Saturday 13 April 2013

Les Voiles de St Barth : Down Time

 
Day off in St Barth. Image copyright Christophe Jouany/Les Voiles de St Barth

by Sabina Mollart-Rogerson


After two long days with plenty of racing, the Les Voiles de St. Barth competitors enjoyed a “lay day” today.  It gave the 700 plus sailors a chance to see more of the island they had been sailing around the previous days and enjoy some of St. Barth’s other offerings, which, not surprisingly, could be found at the famously popular Nikki Beach, located on Baie de St. Jean on the island’s eastern side. The regatta’s organizers, knowing sailors to be a competitive group, orchestrated a chance to engage in other sporting pursuits such as stand-up paddle boarding and – a new addition this year – water polo.

François Paul Toléde, Les Voiles de St. Barth Event Director was enjoying the festivities with the competitors. “It's a beautiful day and one that is not dedicated to just racing for the crew,” he said.  “The objective is to provide a good atmosphere and some fun with some organised water sports for all, so that everyone gets a chance to unwind and enjoy the hospitality both on the water and ashore."


Water polo. Image copyright Christophe Jouany/Les Voiles de St Barth.

At Baie de St. Jean, along with 250-300 sailors, were the event sponsors, including guests from luxury watchmaker Richard Mille and sportswear brand Gaastra. As part of the latter company’s sponsorship, an extensive Les Voiles de St. Barth clothing range has been made available in Gaastra franchises.

Emanuel Galle, Director General of Gaastra France commented, "We have been involved with Les Voiles de St. Barth as a sponsor for the past three editions for both the competition on the water and the conviviality on shore.  It is an important association for us, as we are a nautical brand, founded in 1897. It is great to see so many teams wearing the clothing this week.”

Racing at Les Voiles de St. Barth continues tomorrow (Friday) and Saturday for the 58 boats competing. The first warning signal is at 10 a.m.

Les Voiles de St Barth