Riding the waves The fifth Ko Samui Regatta is already making waves with several international teams and individuals confirming participation in this year's event slated May 21-27. A highlight of the Asian sailing circuit, the week-long extravaganza attracts leading sailors around the globe and is famous for fun-filled racing action and passionate partying. The main racing takes place over five days. The route is a mixture of "coastal passages" and "around the cans." The regatta is contested in five categories: racing, cruising, sports boats, multihulls and beach cats. The event culminates in a VIP gala dinner and awards ceremony at the Central Samui Beach Resort. Evening cocktail parties are held at various locations throughout the regatta. "In five short years the Ko Samui Regatta has made incredible progress and it is easy to see why it has become the highlight on the Asian sailing circuit," says Juthamas Siriwan, the governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand. The Gulf of Thailand is very much an "undiscovered" cruising area and Samui in particular lacks the developed boating facilities of the "established" yachting centres. But while the Samui might lack in these amenities the island more than makes up for them with the friendliness of the people, the magnificent cuisine and the stunning culture - not to mention some of the best sailing conditions anywhere in the world. As the competition evolves and grows it is encouraging to see that a relaxed and friendly format is still being maintained, with the emphasis on fun. It is also encouraging to see the efforts and extent that the organisers are striving towards, in promoting Samui as an international tourism and lifestyle destination. The regatta continues to generate an awareness that better boating facilities are needed and surely it is only a matter of time before the island has facilities to match its neighbours. This year's event will enjoy the first time Land Rover's sponsorship. This marks an exciting partnership which organisers hope will ensure the regatta will be a great experience for all. "With the involvement and support of our premium range of vehicles I am convinced we will help make this year's regatta the most impressive to date," says Richard Haigh, president of Land Rover Thailand. The regatta is a non-profit event, with the majority of the work required to run the event carried out by volunteers and part-time helpers. The concept is to end up with a small cash surplus at the end of the week that will then be donated to deserving local charities - health, welfare or educational projects. Ko Samui is Thailand's third largest island at 247 square kilometres. During the last decade the island has become one of Southeast Asia's top five most visited tourist destinations. The neighbouring islands of Ko Phangan, Ko Tao and the breathtaking Ang Thong National Marine Park offer visitors a wide range of activities such as sailing, scuba diving, snorkelling and adventure excursions. Along with the island's established infrastructure, including educational and medical facilities, a wide choice of shopping brands, exquisite dining venues, and beautiful white sandy beaches, Ko Samui stands out as one of the jewels in Thailand's illustrious crown. |