BREATH OF FRESH AIR FOR AROUND ALONE 2006
Absender: "Mary Ambler"
Datum: 08. Feb 2003 21:10
When Around Alone started, solo circumnavigations were an adventure. Since those beginnings 20 years ago, boats have evolved and racing become the prime objective. Clipper Ventures Plc took over this event in May 2001 and made several significant changes to the route, rules and format. However the 7th edition, which will start from the USA late August, Labor Day Weekend, will be very different again. The 2006 developments will move the race to be one of the sailing world’s ultimate challenges.
The necessary changes have been made following an exhaustive research study presented by Fast Track, the leading sports marketing company. This has involved a consultation programme with stakeholders, including skippers, sponsors, media and ports.
The research findings concluded that in order for Around Alone to secure further support from sponsors, media and the worlds leading solo sailors certain changes must be made.
PERFORMANCE BASED CLASS ENTRY
To ensure a highly competitive fleet and to maximise attractiveness to sponsors and media, the 2006 Around Alone will be contested in IMOCA Open 50 & 60 boats. This fleet will be faster than the current format, and it will shorten the race by two months.
APPOINTMENT OF A RACE DIRECTOR
Negotiations are underway with a respected and high profile Race Director to be appointed for 2006 Around Alone prior to the completion of the current race.
2006 ADVISORY BOARD
An independent panel of experienced solo sailors and other stakeholders under the leadership of David Stubley of Fast Track, will be formed to advise the race management. Three skippers have already agreed to join the advisory board: Mike Golding, a previous competitor in the race, with Bernard Stamm and Brad Van Liew, both current skippers in this race. (Further announcements will follow in the near future.)
PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT
Around Alone has commissioned Fast Track to generate sponsorship and media partners for the 2006 global event.
COMPETITOR SUPPORT
In May & June 2003, Fast Track will hold, in North America and Europe, sponsor workshops and seminars, having created a sponsor toolbox to assist the raising of sponsorship for potential competitors.
CASH PRIZES
There will be a substantial cash prize fund.
Sir Robin Knox Johnston, Chairman of Clipper Ventures Plc, said of the changes: “We have had to make some tough decisions, but we have listened to people and we believe that the changes made are the way forward for Around Alone and single handed ocean racing as a sport. Around Alone 2006 will be sports ultimate challenge as well as being a commercial success”.
- ENDS -
Mary Ambler
Media Manager, Around Alone 2002-03
NZ Mobile: +64 (0) 21 706 519 - Email: mambler@clipper-ventures.com
Official Photography - Marinepics
International distribution: Ali McKichan - Email: info@marinepics.com - Tel: +44 (0) 1489 573753
Production & New Zealand distribution: Roy Riley – Email: royspics@aol.com
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