The Classic Yacht Owners Association (CYOA) has announced a plan to continue and expand the series formerly known as the Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge into 2019. With Panerai’s recently announced intention to discontinue their support of classic yachting events in both Europe and the U.S., the series was left without an Organizing Authority. This is one of the things CYOA was built to do, and working in partnership with the individual event organizers Corinthian Yacht Club, Nantucket Community Sailing, the Herreshoff Marine Museum and IYRS, CYOA will take over administration of the series for 2019 and beyond.
© Cory Silken
“We salute Panerai for their 13-year commitment to classic yachting in New England,” said CYOA Chair Chuck Townsend. “They’ve laid a great foundation, and now CYOA, in partnership with the events’ Organizing Authorities, will build upon it.” CYOA will partner with sponsors to expand and enhance the series, look for opportunities to expand the series beyond the current four venues, and develop collaborative partnerships with the European classic yacht racing circuit.
The 2019 Classic Yachts Challenge Series
August 10 & 11: Corinthian Classic Yacht Regatta,
Marblehead, MA
August 16 & 17: Nantucket Regatta, Nantucket, MA
August 18: Opera House Cup, Nantucket, MA
August 24 & 25: Herreshoff Classic Yacht Regatta, Bristol, RI
August 31 & September 1: Newport Classic Yacht Regatta,
Newport, RI
“It’s never fun to lose a sponsor,” said CYOA Managing Director Bill Lynn. “However, CYOA is in a position to make sure the series continues, and we now have the opportunity to take the experience for owners and participants to the next level in the coming years.” To learn more, visit classicyachts.org.
