BVI Spring Regatta Proud to Celebrate 50 years with Long-Standing Sponsors
Posted in 2023
Sailing events are complicated to organize, with many moving parts onshore and on the water. Without the sponsors who jump on board to support the BVI Spring Regatta each year, it would be almost impossible to run this internationally beloved event. We are so grateful to these sponsors, and we hope that our competitors can support them during their time in the BVI.
In 1972 when the BVI Spring Regatta was basically a race to the bar, Mount Gay Rum was not only your first drink, but it was also more than likely the prize you won. 50 years later, Mount Gay Rum continues to highlight the event with Friday designated as the Mount Gay Race Day. Sailors will add a 50th Anniversary cap to their collection, while the Regatta Village will host a separate Mount Gay Rum bar located front and center, and another at the Nanny Cay beach bar.
RiteWay, the exclusive provisioner for the regatta is also the distributor of the nostalgic Mount Gay Rum brand. RiteWay will be looking for the oldest cap or shirt and giving away lots of great Mount Gay swag; they will also sponsor the perfect match with Coca-Cola for the signature Rum and Coke cocktail.
Nanny Cay, the best and largest marina in the BVI, has hosted Spring Regatta for over twenty years, growing alongside the event. It now has two full marinas, a host of villas, a newly renovated hotel, and restaurants. It’s a true community that embraces all types of vessels from around the Caribbean and the world, and a fun gathering place for sailors, their families, and friends.
For many years the BVI Tourist Board has helped put the BVI Spring Regatta on the map for sailors looking to find the world’s best racing. The BVI Tourist Board promotes the regatta, the largest tourism event held annually in the BVI, at international boat shows and similar global events.
Getting around the island or the racecourse has been facilitated by sponsorship from International Motors, who has donated cars for the regatta committee to use for the duration of the event. Portland Ship Yard has printed and posted course and chart information to help competitors navigate the racecourses. Cape Air has provided flights for the event media team and journalists attending the regatta to ensure the world knows about the great racing and fun parties at the best regatta in the Caribbean. Providing fuel for the event on and off the water, Sol Petroleum has been a fantastic sponsor since 2007.
Speaking of parties, SHRM Group are sponsoring the regatta’s 50th anniversary celebration with a fun filled 70s race day on Saturday, and the SHRM cocktail lounge on Saturday night with tunes from the 70s and prizes for the best classic outfits. Sharing this special night, Carib Beer will be ready with more hats, T-shirts, and signature drinks. Tito Vodka has teamed up with PAW BVI, an organization which promotes animal welfare in the BVI, to showcase adorable AND adoptable puppies at the Village.
The regatta is also grateful to sponsors including Sea Hawk New Nautical Coatings Inc, Scrub Island Resort, Marina and Spa, The Moorings, and Talking Points. These brands are synonymous with the sport of sailing and the BVI, a perfect fit for the BVI Spring Regatta.
A big shout out to all of our sponsors, and let’s make the 50th anniversary of the BVI Spring Regatta the best yet! – Michelle Slade
