Welcome Back

The welcome extended to participants in this year's 'new-look' Admiral's Cup will rightly be even greater than usual. A great deal hangs on the perceived performance of this regatta, something of which the many who want to see a revival in international grand prix competition are very aware. In fact, to run the event at all this year, with the current lack of an internationally accepted grand prix rule, took a considerable act of faith by the organisers.

When you have a wonderful event such as the Admiral's Cup within your auspices, but for reasons beyond your control the market has fallen flat you have two choices: do you give up and hope things will eventually get better, or do you fly the flag, run an interim event and try your best to ensure that those who come enjoy themselves as much as possible, and therefore keep the event in the competitors' consciousness?

The organising club, the RORC, obviously elected to follow the second course of action ­ well aware of the risks involved. Since then a large number of people have worked hard to attract a good entry and above all to make this year's event enjoyable, as well as providing excellent competition. Should the English weather co-operate, the signs are they will be successful.

To read the remainder of this article please go to the July 2003 edition of Seahorse, available at selected newsstands or by calling: + 44 (0) 1590 671899 or by email at: info@seahorse.co.uk

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