On December 11 (2022), the Around the Island Race will take place, closing the three-day foil competition the Caribbean Foiling Championships – St. Martin edition. In this challenging 26 nautical mile lap on open water competitors will make their way around the French (St. Martin) and Dutch (St. Maarten) side of the island trying to beat the record. Last year local rider Julien Quentel set a new record of 1h 12m 17s shaving of more than 20minutes from the previous record.
In addition to setting a (possibly) new Around the Island Record and the honour that comes with it, there is a great prize to be won this year presented by a new partner of the event: Belmond – La Samanna. This year the Fastest foiler of the Around the Island Race will be awarded with a 2 night stay at luxury Belmond – La Samanna! (Valued at $3000).
During the first two days of the event the racing will take place in Orient bay. Day one will consist of course racing inside the bay. On the second race day the organisation has planned a race around Tintamarre in combination with course racing. The race around Tintamarre will serve as a qualifying race for the final day. On the last day of the competition those who qualify, will sail around the island.
Maxim van den Pol (organizer of the event) says “For most athletes, this is what it is all about! The around the island race is one-of-a-kind. It is very challenging and without getting too technical the variable conditions around the island provide a true test of skill and endurance. Having Belmond – La Samanna part of the event embraces the challenge for the athletes and reflects the perfect reward for this unbelievably great achievement.”
The new and popular Wingfoil class will, unlike the Kite and Windfoil classes, partake in a 13 nautical mile downwinder starting in Orient Bay and finishing right in front of Belmond La Samanna. Upon arrival at the beach, they will be welcomed by a team of the hotel before being transported back to Orient Beach for the prize giving.
“La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel, is beyond excited to sponsor and welcome to the shores of Baie Longue the upcoming Caribbean Foiling Championship. Bringing all foil disciplines into one thrilling event, this race has become a milestone in the island and for its community, we couldn’t therefore be happier to support such a passionate sport, talented athletes and give our contribution to a great weekend of sportsmanship and love for the ocean celebration.”
Francisco Sa Teixeira – Belmond Area Director of Sales & Marketing – Caribbean
The Caribbean Foiling championships is held from 9-11 December, 2022. The around the island race is typically on the last day of competition. After the first starting signal at 09:30AM the foilers can be seen all around the island.
The Caribbean Foiling Championships will celebrate its third edition in 2022. This new and innovative event will offer three days of racing for professional as well as leisure kite-, wind- and wingfoilers! With trade winds, crystal clear waters and an everyday sunshine, this island paradise is the perfect setting for this one-of-a- kind event. Come and join the biggest foiling event in the Caribbean!