The Media Cup

Launching an annual industry regatta

The Media Cup is a challenging yacht racing event that relies on a combination of skill, tactics and teamwork for a successful sail.

Open to novices and experienced crewmembers from the broad range of media companies and agencies, including, advertising, design, television, production, press and magazine, to enjoy a thrilling and rewarding sail.

Benefits of participating in an industry regatta

Whether it is a wonderful client hospitality, a teambuilding activity, or a staff reward, this is an excellent opportunity for forging a greater camaraderie between staff members and/or clients. All crewmembers can become part of a team that develops collectively in spirit and skill.

How the event works

The Media Cup contest takes place in the Solent, aboard the high performance First 40.7 yachts.

The event comprises of three fleet races over the course of a day. Each entry will put together a team of eight guests to battle it out in these fast and furious races.Having run a successful campaign on the water, the victorious teams, those who have the greatest overall margin will become the Media Cup Champions.

Following on from this, there will be the Media Cup Dinner, Prize Giving and Charity Auction at an exclusive Yacht Club in Cowes. On Sunday, competitors can participate in an organised race or take a leisurely cruise around the Solent.

Race training

With our professional skippers and deck hands on board, an initial period is set aside for the yacht familiarisation and safety procedures.

During the preliminary race training session you will practice and learn all aspects of performance sailing, race tactics and boat ‘set up.’ This will allow the teams to safely prepare for the regatta, to become familiar with sailing onboard the First 40.7's and start building their team spirit.

Entry costs

The Media Cup package is available at £3,995 + VAT per yacht (£250 per person per day) and includes:

• Charter of a First 40.7 yacht for Saturday 4th October and Sunday 5th October 2008, with a maximum crew of eight
• Accommodation on board the yacht for eight guests, available for the evening prior to the event - at no additional cost
• A professional skipper and deck hand on board
• Boat branding - each company logo prominently displayed on their yacht
• Use of Kevlar racing sails and spinnakers
• All mooring fees in Hamble and Cowes
• All races are supervised by a professional race officer and a safety/committee boat
• Full regatta support
• Media Cup Dinner, Prize Giving and Charity Auction at an exclusive Yacht Club that includes a three course meal and wine
• Packed lunch and refreshments aboard yacht
• Wet weather gear
• Race Insurance

Sponsors & charity auction

The Media Cup sponsors have generously donated various luxury prizes to be auctioned at the Prize Giving. You can bid for a Corum Swiss Timepiece Watch or a night's stay at the Dorchester Hotel, London. All proceeds will go the Ellen MacArthur Trust, which provides support for children with Leukaemia.

Let the games begin and may the best company win!