Volvo to drive British Sailing with new four year deal

Volvo Car UK will continue to be a driving force behind British Sailing for the next four years, announcing today (16th May) the extension of its sponsorship deal across the Olympic, Paralympic and Youth Racing Programmes of the RYA's British Sailing Team.

This enhanced deal will see Volvo retain its role as Official Car Partner to the British Sailing Team, providing investment and support across the RYA's Junior, Youth, Olympic and Paralympic Racing Programmes, which underpin the company's 'grassroots to glory' sponsorship philosophy.

Volvo will supply the RYA with some thirty cars and will also increase its support for all Olympic and Paralympic Classes sailing in Great Britain by providing an additional fleet of thirty cars directly to sailors on the RYA's World Class Performance Programme. This support will assist with the logistical challenges of transporting personnel, boats and equipment in comfort and safety to numerous training and event commitments, both in the UK and overseas.

"Volvo cars are amazing machines! After driving a rough van most my life, when I first got in a Volvo I was amazed how enjoyable driving can be", said Luke Patience (left), Olympic silver medallist. "With the thousands of loaded miles we drive a year, being given a Volvo to use takes out any concern that a car will fail us getting to the next racing venue on time and safe and if nothing else, it's cool to sit behind the wheel of Swedish perfection!"

RYA Racing Manager and Performance Director John Derbyshire welcomed Volvo onboard: "Volvo has been a huge backer of the sport and of the RYA for a number of years, with its investment and support making a real performance difference at all levels of our racing programmes, and in helping raise the profile of sailing in the UK. We're delighted that Volvo is continuing to work with us over this next four year cycle, and is supporting us to promote our sport and inspire the next generation of young sailors to ensure long-term British success".

"Volvo Car UK is proud to become the Official Car Partner of the British Sailing Team and continue its relationship with the RYA", said Nikki Rooke, Head of Corporate Communications, Events and Sponsorship at Volvo Car UK. "In 2012 Volvo backed thirteen Olympic and four Paralympic sailors in their campaigns - the biggest group of 'Team Volvo' sailors since the sponsorship began. It was a natural progression to extend and offer our support to the whole team for the next Olympic cycle.

"We are looking forward to working closely with the RYA and the top sailors over the next four years, building on our sailing association and inspiring and encouraging the future generation".