COMUNICATI STAMPA

Porto Cervo, 11 July 2000 Record participation expected at the Swan Cup 2000 in August

An unprecedented level of interest amongst Swan owners for the Swan Cup 2000, to be hosted by the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda between 27th August and 2nd September, has forced the normal entry limit to be increased from 75 boats to allow over 100 boats to participate.

With this significantly larger fleet size, logistical changes have had to be made this year. As Porto Cervo Marina is not able to host more than 75 boats, Poltu Quatu Marina will take the remainder of the Swan fleet. Both marinas being equidistant from the start area and both hosting regatta offices and social functions.

"We have been overwhelmed by the popularity of the Swan Cup 2000, and so, after much debate with the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, together we have decided that all owners who wished to participate should be given the opportunity to do so", commented organiser Enrico Chieffi.

With Swans ranging in length from 36 to 82 feet, and featuring the first racing appearance of Nautor's Swan 82RS, the fleet will be divided into four classes all using the Nautor Swan Racing (NSR) handicap system, a system which continues to prove successful in equalising the fleet's varied performance. Racing will take place over five days on a variety of course configurations including several buoy races coupled with the longer coastal races around the Maddalena Islands.

Swan owners, their guests and crew are once again in for a great week. Not only will they be treated to the changeable weather and sea conditions set against the spectacular rocky backdrop of the Costa Smeralda on Sardinia's North East Coast whilst racing, but they will enjoy a varied and fun social programme ashore after racing each day. Each entry will ultimately be aiming to win the prestigious Swan Cup.

Nautor's Swan has been joined by numerous partners for this event including, Deutsche Bank Private Banking, Telecom Italia, Bvlgari, Champagne Pommery, SanPellegrino and Peroni, evidence of the enormous interest the Swan Cup 2000 has aroused.