Sunday, March 5, at Buttonwood Bay in Belize City
BELIZE CITY, Wed. Mar. 1, 2023
Buttonwood Bay in Belize City will be buzzing with sailing activity, and forecasted 9-13 knot winds will make for fast but pleasant sailing on Sunday March 5, 2023. Organizers of the race, the Baron Bliss Harbour Regatta Committee, expects up to 30 sailors in the Laser, Optimist, and Bosun classes, with a special appearance by the Spectacular Sixteens a.k.a. the sailing dories out of Gales Point, Manatee.
Collet “Bunas” Maheia, Chair for the Harbour Regatta Committee, says that the work continues on this long-standing tradition that is a part of Belize’s rich history and culture. His family built a business out of sailing, and taking a big-tent approach, Maheia said that, “The Belize City Harbour Regatta is an opportunity for the sailing community to come together and work towards preserving a sport that has proven economic benefits in the areas of tourism, fishing and skills development related to the maritime sector.”
But wherever there is more than one boat, there will be fierce competition. The Placencia Sailing Club dominated in their last regatta in Placencia, and Devaughan Morrison and Glen Supaul have emerged as the top contending sailors to beat in the Laser class. Alderay Supaul also of (PSC) is one of the leading sailors in the Optimist class.
The Harbour Regatta Committee is also piloting a new attraction and the legendary sailing lighter, Radio, will be offering short rides to the public and those interested in enjoying a sail in the bay. Interested persons are encouraged to book their sail for groups of over 10 at [email protected].
This year, 3 persons – Sir Colville Young, Teddy Blease and Wally Brown – will receive Lifetime Achievement Awards for their long-time participation in and support for sailing in Belize. Sports such as sailing have survived with the continuous generosity, support and participation of people such as this year’s awardees and going all the way back to Baron Bliss and the 1st Harbour Regatta in 1927.
-press release –