The Sabang International Regatta 2011

by SIR Media on 24 Aug 2011 The Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Indonesia is pleased to announce the inaugural Sabang International Regatta 2011 (SIR 2011), which will be held 15-25 September 2011. Jointly organized with technical assistance from the Indonesian Sailing Federation, and supported by the provincial government, the Sabang International Regatta kicks off with a pre-regatta dinner on the evening of 13 September in Phuket, Thailand, followed by a rally to Langkawi, Malaysia, before racing across to, and around, the island of Sabang in the province of Aceh, until 25 September.

Marked as the first regatta to be held in Indonesia’s northwestern region, the event is aimed to promote Sabang and the Aceh Province, that has been rebuilt after the 2004 tsunami. Sabang is the capital town of Weh Island, the furthest island at the northwestern tip of Indonesia that boasts scenic natural beauty, pristine beaches, fascinating coral reefs, as well as arts and culture of the people.

A series of exciting activities has been prepared for participants once they reach Sabang. Aside from the dinner parties at the selected venue, the SIR 2011 organizing committee has promised fun-filled, prize-giving parties.

The SIR 2011 is projected to be participated by more than 50 yachts from Australia, Hong Kong, the Netherlands, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and provinces of Indonesia.

The race itself will take place from 17-20 September, and will be divided into three categories of racing, namely the IRC class, Multihull, and Cruisers. The organizers have also included a category for powerboats as part of this inaugural regatta.

An entry fee of US$100 per yacht inclusive of skipper fee will be charged and a US$25 fee will be charged for each additional crew member. For those wishing to join the social events at Sabang, a fee of US$50 will be charged per person. Trophies and cash prizes will be given to winners of the Sabang International Regatta 2011 during the closing ceremony and dinner party at Sabang.

Situated at the entrance of the Malacca Straits, Weh Island is the regatta's destination island and is located at this busy sea passage and is a jewel for many yachts and cruise ships to visit and see. Its pristine underwater environment has made it a perfect destination for diving. The island also holds the zero kilometer point in Indonesia, marked by an iconic monument in the town of Sabang. The regatta will also be a perfect opportunity to explore the amazing culture of Aceh, such as the dynamically synchronized Saman dance. While they are in Sabang, participants will also be presented with the culinary delights of Aceh and also the exceptional taste of Aceh’s coffee.

For further information, race schedule, and entry form, kindly log on to www.sabangregatta.com or contact Mr. Iwan T. Ngantung, Competition Manager of Indonesia Sailing Federation at: iwan_ngantung@yahoo.com or Regatta Secretariat, Sabang International Regatta, Komp. Puri Mutiara, Blok A, No. 66, Sunter Agung, Jakarta Utara 14410, Tel: +628159958910, Fax: +622165314237, Email: info@sabangregatta.com