Simpson Bay, September 21, 2023
The Sint-Maarten Yacht Club (SMYC) is pleased to announce Budget Marine as the new official title sponsor for this year’s Optimist Championship. This collaboration will see the region’s most promising young Optimist sailors competing under the banner of one of the Caribbean’s most renowned marine retailers.
The Optimist Championship is a signature event of the SMYC, where young sailors display their skill and enthusiasm for sailing.
This championship has consistently attracted attention from regional sailors. Teams from Curacao, the British Virgin Islands, Antigua, French Saint Martin, Saint Barths, and St. Kitts and Nevis have expressed interest to join this year. Additionally, the Sint Maarten Yacht Club Optimist Racing team will have six sailors representing. Altogether, an expected 35 competitors will participate, divided into an advanced fleet and a beginners-racing fleet.
Many of those sailors are well known with the quality, services, and products of Budget Marine, as their chain is represented on Antigua, BVI and Curacao as well.
“We are incredibly excited to be partnering with Budget Marine for the Optimist Championship,” said Saskia Revelman, SMYC Manager. “Budget Marine’s reputation for commitment to quality and their longstanding dedication to the maritime community makes them a perfect match for our championship. This partnership signals a brighter future for the event and our young sailors.”
Over the years, the Optimist Championship has gained immense popularity, attracting a growing number of participants from the region and beyond. The event not only nurtures young talent but also promotes the spirit of friendly competition and camaraderie among the sailing community.
“Jolyon Ferron, Sales Manager at Budget Marine, commented, “Supporting the next generation of sailors aligns seamlessly with our vision at Budget Marine. We believe in fostering talent and contributing to the communities we are a part of. The Optimist Championship is a wonderful opportunity for us to give back and encourage young sailors to achieve their best.”
The championship will kick off on November 25th, in Simpson Bay. Spectators can watch the Optimist sailors go out the Simpson Bay Bridge early morning from the Sint Maarten Yacht Club Bar and Restaurant deck, a great moment to cheer them on and wish them well for their day of racing.
For more information about the Optimist Championship and other events organized by the Sint-Maarten Yacht Club, please visit smyc.com/optimist-championship.