The Minister for the Marine, Mr Frank Fahey, today confirmed that the 2003 Admiral’s Cup will be held in Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin.
The prestigious yachting competition will be held at the south Dublin venue from Saturday, July 12th to Saturday, July 26th 2003.
Speaking at a press conference in London today, Mr Fahey, welcomed the Royal Ocean Racing Club’s (RORC) decision to stage the event in Ireland.
“I am delighted that the RORC has decided to run such a prestigious event as the Admiral’s Cup in Ireland,” he said.
“Dun Laoghaire in particular, with its new publicly funded marina facilities, has a great deal to offer.”
“Sailing in Ireland is a very popular sport with all sections of society participating.”
“The work of our Yacht Clubs and State support, in terms of facilities and encouragement of young people to enter the sport, will be further enhanced with the attention such a prestigious event as the Admiral’s Cup brings.”
It is the first time the event will be staged outside the United Kingdom and as many as 40 entries are expected.
Sponsorship details of the event will be announced this spring.