Regattas in Puerto Vallarta: A sport that has become a tradition

If you took the time to look up in a dictionary the meaning of the word Regatta, you would likely find something along these lines, ''A regatta is a boat race that can include both motorized and non-motorized craft''. But any dictionary would fail to describe all the emotions experienced when you're speeding along onboard a boat, racing to try and win the competition, not only against your rivals but also against the elements.

During a sailboat regatta you have to be able to take decisions under pressure, always with a cool head, using complex techniques and without forgetting the rules of the game. You also need to have knowledge about the strength of your equipment, have extreme confidence in your crew and most importantly, you have to know the best tactics to use the wind correctly so it becomes an ally that will help you win the race.

Regattas have existed for centuries but the first registered competition can be traced back to the beginning of the 17th century, when Charles II made sailing popular in England after receiving a boat as a gift from the Netherlands. With the passing of time, competitions began to be held all over the world. The first official association was created in Ireland in 1720. About a century later, in 1815, the sport became popular in the United States when an American boat, aptly named ''America'', won the Cowes competition off the southern coast of England, sparking a great interest for the sport with the American people.

Nowadays there are hundreds of national and international regatta championships in the world, but the one thing you can be sure of is that no matter what the name of the competition, it will always be exciting to witness a sailboat regatta and even more so to take part in one.

Every year since 1992, one of the most important competitions in the country takes place in Puerto Vallarta, called the Banderas Bay International Regatta. This exciting competition takes place during the last two weeks of March, when the climate and conditions are ideal. In the past few years the sport has become so popular that it is now part of the "Feria Nautica Internacional" (International Nautical Fair), a celebration that lasts for a whole month and during which time you can watch a multitude of sailing events.

If you visit Puerto Vallarta during the month of March, then don't miss out on the chance to take part in or watch this exciting sport, which has slowly become a tradition. Come to Banderas Bay and experience the emotions and excitement of a sailboat regatta!