High Fidelity out to reclaim top honours in King's Cup Regatta
[SAILING] The Phuket King's Cup Regatta looks set to further its reputation as one of the world's most spectacular, if not biggest, sailing events, with more than 100 yachts already confirmed for what promises to be another intriguing competition on Thai waters.
The excitement generated from the race has helped establish the annual regatta as a premier event with fast-growing popularity in sailing circles, reflected by the increasing number of yachts in each contest. This year's tournament boasts a record number of boats as it celebrates its 20th anniversary, while the regatta's patron, His Majesty the King, celebrates the 60th year of his accession to the throne. The largest fleet ever seen in Thailand will set sail from the southern resort island of Phuket today, and exciting racing seems certain. Most of the yachts from last year's regatta and a clutch of former champions have returned to the event, which was inaugurated in 1987 to commemorate His Majesty the King's 60th birthday, to vie for trophies in as many as 14 different classes. Among the field, which also features newcomers from around the world, is high-profile Australian sailor Neil Pryde's "High Fidelity", on a mission to reclaim the coveted title in the top-flight Racing Class. It looks to be a fierce contest, however, with two well-known Chinese racers - Hong Kong's Franck Pong on his sleek 75-foot "Jelik" and Adam Wu, who captains the "Konka Hummingbird" - hot on the Australian's heels. Meanwhile, the Sportsboat Class should satisfy fans of high-speed racing. All eyes will be on the super-fast "Phuket 8", engineered by highly-respected yacht designer John Duncanson of Australia for the conditions off Phuket. One boat with potential to star in this year's race is the "Somtam Express", captained by Duncanson's son Scott, a for-mer world junior sailing champion. The highlight of the event, however, should come in another lightning-quick division of boats designed and built in Phuket. The race will mark the first occasion for sailing enthusiasts to witness the phenomenal speed of the Firefly 850, which has been likened to a Formula One car. This 8.5-metre racing catamaran holds the record for fastest-sailing boat in Thai waters. Veteran captain Radab Kanjanavanit, on the boat "Cedar Swan" formerly sailed by his late father Dr Rachot, a pioneer of competitive sailing in Thailand, will spearhead the Thai assault in the other multi-hull class, where a fast and furious contest between catamarans and trimarans is expected. Tomorrow, a special candle-lit tribute will be held on Kata Beach to celebrate the birthday of the regatta's patron, His Majesty the King.
Kitinan Sanguansak The Nation
|
