This year’s regatta takes place from 6 -13 August and will once again bring the Solent alive with spectacular backdrops and challenging racing for the diverse 1,000-boat fleet. As usual, the event celebrates the old and the new, and this year also marks the latest chapter in the event’s evolution – with a number of new sponsors signing up to support the regatta.

A new title for Cowes Week
CWL is delighted to be working with Aberdeen Asset Management as the new title sponsor of the event. This is a particularly positive development given the continued tough economic climate and means that CWL has been able to make a welcome reduction in entry fees.

Celebrating the Centenary of the XOD Class
2011 marks the Centenary of the first race of the XOD Class which, for many years, has been the largest class to race at Cowes Week. The regatta is the natural host for the Class’ Centenary celebrations and plans for the occasion include a special Centenary class dinner. Over 100 boats from the class are expected to race in this very special year.

New supporting sponsors join the growing family
BOSS Watches is the Official Watch of Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week and will be showcasing their range of watches throughout the event.

Iconic American nautical brand Sperry Top-Sider has joined as the event’s official footwear sponsor. Expanding the brand in international markets is an important part of Sperry’s growth strategy, and sponsorship of Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week will provide the perfect springboard to drive brand awareness and showcase Sperry’s passion for the good life in, on and around the sea across Europe.

CWL is also pleased to welcome back TALISKER®, The Single Malt Scotch Whisky-Made by the Sea, as the official whisky sponsor in 2011. TALISKER’s plans for the event include the first ever Sail-In Cinema for Cowes!

Toe in the Water confirmed as the official event charity
Toe in the Water is the nominated charity for Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week in 2011. The charity uses sailing as an integral part of the rehabilitation for injured servicemen, and this new relationship will provide the charity with a platform to promote its outstanding work.

New Classes
Many of the biggest, fastest and most glamorous boats in the world will be taking part in Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week as they use the event to prepare for the Rolex Fastnet Race. Racing will be held for IRC big boats between 18.2m and 30.5m LOA with a TCC of greater than 1.4 from Tuesday 9 to Thursday 11 August. Racing on these days will also be held for the exciting Class 40 boats.

In addition, cruisers rated under the Island Sailing Club Rating System (ISCRS) will also be able to race throughout the whole week as a result of a number of requests from owners.

Full details of the classes for Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week 2011 can be found in the Notice of Regatta. The early bird discounted entry fee ends at 17:00 on Monday 13 June. For more, please visit www.aamcowesweek.co.uk.

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