Dear Islanders,
Firstly it is my pleasure to announce the result of last month’s competition to win a free foursome round on the brand new Alcanada golf club course in Alcudia.taraah.and the winner is.. superyacht chef, Herve Gral. Congratulations and thanks to the many people who took the time to enter.
Well, now we know where the Americas Cup will be staged but will we ever know why Mallorca was eliminated so abruptly?
It appears that representatives of the organisers were at last July’s Trofeo S.M. La Reina organised by Valencia’s Real Club Nautico and came away, "impressed with the organisation and local enthusiasm for sailing".
The organisers also have referred to the relatively constant Valencia wind conditions from April to October which hopefully will minimise the risk of cancelled races that were the bane of the recent competitions in San Diego and Aukland.
The race courses will be relatively close to the coast off Valencia, which is quoted as having the double advantage of less distance for the competitors to get to the start and the fact that the public will be able to watch the races from the shore.
The whole of the coastline around Valencia will benefit and it is estimated that the event will inject 1.3 billion Euros into the economy whilst generating around 10,000 extra jobs.
In a straw poll of some local companies, although obviously disappointed that the cup won’t be on our doorstep, the choice of Valencia is considered a very good second choice.
Valencia is very close and it’s expected to bring many large yachts from all parts of the world, some of which would not normally come into this part of the Med.
It was never considered that the 15 or so racing syndicates would make too much difference to the marine business (as opposed to the accommodation and bar/ restaurant sector) because they bring their own spares and personnel,
It is the larger ´supporter and spectator´ yachts, which might generate extra business.
Let’s hope we’re close enough to the table to pick up some crumbs!
We’ve got plenty of feedback in the form of letters this month.
As I’ve always stated, this is you mag; if you’ve got anything to say, this is the place to get it off your chest.
I would draw particular attention to Chrisopher Sardo´s on page 10.
I’ve spoken with him and he says he’s determined to make a real difference to attitudes and working practices in Palma’s boatyard but needs your help- I urge all skippers, managers and owners to get hold of one of his questionnaires and give him some feedback as suggestions and/or criticisms. He’d also like to hear from like-minded service and supply companies. With the Am. Cup coming up now’s the time to improve Palma’s image.
In closing may I wish you all a very merry Christmas followed by a healthy and wealthy 2004.
John Rule