One of the East Coast's major yachting events, which has built an international reputation during its eleven year history, has announced that the Haven Gateway Partnership will continue as its title sponsor for 2009 and 2010.

The Felixstowe Regatta, formerly the Port of Felixstowe International Regatta, will take place from 10 to 12 July 2009 in the waters off Felixstowe and Harwich, and is expected to attract entries from around the UK and from Europe, including yachts from Holland, Belgium and France. In addition the Regatta will be hosting the 2009 IRC East Coast Championships.

In previous years the Regatta was held over May Bank Holiday weekend, but following several years of unfortunate weather, and clashes with other well attended Regattas, the organising committee have taken the decision to move the event to the summer.

David Ralph, chief executive of the Haven Gateway Partnership, said:

"The Haven Gateway Partnership is very pleased to continue supporting the Felixstowe Regatta for another two years, and to continue to support local business growth. The marine leisure industry in the Haven Gateway sub-region is the second largest area for yachting in the UK, with over 10,000 berths and moorings.  The 260 marine businesses in this area contribute over £55m per year to the local economy." 

Nigel Mower, chairman of the Felixstowe Regatta Organising Committee commented: "We are delighted to have secured the Haven Gateway Partnership as title sponsors for the next two years. There can be only one objective for an event such as this regatta, and that is to see as many boats and people on the water as possible, competing hard and enjoying the racing in the fantastic sailing area we have around here".

In addition to the racing, there is also an extensive social programme attached to the Regatta, with food, drink, and live entertainment in the evenings.

The Felixstowe Regatta is being organised voluntarily on a not-for-profit basis by representatives from five local yacht clubs: Haven Ports Yacht Club, Royal Harwich Yacht Club, Walton & Frinton Yacht Club, Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club, and Waldringfield Sailing Club.