Riviera Nayarit, Mexico - Riviera Nayarit is kicking off the New Year with its annual Vallarta Cup Race Series organized by the Vallarta Yacht Club (VYC.) The event started on January 4th and will continue every Saturday through the end of the month (11th, 18th and 25th.)

This tournament was created for owners to test their abilities on the water and indulge in their love of sailing. It also appeals to their competitive nature, and is an elegant showcase for the top three winners.

"In the end there’s always a winner, but more than anything most of the competitors participate just for the fun of it and to test their abilities without exposing themselves to any great risk," commented Rodolfo Trejo, administrator of the VYC.

The boats depart from the Paradise Village Marina, with others sailing in from Marina la Cruz, and Marina Vallarta.

This is a fantastic regatta with mainly local watercraft plus a few national boats. Participants can register on any given Saturday, even though the series has already begun. Some 30 boats participated in last year’s competition.

The VYC offers youth sailing courses, during which they support and train children and teenagers. The Vallarta Cup Race Series, meanwhile, is a perfect arena for adults to indulge in their love of sailing. "The community benefits from the support given to the growth of sports sailing of a more social nature; these competitions usually include adult-only vessels," added Trejo.

The sport of sailing has been growing in the bay area thanks to the participation of the VYC, which together with other clubs and marinas help ensure the vessels are well maintained instead of constantly docked. This is why the Convention and Visitors Bureau (CAB) supports their events.

"It’s clear to us that the CAB is a key player thanks to the support they have lent us for our various events," said Trejo. "Without their help we couldn’t have succeeded as well as we have and we’re very thankful on many levels."

Every night after the race the participants can enjoy an open bar with free beer and drinks as well as a themed dinner with live music. On the first day they enjoyed Cheeseburgers in Paradise; on the 11th it will be Rumba Moon Cuban night; the 18th will be headlined by The Rhythm Roosters; and the 25th will be awards night with an evening of Latin music with Rossy and Roberto.

For more details visit vallartayachtclub.org, call Rudy Trejo at 322 297 2222, or email office(at)vallartayachtclub.org.