The countdown to Cork Week regatta, which is expected to generate some €10 million for the local economy, began in earnest yesterday with the arrival of Roy Disney's €10 million yacht, Pyewacket, to Crosshaven.
The yacht was specially transported across the Atlantic on a freighter for the highly-popular, week-long event. Pyewacket arrived into Cork Harbour yesterday morning, and was unloaded at Cobh. There she was reunited with her crew of 22 who had flown in from the US. They will renew rivalry with Morning Glory, owned by German industrialist Mr Hasso Plattner, during race week.
The two yachts, which are both 86ft long, have been racing in the Caribbean over the spring, with Morning Glory leading by 10 to two after three series. Mr Disney, who has a home at Kilbrittain, west Cork, is hoping that his yacht will emerge victorious in what he considers a home venue.
According to Cork Week event organiser Mr James McGrath, some 500 boats from 13 countries will compete in 19 categories. Another 25 boats will attend as "mother ships", providing accommodation and support for some of the competitors. The number of people competing in the six days of racing is estimated at 5,500.
"About 70 per cent of those who come to Cork Week are return visitors, with about 25 per cent or 30 per cent coming for the first time."
Cork Week is one of the world's biggest regattas. While Cowes in Britain has more boats, it is hosted by a number of clubs. Cork Week is hosted solely by the Royal Cork Yacht Club, which was founded in 1720 and is the oldest yacht club in the world.
Mr McGrath said the event had a reputation for being the friendliest regatta in the world. While the racing was highly competitive, competitors enjoyed the programme of events on the shore.
Cork Week runs from Saturday to July 16th, and is expected to attract up to 80,000 visitors. It is estimated to be worth around €10 million to the Cork Harbour economy, with accommodation booked out in Douglas, Rochestown and Monkstown.
