The Detroit Yacht Club, one of the oldest and most prestigious clubs in North America, has signed a contract to remain the Presenting Sponsor of the Detroit APBA Gold Cup Races for the next three years. The announcement was made by the Detroit River Regatta Association (DRRA), host organization for the race and representatives from the Detroit Yacht Club. In its role as Presenting Sponsor, the Detroit Yacht Club will lead the fundraising efforts for the annual event held in July, including seeking businesses, individuals and clubs to serve as Title Sponsor or underwriters to help preserve one of the oldest, ongoing events in the city.

“The APBA Gold Cup Races are part of Detroit’s history, as well as all of motorsports,” said Dr. A.J. Telmos, Commodore, Detroit Yacht Club. “The DYC is honored to continue our support of this Detroit institution and encourages others to do the same.”

The Gold Cup is the oldest active trophy in motorsports, with Detroit hosting the longest running, yearly hydroplane race. The race takes place on the Detroit International Water Speedway, an oval course on the Detroit River just north of the Belle Isle Bridge – considered the most famous powerboat racecourse in the world. Although the Detroit Yacht Club’s commitment is significant, race organizers emphasize more sponsors are needed in order to fund the costs of the event. As an example, in return for a Title Sponsorship commitment, the race would be named in their honor.

Other levels of commitment and sponsorship opportunities are available and needed to ensure the event will remain viable. The Detroit River Regatta Association is a not-for-profit entity formed to organize and manage the event and is largely supported by volunteers.

“The 2012 races, set for July 13 – 15, are nine months away, yet we encourage sponsors to come forward now to help keep the tradition of hydroplane racing alive on the Detroit River,” said Tom Bertolini, President, DRRA. “This is a great opportunity for sponsors to show their commitment to Detroit and the region and associate their name with a 107-year-old-tradition with great name recognition.”

The APBA Gold Cup Races feature a “free Friday” with no admission charge. In addition to the unlimited hydroplanes, additional classes of race boats, airplane shows and other entertainment are being reviewed for the three-day event. “The 2011 race was broadcast nationally on the Versus television network and was replayed recently just after a Detroit Lions telecast,” added Bertolini. “This event is a great way to showcase Detroit, our beautiful riverfront and allow sponsors to achieve nationwide exposure.”

For more information, contact the DRRA at 586-774-0980 or visit www.gold-cup.com ### Founded in 1868, the Detroit Yacht Club is one of the oldest and most prestigious private clubs in North America. The Detroit Yacht Club has been the center of Detroit society for nearly 150 years and continues a proud tradition and commitment to excellence and quality service to its members and the community. Offering boating and social memberships, the Detroit Yacht Club offers a first class dining experience, premier docking facilities in a picturesque location on Belle Isle, along with a variety of social events, recreational, athletic, health and fitness services.

For more information, please call 313-824-1200 or visit www.dyc.com The APBA Gold Cup, first presented in 1904, is the ultimate motorsport prize, considered the most prestigious powerboat racing trophy in the world. The Gold Cup began its relationship with Detroit more than 100 years ago and it is the oldest annual unlimited hydroplane race in the world. For more information, contact the Detroit River Regatta Association (DRRA) at 586-774-0980 or visit www.gold-cup.com