The 18th WesMex International Small Boat Regatta concluded with resounding success, leaving sailors and spectators alike thrilled by the displays of skill and camaraderie on the open waters. Hosted and organized by the Vallarta Yacht Club in Nuevo Nayarit in picturesque Banderas Bay, this annual regatta has become a cornerstone event in the small boat sailing community, attracting participants from around Mexico, the USA and this year, Belize.

This year's regatta, held from February 21 – 25, witnessed 126 competitors and coaches, with skilled sailors showcasing their prowess in Optimists, ILCAs, and C420s. WesMex is part of the Mexican Sailing Circuit and therefore a sequence of qualifying events for the Optimist North American Championship and Optimist World Championship. It was also a qualifier for the ILCA 6 Youth Championships. The regatta offered a diverse range of competitions, creating an electric atmosphere as sailors navigated the challenging courses with finesse and determination.

The success of the event would not have been possible without the invaluable support of our sponsors. Their unwavering commitment to the sport and the regatta allowed for the seamless execution of this world-class event. Their contributions, both financial and logistical, ensured that the WesMex International Small Boat Regatta continued to thrive, providing a platform for sailors to compete at the highest level.

We extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors:
Paradise Village Group
Riviera Nayarit Tourism
The State of Nayarit
CFB Group
El Grupo
Novamar Insurance Mexico
Toyota Puerto Vallarta
Zaragoza Marine

Their generous support played a pivotal role in making this regatta a reality. Their dedication to the sailing community not only enhances the overall experience for participants but also contributes significantly to the growth and sustainability of small boat sailing on an international scale.

The heart of the regatta lies in its competitors, whose passion and skill bring the event to life. Sailors from diverse backgrounds and skill levels came together to create an atmosphere of friendly competition and mutual respect. The regatta showcased the spirit of sportsmanship as competitors pushed their limits, learned from one another, and forged lasting connections within the sailing community.

A special acknowledgment goes to Chairperson Esther Zuniga, Race Officer Bart Goodall, and the many volunteers of Vallarta Yacht Club who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring the smooth operation of the regatta. From race coordination to hospitality, their dedication and enthusiasm were instrumental in creating an unforgettable experience for participants and spectators alike. Their selfless efforts embody the true spirit of community and sportsmanship that defines the WesMex International Small Boat Regatta and the Vallarta Yacht Club.

As the sun set on another successful edition of the WesMex International Small Boat Regatta, we reflect on the collective efforts of sponsors, competitors, and volunteers that made it all possible. The regatta continues to grow in stature, solidifying its place as a premier event in the small boat sailing calendar. We eagerly anticipate the 19th edition, confident that it will build upon the success and legacy of its predecessors, thanks to the ongoing support of the sailing community and its dedicated enthusiasts.