Line honours to HK for tradition and class (hktdc.com)


	Yachties from around the world love coming to Hong Kong for the chance to sail on its spectacular harbour

	Royal Hong Kong Commodore Inge Strompf-Jepsen says Hong Kong can’t be beaten in its ability to stage high quality international racing

Blue water sailors from around the world will converge on Hong Kong – the sailing hub of Asia – for the Inter-Club Commodores’ Forum, 21 – 26 May.

Hosted by the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club, the event is being held for the second year following last year’s inaugural forum in Vancouver, Canada. Commodores from sailing clubs in 15 countries have confirmed their attendance, including Monaco, the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, Australia, the UK, South Africa and various countries in Asia.

The forum comes soon after another prestigious sailing event, the China Sea Race, started in Hong Kong on April 13, its 27 entrants bound for the Philippines.

Club commodore Inge Strompf-Jepsen said international sailors were keen to come to Hong Kong, both for its strong sailing tradition and its spectacular harbour. The Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club (RHKYC) was established more than 150 years ago making it one of the oldest Clubs worldwide and the oldest in Asia, Ms Strompf-Jepsen explained. The long history of organising races and the experience gained has provided an infrastructure allowing for competitive race management on a very high and international level.

Tropical appeal

“Over the years the RHKYC has expanded its international regatta programme to encompass both local and long distance offshore races, typically starting in Hong Kong and finishing in a tropical destinations in the region, which appeals to many a cold climate sailor,” Ms Strompf-Jepsen said.

“Now that China has been added to the list of accessible countries for sailing, Hong Kong has become the natural port of call for yachts to undertake commissioning, repair and maintenance work before sailing off to a country where suitable facilities are yet to be developed. Furthermore, the RHKYC's open door policy for globetrotting sailors has become legendary resulting in more than 1,500 visitors a year.”

The club facilities and membership profile at RHKYC are unique, Ms Strompf-Jepsen continued. With 11,000 members, it is not only the largest in the world but probably the most international, with half of its members representing 40 different nationalities. “We maintain reciprocal rights with 128 yacht clubs globally and by arranging a Commodores Forum such as this, we hope to raise awareness about sailing issues, the RHKYC and also Hong Kong, Asia's world city, as a destination in itself. Through this global event, we look forward to fostering cultural exchange and sharing experiences in strengthening international ties, enhancing sailing and its role in the community, and promoting sail training and youth programmes.

Spectacular harbour

“Victoria Harbour is one of the most vibrant harbours in the world, and we are proud to have diverse on and offshore activities in Hong Kong. The forum taking place at the yacht club places the delegates at the heart of our exciting city, which many have heard of or are wanting to revisit. Hong Kong represents the East meets West philosophy whether it be cultural history, food or shopping. It’s also an excellent spring board to other destinations in Asia which the delegates and their spouses might like to take advantage of at the end of the Commodores’ Forum.”