The RORC Nelson’s Cup Series kicks off on Tuesday 13 February, with sponsors of the 2nd Nelson’s Cup and 15th RORC Caribbean 600 busy preparing for the annual influx of boats and teams from around the world.
“Thanks go to all our race sponsors, partners, supporters and volunteers who make the organisation of the RORC Caribbean 600 and RORC Nelson’s Cup Series possible,” commented Steve Cole, RORC Racing Manager. “Working closely with them to ensure everyone benefits from the arrival in Antigua of this internationally renowned event, their individual contributions further enhance the competitor experience.”
The Royal Ocean Racing Club is grateful to Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority, along with the continued support of a number of official partners and supporters: Connectivity Partner - Axxess Marine; Logistics Partner - Sevenstar Yacht Transport; Official Rum - English Harbour Rum; Official Lager - Carib Lager and The Inn at English Harbour.
Axxess Marine - Official Connectivity Partner © Arthur Daniel
Axxess Marine - Official Connectivity Partner
“For the third year running Axxess Marine is the proud official Sponsor of the RORC Caribbean 600. After two successful collaborations, Axxess Marine is keen on providing support in the form of essential internet connectivity services required by the RORC Race and Media Team.
“The Live action start for the 2024 race will also be powered by Axxess Marine as we aim to connect the worldwide fan base to the livestream in real time, as this year’s race may be a record-breaking event.
“With the launch of our Caribbean roaming plan, Axxess Marine provides connectivity in the form of voice and data coverage while roaming throughout the region. This connection spans locally as well as to many Caribbean countries for an affordable cost.
“It's great to have such an instrumental regatta return to the shores of Antigua & Barbuda just in time for the reopening of businesses at the Antigua Yacht Club Marina, including Axxess Marine’s Antigua location. This race continuously provides great revenue to local companies situated in the heart of Antigua's yachting sector, putting Antigua on the international map.
“We wish you a safe and successful journey as you stay connected while you partake in this impressive race!,” commented Dennis Henri CEO Axxess Marine.
Sevenstar Yacht Transport – Official Logistics Partner © Paul Wyeth/pwpictures.com
Sevenstar Yacht Transport – Official Logistics Partner
"As the Official Logistics Partner to the RORC Caribbean 600, Sevenstar Yacht Transport takes pride in connecting sailing dreams with bespoke transport solutions. This exhilarating 600-mile offshore race is a dream for any sailor, and at Sevenstar we are dedicated to making winning teams complete with a teammate in bespoke transport solutions. We synchronize our sailings with team schedules, ensuring seamless coordination for the ultimate success,” says Race Yacht Manager, Sander Speet. “The Sevenstar Welcome Party on 17th February for RORC Caribbean 600 crews promises a night of Caribbean fun at Antigua Yacht Club, marking another year of passion and commitment to the sailing community.”
The Official Rum - English Harbour 5 Year old Rum © Arthur Daniel
English Harbour 5 Year old Rum - Official Rum
No visit to Antigua would be complete without sampling some local rum. Thanks to the Official Rum Sponsor English Harbour 5 Year Old Rum, crews will get plenty of chances to enjoy their favourite tipple.
“Antigua Distillery are proud to have been a sponsor of this highly successful yacht race since its inception in 2009. We look forward to a continuing and exciting relationship - cheers to the next 15 years!” says Lisa Farara, Executive Director of Antigua Distillery who are celebrating their 91st year.
At the RORC Caribbean Prizegiving Ceremony, each boat is presented with a personalised, beautiful memento – an engraved decanter filled with English Harbour 5 Year Old Rum. Special prize winners also receive a much-coveted rum-filled oak cask containing the esteemed golden nectar as a fitting reward for their hard-earnt victory in the race.
Crews enjoy an ice-cold Carib Beer on the dock after completing the race © Arthur Daniel
Every boat is met on the dock after finishing the RORC Caribbean 600 by the RORC Race Team and welcome volunteers. Whatever time of day or time the team arrives back on the dock, a case of ice-cold Carib Beer is presented to them and is one of the things the crews are looking forward at the end of the 600nm race.
“We are once again thrilled to sponsor RORC Caribbean 600,” says Frances Ann Attong - Marketing & Communications Manager for A.S. Bryden & Sons (Antigua) Limited - the official distributor for Carib Beer. “Carib Beer is undeniably the brew of the Caribbean, and this partnership exemplifies our commitment to supporting prestigious sporting events and celebrating the spirit of adventure and camaraderie that defines the sailing community. We look forward to sharing memorable experiences with the RORC team, sailors and spectators alike, and we toast to excellence and passion on the open seas with a beer that is fun-loving, playful and passionate!”
The Reef Bar at The Inn at English Harbour © Tim Wright/Photoaction.com
The afternoon before the start of the RORC Caribbean 600, the RORC Commodore holds a cocktail party, hosted by The Inn at English Harbour for the skippers/owners of the competing yachts at the exclusive hotel’s Reef Restaurant on Galleon Beach. This informal occasion has been a popular distraction for many years now, from all the last minute race preparations before the start.
Lead image: Much-valued sponsors and supporters of the RORC Nelson's Cup Series © Arthur Daniel
