New sponsors and major prizes for 2015 Sydney Harbour Regatta

by Di Pearson on 29 Jan 2015 Middle Harbour Yacht Club has confirmed a new major sponsor for the Sydney Harbour Regatta to coincide with the 10th anniversary of NSW’s largest sailing event, to be held on the weekend of 7-8 March.

In announcing a new major sponsor, Trina Solar, Commodore John McCuaig said, 'We have been fortunate in securing a new major sponsor and new support sponsors, which will enable us to ensure that the 10th anniversary of the Sydney Harbour Regatta will be a great success.

'Trina Solar, founded in 1997 and listed on the New York Stock Exchange since 2006, is one of the world's largest, most reputable solar PV manufacturers and has committed for two years to the Sydney Harbour Regatta,' he said.

Trina Solar offers high quality modules and integrated solar solutions. The local team in Australia provides sales, marketing, logistics, technical support and system design as well as warranty support.

Apart from strong relationships with the University of New South Wales, Trina Solar continues to expand its R&D investment in Australia through a partnership with the Australian National University and the Australian Renewable Energy Agency, developing their next generation solar cell technology in Canberra.

Courtesy of new sponsors Air New Zealand and Island Escape Cruises, entrants in the event will be eligible to win a trip for two to New Zealand for a six-night luxurious cruise around the Bay of Islands. Comprising 12 elegant and spacious suites, the 42 metre ship offers an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere. The total package is valued at over $9000.

Each division placegetter will go into a draw which will take place after the Sydney Harbour Regatta prize giving on Sunday 8 March, 2015.

Long standing major sponsors, Helly Hansen and Sydney City Marine maintain their presence. Helly Hansen, the prominent sailing, skiing and adventure gear company has reconfirmed its commitment, signing for a further three years with MHYC and the Sydney Harbour Regatta. Not only will it be supplying prizes to divisional winners, but is also providing great giveaways in the Skippers Bags.

Sydney City Marine, the boating maintenance facility of choice, servicing all-size commercial and recreational vessel maintenance including antifouling, refits, repair and maintenance has also re-signed with MHYC, the Sydney Harbour Regatta and the Club’s other major sailing events.

Robert Oatley Vineyards, the reincarnation of the Oatley family winemaking dynasty, will once again provide some of its famous product from the five-star winery to division winners of the event, which is expected to attract over 300 boats.

And Rocks Brewing also joins a growing list of new sponsors and will be supporting the event with its specially craft-brewed beer over the weekend.

At the Sydney Harbour Regatta there are classes to suit all: Premier Class (on windward/leeward) and Premier and Performance Classes (Ocean Passage) for yachts. One-design classes include MC38, Adams 10, International Dragon, Etchells, Melges 24 and 32 and Yngling (NSW Championship), along with the VX-One (OD) and Performance Class (Cavalier 28) NSW Championships.

The Super 30 Class will be scored on PHS results not AMS in 2015. Courses will consist of three windward/leeward and two Sydney Harbour races, instead of the usual six windward/leeward races. The variety will give more opportunities to win, and with 17 entries already received, it is sure to be one of the most competitive events in years.

Due to growing interest, organisers are confident one of the largest Performance Class Spinnaker and Non Spinnaker entries in years will be on the water. With that in mind, the two fleets will be split into divisions and will make a colourful and spectacular display on the Harbour.

Prospective competitors are invited to take advantage of the 10th anniversary discounted race fees. See Notice of Race online for fee details of:

• Early - Payments received prior to 2400hrs Friday 30 January 2015
• Standard - Payments received after 0000hrs Saturday 31 January 2015 but prior to 2400hrs Friday 13 February 2015
• Late - Payments received after 0000hrs Saturday 14 February 2015

Come and help celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Sydney Harbour Regatta and take part in the Club’s beach barbecues, drinks, live entertainment and raffle prize from Helly Hansen.

Online entries are open and the Notice of Race available online here.