Participating in the Louis Vuitton America’s Cup World Series (LVACWS) trophy presentation after a successful day of racing was a gratifying conclusion to an exciting weekend of events, Premier Michael Dunkley said this evening.
The public will be aware that the Premier is in New York supporting activities associated with the LVACWS events. And earlier this afternoon, Emirates Team New Zealand won today's third race and final race and the regatta.
This weekend was a busy one with all hands on deck in New York to ensure that Bermuda and its America's Cup promotions were front and centre at the AC Race Village, located downtown at Brookfield Place.
Against the backdrop of Bermuda Branding and thousands of spectators, Premier Dunkley along with Minister Grant Gibbons joined such local partners as Goslings, the Bermuda Tourism Authority (BTA), Hamilton Princess, the ACBDA and others in spreading the Bermuda message to the huge crowds attending the LVACWS events.
More specifically, the Premier participated in media outreach which included an interview with Forbes.com (see link in email), media engagements at the America's Cup Media Centre and a visit to the BTA booth for some interaction with staff and guests.
During each of the media opportunities Premier Dunkley highlighted Bermuda's attractiveness as a leisure and business destination, the strides taken to ensure the success of the Island's tourism product, upcoming hotel development, the transformation of Dockyard into the America's Cup Village and the overall importance of Bermuda hosting the 2017 America's Cup.
Meanwhile, in his capacity as National Security Minister and Chair of the Emergency Measures Organisation (EMO) Premier Dunkley was provided an extensive assessment of the safety and security operations overseeing the LVACWS weekend of events. The Premier said he was "quite impressed with the intricacies and planning for the massive event".
Another highlight for the Premier was having a front row seat to the racing action on the Hudson River yesterday (Saturday) as part of a Guest Chaser experience.
Of the overall weekend, Premier Dunkley said, "It was exciting to see the buzz this event is creating and just how many people know about Bermuda. People who’ve been to the Island appreciate how good the sailing conditions are and how good a venue it is.
“Bermuda showcased extremely well this weekend. Everyone who represented the Island, from the BTA to our local sponsor organisations, certainly ensured that we were top of mind this weekend. As Premier, it made me very proud to see how well Bermuda was being received. Our aim was to promote our Island to the thousands of people here this weekend, and I'm encouraged that our efforts will bear fruit in enticing people to come to Bermuda in May and June 2017, which will ultimately benefit Bermuda."
Premier Dunkley returns to Bermuda tomorrow (May 9).