Since starting as a Triggerfish rookie just over two weeks ago, much of my time has been dedicated to getting to grips with the long list of sports events surrounding the UK’s summer social calendar.
The fact that our client Keith Prowse provides corporate hospitality to all of these events means that a very busy and hugely exciting time lies ahead for me in the next few months.
Coming from a sports background, I have worked on events such as the Tour de France and Athletics World Championships in my previous roles, but nothing compares to this mouth-watering feast of top-class fixtures.
Australia has the Melbourne Cup and Boxing Day Test, France the French Open and Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, but no country in the world can rival the glittering social sporting diary which straddles the middle of the English summer. The events coming up in June and July alone are enough to claim the title of ‘The World’s Number One Sporting Nation’.
Kicking off with the Epsom Derby on June 4th, a jam-packed schedule continues through to the Cowes Week sailing showpiece on July 31st – what a couple of months it will be!
Jewels in the crown include the AEGON Championships at Queen’s Club when Andy Murray will attempt to defend his title, and Wimbledon, when Britain’s Grand Slam drought will hopefully come to an end.
The glitz of Royal Ascot is followed by the regal atmosphere of the Henley Regatta, while up at Silverstone Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button will fly the flag in Formula One’s British Grand Prix.
Then there is a rare chance to enjoy a renewal of the rivalry between England and Australia, in between Ashes, as the two old foes lock horns in a One Day International cricket series.
Like Royal Ascot, a strong royal link means the Cartier International Polo at Guards will exude exclusivity. And don’t forget the small matter of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, which begins in South Africa on June 11th.
It is not hard to see why entertaining at these fixtures is still as popular as ever. I can’t think of a more stimulating setting for business or pleasure purposes. All we need now for the perfect summer is for the sun to come out – or is that asking a little too much?!
Richard
