10 Beneteau Firsts 40.7's for China

by Simpson Marine on 2 Feb 2007 Simpson Marine, exclusive dealer for Beneteau, has signed an historical contract with the organisers of the China Cup International 2007 to supply ten Beneteau racing yachts for the new Shenzhen-based regatta.

The sale of the ten First 40.7 (12m) yachts was officiated at a signing ceremony in France at the Beneteau Group Headquarters, Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez, on 22 January. It was attended by a number of representatives, including China Cup administrator, Mr Zhong Yong; Olivier Decamps of Simpson Marine; and Mr Li Quanhai, Vice President of the China
Yachting Association.

The China Cup in Shenzhen, which will take place in October prior to the RHKYC China Coast Regatta and Hainan Race, will include a number of Olympic and Islands. According to Mr. Zhong Yong, the event organisers believe the regatta will become one of the major racing events in Asia. 'The Beneteau brand is the number one sailing brand in the world and a great partner for the regatta. We are confident that the association of such brands will help the China Cup become an established and prestigious event. '

The fleet of First 40.7 yachts will be used by teams from around China who will compete as a One Design Class within the regatta. Beneteau Brand Manager at Simpson Marine, Olivier Decamps, says the First 40.7 is an exceptional performance yacht and an ideal model for China Cup. 'This boat is a proven design with an impressive racing record. There are over 700 First 40.7 yachts around the world making waves on the racing circuit. The Sydney to Hobart Race was won by a Beneteau First 40.7 in 2003.'

Simpson Marine announced the sale after a series of discussions with the China Cup organisers, taking place over the past year. The exclusive Beneteau dealer will also undertake all service and maintenance of the fleet and assist with training in the lead-up to the China Cup. 'Simpson Marine’s ability to sell, service and assist in training, was a key factor in us choosing the Beneteau brand', says Mr Zhong Yong. Their ability to deliver within a few months of the order was also a major consideration.'

Delivery of the First 40.7 yachts to Hong Kong is scheduled to start at the end of May and continue until mid-July. After commissioning and tuning, the yachts will then sail to Longcheer Yacht Club in Shenzhen.

'There is a growing demand for Beneteau boats in Asia and the purchase of ten First 40.7s is a clear sign that growth is set to continue,' says Olivier Decamps. 'Asia is an important emerging market for Groupe Beneteau. They are predicting a 3% growth in 2007 on the back of an encouraging 2006. The region is a key area of potential growth.'