Sailors React To National Sport Announcement

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The last day of the Exuma Family Island Regatta was the first day of sailing being recognized as the official sport of The Bahamas, and our Marlena Leonard got comments on the ground from the sailors and enthusiasts about the impact.

When asked if the races feel different because sailing is officially The Bahamas’s national sport, Freddie Gray, owner of the famous Tida Wave says it doesn’t feel much different but knowing the sport is The Bahamas national sport is in itself a great feeling.

Greg Cottis is an owner of the Ruff Justice, one of the a class racers out of Long Island. His father helped found the Long Island Regatta and he says he hopes the official naming of the sport will provide more funding for those engaged in the sport. He’s also open to international collaboration to help things get off the ground on the world stage.

Leslie McKensie sailed from the ages of 5 to 64, and tells us the key is getting kids started early now that it’s a national priority.