Fresh from its winning finish at the BPI Busuanga Cup 2022, Subic Sailing Club-based Selma Star topped the IRC Class to win top honors in the recent 19th Punta Fuego Regatta.
Captained by veteran sailor Jun Avecilla, the 36.9-foot Beneteau yacht outsailed rival Ice 52 Belatrix helmed by Jun Villanueva and Sean Mitchell in the waters of Nasugbu Bay.
Hurricane Hunter of Albert Altura and international-award winning Karakoa of Ray Ordoveza settled for third and fourth places, respectively.
One of the country’s biggest sailing tournaments, Punta Fuego Regatta returned after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, and was postponed from its original schedule in January.
The two-day sailfest is spearheaded by the Philippine Inter-Island Sailing Foundation, co-presented by Landco Pacific, and hosted by Club Punta Fuego, which is managed by AHG (Anya Hospitality Group).
Wild Honey led by James Villareal, Plus Ultra of Pablo Lobregat, and Isabelle of Tere Marcial copped the top three awards in the Cruising Class.
Rounding up the winning circle is Twin Popsies jointly helmed by Dylan Tantuico and Gordon Luk, and MYG2 of Vincent Ruais which shined in the Ocean Multihull category.
“The successful return of the Regatta despite the many challenges is a clear sign of the return to normalcy of sailing events due to the improving health situation in the country,” says Club Punta Fuego general manager Edgar Krohn.
He expressed optimism in the conduct of smaller races and activities, as sailing is regarded as among the safest pandemic-era sport.
Phinsaf President Jerry Rollin added that the sailing event is a big boost in promoting the country as a sports tourism hub.
“The Philippines is an undiscovered paradise for sailing, as it is an environment-friendly sport and is safe to do even during pandemic. With thousands of beautiful islands, friendly people, moderate wind and seas, it has the potential to put the archipelago on the map as the best in the world,” he said.
This year’s Regatta is supported by Etihad Airways, Admiral Hotel Manila, Anya Resort Tagaytay, Niyama Wellness Center, German Club Manila, Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, Element Boutique Hotel, Rambla Restaurant, Asia Yachting, Marina Del Sol Resort and Yacht Club, Azumi Boutique Hotel, Hilton Clark Valley Resort, Savoy Hotel Boracay, Dusit Thani Manila, Sledgers, Wine Drop, Fundador, Unioil and Balipure.