Recognised throughout the eastern hemisphere as the premier sailing event of its kind, the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta will once more put on a spectacular display of the finest sailing talent from around the world, competing in Andaman Sea off Phuket Island, to win the ‘must-have’ racing trophy in all of Asia, from 1–8 December, 2012.
This year’s competition will feature the largest and most competitive fleet of any regional regatta, with top competitors from the region and beyond, plus large international charter and cruising fleets. Over 35 countries with 1,000 sailors will be represented in total, with a strong showing expected of Thai and Asian sailors. Dominance in the dinghy classes by Thai youth sailors is likely to continue with these classes racing 2-5 December inclusive.
The Phuket King’s Cup Regatta will once again put on a spectacular display of the finest sailing talent from around the world from Dec. 1-8, 2012. (Photo by Guy Nowell)
The 2012 Classes will likely include a number of IRC Classes – IRC Zero, IRC One, IRC Two, IRC Three – Premier, Sports Boats, Modern Classic, Bareboat Charter, Multihulls (with possible Racing and Cruising splits), Firefly 850 Sports, Classic and a Cruising Class. Full details can be viewed in the Notice of Race at http://kingscup.com.
Kevin Whitcraft, President of the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta Organising Committee, spoke of the widespread anticipation for 2012’s Regatta: “Last year was a genuine landmark for the Phuket King’s Cup; a quarter centenary of world class racing in Phuket for a race which is seen by many as the top prize in sports sailing for the region.
“We were delighted to welcome the introduction of a Kiteboarding class, success for the Royal Thai Navy, the first Japanese winners in the history of the Cup, plus increasing levels of participation from Chinese sailors. For 2012, the fleet is expected to be of a similar size, though the racing will be of an even higher class; many of our international teams have chosen to prioritise the Phuket King’s Cup. It’s a sign of just how coveted and revered this trophy is in Asia and beyond; a superb draw for the best of the best, and it reflects extremely well on Thailand as a premier sailing destination.”
The modern Phuket King’s Cup Regatta has become a major boating event, attracting keelboats and ocean-going catamaran teams from around the world. As a principal fixture on the Asian Yachting Circuit, the Regatta annually features upwards of 100 boats and 1,000 participants, ranging from the high-tech yachts in IRC Zero to live-aboard ocean cruisers, multihulls and classics. International-standard race management is combined with lively beach parties during Regatta Week to create this world-renowned yacht racing exhibition.
(Press Release)
