Heavyweights of the yacht racing world (pictured) including Sir Keith Mills, Rod Carr, Jonathan Levy from the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, and Maria Moynihan-Lee from the Galway stopover of the Volvo Ocean Race, travelled to the conference in Dorset in order to share their views on successful business practices.

The WPNSA also took the opportunity to announce itself as the national start and finish venue of the Round Britain 2012 (RB12) - dubbed Britain's biggest multi-faceted land, sea and air event, which will involve over 1,000 contestants and supporting crew during June 2012, less than two months before it is due to host the sailing events during the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics.

Celebrations included appearances from an original Porsche GT40, twin Squirrel helicopter and a Goldfish 36 P1 (Team Rooster) 'the Fastest Diesel Production Boat in the World and the Fastest Rib to Round Britain in 08'.

Despite the event using supercars, aircraft and powerboats, the organisers will be ensuring RB12 incorporates carbon offsetting so the overall event is carbon neutral.

Speaking at the conference John Tweed, chief executive of the WPNSA, highlighted the importance of a business focus, saying: "Weymouth and Portland are becoming buzzing event locations, which is positive for the local Dorset economy.

"We feel that conferences bringing experienced individuals together can produce new ideas and opportunities for the future of the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy.

"We hope to build on all qualities of the area to bring future major yacht racing events to the South West and to ensure a prosperous future for the region."


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