For 15 years, the CNN program “MainSail” took sailing enthusiasts onboard some of the most famous raceboats in history. Thanks to host Shirley Robertson, an Olympic gold medal winner, it also took viewers behind the scenes at important events. The program may be gone, but Robertson is not. The accomplished sailor is the new manager of the Super Yacht Racing Association.
The non-profit Super Yacht Racing Association strives to enhance superyacht owners’ enjoyment of regattas. With membership open to them, plus their representatives, industry companies, and superyacht-event organizers, it serves as the voice to establish fair racing, meaningful competition, and of course safe participation. Among its sanctioned regattas are the St. Barths Bucket, The Superyacht Cup in Palma, and the Millennium Cup (below).
Robertson brings experience not just as a communicator, but also as a conference and exhibition host, and a racer. For example, besides hosting “MainSail,” she’s been the BBC’s lead anchor for four Olympic Games sailing coverage. She has further covered the America’s Cup for multiple years. Robertson also hosts “Shirley Robertson’s Sailing Podcast,” interviewing top sailors and figures from the sport. Additionally, she competed for two seasons on the double-handed offshore circuit. This included placing second in the Rolex Fastnet Race.
Despite none of this being superyacht-related, Robertson does have prior ties to the industry, and the Super Yacht Racing Association. “My relationship with racing superyachts goes back to my time racing with the SYRA founders Ed Dubois and Barry Houghton,” she explains. “It’s wonderful to now be carrying on their original vision.” Robertson adds that expanding the association’s work and growing membership are priorities.
Kate Branagh, the association’s chairperson, says the team is glad to have Robertson onboard. “The last decade saw many crucial areas addressed to enhance safe sailing and fair racing in this unique segment,” she notes. “The SYRA’s priorities have shifted in recent years to fleet building, achieving more broad-based participation and expanding membership in the association, areas that Shirley will excel in.”
“Yacht racing is a lifelong passion of mine, and the superyacht series has been one of our sport’s shining lights for some time,” Robertson concludes.
Super Yacht Racing Association superyra.org
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