G4S renews its sponsorship of the British sailing team

Leading international security solutions group, G4S, has renewed its sponsorship of the British Sailing Team, Skandia Team GBR, for a further four years. The UK-based FTSE 100 company has been a Silver level sponsor of the British team in the Olympic and Paralympic classes since April 2006, and its decision to continue its partnership with the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) marks a commitment to support the UK’s most consistently successful Olympic sport up to and beyond the London Olympic Games of 2012.

As well as confirming its commitment to the team, G4S has also pledged to support two 49er crews on their mission to sail the home waters as Olympians in 2012. In addition to renewing their sponsorship with Stevie Morrison and Ben Rhodes, G4S has signed partnerships with Peter Greenhalgh and Chris Draper. A new combination in this boat, the pair are very excited about kick starting their inaugural year together with G4S. Commenting on the sponsorship, Peter Greenhalgh said: "Making a decision to take on this new challenge and tackle new disciplines is a huge step for us so to have a brand as prestigious as G4S showing confidence in us from the outset is fantastic. Aspiring "We couldn’t have asked for a more encouraging start to our Olympic campaign". G4S has been working closely with Skandia Team GBR for three years, backing the team throughout the Beijing Olympic cycle. In addition to supporting the Performance Squad, G4S is also reinforcing its allegiance to the long term development of aspiring members of the team’s Development and Transitional squads. As exclusive security provider, G4S' will provide the sailors with security services for their sailing equipment wherever they travel around the world. Stephen Park, RYA Olympic Manager, is in no doubt as to the partnership’s benefit for members of all Skandia Team GBR: "We are delighted to have the invaluable assistance of G4S with us for a further four years.       Iain Percy and Andrew Simpson, Star Training in Portland Harbour, Weymouth, Dorset, 19th May 2009. Photo: Richard Langdon/Skandia Team GBR "The security provision and funding that G4S supplies allows us to concentrate on the performance of our squad and not worry about the complicated logistics and security requirements involved with international travel and regattas. Acquiring the backing of such a loyal and dedicated partner is an undoubted asset to us and our sailors". Proud The announcement is seen as marking an important milestone in the relationship between G4S and British sailing, Debbie McGrath, G4S, Group Communications Director said: “We are delighted to be extending our relationship with Skandia Team GBR. "From supporting the elite of the Olympic Classes Squad to the young sailors of the future, we are very proud to, once again, be backing this impressive sport. There is a natural synergy with the sport that reflects our brand’s spirit".