Funding boost for Classics

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A Falmouth classic boat event with a rich history will return this June with a bigger and better format, thanks in part to funding from Falmouth Town Council and a host of sponsors.

(L-R back): Falmouth Town manager Richard Gates, Town Mayor Geoffrey Evans, Henry Roberts and Walter Amos of the Falmouth Classics organising committee (L-R front) Roger Hollingsworth, Jamie Smith of Eight Wire
(L-R back): Falmouth Town manager Richard Gates, Town Mayor Geoffrey Evans, Henry Roberts and Walter Amos of the Falmouth Classics organising committee (L-R front) Roger Hollingsworth, Jamie Smith of Eight Wire

Traditionally run as a single-day event during its 64-year history, Falmouth Classics 2013 will instead offer three days of dedicated classic boat racing and associated social events between June 14 – 16.

This year’s event also sees a new link with the Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival, meaning there will be something to enjoy both on and off the water for people of all ages.

The expanded Falmouth Classics, previously held as part of Falmouth Week, is being driven by a group of volunteer sailing enthusiasts, under the banner of the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club’s events company, with a view to creating a landmark standalone sailing event for classic boat enthusiasts.

While the event has always been popular among sailors in the local area, it is hoped that the new-style Falmouth Classics will attract more boats from farther afield.

“It’s the right time for Falmouth Classics to take this step and become the event it’s always promised to become,” said Roger Hollingsworth, chairman of the Falmouth Classics organising committee.

“The demand is there, the desire is there and now, thanks to Falmouth Town Council and our generous sponsors, the funding is there to ensure we can provide the type of event we’ve been dreaming of.”

Falmouth Town Council has agreed to provide a grant of £1.7k towards the running of the three-day event, while contributions have also been received from sponsors including Hayes Parsons Marine, Ancasta International Boat Sales, Eight Wire and Mylor Yacht Harbour’s Marine Team.

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