Stage set for Top of the Gulf Regatta
The 2013 Top of the Gulf Regatta has got underway with more than 200 boats and 500 sailors from more than 30 countries in action from May 3-7 in Pattaya.
Hosted by Ocean Marina Yacht Club, the event features a multinational mix of sailors competing across 12 classes of boats makes the TOG Regatta unique – unique in its size and diversity, and a key sporting event in the region.
“The regatta attracts in excess of 500 sailors each year and through the event, participant accommodation and entertainment expenditure, the regatta contributes significantly to the local economy. The media coverage, which includes international TV reaching over 100 million households and local and international print and online coverage, positively promotes Pattaya and sailing to the world,” said William Gasson, chairman, Top of the Gulf Regatta.
In addition to the large international participation, the regatta has a strong domestic following, arguably the largest local sailing participation of any regatta in Thailand.
“Since the beginning nine years ago, our goal has been to put Pattaya on the map as a sailing destination through encouraging international sailors to participate and media to cover the event. Equally we have been active in encouraging participation of local boats and resident sailors and give local sailors the opportunity to compete against an international fleet,” commented Gasson.
“In line with this, together with Ocean Marina Yacht Club we have been active in supporting grass-roots sailing in the area. Creating and supporting youth sailing opportunities, nine years ago we incorporated the Thailand Optimist National Championships with the regatta and have hosted and supported the event ever since. More than 100 Thai youngsters are expected to race against sailors from Singapore, Hong Kong, the Philippines, India, Indonesia and Myanmar in a fleet of almost 130 boats this year,” added Gasson.
Now in its 38th year, the national optimist championships is the second-oldest annual sailing event in Thailand and continues to develop youth talent and introduce Thai youngsters to the sport of sailing. And this year, the TOG Regatta organisers welcome Sansiri as presenting sponsor of the championships.
Upto 12 classes will compete in the TOG Regatta this year, including IRC 1, IRC 2, IRC 3, IRC 4 Cruising, Platu (competing for the Coronation Cup), Ocean Multihulls, Formula 18, Open Beach Multihulls, Single handed monohull dinghies, Double-handed monohull dinghies, Optimist (Thailand Optimist National Championships) and returning for their second year are the NeilPryde RS:One Windsurfs.
