Following two long days marked by plenty of competing, the Les Voiles de St. Barth competitors enjoyed a “lay day” yesterday, on April 11. It gave the 700 plus sailors a possibility 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 very popular Nikki Beach, positioned on Baie de St. Jean on the island’s eastern side.
Les Voiles de Saint Barth 2013 Lay Day - Photo by Christophe Jouany
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.”
François Paul Tolède, Event Director, Emanuel Galle, Director General GAASTRA France, Luc Poupon, Event Race Director© Les Voiles de Saint Barth / Christophe Jouany
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.”
Water polo team matches on the lay day at Nikki Beach during Les Voiles de Saint Barth© Les Voiles de Saint Barth / Christophe Jouany
Racing at Les Voiles de St. Barth continues today (Friday) and Saturday for the 58 boats competing. The first warning signal is at 10 a.m.
Other event partners include leading St. Barth villa rental agency WIMCO, which offers a gorgeous portfolio of private villas for rent on St. Barth. WIMCO’s sponsorship includes presenting eight Les Voiles class winners with a complimentary week in one of their top villas, inclusive of a concierge ready to attend to every request.
