PHILIPSBURG:--- Last week Thursday Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunication Hon. Ted Richardson met with representatives of the Sint Maarten Yacht Club Regatta Foundation, where both parties stated that they were in a committed partnership to see a successful 34th St. Maarten Heineken Regatta set sail from March 6 to the 9.
Minister Richardson was briefed by the organizing foundation with respect to preparations for the 34th edition of the regatta, which is one of the centre-stage events in the annual calendar of activities that the destination offers visitors and residents.
The full schedule of regatta events will take place and preparations are well underway to prepare the logistics involved.
"Despite what was published in the media recently, Government is committed to the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta. We support each other, and are working together to make sure the 34th edition will be better than the 33rd.
"Government and regatta organizers have a long history of working together, and are committed despite current financial challenges, and it only means that we will have to be more innovative and think outside of the box to pull off another successful regatta," Minister Hon. Ted Richardson pointed out.
John Gifford, Chairman of the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta Steering Committee, said, "The 34th St. Maarten Heineken Regatta will be the best regatta in our 34 year history. Everyone seems to be worried about the budget cuts, but to put it in simple terms, none of the financial issues will change the fact that we are going to sail this year in the Caribbean's largest regatta. We're going to have to work smarter this year, but we're going to sail, we're going to sail fast with serious competition and serious fun. So come join us for what just might be the best St. Maarten Heineken Regatta yet."
"The destination has never missed an edition of the regatta, so I am calling on all yachting enthusiasts, boat racers and others to start registering from today for some 'Serious Fun'," Minister Hon. Ted Richardson emphasized.
Minister Richardson added the Government is but one contributor to the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta. The organization itself has its own network of other contributors from the private sector.
"Sint Maarten is a resilient destination, and time again, the people have proven themselves to overcome any challenges that come their way, including the Government.
"Financially, there are challenges, and yes, there have been cuts across the board in order to be able to present a balanced draft 2014 budget, but the show must go on," Minister Hon. Ted Richardson added.
John Leone, Commercial Director of International Liquors and Tobacco, who distributes Heineken locally, stated "Our many local sponsors, ILTT and Heineken have all made long term commitments to the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta. We will continue the same high quality events, parties and serious fun that you have enjoyed for the last 33 years. International Liquors, Heineken, Captain Morgan Rum, UTS, and all of the regatta sponsors and the entire St. Maarten Heineken Regatta Team promise to deliver a legendary event. Remember it takes a whole island to throw a party this big!".
"The next major event for the country after the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta is Carnival, and the organizers also have our full committed support as well," Minister Hon. Ted Richardson concluded.