Firsts for Changi Sailing Club’s 15th Ambassadors’ Cup

by Floyd Cowan on 8 Nov 2014 There will be a number of firsts on Saturday November 15, 2014, when the Changi Sailing Club hosts the 15th Ambassadors’ Cup, the premier and best attended event in the club’s annual social calendar. The regatta brings together Singapore’s diplomatic community in an informal day of sailing and celebration. Presiding over the event is H.E. Luis Fernando de Andrade Serra of Brazil while Airbus Helicopters returns as Title Sponsor for the second consecutive year.

'The annual Ambassador's Cup has been a seagoing thrill bringing the world together, as the boats compete on behalf of an attending country's diplomat. It has been a joy for me to officiate at this glorious day of billowing sails, fluttering flags, tacking rudders and gusting breezes, among the wonderful camaraderie of all participants,' stated Brazilian ambassador, HE Fernando Luis.

Twenty-five boats are expected to start the race which sets off at 1:00pm from in front of the historic sailing club. For the first time Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman, Minister of State, Ministry of National Development and Ministry of Defence and Mayor, South East District will be Guest of Honour at this prestigious event.

Airbus Helicopters Southeast Asia once again is the generous main sponsor of the race this year. Co-sponsors are Shenton Wealth Holdings, DHL, Yart Marine, Cosmosteel, CBMM and Leisure Charter / Acclaim.

'Singapore is poised to be the regional hub for Airbus Helicopters. We hope that sponsoring the 15th Ambassadors’ Cup will increase our profile in Singapore and in the region,' stated Mr Sharples. 'With the rebranding to Airbus Helicopters this year, the Ambassadors’ Cup is a good platform for us to communicate our new identity. As a global company with offices in more than 30 countries, Airbus Helicopters regularly sponsors education programmes for under-privileged children in developing countries. The Ambassadors’ Cup is a reflection of our own corporate spirit. It’s a great mixture of transnational cooperation and just having fun.'

Last year’s winner, Shardana, skippered by Joe Lombardo, will be out to defend its title in the Ambassadors’ Division. Sailors will also be competing for honours in the Non-ambassadors Division, Beach Catamaran, Multi-hull Division and Trimaran events.

When the last boat has crossed the finish line the partying will begin with a Brazilian theme barbeque and awards dinner. Brazil’s national drink, the caipirinha, will be served while a percussion band and Brazilian dancers will bring colour and capriciousness to an evening of fun and CSC website