The prestigious Dragon Gold Cup returns to Torquay and Yanmar confirms Title Sponsorship of Dragon Gold Cup 2023

Published on: 24/08/2023

•         Yanmar confirmed as title sponsor of the Dragon Gold Cup 2023.
•         Entry list hits 50 boats with teams from 15 nations.
•         Big names line up to challenge for the historic trophy.
•         Social programme announced.
•         Entry open until Monday 28 August.

The Royal Torbay Yacht Club, International Dragon Association and the Clyde Yacht Clubs Association are delighted to announce that Yanmar will be the title sponsor of the 2023 Dragon Gold Cup, to be held in Torquay from 7 to 16 September. Yanmar is a long-standing partner of the International Dragon Class, and this new agreement continues the successful link between the two organisations.

50 teams from 15 nations and 4 continents have signed up. The entry list includes many of the fleet’s biggest names including the reigning World Champion Wolf Waschkuhn. Three-time Dragon World Champion (helm in 2019 and 2017 and crew in 2013) Andy Beadsworth and 2011 World Champion Lawrie Smith will both also challenge. Smith won the Gold Cup in 2011, but for Waschkuhn and Beadsworth this would be a first.

Stephan Link would also like to add his name to the trophy for a second time having first won it in 2017, as would Pedro Andrade who won the Gold Cup in 2019 and the Dragon European Championship in 2017.

The Dragon Gold Cup has a very traditional format, with a single long windward/leeward race scheduled each day for six days. There is no discarded result in the series meaning that all races count, putting the emphasis on good boat preparation and a consistent performance, which makes it exceptionally challenging to win. Ashore the après sailing fun is as high up the agenda as the racing. Competitors are encouraged to bring family and friends and indeed many of the teams will be family crews.

Yanmar’s generous support will enable an enhanced social programme that will include an Opening Ceremony and Welcome Reception, daily post racing hospitality, a Gala Dinner and a Prize Giving evening. Torquay on the English Riviera is a delightful holiday destination with beautiful beaches, rolling countryside, a wide range of local attractions, plus cafes, bars, and restaurants aplenty. There is ample accommodation at a variety of levels and logistics are straight forward, both for those travelling across the UK and international visitors.

For further information on both events contact Bob Penfold events@rtyc.org or visit the event website DRAGON GOLD CUP 2023.

If you're visiting Southampton Boat Show 15-24 September, you can find the Yanmar team on Stand E069.

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