Caribbean Sailing Sets Course for Growth as CSA Leadership Returns for Another Year
Unanimous board vote backs continuity as regional organisers focus on participation, youth development and stronger regatta collaboration
ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA, 6 October 2026 — The Caribbean Sailing Association (CSA) has renewed its leadership for another year, with President Bastien Pouthier and the returning slate of elected officers unanimously re-elected at its Annual General Meeting on 2 October. The AGM and Regatta Organisers Conference brought together sailing leaders to shape a practical agenda for the season ahead: attracting more boats, strengthening regional cooperation and creating opportunities for the next generation.
Discussions across the meetings highlighted both the pressures facing Caribbean regattas and the opportunities to grow participation. Organisers shared experience of changing charter availability, sponsorship challenges and evolving sailor expectations, alongside encouraging developments in multihull racing, one-design fleets and events designed for distinct racing and cruising audiences.
The conference welcomed international perspectives from Lucy Jackson of LV Yachting, Katy Campbell of Sea to Sky Sailing, Myles Warden-Owen of Tidal Pulse Media, Matt Sheahan of Planet Sail, and Andy Rice and Lewis Smith of The Foil. Their contributions connected developments in yacht charter, sailing media and the wider sport with opportunities for the Caribbean, helping organisers consider how to reach international audiences and strengthen the region’s appeal. Presentations from SeaPeople, sessions on artificial intelligence, and discussions on automation and technology also explored how digital tools could support communication, marketing and event administration.
Key highlights
More reasons to race across the region. The CSA is working to strengthen visibility of its Majors, Travellers and Windies Multihull trophies, encouraging sailors to take part in multiple events and experience more of the Caribbean circuit.
A calendar that works for sailors and organisers. Closer coordination of regatta dates and clearer event listings remain priorities, alongside development of the regional dinghy calendar. Organisers discussed travel, charter logistics and the spacing between events.
Opening doors for young sailors. Preparations for the Caribbean Dinghy Championship at Sint Maarten Yacht Club formed part of a wider discussion on participation and progression. The conference also considered a proposed Caribbean youth apprenticeship programme offering experience aboard racing charter yachts, subject to securing sponsorship and finalising arrangements.
Stronger race delivery. Organisers and measurers examined class splits, CSA and IRC dual scoring, and ways to simplify rating administration. An IRC session stressed early certificate applications and better coordination of measurement resources across islands. Training and mentoring for race officials, judges and measurers emerged as a clear regional need.
Telling the Caribbean sailing story. Members discussed recruiting local content creators, sharing more news from clubs and regattas, and demonstrating the economic value of events to sponsors. A fund created from Calendar advertising will support more consistent CSA marketing activity.
In his President’s Report, Pouthier placed community at the centre of the Association’s purpose, connecting big-boat racing, dinghy sailing, families and clubs. “Let’s keep our passion alive and let’s keep our community strong,” he urged members, calling for greater communication and involvement across the region.
Returning leadership for 2026–2027
All seven elected officers have re-engaged for another year, providing continuity as the CSA advances its work through its committees and regional membership:
Bastien Pouthier — President, Trinidad and Tobago
Alison Sly-Adams — Treasurer, Antigua
Rana Lewis — Secretary, Antigua
Brian Sylvester — Vice President, Grenada
Saskia Revelman — Vice President, Sint Maarten
Jaime Torres — Vice President, Puerto Rico
Tamsin Rand — Vice President, British Virgin Islands
Michele Korteweg continues as Past President.
The Chief Measurement position will be voted on at the Measurers meting to take place on Saturday 10th October, 2026. David Walworth has fulfilled the position for the last two years.
The CSA reported a membership of 56, spanning national sailing bodies, events, yacht clubs, class associations, sailing programmes and measurers. Members were encouraged to contribute news, participate in committees and help turn the conference discussions into action throughout the season.
For Caribbean sailing news, regatta calendars and information about the CSA, visit www.caribbean-sailing.com.
ENDS
