10,000 sailors and spectators to descend on Crosshaven for Volvo Cork Week

Wed, 24 Apr, 2024 - 11:06

Amy Power

ONE of the most anticipated events on the global sailing calendar, Volvo Cork Week, returns this July with an unprecedented number of entries expected.

Hosted in the Royal Cork Yacht Club and surrounds in Crosshaven, the biennial regatta which takes place this year from July 15-19, promises an exciting week for seasoned sailors and shoreside spectators alike.

The event was officially launched over the weekend by the first female admiral of the 304-year-old club, Annamarie Fegan.

“My ambition is to get more people on the water and Volvo Cork Week is an incredible showcase for the incredible sport of sailing,” she said.

Mark Whitaker, chairman Johnson and Perrott Motor Group, admiral Annamarie Fegan, Royal Cork Yacht Club, Alan Cowley, managing director Volvo Car Ireland, Ross Deasy, event chair of Volvo Cork Week 2024, Maria McInerney, Volvo Car Ireland and Gavin Deane GM of the Royal Cork Yacht Club pictured at the launch of Volvo Cork Week 2024. Photo: Chani Anderson

“We have pathways for all ages into sailing from young kids to teens and adults. Every boat needs a crew and we always welcome new people looking to get involved.”

More than 200 boats and 10,000 sailors and spectators will descend on the harbour town for this year’s Volvo Cork Week. Highlights of this year’s programme include the biggest ever Beaufort Cup, with entries from around the world including USA and Uruguay.

The renowned race for international uniformed service personnel encompasses a race around Fastnet Rock and back to Cork.

Other events include the Volvo Cork Week ladies’ day charity lunch in aid of Crosshaven RNLI on July 17 with special guests, and a family day on July 14 from 12-5pm.

Also at the launch event was Cork South-Central TD Simon Coveney.

“At the heart of Volvo Cork Week lies a tradition of excellence, with participants from across the globe vying for top honours in a series of exhilarating races,” he said. “But it’s more than that. It’s about a community coming together to celebrate a passion for sailing and our greatest natural asset, our harbour.”

Meanwhile, managing director of Volvo Car Ireland, Alan Cowley, said the company is “proud and delighted” to be associated with the prestigious event.

“We are looking forward to an exciting program in Crosshaven in July and welcoming sailors and visitors alike,” he added.