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Volvo Sailing Championships Sets Course For Spring 1999

15 February 1999

Volvo Sailing Championships Sets Course For Spring 1999

    IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 15 -- Even the Swedish cannot resist the
sailing winds of Southern California.
    Just in time for spring 1999, Volvo Cars of North America introduces
the "1999 Volvo In-Shore Championships."  A three-regatta high-point circuit,
this program complements the company's international sailing focus
characterized by the "Volvo Around-the-World Race" (formerly known as the
Whitbred Race).
    For these Championships, Volvo has partnered with three of the most
prestigious in-shore sailing races in Southern California, including the San
Diego Yacht Club's "Yachting / Leukemia Ton Cup" in April, California Yacht
Club's new "Cal Race Week" in May and Golison's "North Sails Race Week" in
June. Volvo will honor those yacht race competitors who log the highest
compiled scores, and the overall winner will receive the perpetual Volvo Cup.
    "The Volvo In-Shore Championships provides racers with a target season of
top-level competition at established racing venues," explains John Gladstone
of North Sails and Yachting Cup Chairman.  "With exceptional boats, excellent
races and stiff competition, we believe the Volvo Cup will become a respected
tradition in sailing."
    What is the connection between sailboats in the water and Volvos on the
road?
    "Sailing requires equipment that is technically advanced, safe and fun
to maneuver," illustrates Keith Cook, General Manager for Volvo in Southern
California. "The people who enjoy sailing will also appreciate the precision
engineering and safe performance of Volvo's new luxury class of automobiles,
the S80 luxury sedan and the C70 coupe and convertible which will be on
display at the races."