J80s sign title sponsor

Marine electronics firm to back world championships in July

The J/80 UK Class Association and the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club are delighted to announce that Silva Group, the marine electronics and outdoor equipment market leader, has signed to become title sponsor of the 2005 J/80 World Championship, to be hosted by the RCYC in Falmouth this summer.

The 2005 Silva J/80 World Championships will be a ten race series sailed in Falmouth bay between the 8th and 15th of July. Entries are already confirmed from the UK, France, the Netherlands, Sweden and the USA. Falmouth offers a superb sailing area, excellent transport links and a highly experienced race management team at the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club.

Jonas Magnér, Marketing Manager of Silva Group, reported that “Silva is delighted to be associated with such a prestigious event. Silva electronics and navigational equipment have been involved with J Boats and the wider racing scene for many years now, and it always gives us great pleasure to contribute to the long-term success of the sport.”

“We are thrilled to have established a relationship with an organisation of Silva’s calibre and proven commitment to our sport.” said Roger Hollingsworth, Chairman of the J/80 UK Class Association. “Sponsorship at this level will make a huge difference to this event. The benefits of the connection between our class and Silva will be felt by every competitor at the 2005 Silva J/80 World Championship.”

An impressive programme afloat and ashore has been planned for the week, where the involvement of Silva and the supporting sponsors will ensure the event’s ultimate success. Brittany Ferries has offered competitors from mainland Europe discounted fares and the National Maritime Museum will provide the venue for the Opening Ceremony. Thanks also go to a number of other sponsors including Sharps Brewery, J Gear, North Sails, A & P Falmouth, the South West England Regional Development Agency and Carrick District Council.

The J/80 is an 8 metre ISAF recognised keelboat sailed with a crew of between three and five people up to a maximum crew weight limit, and governed by strict one-design rules.

For more information and online entry at http://www.j80worlds2005.org/ or call Becci Eplett at the J/80 UK Class Association on 02380 455669.