CHARTWELL MARINE BACKS ALAN ROBERTS RACING IN FRENCH FIGARO AMBITIONS
As the race to build a French offshore wind supply chain heats up, Chartwell signs sponsorship deal with Alan Roberts Racing
Southampton, January 23rd – Pioneering next generation naval architects, Chartwell Marine, have announced a sponsorship agreement with Alan Roberts Racing in the lead up to the 2020 racing season. The sponsorship for the length of the 2020 season, will include Chartwell’s logo in a prominent position on Alan Roberts’ boat, joining fellow offshore wind sponsors, Seacat Services, in supporting Alan’s 2020 run for the Solitaire du Figaro title.
The partnership builds on the strong links to Southampton’s thriving maritime industry, with both Chartwell and Alan Roberts having well-established roots in the city. With continuing support from businesses such as Chartwell, South Coast is now well established as an offshore wind support vessel hub for the buoyant UK market.
With a strong track record in supporting the development of local supply chains, Chartwell Marine now looks to France. The French Government announced this week that it has scaled up its 2028 tendering target to 8.75GW, and with six approved projects in the pipeline, the domestic offshore wind market is ripe for expansion.
This represents an exciting opportunity to build out a local supply chain benefitting from experience in established markets. The Chartwell 24 Crew Transfer Vessel is a key example of this, capitalising on a proven formula to enjoy success in emerging markets around the world. With construction beginning for the Saint-Nazaire offshore wind farm, an area featured in the Solitaire du Figaro, the Chartwell 24 is well placed to become the vessel of choice for French offshore wind development.
Andy Page, managing director of Chartwell Marine, said: “Alan Roberts Racing is the perfect match for Chartwell as we look to support local Hampshire sailing on a global stage. With a background in naval architecture and boat building himself, Alan understands what is involved in all stages of the vessel design and manufacturing process – a sure formula for a winning team.”
Alan Roberts competes in the Figaro class – well known for its ‘Solitaire du Figaro’ annual race, a 4-stage solo race with a prestigious reputation in the yachting world – particularly in France, where the event originates. Alan has his sights set on the 2024 Vendée Globe, following in the footsteps of previous Vendée globe winners through the Figaro class.
Alan Roberts said: “The sailing world is well known for its sustainable ethos, which is something I am keen to promote. Chartwell Marine plays a big part in enabling the UK to reach its potential as a global leader in wind energy with their innovative designs. With Chartwell and Seacat, I can be sure of having businesses on my team that share the same sustainable values and a commitment to supporting clean energy in European waters.”
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About Chartwell Marine
Chartwell Marine is a pioneer in next-generation vessel design. A reputed naval architect with an industry-leading track record designing award-winning high-speed vessels, Chartwell Marine supports ambitious boat builders and vessel operators around the world with specialist, independent design and consultancy services.
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About Alan Roberts Racing
Alan Roberts is a professional sailor who is quickly rising up the ranks in the short handed sailing world.
Competing in the highly professional and competitive Figaro Class Alan has gained vast amounts of experience through hard time spent on the water resulting in multiple podiums and winner of the VIVI Trophy for top International in the Figaro class.
Having sailed a variety of dinghy classes, sports boats and keel boats where he has gained a reputation for being a hard worker with a focused outlook. This has led him to five UK National Championship titles, two Endeavour Champion of Champions wins.
