In a major show of commitment to the development of sports, community events, the youth and education, Digicel today announced it has entered into a 5-year $50, 000 sponsorship of the prestigious Premier’s Cup International Youth Regatta.

The regatta, now in its 11^th year, is organized by the Rotary Clubs in the BVI and the Kids And The Sea KATS Programme.    It officially opens this Friday 10 July with a welcome reception hosted by Premier Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal.

Racing will take place on Saturday and Sunday off Nanny Cay Marina.   Close to 80 youth between the ages of 8 and 18 years from several Caribbean countries are expected to vie for supremacy as they race IC24’s across the beautiful and tranquil waters of the British Virgin Islands.

The youth sailors also will enjoy some socializing during the Digicel KATS Meow Party on Saturday night.   Digicel representatives will be on hand throughout the weekend with special offers for attendees at the regatta.

In presenting the cheque, Digicel CEO Alan Bates, said Digicel is delighted to come on board as the Presenting Sponsor of the 2009 Premier’s Cup International Youth Regatta.

“We would like to commend KATS for staging this very important regatta for the past ten years,” he stated.   “Digicel is keen to support sporting events, in particular cricket and football, but with the sea forming such a large portion of these islands, we recognize the importance of supporting activities to teach kids how to handle themselves in the water.”

Bates said the term of this sponsorship reinforces Digicel’s commitment to the community.

In accepting the cheque on behalf of KATS, Premier’s Cup Regatta Committee Chairman Abigail O’Neal, expressed gratitude to Digicel for its generous contribution to this event.  She encouraged everyone to come out and support the youth sailors and used the opportunity to also thank all of the other sponsors and volunteers for working together to make this the best regatta ever.

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