23 May 2008
Kleinwort Benson, recently voted Best Private Bank 2008 [1] , is proud to announce that it will sponsor the Kleinwort Benson Yacht Challenge for the tenth consecutive year. The prestigious race will start in Guernsey on 28 June 2008.
The competition which was first held in 1964 is open to all yacht owners who are members of a National Associated Yacht Club. Every year the course of the race alternates, beginning in
Guernsey and ending in Jersey in even numbered years and vice versa in odd numbered years.
There are two handicap classes in the race – the International Racing Certificate system and the Kleinwort Bensonhandicap system. Numerous trophies and prizes will be awarded to the winners of the various categories including long keel, family crewed, young skipper (under 25y), bilge keel, multihull, Melges 24 and Beneteau yachts.
There will also be aKleinwort Benson Team Trophy – teams of three yachts from any club affiliated to any National Authority can compete for the prize.
This year’s race from
Guernsey to Jersey starts at the Little Russell at 0830 on Saturday 28 June, and the organisers expect more than 120 yachts to participate. Given fair winds, the majority will have crossed the finish line off St Helierby mid afternoon.
To celebrate the occasion and mark the fact that Kleinwort Benson has been present in the Channel Islands for 45 years, there will be an after race party with a sixties theme in a marquee at the St Helier Yacht Club. Prizes and trophies will be awarded at the party.
Rob Taylor, Kleinwort Benson CEO commented "Last year’s Yacht Challenge was fiercely contested and this year promises to be no different. This is a very prestigious race, and we are pleased to be sponsoring it for the tenth year alongside our celebrations that mark our participation in the business community in the Channel Islands for the past 45 years."
Race entry and party ticket application forms will be available from Guernsey and St Helier Yacht Clubs from May.
Press enquiries: Rachel Butler +44 20 3207 7239
[1]
Voted Best Private Bank at the inaugural FT and Investors Chronicle Wealth Management Awards