Team Pindar embarks on new venture in Middle East

by Performance PR on 19 Sep 2009
Today marked a new chapter in Team Pindar’s rich 29-year sailing history as the team bid farewell to its IMOCA Open 60 and in return took charge of a second Volvo 60, for a new venture in the Middle East.

The much heralded Juan Kouyoumdjian designed Pindar IMOCA Open 60 has been sold to Alex Thomson Racing, who plan to extend their IMOCA Circuit campaign, including the Barcelona Round the World Race next year and ultimately the next edition of the Vendée Globe in 2012/13.

Team Pindar is now focused on a new sailing programme and in the next few weeks will ship both Volvo 60’s out to the Middle East, to embark on a corporate hospitality, team-building and boat charter initiative. Based in the Kingdom of Bahrain, the boats will provide a platform for bespoke marketing opportunities at key locations throughout the Gulf and will be managed by Team Director, Nick Crabtree, who has developed extensive contacts in the region.

Chairman of the Pindar Group, Andrew Pindar OBE commented: 'It is with mixed feelings that we are selling the Open 60. It has been an amazing journey and we are sad to see her go, but equally delighted she is going to a skipper (Alex) and team who will maximise her true potential. The opportunities in The Middle East offer a new direction for Team Pindar and sit well alongside our activity with Ian Williams on the World Match Racing Tour.'

Hugo Boss skipper, Alex Thomson commented: 'The Pindar Open 60 has established a reputation as one of the most powerful boats in the class and we’re delighted to have reached an agreement with Andrew and team on the sale. I am very excited to start sailing on her and to see what she and I are capable of over the next three years. '

Team Pindar’s Team Director, Nick Crabtree commented: 'With Ras al-Khaimah set to host the America’s Cup next year, there is a tremendous feeling of excitement and intrigue about sailing in the region. We witnessed firsthand, in Bahrain, the enthusiasm generated by following Brian Thompson’s epic journey in the Vendée Globe and we are delighted about having a physical presence, which will enable us to develop unique sailing experiences throughout the Gulf.'

In his bid for a third consecutive world title, Team Pindar’s ISAF World Match Racing Champion, Ian Williams, heads to the Argo Group Gold Cup in Bermuda from 1-6 October, for the penultimate event of the year.