Felixstowe Regatta sponsor signs for a further two years
by Helen Sharkey 14 Oct 2008 15:25 BST
One of the East Coast’s major yachting events, which has built an international reputation during its eleven year history, has secured the support of its title sponsor for a further two years.
The Felixstowe Regatta, formerly the Port of Felixstowe International Regatta, announced that the Haven Gateway Partnership will continue its support for 2009 and 2010 after it first became the title sponsor at this year’s event.
The regatta will take place from 10 to 12 July 2009 in Dovercourt Bay off Felixstowe and Harwich. It attracts entries from around the UK and Europe, including yachts from Holland, Belgium and France. In addition the Regatta will be hosting the IRC 2009 East Coast Championships.
Haven Gateway Partnership promotes economic opportunities on behalf of business around the five Haven ports of Felixstowe, Harwich International, Harwich Navyard, Ipswich and Mistley which represent the single most important cluster of ports in the UK.
David Ralph, chief executive of the Haven Gateway Partnership, said: “The Haven Gateway Partnership is very pleased to continue supporting the Felixstowe Regatta for another two years, and to continue to support local business growth. The marine leisure industry in the Haven Gateway sub-region is the second largest area for yachting in the UK, with over 10,000 berths and moorings. The 260 marine businesses in this area contribute over £55m per year to the local economy.”
Nigel Mower, chairman of the Felixstowe Regatta Organising Committee commented: “We are delighted to have the Haven Gateway Partnership on board for the next two years. There can be only one objective for an event such as this regatta, and that is to see as many boats and people on the water as possible, competing hard and enjoying the racing in the fantastic sailing area we have around here”.
In addition to the racing, there is also an extensive social programme attached to the Regatta, with food, drink, and live entertainment in the evenings.
The Felixstowe Regatta is being organised voluntarily on a not-for-profit basis by representatives from five local yacht clubs: Haven Ports Yacht Club, Royal Harwich Yacht Club, Walton & Frinton Yacht Club, Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club, and Waldringfield Sailing Club.
For further information visit www.felixstoweregatta.co.uk