Exceptional sailing in the twin islands

By Karl James, President, Antigua & Barbuda Sailing Association

I’ve certainly come a long way from my origins as a boy in the late 1970s when my friends and I would sit and watch the sailing races at English Harbour and wait eagerly to be called onto one of the charter boats to help manage the sail covers and fenders. Although many of these childhood friends have continued in the industry as varnishers, painters or making boat deliveries, I was one of the few that went on to do competitive sailing.

I am also one of the few black sailors in the world to compete with international success, and I am incredibly proud to have represented Antigua twice at the Olympic Games.

Sailing has taken me to over 75 countries, but I have to say sailing at home in Antigua is extraordinary. The water, as well as being beautiful, is always warm, and more importantly, there is usually always wind. Many times during competitions around the world, we’ve been unable to sail due to lack of wind. However, in my 40-odd years of attending Antigua Sailing Week, I cannot remember a time when we weren’t able to race. That is something exceptional for a sailor.

Sailing has taken me to over 75 countries, but I have to say sailing at home in Antigua is extraordinary.

As well as the excellent racing, Antiguans certainly know how to put on a great party for those who come to our shores to compete. The welcoming atmosphere between locals and visitors is very special. As a testament to this warm welcome, the island’s beauty and the incredible sailing on offer, many participants in the events return to our shores with their families, having fallen in love with the island and its wonderful sailing conditions.

The island has become the yachting capital of the Caribbean, and it isn’t just because of its magnificent sailing. Antigua has a vibrant ecosystem of expert and artisanal yachting services including sailmaking, rigging, and varnishing. And for the past 30 years, as Manager of Sailing at the Antigua Yacht Club, I have devoted myself to introducing young people to the sport, not just to train future Olympians but to create good citizens and open up a world of opportunities in yacht services or as engineers, coast guards, professional crew and captains. I really believe this is my greatest achievement in life. As one of the most significant contributors to the country’s GDP, sailing is the only sport in Antigua that is a direct pathway to a career.

Photocred: Paul Wyeth | www.pwpictures.com