Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten – July 2026
The Sint Maarten Yacht Club (SMYC) is pleased to announce the publication of the Notice of Race (NOR) and the official opening of registration for the 2026 St. Maarten Budget Marine Optimist Championship, taking place November 26–29, in the waters of Simpson Bay.
Now entering its 21st edition, the St. Maarten Optimist Championship has established itself as one of the Caribbean’s premier youth sailing events, bringing together talented young sailors from across the region for four days of competitive racing and sportsmanship. This year’s championship is expected to welcome competitors from all around the Caribbean.
The 2025 edition showcased just how competitive the championship has become. After three days of racing, Lourenço Couto Jorge of the Saint Barth Yacht Club claimed the overall title with 23 points, narrowly ahead of clubmate Tao Carmona Bouvrais with 26 points. The battle for third place was equally intense, with Lewis Maxor (Saint Barth Yacht Club) and Nathan Sheppard (Sint Maarten Yacht Club) finishing tied on points, with Maxor taking third place on countback and Sheppard finishing fourth. The close racing throughout the fleet set the stage for another highly anticipated championship in 2026.
The championship also celebrated the next generation of sailors with Stanley Haes from Saint Barth Yacht Club winning the Benjamin Fleet and Clijae Christmas-Mulley representing St. Kitts and Nevis, winning the Green Fleet.
Organized annually by the Sint Maarten Yacht Club and proudly sponsored by Budget Marine, the regatta provides young sailors with an opportunity to compete at an international level.
“We are very excited to once again support the Budget Marine Optimist Championship,” said Jim Hodge, General Manager of Budget Marine. “Youth sailing is an investment in the future of our sport, and it is always inspiring to see so many young sailors come together to compete, learn, and enjoy everything this event has to offer. We are proud to contribute to the continued success of this championship.”
Registration is now open, and sailors are encouraged to secure their place early. The Notice of Race, entry requirements, and registration information are available at smyc.com/optimist-championship.
The Sint Maarten Yacht Club looks forward to welcoming sailors, coaches, and families to Simpson Bay for another memorable edition of this celebrated Caribbean youth sailing event.
