CYCA welcomes new sponsor for SOP series
The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia is pleased to announce Grant Thornton as its new sponsor for the CYCA Short Haul and Short Ocean Pointscore Series.
The Grant Thornton Short Haul and Short Ocean Pointscore Series are an integral part of the CYCA's Summer Sailing Program. Conducted from September to March, these series are comprised of 26 races and see fleets of up to 60 yachts taking to the harbour in each race of the series.
The Grant Thornton Short Ocean Pointscore Series consists of 11 races (including the Australia Day Regatta) which are sailed off Sydney Heads. Each race is approx. 15nm in length and yachts race in IRC and PHS handicap categories.
The Grant Thornton Short Haul Series is a non-spinnaker series that comprises of 15 races (including 5 passage races). The majority of races are sailed off Sydney Heads with some races conducted in the Harbour and at night. In 2008, there will be two Sydney to Pittwater races, due to popular demand.
'We consider that Grant Thornton's association with Australia's premier yacht club is integrally linked with our position as one of the world's leading organisations of independently owned and managed accounting and consulting firms,' said Grant Thornton Sydney CEO, Mark Bisset.
'Many of our clients, contacts and staff sail, and have had an informal association with the CYCA. Additionally Grant Thornton has been involved with CYCA members through the sponsorship of various yachts over the past 12 years, so we know the Club well and are privileged to be associated with its future.' added Bisset.
'The CYCA Summer Series is a key part of the Sailing program and attracts many sailors who prefer the challenge of short haul and competitive harbour racing. I welcome Grant Thornton as a sponsor to the CYCA and their continued involvement in the sport of sailing,' said CYCA Commodore Matt Allen.
'In 2007 the format of the Short Haul and Short Ocean Pointscore Series' was successfully updated and with Grant Thornton's support adding new impetus we hope to increase participation further over the next two years', added Allen.
The Grant Thornton Short Haul Series will commence on Sunday 21 September with the Monica Geddes Memorial Trophy, and concludes on 14 March 2009.
The Grant Thornton Short Ocean Pointscore Series will commence on Saturday 4 October with the 41st Rubber Kellaway Plate, and concludes on 14 March 2009.
Entry Forms for the series are available from the CYCA Sailing Office or online at www.cyca.com.auunder 'Sailing' from August.
www.cyca.com.au
by Jennifer Crooks 
