From 23-29 March 2026, the 53rd BVI Spring Regatta showcased thrilling racing, featuring tight competition, impressive lead changes, and notable new entries. The event concluded with a remarkable performance by Gunboat 72, Layla, capturing significant attention.
Mixed weather conditions with gusty winds reaching 20 knots provided an exciting final racing day. Regatta Chairman Chris Haycraft, who secured second place in the Sport Multihull category, commented on the outstanding experience, stating, “It was a phenomenal regatta; the Spring Regatta always delivers!” Despite some challenging winds, seven races across most classes were successfully held.
Highlighted performances came from John Hele and his team aboard the TF 10 Thunder and Lightning, as they triumphed in the Performance Multihull division, earning three first-place finishes. The competition was intense, as they narrowly defeated Layla by one point.
In the CSA Spinnaker class, leader Don Nicholson, helming the J121 Apollo, faced close competition from the Club Swan 42 Lady M and the J105 Kairos, separated by mere points going into the final day. Nicholson remarked on their aim for error-free races to secure victory amidst stiff competition. The high-performance nature of the regatta focused on tactical execution, with teams needing to predict shifts effectively.
CSA Bareboat 1 saw the local crew on Shore Thing/Team Riteway, sail to victory, finishing first with a total of eight points. Crew member Neil Hayes praised the competitive spirit throughout the races, sharing the thrill of closely contested battles with other boats.
The title in CSA Bareboat 2 was taken by Mistral, prevailing impressively on the last day with two wins, edging out the Dufour 41, Topaz, by just a point. Olympian Terry McGloughlin recounted the enjoyment of dynamic shifting conditions and the camaraderie experienced during the regatta.
Barney Crook aboard Corsair 31-1D Airgasm ended a long hiatus, winning the Sport Multihull class for the first time since 1986 with an impressive nine-point lead over long-time rival Chris Haycraft. The competitive push between the two contributed to the exhilarating atmosphere, with local crew members enhancing the experience.
In CSA Performance Cruising, the Canadian-owned Panacea X won decisively, achieving five race wins. Its tactician, Ben Daniels, credited the skilled crew for their success, enjoying a seamless week filled with satisfaction on the water.
Racing also included the IC24 results, with Harry Bowerman on RIP finishing first in the One Design class, displaying a commendable performance against Mike Feierabend on Bravissimo.
Furthermore, the Beneteau First 40 Libertas dominated the CSA Non-Spinnaker class with six straight wins, concluding the competition convincingly. Tactician Adrian Sinton attributed their success to favourable sailing conditions and strategic manoeuvres.
Overall, George Coutu from the Dominican Republic leading Cruising Multihull aboard Leopard 50 La Novia took first place, overcoming last year’s champions in an exciting competitive dynamic. Coutu expressed pride in his crew’s performance and hopes to return for future events.
Awards at the conclusion highlighted significant achievements, with Airgasm winning the Best BVI Boat award. The volunteers on the BVI Spring Regatta mark boats received the Guy Eldridge Spirit of Enthusiasm Award for their admirable contributions to the races. Regatta Director Cayley Smit expressed gratitude for the community effort in hosting such a successful event, inviting sailors back for the next edition in 2027.
For detailed results and more information, visit BVISR RESULTS HERE.
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