It was indeed an exciting day for lovers of the water sport as Southern Sun Ikoyi organised the annual offshore challenge at the Lagos Yacht Club. The sailors who arrived on time displayed mastery of their yachts made of different colours and sizes. About 23 boats contested keenly during the challenge as the sailors entertained the audience with their command and artistry of the waterways to the delight of the audience.
The bad weather was not strong enough to take away from the excitement generated by the sport as even the Commodore of the Lagos Yacht Club, Laurent Couderc, attested to this fact when he said that: “We had a good run today,” adding that “it is often a question of boat handling and tactics as there is always a surprise with the changing winds and particularly with the rain as we’ve seen today. It is never predictable and this is what makes each race unique and very interesting.”
The General Manager of Southern Sun Ikoyi, Mark Loxley, commended the sailors for the participation and enthusiasm, stating that “this is a highly competitive sporting event and Southern Sun is very proud to again bring about this moment of happiness to the teams and to reviving the community spirit especially on the Lagos Island. We are indeed proud to have so many boats participate, all putting up their colourful sails for all to see on Lagos waters. We definitely will be back next year.”
At the end of the competitive event, Julian Hardy emerged tops in the Combined Monohull category, sailors Jay and Natasha Smulders took the first spot in the Hobbie Fleet category while Onyekachi Paul Okereke and Jan Muyesen were winners in the Lightning Fleet category.
Sailor Onyekachi Paul Okereke was overwhelmed by their pole position as he disclosed that: “We are immensely proud of our win from among so many boats. We got to the front early and it’s always good to stay there.”
Southern Sun Ikoyi Offshore Challenge has in recent years become one of the most popular attractions in the city geared at reigniting passion for the water sport, culture of relaxation and networking for the business community as it is an occasion set aside for the business community and patrons of the hotel to interact.
The day’s activities ended with participants treated to delicious canapés and fine wine and exciting prizes made out to the winners.
These include dinner for two, Sunday Champagne Brunch for four and Weekend Bed and Breakfast for two at the hotel. Southern Sun Ikoyi remains the preferred lodging and hangout location for business and leisure travellers in the megacity.