Volvo to sponsor India International Regatta

Automotive and engineering firm Volvo, has been signed on as the exclusive corporate sponsor of India International Regatta, scheduled at Chennai from 1 -8 November 2009.

Volvo Buses and Volvo Penta, on behalf of the Volvo Group in India, concluded this understanding today with Yachting Association of India, the governing body for the sport of sailing in India, which is traditionally headed by the Chief of Naval Staff, Indian Navy since its formation in 1959.

 The regatta, commnecing from Chennai, is expected to see more than 150 sailors from across the world racing in the Optimist and the 29er class of boats, which have been recently procured with the assistance of the union ministry of youth affairs and sports.

Commenting on the deal, Volvo's marketing head Sohanjeet Randhawa said, ''Volvo Buses, with a 100-bus order from Chennai City will soon be part of the city's development landscape. Volvo Penta on the other hand is one of the most preferred global brands in the boating industry and as well as in marine commercial and industrial segments.  On land, air or on sea Volvo seeks to create value in consonance with its core values of environment care, safety and quality''.

 The world's most followed and toughest ocean race is sponsored by Volvo and the yachts made a stopover at Kochi in December 2008, during its last regatta. The next Volvo Ocean Race is scheduled to start from Alicante, Spain in mid /end 2011.

 Shankar Narayanan, managing director, Asia Growth Capital, Carlyle Group and chairman fund raising and publicity committee of the Yachting Association of India said, ''It is our privilege to have one of the world's leaders join hands with us. I am confident that together we will create a wonderful experience for the sailing enthusiasts and help make this event even bigger in the days to come.''

On the strength of the support from sponsors, the organisers have reduced the entry fee and boat charter charges for the event. Limited charter boats are available and will be offered on first cum first served basis.