The Audio Industry Regatta (AIR) is run annually to raise money for the Portsmouth-based Elizabeth Foundation, a voluntary organization for deaf babies, deaf pre-school children aged up to five years, and their parents. The Foundation provides parent-centred services on a nationwide basis and often without charge.
Following a disastrous last place in the opening race, the Kelsey Acoustics crew fought back to achieve first place in each of the remaining four races to cement their overall winning position for the weekend.
This year the regatta attracted nearly 100 crew members, while guests boosted numbers to about 150 for the Saturday evening dinner. Overall, some £8,500 was raised - including nearly £1,000 at the auction, over £700 for the raffle, and a generous donation from PLASA - adding substantially to the £65,000 the regatta has raised for the Elizabeth Foundation over the years.
Kelsey's skipper Michael Whiteside said: "Of course it is great to win and, inevitably, get a good ribbing from the other teams, but the real purpose of this event is to take part and to support the Elizabeth Foundation. There's no doubt, though, it is also a great opportunity to let your hair down and party with old friends in the industry."
(Jim Evans)
