Lady Sonia took top honours followed by the New Susan Chase in second and the Lonesome Dove in third.

During the four days of sailing, over 70 native sloops representing Bahamian islands are expected to compete in various races.

For the past 20 years, the National Family Island Regatta Committee has been honouring persons who have made substantial and invaluable contributions to the growth and development of the regatta by dedicating the annual event to them.

This year they will honour Sheldon Gibson, Efford Kemp and Steve Smith. Gibson is a native of Crooked Island, Kemp hails from Black Point, Exuma and Smith is a descendant of Staniel Cay, Exuma

The regatta will feature five days of sailing  with races in Classes A, B, C andD. This tradition started in 1954 and today it is one of the oldest regattas in The Islands of The Bahamas.

The venue is beautiful Elizabeth Harbour in Georgetown. 

Said Danny Strachan, chairman and commodore of the National Family Island Regatta: “What began over 60 years ago as a weekend of braggadocio and a sporting test of the skills of a few work boats and their skippers has evolved and prevailed to become the premier regatta on the sailing calendar and a much anticipated event by locals and visitors alike.

“From the initial Out Island Squadron who organised the first regatta over 60 years ago, to today’s dedicated National Family Island Regatta Committee, this truly Bahamian event could not have endured without the dedication and commitment of the government, organisers, skippers, volunteers, sponsors and fans alike.”

Chairman Strachan said the regatta touches a cross-section of the Bahamian community each year, and warrants an opportunity to be showcased.

“We continue to hold events to showcase the integral part the National Family Island Regatta has played in the cultural and economic life of the Bahamas, as well as acknowledging and celebrating the many persons who have contributed to making the NFIR a part of the Bahamian cultural landscape,” he said.

In 2015, The Tida Wave, New Susan Chase, Whitty K and Judgment D all took the spotlight in the 62nd edition.

Tida Wave pulled off the victory in Class A with 30 points. The Red Stripe got second with 28 and the Running Tide came in third with 26.

 In Class B, the New Susan Chase was crowned the champion with 40 points. She was followed by the Lonesome Dove with 38 and the Lady Sonia rounding out the top three with 34.

 The Whitty K collected 103 points to secure the win in Class C with the Bull Reg right on her trail in second with 99. The Lady Diane finished third with 98.

 And in Class E, the Judgment D clinched the title with 98 points. The Blue Bird came in second with 32 and the Hot Mix was third with 26.