13th SMU-RM Western Circuit Regatta kicks off in Singapore

by AsianYachting.com on 18 Aug 2010 Despite the inaugural Youth Olympic Games taking sporting centre stage in Singapore, the 13th SMU-RM Western Circuit Sailing Regatta kicked off last Sunday at Raffles Marina. The youthful enthusiasm and vigour of the Singapore Management University (SMU) organising team have added a new dimension to the regatta by opening the event to all sorts of sailing boats in the region, and making it the cornerstone of Raffles Marina sailing calendar.

This year, in addition to the usual classes– IRC A, IRC B, Multihulls, Club Racers, Laser SB3's, J24's and special feature IOM remote-controlled yachts, they also welcome for the first time some Bladerider Moths, as well as an entire class of Access 2.3's for disabled sailors.

Held over three weekends on the 15th, 21st, 22nd & 28th of August, this Singapore Sailing sanctioned regatta has become one of Singapore’s biggest keelboat events and is well-known for its challenging courses, close racing and fun filled post-race parties that make the Western Circuit the most anticipated regatta in Singapore.

Coinciding with the notorious South-West monsoon, the crews will be put through their paces on the traditionally demanding windward-leeward courses, and have to become tactically astute on the lengthy passage races. Up for grabs once again will be the SMU President’s Cup which will be awarded to the winner of the passage race after the third day of racing.

Three prize-giving ceremonies spread over three weekends also promise to be grand affairs as they range from Dinner at The Lawn, a Charity Gala Dinner and a Ballroom Gala Dinner with the usual free flow of beer, luxurious food and a full programme line-up including top performing groups from the SMU.

Amongst all this merriment and frivolity they will be holding a fund-raiser – a charity car wash and auction - with all proceeds and donations going to the chosen beneficiary, Singapore Sailability. Last year, the charity auction raised $10,000. This year, they hope to make it happen again, and invite all participants to join in and show their support for our disabled friends.

In his welcome letter Robert Bird, CEO of Raffles Marina, stated 'Our generosity of spirit will again be put to the test this year as we look to generate funds for Sailability Singapore, that most worthy of organisations who through the activity of sailing, enrich the lives of people with any type of disability, the elderly, the financially and socially disadvantaged. It is a cause close to all our hearts and we ask that you give generously when the time comes'.

Raffles Marina would like to thank the sponsors, Puteri Harbour, Luminox Watches and the hard-working and ever enthusiastic students of SMU for their support and organisational abilities.

More info needed? Check out the website at: http://www.westerncircuit.com/