City reputations are on the line this weekend as some of the capital’s leading legal, accounting, media and banking institutions prepare to battle it out at London’s Royal Victoria Docks for the coveted BMW City Challenge sailing title.

The finals will take place on Saturday, 29 September, with a total of 10 teams still in contention to lift the trophy and with it a unique BMW driving experience at the world-renowned Nürburgring race-circuit in Germany, for each of the crew.

Since its launch last year, the BMW City Challenge has proved popular with City workers, who have enjoyed competitive fleet racing on their doorstep after work, throughout the summer months see previous news story here. This year a total of 32 teams have been competing in four separate heats, which have each been staged over five evenings. Crews of amateur sailors compete in identical Beneteau First Class 8s under the experienced guidance of joint event organisers the Royal Thames Yacht Club and Berkeley Marine.

Places in the final have already been secured by the four heat winners: NIR Capital, Ernst & Young, Accenture and defending champions, the aptly named ‘A&Eau’ from leading law firm Allen & Overy LLP. Six additional teams made up of the next best finishers, including IPC Media, will compete in the semi-finals for the four remaining places, which are also scheduled to take place on Saturday.

Peter Walker, General Manager, Sports Marketing, BMW (UK) Ltd commented: “After the success of the inaugural event last year, we’re delighted that more teams have been able to compete in the BMW City Challenge. The series offers regular, competitive racing at a convenient location along with some good networking opportunities. Our thanks to all those who have taken part and we look forward to crowning this year’s winners after what promises to be an exciting climax to the series on Saturday.”

The semi-finals will begin at 1200 followed by the final, contested over five races, at 1430 and a prizegiving presentation at 1800.

Spectators wishing to attend, are requested to contact Julia Mackay, at julia.mackay@berkeleymarine.co.uk.