Superyacht UK secretary’s Pendennis Cup report

Arriving at the Team’s marquee at 9.30am, I was met by Chloe who efficiently dealt with the health and safety details, then presented me with a lovely polo shirt and Red Pendennis cap, both worn with pride. The significance of the red hat became apparent later….

The yachts had left the pontoons, now it was our turn to head to the marks. Trevor and Tristan saw us on board & then we were off, in the calmest conditions imaginable!

Whilst waiting for the committee boat to make the decision to race we were kept entertained by Tristan, explaining about the yachts and the local area. S/Y Christopher’s crew added a bit of excitement with water bombs, catapulted from the deck.  After a tasty lunch, enough wind finally arrived, allowing the race to start.  The sun had come out and we all enjoyed watching the fabulous yachts racing against the backdrop of the beautiful Cornish coastline.  The Captain of the spectator boat always ensured we were in a good spot to be part of the action, allowing us to take great photographs.

Seeing the yachts from the water, doing what they are designed for is an amazing sight. The winners overall were: Velacarina and Cerinthe who won the Little Dennis Cup.

Once the racing was over, the yachts joined the many others, of all shapes and sizes that were gathering at Gyllyngvase Beach.  The cliff walks and beach were crammed with people all waiting for the first sight of the Red Arrows. The Pendennis Team had arranged for Red 10’s commentary to be relayed to the yachts, we were soon enjoying the sight & sound of nine Hawk T1A’s putting on a fabulous display. At the end, hearing the horns sound in thanks made it rather emotional; my hat was also waving in thanks! Having been lucky enough to meet the pilots the night before at the meet and greet in Events Square made it all the more special.

Later that night we all got dressed up in our finest threads to toast the winners and celebrate what had been an extremely well organised event. Many thanks to the entire Pendennis Team.  I know so many people are involved from the Directors to the Apprentices, who made sure food was delivered to the yacht crews.  But my special thanks goes to Chloe, Beverly and Christine, who are always cool, calm and collected in the face of any adversity!

I am sure the yachts, crews and companies invited this year are looking forward to the 2016 Pendennis Cup. I can’t wait to see how you top this one, but feel sure you will.

Tracey Igoe

May 31st 2014