Kota Kinabalu: Keen competition is expected in this weekend’s City Day Open Regatta organised by Kinabalu Yacht Club (KYC).
Club manager Tony Lai said on Wednesday that action of the annual event in its 23rd edition will get underway in Tanjung Aru starting on Saturday.
“We are happy the event has gathered a very positive response with close to 70 entries having been received by us so far, and we expect the total number to increase before the race day.
“Apart from the local entries, there are participants from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur as well, and I believe many of the winners from last year will also show up to defend their titles,” he said.
Deputy Chief Minister cum Works Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya is expected to officiate the closing and prize presentation ceremony on Sunday.
Meanwhile, Chia Ching Byn was the winner in the International 470 Overall category last year.
She and crew member Thomas Kong took the top prize while in second place was the pairing of Muhd Daniel Iqbal Muhammad Samsu and Dato’ Chairullah followed by Leonard Chin and Josie Joinol in third.
However, Chia failed to defend her title in the season opening KYC Ship’s Bell Trophy International 470 class race held early in January this year.
She and her crew member Datuk Christopher Chin lost to Gabrielle Marygrace Yong Poquita and Ahmad Yusoff and in third place was the pair of Melissa Yong and Syazni Thaqif.
