SIMPSON BAY—Team Island Water World skippered by Frits Bus won the Grant Thornton Keelboat Series. The sailboat series consisted of a total of 24 races taking place between November and June, with the final 5 races sailed Sunday.
Tight racing in pristine sailing conditions saw a fierce battle between Jan van der Eynde’s Wanna-B and Frits Bus’ Team Island Water World, with Bus claiming 4 bullets and only giving one first place away to van der Eynde.
Four teams showed at the start line on Sunday, ready for the final race day of the season. Unfortunately, Team Island Water World 2, helmed by Alec Scarabelli, had to retire after the first race due to a ripped main sail. This left Solstice, Wanna-B and Team Island Water World to complete another four races in Simpson Bay.
“We couldn’t have asked for better conditions, the wind was steady, and we saw only one major wind shift which had us adjust the course. The teams were keen, and the racing was tight, it truly was champagne sailing today. This being my first time as Race Officer in St Maarten I didn’t know what to expect, but I had an excellent support team who made the day run smoothly” commented Scott Doyle, Sailing Instructor of the Sint Maarten Yacht Club and RO for the day.
The day’s racing was concluded with Team Island Water World 2 in fourth place, Solstice in third, Wanna-B in second place and victory was claimed by team Island Water World.
At the Sint Maarten Yacht Club trophies were awarded for the overall results of the Series. During the season 3 classes were represented out on the water, the LSR class was won by Garth Steyn, with Robbie Ferron and Rien Korteknie in 2nd and 3rd place. MoonDance/Kidz at Sea took the honours in the Cruising class. Solstice took 3rd place in the Racing class, with Wanna-B in second place. With 15 bullets and only one 3rd place this season, the winner of the Grant Thornton Keelboat Series was undeniably Team Island Water World.
“It was a wonderful season with lots of exciting racing and we are already planning the upcoming season which will show even more racing. We are looking to bring back an active Laser fleet and mini series in addition to the Grant Thornton Keelboat and Dinghy Series. We would like to thank our sailing committee and office team for putting together a great season of sailing and are looking forward to welcome you all back to sail next season” concluded Petro Jonker at prize giving.
