Antigua & Barbuda Hamptons Challenge Regatta

The Hon. H. Charles ‘Max’ Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation, and Investment for Antigua and Barbuda, will lead a delegation to the 15th Annual Antigua & Barbuda Hamptons Challenge Regatta, scheduled for August 9 in Sag Harbor, New York. Recognized as the sailing capital of the Caribbean, Antigua and Barbuda returns as host of this celebrated Regatta, held in partnership with i-tri, a local nonprofit dedicated to empowering young women across the East End of Long Island through triathlon training and mentorship.

The festivities will kick off on August 7 with a cocktail reception hosted by Argentinian-born designer Diego Binetti at his concept store, Love Binetti, in Sag Harbor. 

The main event on August 9 will feature over 20 yachts competing in a handicapped race around Noyack Bay, organized by the Peconic Bay Sailing Association. The winning team will earn the region’s most coveted sailing prize: an all-expenses-paid trip to Antigua to participate in the 2026 Antigua Sailing Week (April 25–May 1, www.sailingweek.com).

The Regatta celebrates the vibrant cultural and maritime ties between Antigua’s historic English Harbour and the Hamptons’ Sag Harbor, while advocating for youth development through sport. The weekend will conclude with the “Taste of Antigua and Barbuda” Awards Party at Bell & Anchor, a popular local restaurant. The event is expected to attract diverse attendees, including sailing enthusiasts, local dignitaries, community members, and special guests such as current Mayor Tom Gardella and former Sag Harbor Mayor James Larocca.