The Etchells Invitational Cup
by Rob Goddard 10 Mar 2014 09:45 GMT
28-31 July 2014
New sailing event set for Cowes in July
A new pure one-design keelboat sailing event will take place in Cowes from the 28th to the 31st of July. Jointly hosted by the Royal Thames and the Royal London Yacht Clubs, teams from around the world will be sailing to win the International Etchells Invitational Regatta which will have the glorious 140 year old Gertrude Cup as the Trophy.
Twenty identical boats will be supplied by the Cowes Etchells Fleet so that no competitor has an equipment advantage. Racing will take place over 4 days in the waters of the Solent after 2 optional coaching and practice days, and of course the event is supported by a full social program, all of which is scheduled just before Cowes Week so that competitors have the chance to stay longer in the area to enjoy the largest yacht regatta in the world.
David Franks, Cowes Etchells Fleet Captain, said "This event will be a showcase for Yacht Clubs from around the world to demonstrate the many talented sailors that they have in their midst without the need for a huge budget, as not only will the boats be identical, but also so will the sails, North Sails UK One Design will be supplying 20 sets of identical sails that will be reserved solely for this annual event."
The Royal Thames and the Royal London Yacht Clubs are collaborating to host the event and even prior to the official announcement have had 15 Yacht clubs from around the world registering their intentions, from countries a far afield as Malta, the USA, Hong Kong, Australia and New Zealand, and amongst the skippers there is a previous America's Cup winning helmsman, 3 past Etchells World Champions, various Olympians and 2 female skippers.
Entry fees for the event including the boat charter are set at only £2,000. Further details are available from or skype davidsfranks or call + 44 7768 063868.