At a launch ceremony in Qatar today, three of the world's leading offshore skippers - Loick Peyron, Tony Bullimore and Olivier de Kersauson - announced that they will be contesting the first QISE-organised event, along with the maxi-cat 'Qatar 2006', the identity of whose skipper is still to be confirmed.
Oryx Quest 2005 is a race for Maxi multi-hulls – the biggest and fastest racing yachts in the world. The financial support provided by HSBC, in partnership with the Gulf State of Qatar, has enabled the event to attract some of the highest-profile boats and skippers in sailing to join battle on the start line in Doha on February 5, 2005.
The competitors will be making history in the first major international sailing event starting and finishing in the Arabian Gulf.
“I am thrilled that HSBC has chosen to back this exciting adventure," said Tracy Edwards, CEO of Quest International Sports Events (QISE). "With partners of this calibre and credibility, we always knew that we would attract the skippers and boats to make this a truly fantastic race. Now we have shown everyone that this is a reality, I can't wait for the start in February."
“This event struck us as crisp, modern and dynamic,” said Robert Gray, chairman of HSBC Financial Services Middle East.
