The Andrew Simpson Gold Cup Benefit is set to take place Thursday in Bermuda during the Argo Group Gold Cup.
Sailing stars from the America’s Cup and Argo Group Gold Cup will attend the 7-10 p.m. fundraising event to honor the life of Simpson, affectionately known as “Bart,” and raise funds for the Andrew Simpson Sailing Foundation. It was established after the highly regarded sailor’s tragic death in San Francisco.
The foundation remembers Simpson as someone who “saw the best in everything and was the person that many turned to for guidance,” according to a statement.
The Ben Ainslie Racing Team, composed of the crew that competed in the 2008 Argo Group Gold Cup, with Simpson as the team adviser, has returned to Bermuda to focus attention on the foundation in memory of their late friend and fellow sailor.
Founded by Sir Ben Ainslie, Iain Percy and Simpson’s wife, Leah, the foundation will work to honor Simpson’s life and legacy by encouraging youngsters to sail. At the grassroots level it will encourage children to visit local sailing clubs and give sailing a try by providing equipment and coaching, with support from Olympic medalist regional mentors.
The foundation’s online auction is live and offers accessories ranging from signed sailing items to holiday destinations.
