National Dinghy Championship Concluded

The 2025 St. Kitts and Nevis National Dinghy Championships, held on July 5th and 6th, showcased the burgeoning sailing talent within the Federation. Hosted by the Nevis Aquatic and Sailing Centre at the picturesque Oualie Bay, Nevis, the regatta brought together fifteen young sailors from both the Nevis Aquatic and Sailing Centre and the St. Kitts Yacht Club. Participants competed across three distinct classes – Optimists, RS Fevas, and Lasers – engaging in a thrilling display of skill and sportsmanship over two days of challenging races. The event served as a testament to the dedication of these young athletes and the collaborative efforts of the sailing community in fostering the sport’s growth.

The first day of competition presented sailors with testing conditions. High winds swept across Oualie Bay, demanding resilience and expert navigation. Despite the challenging weather, race officials managed to complete seven races across all three classes. This achievement underscores the commitment of the young sailors, who persevered through demanding conditions to showcase their talent. The challenging weather also highlighted the importance of safety measures and the expertise of the race officials in managing the event effectively. Day one served as a crucial test of skill and endurance for all participants, setting the stage for a compelling second day of racing.

Sunday brought a welcome respite from the previous day’s strong winds, offering more manageable sailing conditions. This allowed sailors of all skill levels to demonstrate their prowess and strategic thinking. Four additional races were completed, bringing the total for the championship to eleven. The lighter winds fostered closer competition and strategic maneuvers, adding another dimension to the regatta. The combination of challenging and moderate conditions over the two days provided a well-rounded test of sailing ability, ensuring a fair and exciting competition for all participants.

The Optimist class saw Greyson Burrell emerge victorious, dominating the competition with a final score of 8 points. Following Burrell were Clijae Christmas in second place with 18 points and Emijah Maynard in third with 32 points. Rodney Huggins and Lennox Jr. Wallace rounded out the top five, finishing fourth and fifth respectively. In the RS Feva class, the team of Emily Samaroo and Jazzelle Connor claimed first place with a score of 8 points. Antwan and Addijah Daniel secured second place with 21 points, followed by Nailah Greenaway and Jael Chiverton in third with 28 points. The close scores in both classes highlight the intense competition and the high level of skill displayed by the young sailors.

The Laser class witnessed a particularly close contest, with Melroy Henry and Skyla Connor finishing tied at 14 points each. World Sailing Rules were invoked to resolve the tie, ultimately awarding first place to Henry and second place to Connor. Amadi Byron Hendrickson secured third place with 18 points, followed closely by Abhijith Srinivasan in fourth with 19 points. The tight race in the Laser class emphasized the importance of consistency and strategic decision-making in achieving success. The need to apply tie-breaking rules underscores the competitiveness of the event and the sailors’ dedication to achieving victory.

Beyond the final standings, the 2025 National Dinghy Championships recognized individual achievement and community contribution. Rodney Huggins was awarded the Most Improved Sailor accolade, highlighting his significant progress and perseverance throughout the regatta. This recognition exemplifies the focus on development and encouragement within the sailing community, celebrating not only victory but also personal growth and dedication. The event also acknowledged the invaluable contribution of Principal Race Officer Nicholas Dupre and his team of dedicated volunteers and safety boat crews. Their expertise and commitment ensured the smooth and safe execution of the races, allowing the young sailors to compete in a secure and well-managed environment.

The success of the championships was a testament to the collective effort of numerous individuals and organizations. Dive Nevis generously provided their vessel as the official Race Committee Boat, demonstrating the community’s support for youth sailing. Local craftsman Tom Deveaux handcrafted the beautiful wooden trophies, adding a unique and personal touch to the awards. The involvement of local businesses and artisans showcases the community’s commitment to the event and its appreciation for the young sailors’ achievements.

Furthermore, the St. Kitts and Nevis Olympic Committee played a vital role in supporting the event, reinforcing their ongoing commitment to developing sailing within the Federation. Their support is instrumental in nurturing young talent and providing opportunities for athletes to excel in the sport. The combined efforts of volunteers, sponsors, and the Olympic Committee ensured the success of the championships and highlighted the collaborative spirit within the sailing community.

In conclusion, the 2025 St. Kitts and Nevis National Dinghy Championships served as a vibrant display of skill, sportsmanship, and community spirit. The event showcased the talent of young sailors across different classes, highlighting their ability to navigate challenging conditions and compete at a high level. The recognition of individual achievements, alongside the collective effort of organizers, volunteers, and sponsors, underscores the dedication and collaborative spirit that drives the growth of sailing within the Federation. The championships not only celebrated the competitive spirit of the young sailors but also reinforced the strength and unity of the sailing community, laying a strong foundation for the continued development of the sport in St. Kitts and Nevis. The event serves as an inspiring example of how community support and dedication can empower young athletes and foster a thriving sporting environment.