ANOTHER major Caribbean event has been called off because of Covid-19.
This time, it is the Grenada Sailing Week.
The week-long event has been postponed to 2022.
Chairman of the Board of Directors Brian Sylvester said there was too much uncertainty surrounding Covid-19 to plan such a large event presently.
It was carded to take place at the beginning of next year during the winter months experienced in other countries.
Already Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival has been cancelled for 2020 and Carifesta, the Caribbean’s premier creative arts event has been pushed back to August 2022.
In a press release that was posted on the event’s webpage, Sylvester said, “There is too much ongoing uncertainty to be able to confidently host the event, which in 2020 attracted 40 participating boats from over 20 different countries.
“We have built up an excellent reputation of putting on a professional yet friendly event which has become one of the ‘go to’ regattas on the Caribbean CSA (Caribbean Sailing Association) circuit. With the uncertainty caused by the pandemic restrictions in place not only in Grenada but worldwide, we feel cancellation of the event is the best decision under the circumstances.
“We will be back in 2022 for our published dates on the CSA Calendar of 30 January – 4 February 2022.”
He added, “With so much uncertainty it is becoming harder and harder to plan for all contingencies. The Board of Directors and Organising Authority of Grenada Sailing Week feel it is not possible to hold the regatta successfully and ensure the absolute safety of all involved. In addition the increasing financial implications and travel restrictions currently in place – which are predicted to remain the same for the coming months, bring uncertainty to the sponsorship support and the number of teams that would realistically be able to travel to Grenada. This only adds to the logistical difficulty in the planning and organization of the regatta for 2021.”
He thanked sponsors and supporters and encouraged sailors to continue supporting events in these challenging times.
The Grenada Sailing Week usually kicks off the Caribbean sailing season consisting of four days of racing against some very competitive boats, six nights of parties and a lay day (with dock parties) usually held between two host marina showcasing Grenada’s talent.
