Registration is now open for the 28th annual International Optimist Regatta (IOR), TOTE Maritime Clinic and TOTE Team Race will take place from 14-20 June at the St Thomas Yacht Club in the US Virgin Islands.

Clinic and regatta director Holly Jenkins said: “Like many events, the 2020 IOR was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“For the 2021 event, we, like our fellow directors of the other STYC regatta scheduled this year, have worked closely with the Virgin Islands Department of Health and the Virgin Islands Department of Tourism to plan for a safe regatta.

“We look forward to welcoming sailors, their friends and families to St Thomas to race with excellent wind, clear seas and great competition.”

For nearly three decades, the IOR has been recognised throughout the Caribbean and the world for providing skill-sharpening grounds for top sailors and an excellent entry-level platform for juniors new to the sport.

In 2019 a near-record 113 junior sailors from a dozen nations — including Ireland — competed. In 2021 places are limited to a maximum of 125 sailors and early registration is recommended.

For more details, see the STYC’s regatta web page HERE.