ISAF Centenary – 2007

Dana Dvořáková | 24.03.2006

Estoril Wins Bid To Host International Sailing Federation Centenary Celebrations
The City of Estoril in Portugal has won the bid to host the ISAF ‘Sail the World Festival’ and ‘Sailor of the Century Awards’ on 1–2 September 2007 marking the highlight of the ISAF Centenary celebrations.

Over 35 cities from around the world registered their interest with ISAF to host the 'Sail the World Festival' and 'Sailor of the Century Awards', and twenty of these cities from 12 countries proceeded to the bidding stage to act as Host City. Each of the cities demonstrated the expertise necessary to host an event of this calibre, whilst also proposing extended initiatives and programmes, embracing the cultural, social and educational aspects of sailing.

After a rigorous selection process Estoril made it through to the final stage to be selected as the host city. The bid from Estoril demonstrated a commitment to partner with ISAF to deliver the vision for the ISAF Centenary Celebrations that far exceeded all others.

2007 marks an historic year for the sport and the planned celebrations will provide a global platform to promote sailing.

In congratulating Estoril, Göran Petersson, ISAF President said, “Estoril and Cascais have an excellent reputation in hosting outstanding events, not just for sailing, but across many sports and industries. Their commitment to the ISAF Centenary and the celebrations to be hosted in Estoril on 1-2 September will provide a unique focus on sailing and the region.

“2007 is a landmark for ISAF and sailing and will provide an exceptional platform to showcase sailing to the world. I have no doubt that the waters of Cascais Bay and the onshore venues will prove outstanding, ensuring we celebrate 100 years of ISAF and the sport of sailing with a truly memorable event, which will provide a legacy for the future of our sport.”

The Mayor of Cascais Municipality, Mr António d`Orey Capcuho, responded with considerable satisfaction and said, “This victory is recognition of the great potential of Estoril as an exceptional destination, as recently confirmed by the Valencia Summit International Award, which was presented to Estoril for its integrated policy to host international sports events which in turn have developed the city and region.

“Following the selection to host the 2007 ISAF World Sailing Championships, which will take place in June-July 2007, this region assumes its place as an international sailing capital, confirming Portugal’s nautical traditions. Estoril is totally committed to guarantee that ISAF’s Centenary celebrations will be a unique and excellent event, honouring the trust given to us.”

The ISAF Centenary Celebrations offer not only the opportunity to celebrate the 100 year anniversary of ISAF, but also a unique opportunity to broaden and share the sport with many more people and maximize the promotional opportunities.

Estoril is hosting the ‘Sail the World Festival’ as the climax of a ten-week Summer celebration within the municipality of Cascais, involving sailing, other sports events and cultural festivities, which get underway with the Opening Ceremony of the 2007 ISAF Sailing World Championships on 28 June 2007 in Cascais.

The two day ‘Sail the World Festival’ will celebrate sailing and honour the people and places of historic and current importance to the sport, whilst increasing interest and participation in the sport.

The ‘Sailor of the Century Awards’ will pay tribute to the sport’s outstanding athletes across a number of categories, including Olympic sailing, the America’s Cup, offshore sailing, record breaking achievements and outstanding contributions to the sport. Daytime activities will include a legends’ re-match, celebrity match racing, a youth camp and beach festival.

In partnership with Member National Authorities, Classes and clubs, a key focus on 1-2 September will be to have as many people out sailing on the water as possible around the globe.

Above all, the ISAF Centenary will set out to communicate the spirit of the sport worldwide and, in the process, educate and inspire more people to participate in and enjoy sailing.

Further information:

ISAF
Luissa Smith, Director of Communications
Tel:+44 23 80 635111 Fax:+44 23 80 635789
Email: secretariat@isaf.co.uk
www.sailing.org

Estoril
Joăo Pedro Amaral, Assistant Advisor of the Mayor
Cascais Municipality
Tel:+35 1 21 4643253 Fax:+35 1 21 4643279
Email: joao.amaral@cm-cascais.pt
www.cm-cascais.pt