Phuket poised to welcome King's Cup Regatta 2008

Created by sue. Last modified on 2008-10-24 10:13:58
Topic: Rallies
Countries: Thailand

The 2008 Phuket King's Cup Regatta is poised for the official launch of its 22nd year. An established perennial favourite, Asia's top maritime event is set to draw thousands of sailors, friends and their families to beautiful Phuket for the ultimate celebration of competition sailing.

The Regatta runs from 29th November - 6th December, 2008.

The hallmarks of last year's regatta were strong winds, a record turnout of over 100 boats and media coverage that spanned the globe. The races were faster than any year in recent memory ensuring that boats in all classes had the opportunity to test their skills to the limit. The 2008 regatta will showcase southern Thailand's world renowned scenic beauty, competitors from around the world and a huge surge in visitors to the yachting and marine capital of Asia - Phuket.

"We are privileged to present what we know will be another wonderful Regatta for Thailand and the whole of Asia. With our long history, we have always worked to provide our own unique blend of fun and competitive camaraderie. The Regatta is a memorable experience that reflects the best of Thai character and charm coupled with a world class race environment," said newly appointed President, Kevin Whitcraft of the Phuket King's Cup Regatta Organizing Committee.

"This year's racing class is hotting up in what looks like a very competitive division with four TP 52's joining the event. Bill Bremner on Foxy Lady IV, leads the challenge after an absence of 3 years against regatta regulars; Hi Fi, Neil Pryde; Mandrake, Nick Burns; Fred Kinmonth and Hong Kong's Frank Pong," said Simon James, Phuket King's Cup Regatta Race Management Director. "The IRC 1 class is also looking good with Koh Samui IRC Class Winner Ichi Ban skippered by Matt Allan (AUS) joining the regatta for the first time to take up the challenge against a competitive fleet including Ben Coply's Phuket based Swan 42, Katsu and 2007 champion Jeff Davidson's Mumm 30 Panic. In IRC 2, The Royal Thai Navy teams return to challenge last year's winner, Peter Dyer on Madam Butterfly and will be closely followed by Neils Dgenkole's Danish team on Phoenix," he added.

Race Management has been continually improved each year and this year is no exception. The 2008 regatta will feature upgraded race equipment including several new marks, ground tackle, and pennants to enable flexibility and efficiency of race course management. Many racing courses have also been updated with adequate selection for the Race Officer to decide each day depending on the wind conditions.

Under the Royal Patronage of His Majesty the King, the Regatta is organized by the Phuket King's Cup Regatta Organizing Committee under the auspices of the Royal Varuna Yacht Club, in conjunction with the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand, the Royal Thai Navy and the Province of Phuket.

How to Enter
Entries will be open until 01 November 2008, after which late fees will apply and entries will be accepted at the discretion of the Race Committee.

For general information on the Phuket King's Cup Regatta, contact Regatta Secretary at info@kingscup.com or +66 (0) 7627 3380.

For racing inquiries, contact Simon James on racing@kingscup.com.

The regatta website is www.kingscup.com where further information, Notice of Race and online entry forms can be found.