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Photo by Shannon Hibberd[/caption]
The rumors of the end of Key West Race Week have been floating around since 2009, when the recession hit hard on the sailing industry and cut the regatta in half. But for sailors who make the hike down to the Conch Republic, it was hard to read too much into those rumors since Premiere Racing did such an incredible job managing the world-class event. So when Premiere Racing made their unfortunate announcement March 1, we were heartbroken, but not shocked. In an announcement, Premiere Racing said:
After hosting Key West Race Week for 21 years, the 2015 event was the final edition for Premiere Racing, which was founded in 1996 to provide sailing event management, consulting and race management.
“There is no single reason for Premiere Racing stepping aside – it really is a combination of issues and circumstances, both personal and professional,” said Craig.
"Despite a number of major adjustments on our part and recent support and involvement from Quantum Sails and their backers, the business model had become marginal,” explained Craig. “We were thankful to Quantum and their backers for stepping up to fill the important role of title sponsor. It was gratifying to know the fundamental reason for doing so was the continuation of Key West Race Week."
We reached out to Quantum Sails to see where they stood for the continuation of Race Week, and they expressed cautious optimism and genuine enthusiasm when it comes to the regatta.
Ed Reynolds, President of Quantum Sail Design group, says Quantum Sails has enjoyed its affiliation with Key West Race Week for the past four years. “It’s an important event in North America and we are cautiously optimistic that it will continue under new leadership and with support from the sailing industry. We certainly will be happy to look at any sponsorship proposals that come our way.”
We have total confidence in Quantum, and that we'll see everyone in Key West next January. Viva la regatta!
