28 February 2017 05:17 pm
The 2017 edition of the Dr. Nihal Jinasena Memorial Cup sailing regatta took place on 18th February. Supported by Sail Lanka Charter and sponsored and organised by Ruhunu Sailing Association (RCA) of Sri Lanka, the Yacht Association Sri Lanka (YASL) and, most importantly, Mrs. Nihal Jinasena, this successful race keeps the legacy of famed industrialist and enthusiastic sailor Dr. Nihal Jinasena alive and fulfils his vision encouraging the development of sailing in Sri Lanka as the sport is gaining more and more popularity on this beautiful island with long shorelines perfect for the sport.
A sunny day witnessed keen participants from The Royal Colombo Yacht Club, Ceylon Motor Yacht Club, Sri Lankan Navy and the RSA competing, with a total of 58 boats and 10 windsurfers, all competing for the first spot. The regatta was honored with the presence of the famous French TV station TF1 that filmed the race in the splendid blue waters of the Indian Ocean, for telecast for viewers back in France. Spectators and race enthusiasts were offered an opportunity to watch the race in comfort on Sail Lanka’s ‘Jade’ vessel, with an appetizing lunch served onboard. The prize-giving ceremony took place at the Naval Hotel Malima in Mirissa with the winners in different classes accepting their hard fought prizes. Last year’s edition of this regatta was a huge success, witnessing the participation of 35 boats from the optimist, enterprise, laser, GP14, Mini Bee classes, along with some breathtaking windsurfing.
Sail Lanka Charter is now offering 3-day and 6-day trips to Jaffna during which guests can enjoy an ideal combination of a relaxing traffic free holiday in full privacy on the beautiful ocean whilst, exploring beautiful the beachscapes and visiting the historic sites in the Jaffna region.
Sail Lanka Charter is spearheading the boating industry to achieve new milestones and is committed to grow with the Sri Lankan tourism industry as a brand new experience the country can offer. The company is committed to empowering Sri Lankan people and business while also putting Sri Lanka on the global yachting tourism map. Established in 2014 as part of the Sri Lanka Yachting Group, Sail Lanka Charter is enhancing local boat building skills as a tool to construct a bright future for young Sri Lankans as well as expanding the potential of the Sri Lankan tourism industry.