Fitting finale for world sailing championship

Richard Dwight

SAILING: It was most appropriate that a prestigious competition, as the World Enterprise Sailing Championship, held for the first time ever in Sri Lanka (in the Vicinity of the host hotel the 'Beach' in Negombo) - be ceremonially brought to a close in a manner befitting an occasion which, from the point of sailing in this country, was historic.

And so the Yachting Association of Sri Lanka under the presidency of Joseph Kenny, the platinum sponsor Sri Lanka Insurance and yet other sponsors, really turned it on last Saturday evening to bring down the curtain on the 2005 World's 'Enterprise' sailing championship, with its glittering presentation of awards, social and dinner, in the open air of the sandy beach of the host hotel.

This opportunity of meeting with guests, well wishers and friends, was most welcome to be refreshing. But more importantly it also served as a medium for the competing participants and the world body officials from the European Countries (mostly from Britain) India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka - to relax, unwind and mend from the gruelling rigours of sailing in competition in 10 races held within the 5 days preceding the awards 'nite'.

It must be mentioned that there were 90 sailors taking part in 45 boats - many of these boats were brought down by two containers and two frigates, that speaks much for the co-ordinating and administrative ability of the local body (YASL) in organizing and conducting this major event in a highly professional and successful manner.

In all, a gathering of 400 mingled in relaxed gaiety exchanging pleasantries and swopping stories, amidst the clinking of glasses and food in a congenial mood, made even brighter with lit torches and decorative jets, with the pleasing sounds of the Navy band and a fine display of fireworks, to make it ever so grand, to be memorable for our visitors from abroad.

It was heartening to observe the expressions of well being, sense of goodwill and spirit of camaraderie exhibited between the Pakistan and Indian contingents which augurs well for both countries.

Earlier on the awards 'Nite' was steered by compere Arun Dias Bandaranaike. Addresses were made by the chief guest the Ambassador for Netherlands Reynout Van Dijk, the chairman sailing committee Asitha Tennekoon and the president of YASL Joseph Kenny on whom revolved the entire operation.

Kenny stood grateful to all those who assisted him in making the event reach great heights. The winner of this championship Richard Estaugh of Great Britain also spoke.

The top ten in order:

1. Richard Estaugh (UK), 2. Mamoon Sadiq (Pak), 3. Zahid Rauf (Pak), 4. Jeremy Stephens (UK), 5. Naresh Yada (Ind), 6. Shane Mc. Carthy (Ireland), 7. John Woodward (UK), 8. R. Mahesh (Ind), 9. Sanjey Chouhan (Ind), 10. Amit Arbind (Ind).

These presentation of awards were staggered and made by ambassador Reynout Van Dijk and Director of Sri Lanka Insurance Isuru Tillakawardene.

There were yet other token awards, over 40 made by representatives of the other sponsors.

The President of the World Body, Johnny Johnston said that Sri Lanka has done well to live upto its reputation and be in line to host many more. Well might we say "all's well that ends well."