Most people realise that events today, particularly large events, need sponsorship, partners and supporters if they are to be successful and popular.
Companies and businesses select to support events either with finance or goods, often equipment, drinks or clothing. Some companies, often those known Worldwide, often state that for their assistance to the event , the company’s name is used in a title of the event.
After a break of several years since a title sponsor was in place this year’s Cowes Week is, once again, to have a title sponsor- namely North Sails Cowes Week.
North Sails is no stranger to Cowes. For a number of years they have been involved with the Royal Ocean Racing Club, offering sailing instruction at the RORCs Easter Training Regatta -The Easter Challenge. They will be supporting this year’s Round Britain and Ireland Yacht Race also organised by RORC and they have had a presence in other events based in Cowes over the years.
In 1957, North Sails founder Lowell North set out to make the best and fastest racing sails the World. He succeeded, and decades later, North Sails has grown into the World’s leading sailmaker, with seven wholly owned manufacturing sites in 6 countries, 2,000 people powering the global business, and tens of thousands of sails hoisted.
North Sails has been supporting competitors at Cowes Week for decades. Podium finishes across classes reflect the strength of their products and their regatta repair services, located in the heart of Cowes, has been integral to ensuring that all competitors can race hard.
Alongside the title sponsor, this year there are a number of official partners: Recently joining the list are local brands- Mermaid and Spinlock. Musto, Mount Gay, Sunsail, Bolney, Red Funnel and Nassau & Paradise Islands are also partners, each one adding something to make the regatta hold its special place in the Summer calendar.
Mermaid Gin will be familiar to most Island residents as well as to thousands across the UK and around the World. It is good to see an Island company as a partner. As part of the partnership, Mermaid will host the Mermaid Party at Shepards Marina on Monday evening. In honour of the Bicentenary, the first 200 Mermaid Gin and Tonics will be complimentary, celebrating the regatta’s remarkable milestone and bringing together sailors and spectators for one of the week’s must-attend social occasions.
Mermaid will also be making its mark at Cowes Week with a restored Citroën H-Van, transformed into a beautifully branded coastal bar experience. Stationed in Cowes Yacht Haven, the Mermaid van will provide a distinctive focal point for guests to discover and enjoy Mermaid throughout the event.
Spinlock Ltd, based in Cowes, is a leading British designer and manufacturer of high-performance marine equipment. This company is particularly known for its market-leading rope control systems, deck hardware, and award-winning Deckvest life jackets. All Spinlock products are designed, tested, and assembled in Cowes. Once again so good to see an Island company as a partner of the week.
Some of the other partners will need no introduction but let us look at others:
Mount Gay-A deed dating back to 1703 is proof of Mount Gay Rum’s heritage as the oldest Rum in the World. It is intrinsically tied to the sailing scene and the Red Cap Parties have been the cornerstone of some great events around the World over many years including Cowes where the social scene has always stood shoulder to shoulder with the sailing. Look out for Mount Gay events during the week-perhaps get a red cap!
Sunsail creates sailing holidays to some of the World’s most stunning cruising destinations. With over 50 years of experience as sailing specialists, they offer award-winning, reliable yachts, supported by a standardised fleet worldwide that guarantees quality and consistency wherever you sail.
For Cowes Week 200th year, Sunsail is proud to sponsor the Sunsail Crew Bar, creating opportunities for sailors and spectators to connect and celebrate. Visitors can also enjoy the dedicated Sunsail Beach Games area at Cowes Yacht Haven, featuring traditional games inspired by many of their holiday destinations.
Bolney’s wine estate is in the heart of rural Sussex and is one of England’s oldest vineyards. Bolney wines came to Cowes last year and are returning this year as official wine supplier. During Cowes Week, Bolney’s presence will be seen and enjoyed throughout the regatta, with its sparkling wines served at the prestigious Cowes Week Cocktail Party at the Royal Yacht Squadron, as well as across key hospitality venues.
