Bermuda's much-anticipated sporting calendar unveiled

Diving enthusiasts and explorers are drawn to Bermuda’s depths, which features over 300 shipwrecks submerged in its crystalline waters. In the east, at the St. Georges Marina and Superyacht Dock, Bermuda Yacht Services offers divers the opportunity to explore the Cathedral reef, a hidden gem teeming with caves, canyons, and crevices. Not far from this underwater wonderland lie two magnificent shipwrecks, the 109-metre Rita Zovetta and the 117-metre Pelinaion, both resting in depths of six to 21 metres. In contrast, the west unveils its own mysteries at the Hamilton Princess and Beach Club Marina. Divers can explore the legendary Mary Celestia, whose secret cargo of perfume and wine remained hidden for nearly 150 years until its discovery in 2011. Nearby, the Constellation, made famous by Jaws author Peter Benchley's novel 'The Deep,' offers divers a chance to step into the pages of nautical history, surrounded by the beauty and enigma of Bermuda's undersea realm.

The Convex End to End originated as a fitness challenge among friends and has evolved into a significant annual event now in its 27th year. This charitable "fun raiser" draws thousands of participants who walk, ride, or swim across Bermuda, collectively raising funds for local charities. Along the route, thousands of spectators come together to cheer on participants, contributing to the vibrant social atmosphere that sets the ETE apart as a truly special experience.

Sports enthusiasts will find their passions kindled as the island welcomes the USATF Bermuda Grand Prix in April. Set against the stunning beauty of Bermuda, this elite international track and field event promises a thrilling competition featuring Olympians and world-class athletes.

With its perfect blend of natural beauty and state-of-the-art facilities, Bermuda emerges as an ideal training and competing ground. 

SailGP delivers electrifying high-speed racing, showcasing cutting-edge technology and elite athletes in a captivating battle of precision and skill against the backdrop of Bermuda's paradise. There is much to offer spectating superyachts, with owners being granted premium positioning through VIP packages in previous years, placing them right at the heart of the action and ensuring they have the best seat in the house to witness the high-speed drama unfold. VIP packages for 2024 are yet to be announced.

Established in 1909, the Bermuda Half Marathon Derby stands as the island's oldest race, evolving into a highly anticipated cultural and sporting extravaganza. Held annually on Bermuda Day (Friday 24 May 2024), this event has woven itself into the fabric of the community. Noteworthy for its philanthropic commitment, the Derby consistently directs its efforts towards charitable causes. Over the years, the event has proudly contributed nearly $150,000 to local charities and individuals in need, embodying a spirit of community support and generosity.

Spanning 753 miles, the Annapolis Bermuda Ocean Race offers an extraordinary blend of inshore and offshore racing as it winds its way from the Chesapeake Bay, across the Gulf Stream and, ultimately, to Bermuda. The bi-annual event presents a unique set of challenges — technically demanding, physically taxing and characterised by both spirited and tranquil moments. More than just a race, it serves as an aspiration for many sailors, allowing them to fulfill a lifelong dream: embarking on a blue-water passage to a coral island adorned with pink sandy beaches and renowned for its legendary hospitality.

 June is full of maritime glory as the Newport Bermuda Race unfurls its 635-mile biennial saga. Starting on 21 June and organised by the Bermuda Race Foundation, this historic race, founded in 1906, epitomises true seamanship. Sailing enthusiasts from across the globe converge to take on the challenge of the open ocean, navigating towards the iconic St. David's Lighthouse. The race's nickname, "the Thrash to the Onion Patch", attests to the exhilarating winds and waves that characterise this prestigious event.

If the chance of catching a 1,000-pound blue marlin interests you then the Bermuda Big Game Classic, part of the Bermuda Triple Crown Billfish Tournament, is one of the world’s most prestigious billfish tournaments that can deliver just that.

In July, anglers and sport-fishing vessels converge for a thrilling pursuit of record-breaking blue and white marlin. The championship, which awards the boat with the highest point total, promises a spectacle of skill and determination against the backdrop of Bermuda's breath-taking waters. Often hailed as a fisherman's paradise, Bermuda boasts a marine kingdom that lures anglers from all corners of the globe.

August brings a different kind of fervour with the Bermuda Cup Match, a two-day cricket showdown between St. George's and Somerset. This giant celebration of Bermuda's vibrant culture infuses the island with festive energy, showcasing the nation's history, culture and, of course, cricket prowess. 

As temperatures begin to drop slightly in October, it is the perfect time for the Bermuda Celebrity Golf Invitational. The event merges competition and camaraderie, uniting golf fans and celebrities for a weekend of excellence. The event also lends its support to the Bermuda Sports Pathway program, nurturing young athletes on their journey to greatness.

The Bermuda Gold Cup, a part of the World Match Racing Tour, thrills spectators with world-class sailing racing just off Hamilton Harbour's shores. The King Edward VII Gold Cup, the championship trophy, was presented by King Edward VII at the Tri-Centenary Regatta at Jamestown, Virginia, in 1907. A highly prestigious trophy with a rich tradition, it was the only King’s Cup ever to be offered for competition in the United States, which could be won outright, and is the oldest match racing trophy in the world for competition involving one-design yachts.

Immerse yourself in the exhilarating atmosphere of the Rugby Classic, where powerhouse teams such as France, USA, Canada, Ireland, Argentina and Italy, among others, fiercely compete for the coveted title of the World Rugby Classic. Witness these dynamic matchups as top-tier teams go head-to-head in an electrifying battle for supremacy.

The year culminates with the North American Rally Caribbean (NARC), an exciting cruiser sailing journey that departs from Newport, Rhode Island, en route to Bermuda and then on to St. Maarten for the winter. This event embodies the spirit of exploration and adventure, capturing the essence of Bermuda's allure. 

Organised by the Bermuda National Athletics Association (BNAA), the Chubb Bermuda Triangle is a paradise rendezvous for runners seeking an extraordinary racing experience. The event includes the picturesque Butterfield Mile, the exhilarating BF&M 10k Run/Walk and the challenging PwC Half or Full Marathon.

Experience the excitement of the Bermuda Triple Challenge - an exhilarating three-day event featuring three races, over 75 obstacles and a weekend filled with fun. This unique obstacle course series unfolds against the backdrop of three of Bermuda's stunning, historical and culturally rich venues. Embrace the challenge each day, with 3- to 10-kilometre courses boasting diverse obstacles suitable for participants of all fitness levels, putting strength and stamina to the test for individuals aged 13 and above. Cap off each day's achievements with a lively post-event celebration. As an added bonus, the event is now officially certified as a qualifying event for the OCR World Championship.