Governor Lincoln D. Chafee signed last November Executive Order 13-07, which established the Rhode Island Sailing Events Commission. The Commission is charged primarily with identifying and attracting more internationally recognized sailing and marine events to the Ocean State, which has a long history of sailing and a worldwide reputation as a premiere venue for marine and boating events. It will also advise the Governor on the feasibility of using Fort Adams State Park as a venue for selecting and serving U.S. Olympic sailors.
"Rhode Island is home to some of the best boat designers and builders in the world. We've hosted world-class racing events such as the America's Cup, and we'll host the Volvo Ocean Race in 2015. Key infrastructure improvements have provided critical support for championship sailing and enhanced large-scale marine events in the state," Governor Chafee said. "Through the Commission, we now have an opportunity to capitalize on our place as a leading international sailing and marine destination to continue to attract the most prestigious and biggest events to our waters."
"With the appointment of this Commission, Rhode Island will draw on the expertise of accomplished leaders in the sailing, marine trades, tourism and economic development fields as well as representatives from the public sector and our business community to attract and support top sailing and marine events in Rhode Island," said Michael Keyworth, Commission Chairperson and Vice President and General Manager of the Brewer Cove Haven Marina. "With Rhode Island's rich sailing tradition, proven track record of hosting some of the world's top events, and our commitment to improving our facilities, we are poised to continue to be a venue of choice for the best and fastest events in the sport of sailing for decades to come."
For more information please email sailingevents@commerceri.com.