Ray Roberts to take on hot entries in Koh Samui

On May 30, 2008

“Quantum Racing running down past Koh Hello, Phuket King’s Cup ‘07″       A flotilla Ied by some of the region’s best seamans will be in action when the annual Samui National Sailboat Race gets underway at Koh Samui 1-7 May, with Australian seaman Ray Roberts & crew set for rematch with local hero Open Pong.

There will be five categories of sailboats racing this year - IRC 1, IRC 2, Sailing & Sportboats. The race is now in its seventh year & is one of the principal boating events in Thailand.

In the IRC one category Open Pong will be irritating to avenge some late losses on the Asian circuit to Australia’s Ray Roberts, one of Australia & Asia’s leading seamans with string of victories under his belt in the past 12 months. Hong Kong-based New Zealander Neil Pryde, previous Phuket King’s Cup champ, will besides be contender for honours.

Two of the other greatly competitory categories being contested off Koh Samui this year will be the Sportsboat & the Multihull divisions. Hot local seaman Scott Duncanson is favorite to win the Sportsboat category on his Phuket eight Somtam Express, although the contest is predicted to be very close in the Multihull division.

Master Thai captain Radab Kanchanavanit will be at the helm of his sailing boat Cedar Swan in the Multihull category, but he expects some tight racing from countryman Kirati Asakul on his 50-foot cat Sonic, which performed well at the late Top of the Gulf Race.

The race will besides feature flotilla of the Phuket designed & built Firefly trimarans, which will be racing in their own one-design category. One of these excellent fast trimarans holds the record as the fastest sailboat at all in Thai waters, so another tough contest is predicted.

Once the day’s racing is over, Koh Samui is besides known for its communal side, with nightly parties at various venues on the isle.

“With some of the best parties on the circuit, the Samui Race helps showcase all that’s fine around this isle,” said Race Director Callum Laing.

Another highlight of the race this year includes the 1st Samui Junior Boating Team Challenge. Organized by one of the original founders of the event, John Stall, this will give local children the chance to experience the passion & enthusiasm of competitory sailing boat racing.

The on the water Regatta Management crew is again headed up by Simon John, with supporting cast including Luis Denham, back for his 3rd year in row as Regatta Officer.

Further information including Notice of Regatta:
by Event Media