Helmsman Peter Miller and crew of Contest III will rest one of the longest winning streaks in the history of Bermuda sports on the line during today’s fitted dinghy season opener in St George’s Harbour.

The Royal Bermuda Yacht Club dinghy has won the Heritage Trophy for the past 11 years and will be looking to keep the run going in what could turn out to be an eventful day of racing in heavier breezes.

“The first event of the year is always special, especially for our crew who has a long winning streak, so there is definitely a lot on the line,” Miller said. “There is definitely something to live up to, but I think we have a pretty calm and collective crew.”

Miller is making his first appearance in the regatta as a helmsman and is one of four new additions to Contest III’s crew from the one that made a clean sweep of honours last year.

Other new faces are Julia Lines, Peter Martin and the evergreen Roger Mello who missed last year’s event through injury.

“Roger Mello is back after a year’s absence after a successful shoulder surgery so it is good to have him back on board,” Miller said. “He is very excited to be back.”

Dimitri Stevens, William Thompson and Butch Agnew are the only remaining crew members on Contest III from the previous event. Stevens was at the helm when Contest III swept all before them in last year’s fitted dinghy season opener — the first black sailor to fulfil that role.

Miller is confident that his team can extend their remarkable winning streak in the Heritage Trophy race. “We have been out for a practise, and I am sure the other teams have as well, and we are feeling confident,” he said. “We have a very good crew and I have full faith we will be able to defend our Heritage Trophy title.

“The Heritage Trophy is special because the governor comes down to present it after the race. It is the only trophy that is presented right after the race, so it is definitely a special one.”

Bidding to put an end to Contest III’s dominance are old foes Challenger, of Sandys Boat Club, Elizabeth, of Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club, and Victory, of St George’s Dinghy and Sports Club. Also up for grabs are the Anniversary Cup and Leon D Fox Cup.

Today’s event is being hosted by St George’s Dinghy and Sports Club.