Sir Steve Redgrave to open Poole Harbour Boat Show

Sir Steve Redgrave

Former British rower and five-time Olympic gold medallist, Sir Steve Redgrave CBE will officially open the 2016 Poole Harbour Boat Show, on Friday 20 May.

Organised by Poole Harbour Commissioners in association with Sunseeker, the show is proud to welcome Sir Steve to open the three day extravaganza (20 to 22 May) which will bring together a spectacular showcase of yachts and motor cruisers, tall ships, marine equipment, watersports gear and clothing, with on the water demonstrations, fireworks and live music.

Having set out to win three Olympic gold medals at the beginning of his career, Sir Steve went on to win an incredible five golds in five successive Olympic Games from 1984 to 2000.

Since retiring from competitive sport, Steve has put his efforts into establishing the Steve Redgrave Fund which aims to use the power and inspiration of sport to bring positive change in the lives of disadvantaged children, young people and their communities. Since launching in 2001, the fund has raised more than £5 million.

Sir Steve will be guest speaker at the show’s VIP lunch reception where sponsors, business representatives and media will be in attendance. As an ambassador for Jaguar Land Rover, Sir Steve will make an appearance at one of the show’s sponsor stands, the Westover Group, on Friday afternoon from 3.30pm (timings tbc).

Jim Stewart, chief executive at Poole Harbour Commissioners, said: ‘We’re delighted to welcome Sir Steven Redgrave to Poole to celebrate the opening of our second show. Renowned as one of Britain’s greatest Olympians, Steve’s achievements during his career are inspirational and we are pleased to welcome him to the town.’

Sir Steve said: ‘I look forward to visiting the show and meeting sponsors, exhibitors and visitors. With leading marine, boating and lifestyle brands exhibiting as well as a packed schedule of free entertainment and fireworks, the show promises to be a spectacular weekend for all!’

Held on Poole Quay and at the award-winning marina Poole Quay Boat Haven, the action will commence on Friday May 20 from 1pm to 8pm. On Friday’s press and trade day, while quayside stands will be open to all, this year the pontoon access is by invitation only.

On Saturday 21 and Sunday May 22, both the quayside and pontoons will be open to the public as normal, from 10am to 6pm (last access to pontoons is at 5.30pm).

The free show is supported by Bates Wharf Marine Sales, Coleman Insurance, Conker Spirit, Elite Signs, Humphries Kirk law firm, PSP Logistics, Sibbett Gregory, Sunseeker and the Westover Group. Media partners backing the show are the Bournemouth Daily Echo and Wave 105.

For more information visit www.pooleharbourboatshow.co.uk