The CYCA’s newest YSA Youth Sailing Acadmey (YSA) sponsor, Thai Airways International, christened their Elliott 6 at a launch ceremony held last week for invited guests and CYCA directors, staff and youth sailors.

“Thai Airways International is delighted to be supporting the YSA under Thai’s name and brand,” said Mr Korakot Chatasingha, Thai Airways’ general manager Australia.

“We fully support the development of the youth sailing and for young Australians to be enjoying beautiful Sydney Harbour and the healthy outdoor environment offered through the CYCA”.

Mr Chatasingha spoke at the launch about Thailand’s close affinity with Australia, the two countries sharing a close trading and political partnership.

“Australians love to visit Thailand with in excess of 660,000 passengers visiting every year and 40% of them are repeater to our key destinations such as Phuket and Samui Island.

“With a common interest in water sport for both countries, Thai Airways is willing to get involved with sailing activities in both places. Phuket hosts the famous Kings Cup Regatta in November each year and is visited by sailing enthusiasts from around the world, including CYCA members such as Ray Roberts.

“Thai welcomes all CYCA members to take up the opportunity to visit some time in the future to experience our unique Thai culture and experience their love of sailing in an alternative but equally beautiful environment,” added Mr Chatasingha.

Acknowledging Thai Airway’s generous support on behalf of the CYCA was Vice Commodore Garry Linacre who is also the chairman of the training and development committee which oversees the YSA.

Immediately following the launch, Korakot and his Thai Airways team went sailing with CYCA Rear Commodore Michael Cranitch on Broomstick, just making it ashore before a very windy and wet squall.

The Thai Airways Elliott 6 is one of ten about to be put through their paces when many of the world’s best women match racers meet in Sydney in less than two weeks time for the Harken Women’s International Match Racing Regatta to be hosted by the CYCA from 16 – 19 March. – Lisa Ratcliff