Over the years, the fireworks and Red Arrows displays have become an expected part of Cowes Week celebrations.
This year, neither will be taking place, so given the event now has a new wealthy sponsor, Visit Abu Dhabi, News OnTheWight asked organisers the reason behind the decision to skip the fireworks and Red Arrows display this year.
No Red Arrows
They explained firstly that the Red Arrows are unfortunately not available during the week of the regatta.
However, they say they’re keeping their fingers crossed for a return in 2023.
Mead: Financial situation didn’t allow us to make the necessary commitments
Laurence Mead the Regatta Director explained to News OnTheWight how finances have put a stop to the fireworks this year. He said,
“We looked hard at the feasibility of bringing the fireworks back this year but at the time that decisions needed to be made our financial situation didn’t allow us to make the necessary commitments.
“Cowes Week is an organisation dedicated to running some of the best boat racing in the world within what is a great town event, but with the difficult sponsorship market, and the effects of Covid, finances are very stretched.
“At least in the short-term both management and financial resources are having to be very carefully controlled. Looking forward we have had expressions of interest in sponsoring the fireworks so with luck they will return in the future.”
Lots more to see and do
He went on to add,
“All that said, there is still a huge event happening that is open to Island residents and holiday makers along with the sailors, all of it free to access including eight days of live music from Friday 29th July and a fleet review being held off the Royal Yacht Squadron as part of the Solent Platinum Jubilee Celebration on Saturday 6th August.”
Visit the Cowes Week Website to find out more information about shoreside activities.
Image: Steven Penton under CC BY 2.0
