Twelve elite teams, eight host countries, three continents, and one coveted trophy. Mark your calendar, folks! Extreme Sailing Series is back for its eighth season, and the action kicks off right from the shores of sunny Singapore on 21 Feb 2014.
If you’re a fan of sailing or maybe even a budding skipper yourself, Extreme Sailing Series needs no introduction. For the rest of us though, sailboat racing is still a fresh, exciting sport that we’re learning to love. But you can ditch the notion of lacklustre action in the waters; Extreme Sailing Series has redefined the concept of sailing – it’s an incredibly action-packed spectator sport.
Make your way to the Race Village at The Promontory, Marina Bay, between 21 and 23 Feb 2014, and you’ll probably count yourself as one of the sport’s ardent fans after bearing witness to the electrifying races. Twelve international teams – including America’s Cup winners, Olympic heroes, and round-the-world champions like Sir Ben Ainslie, Leigh McMillan, Frank Cammas – will battle it out in a ‘stadium racing’ format (exciting short courses right in front of the spectator stand) to be crowned champion of Act 1.
If you’re interested in catching the rest of the series (travelling for sports is sooo hot right now), Act 2 kicks off in Muscat early March, then to China’s ‘Olympic Sailing City’ Qingdao in May. It’s Saint Petersburg next in June, Cardiff for the annual UK leg in August, and Istanbul in September for Act 6. The Mediterranean will be hosting the 7th Act, with a final dash in Sydney, which concludes the global race in December.
Before you get ahead of yourself, don’t forget to cheer on our home team – Team Aberdeen Singapore. Skippered by thrice round-the-world yachtsman Nick Maloney (psst…look out for our interview with Nick next week!), the rest of the team includes Team Great Britain Olympian Tom Dawson, experienced Aussie sailor Adam Beashel, and homeboys Scott Glen Sydney (armed with a SEA games bronze medal) and multiple Asian Games medallist Justin Wong.
So, head down to the Race Village during race weekend and take in all the live action with a tipple or two in hand (courtesy of No. 5 on Emerald Hill’s pop-up). You can also expect live music performances, thrilling Land Rover off-road experiences, and a chance to test your photography skills at the Canon camera booth. Don’t hesitate to make it a family affair; the littlies will be thoroughly entertained – if not by the race, the series of fun activities by Haribo will do the trick.
Win it!
Entry is free, but here’s a chance to walk away with a pair of VIP tickets for 22 Feb 2014! You (and your favourite plus one) will gain exclusive access to the VIP lounge aka Extreme Club from 11am to 9pm, where you can dine and be merry – you’ll even get to meet and mingle with the sailors after the race.
Simply pen your message of support (50 words and under) for Team Aberdeen Singapore in the comment section below (remember to tag your plus one). The most creative message, judged by yours truly, wins! We will announce the winner on Facebook Wednesday 19 Feb.
Images: Extreme Sailing Series