2026 Bahamas International Sunfish Class Association (ISCA) National Championships
Submitted by Tamara Knowles
The 2026 Bahamas International Sunfish Class Association (ISCA) National Championships June 20-21 showcased fierce competition from around the country at Montagu Foreshore in Nassau. Sailors were challenged by weather and shifty conditions, especially on the first day, but all races were completed and a champion crowned: veteran Donnie Martinborough, a three-time Sunfish World Champion, from the Nassau Yacht Club.
Close behind in points were two competitors from the Exuma Sailing Club, Tanaj Manos, last year's champion, and Joss Knowles. Tanaj, age 19, and Joss hope to represent the Bahamas at the ISCA Worlds in St. Croix in November. Lori Lowe, president of the Bahamas Sailing Association (BSA), placed fourth overall, followed by Dawson Knowles of Long Island in fifth. Dawson's younger brother, Drake Knowles, was the highest ranked Youth sailor and finished in sixth place overall.
Hosting this kind of event in the Bahamas is logistically challenging, with boats shipping days before the regatta, sailors from the out-islands flying in and lodging, and trying to get as many sailors as possible involved to raise the level of competition. This year’s fleet more than doubled from last year's event, an encouraging sign for the class as a whole. Our fleet ranges from youth sailors still competing in the Optimists up to grand masters showing they still have what it takes to get top finishes. Sailing truly is an incredible sport to allow for such diversity.
Our country may be small, but our dreams to compete on bigger international stages are grand and longstanding. We're working hard to equip and prepare our sailors for larger events, and we hope to meet many of you as we go from one regatta to the next!
Photo credits: Tamara Knowles