Held in every Olympic year only, the Sail for Gold Ball is the traditional rousing send-off for Britain’s Olympic and Paralympic-bound sailors, and the stage is set for a fitting celebration at the London Hilton on Park Lane on Wednesday 13 June 2012.
Considered the most significant social event in the Olympic and Paralympic classes sailing calendar, the Ball will bring together the sailors selected to compete for Team GB and ParalympicsGB in 2012, as well as some of Britain’s past sailing medallists and special guests from the worlds of commerce, politics, the arts and the media.
Funds raised from the Ball also help to support future generations of Skandia Team GBR sailors along the way to achieving their medal-winning ambitions.
At a reception for Ball sponsors and patrons held at the London Hilton this week (Tuesday 10 January), also attended by triple Olympic gold medallist Ben Ainslie, it was announced that the Sail for Gold Ball 2012 backed by Peter Harrison, a staunch supporter of British sailing.
Mr Harrison commented:
“I’m absolutely thrilled that the Olympics are in Great Britain in 2012.I have supported every Sail for Gold Ball since 2000 and so this is the fourth time, and I’m thrilled because our sailors have been some of the best performers and it’s a sport in which we do so fantastically well. Being in home waters this time I’m hoping will mean we do that little bit better.
“I’m absolutely sure the Games is going to be a wonderful experience for everybody, and I’m sure the Ball will once again be a wonderful occasion and celebration as we wish our sailors the very best of luck.”
Michael Shepherd, General Manager of the London Hilton on Park Lane where the Ball will be hosted, said:
“We are absolutely delighted that we have the opportunity of once again hosting the Sail for Gold Ball here at the London Hilton on Park Lane. The London Hilton has been supporting sailing and Team GBR for more than 20 years and we’re really delighted that we have an opportunity again in 2012 as London is hosting the Olympics here this year.
“I’m a keen sailor myself and all the team here at the London Hilton are so energised in being able to support not only the sailors, but also be part of what is going to be the greatest Games and the greatest party in the world.”
