Portimão, Portugal – 24 June, 2010 – Portimão welcomed the ISAF World Match Racing Tour in style at last night’s beach side Opening Ceremony. Smiles were on everyone’s faces as the atmosphere exuded relaxed glamour and the moon shone down on the SM40 yachts anchored just off the shore.

Portuguese hospitality was the focal point of the evening where guests dined amidst palm trees swaying in the gentle breeze and Byblos inspired lounge areas dressed in energizing swathes of colour were a feast for the eyes. Local sea food inspired cuisine was on offer accompanied by charming hostesses at Aqua Beach Club sporting minimalist marine outfits.

Justino de Sá Machado, President of Grupo Sá Machado, addressed the crowd of sailors, sponsors, VIPs and media, “This is a first for the World Match Racing Tour to visit Portimão. Portugal is proud to be known as ‘the country by the sea’ and Portimão is the ideal environment to invite lovers of nautical activities. You are all welcome here, we want to share our waterside location with everyone”.

The Tour is looking forward to many years of working hand in hand with Portimão and will help spread the message around the World that Poritmão is a first class marine venue for racing, tourism and good times.