Abaco, Bahamas – Jimmy’s Wines & Spirits was proud to be a part of and to help celebrate the winners and all participants of the 46th Annual Regattas in the Abacos (RITA), which was held June 23 to July 1. The week-long sailing event saw 27 registered sailboats from throughout The Bahamas and Florida take to the seas in a fun-filled seven days of friendly competition.
Sands Beer, Mount Gay Rum and Tito’s Handmade Vodka were the Platinum sponsors and the drink of choice for the annual regatta. Jimmy’s Wines & Spirits Assistant General Manager Diane de Cardenas said RITA presents more opportunities than just sponsoring an event, but instead sharing in events as truly Bahamian as sailing.
“We love serving up drinks to the sailors and everyone who comes to the parties, but it’s also an opportunity for us to do something fun with our business partners,” de Cardenas said. “The regatta gives us a vehicle to have a series of parties at the bars and restaurants we work with throughout the year. The regatta is unique in that it touches many of the cays and mainland Abaco so we (Sands Beer, Mount Gay Rum, Tito’s Vodka) get to make our mark literally all over Abaco.”
RITA Commodore Dwayne Wallas said the turnout for this year’s regatta was incredible, given the unfavorable weather at times, and thanked all of the participants, sponsors and attendees for making it all possible.
“We had a great crowd this year, memorable entertainment and excellent competition,” Wallas said. “We anticipate putting on another one next year, potentially June 24th again. A tremendous thank you and shout out to all of our invaluable supporters.”
Regattas in the Abacos opened on Sunday, June 23 with the RITA Launch Party at Pete’s Pub, followed by the opening race on Tuesday June 25. Events throughout the week took place on several of Abaco’s cays, including the popular Race to Green Turtle Cay on June 29th.
Mount Gay Representative Angela Moss called this year’s turnout amazing and a true testament to the love Bahamians and Florida sailors alike have for RITA.
“Every event was successful, with sailors and restaurants in good spirits and excited to be working together once again,” Moss said. “Jimmy’s Wines and Spirits loves working alongside the local bars and restaurants in the Abaco community to help promote and drive business for locals.”
Gerry Summers, of Jimmy’s Wines & Spirits Abaco said the event also signified the reopening of some well-loved Abaco businesses.
“This year marks the second year, in recent years, a regatta party was hosted at Kidd’s Cove Bar and Grill on Great Guana Cay,” said Summers. “Forrest Pinder, owner, re-opened his venue the day of the 2023 party. It was great to celebrate his first year of being back in business after the original building was destroyed in Hurricane Dorian. Forrest has a passion for Guana Cay and ensuring his guests have an amazing time. It’s heartwarming to work with someone like Forest.”
Official results on the Regatta can be found on their website, regattasintheabacos.com, as well as details on future events and plans. “We were very grateful to be one of the sponsors for RITA,’ noted Moss. “It was great to be a part of the celebrations for the Winners of each race as well as work with the Rita Committee. We look forward to next year and supporting our national sport.”
