€600k boost breezes into harbour town

The economy of a Cork harbour town is to get a boost of up to €600,000 thanks to a major regatta.

Details have been revealed of the four-day Covestone Asset Management Sovereign’s Cup 2013, which will be hosted by Kinsale Yacht Club (KYC).

Organisers expect over 140 boats from all over Ireland and Britain with about 800 sailors and racing fans to attend the 10th staging of the biennial cruiser yacht racing event, which takes place from Jun 26 to 29, and is expected to generate about €600,000 for the tourist town.

Kinsale Food Circle restaurants are now preparing to showcase the best of local produce.

With over a quarter of entries to date from Britain and current entry levels considerably up on two years ago, KYC is predicting a bumper year for the event.

Such is the level of interest that there are just 20 places left for the discounted “early bird” entry rate.

Regatta director Mike Walsh said organisers were delighted with the financial support provided by the title sponsors, independent investment managers Covestone Asset Management.

“Their support has help fund our new interactive web page which has been instrumental in attracting the large number of early entries,” he said.

“It is fantastic that Kinsale features high on sailors’ list of ‘must do’ events this year.”

The web page provides direct links to accommodation, restaurants and activities in Kinsale.

There are also special discounted rates with Irish Ferries for those travelling from the UK.

With the popular Dún Laoghaire to Dingle race and ICRA championships in Fenit, Co Kerry, taking place just before the Sovereign’s Cup, KYC has introduced a unique Triple Crown Trophy for the best performing IRC boat on all three events.

The Sovereign’s Cup was established in 1995 and this year marks the 10th staging of the popular cruiser regatta.

*www.sovereignscup.com