22nd Carey Olsen Jersey Regatta - Preview
by Bill Harris 7 Sep 2020 11:27 BST
11-13 September 2020
Morrina IV © Bill Harris
With the 22nd edition of the combined clubs' Jersey Regatta fast approaching, sailors will soon be on the starting blocks for a very busy long weekend's racing. This annual sailing extravaganza, running from 11th to 13th September, will see a fleet approaching one hundred boats competing in the beautiful natural arena of St Aubin's Bay and adjacent waters.
With a fun-filled and competitive programme that includes the Spinlock IRC Channel Islands Championship for Cruisers in store, this eagerly-awaited event has attracted competitors of all ages and disciplines sailing boats ranging from fast cruisers to diminutive Optimist dinghies, traditional dayboats, sport catamarans and windsurfers. There is, certainly, a real spectacle in store for all, sailors and spectators alike, as the Bay becomes a hive of activity and a colourful display of billowing sails.
However, due to ongoing pandemic-related restrictions, this Regatta will be very different to its predecessors in that the traditionally vibrant social programme has been shelved, classes restricted to their bubbles to avoid mingling and the on/off nature of quarantine rules in the various jurisdictions leading to an event that will, sadly, be devoid of visiting boats.
On a much more positive note, the Island's clubs are delighted that leading offshore law firm Carey Olsen has occupied the sponsor's seat. Carey Olsen managing partner, Alex Ohlsson commented, "Given the extraordinary times we live in, as we continue to deal with the impact of COVID-19, it is extremely heartening to see those responsible for the Jersey Regatta go to such great lengths to ensure that the 22nd edition of the event can go ahead. As first-time sponsors, Carey Olsen is immensely proud to be associated with the Regatta and I would like to place on record our appreciation to the organising committee for their determination and considered approach to addressing the challenges they face."
Regatta Chairman Bill Harris said, "Whilst we are faced with a variety of obstacles, this year, we are very grateful for the encouraging advice that we have received from Jersey Sport and the unwavering support provided by Ports of Jersey. This has helped greatly in getting the show on the road so that we can, rightly, celebrate the support and enthusiasm that Carey Olsen, no stranger in Channel Islands sailing circles, brings to the Regatta in their first year."
jerseyregatta.com