The DRRA Announces The Historic Detroit Yacht Club As The Presenting Sponsor Through 2014
UPDATE: The DRRA Fundraiser at the DYC is Friday April 27, 2012

The Detroit Yacht Club, one of the oldest and most prestigious clubs in North America, has signed a contract to remain the Presenting Sponsor of the Detroit APBA Gold Cup Races for the next three years. The announcement was made by the Detroit River Regatta Association, host organization for the race and representatives from the DYC.

In its role as Presenting Sponsor, the Detroit Yacht Club will lead the fundraising efforts for the annual event held in July, including seeking businesses, individuals and clubs to serve as Title Sponsor or underwriters to help preserve one of the oldest, ongoing events in the city.

"The APBA Gold Cup Races are part of Detroit's history, as well as all of motorsports," said Dr. A.J. Telmos, Commodore, Detroit Yacht Club. "The DYC is honored to continue our support of this Detroit institution and encourages others to do the same."

The Gold Cup is the oldest active trophy in motorsports, with Detroit hosting the longest running, yearly hydroplane race. The race takes place on the Detroit International Water Speedway, an oval course on the Detroit River just north of the Belle Isle Bridge - considered the most famous powerboat racecourse in the world.

Although the Detroit Yacht Club's commitment is significant, race organizers emphasize more sponsors are needed in order to fund the costs of the event. As an example, in return for a Title Sponsorship commitment, the race would be named in their honor. Other levels of commitment and sponsorship opportunities are available and needed to ensure the event will remain viable. The Detroit River Regatta Association is a not-for-profit entity formed to organize and manage the event and is largely supported by volunteers.

"The 2012 races, set for July 13 - 15, are nine months away, yet we encourage sponsors to come forward now to help keep the tradition of hydroplane racing alive on the Detroit River," said Tom Bertolini, President, DRRA. "This is a great opportunity for sponsors to show their commitment to Detroit and the region and associate their name with a 107-year-old-tradition with great name recognition."

The APBA Gold Cup Races feature a "free Friday" with no admission charge. In addition to the unlimited hydroplanes, additional classes of race boats, airplane shows and other entertainment are being reviewed for the three-day event.

"The 2011 race was broadcast nationally on the Versus television network and was replayed recently just after a Detroit Lions telecast," added Bertolini. "This event is a great way to showcase Detroit, our beautiful riverfront and allow sponsors to achieve nationwide exposure."