GAC Pindar has been appointed the official logistics provider for the new Offshore Powerboat Grand Prix (OPGP) Series.
Under the three-year deal, the global provider of marine and sports leisure logistics will coordinate the complex logistics of equipment and infrastructure for five races held every year in Florida, USA, under the OPGP banner, including the renowned Sarasota Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix race. GAC Pindar’s appointment represents its first foray into global offshore powerboating. The company will also coordinate the logistics, including transportation of at least twelve team boats from the USA, for The Qatar Cup on 6-8 February. The 2015 edition of the yearly showcase event, in association with the Qatar Marine Sports Federation (QMSF), will include one day of qualifying heats followed by two days of racing. Up to 25 offshore racing teams are expected to take part. GAC Pindar has emerged as a leading player in the field, providing expert logistics support for a range of prestigious inshore and offshore sailing competitions including the Extreme Sailing Series and The Volvo Ocean Race which set off on its nine-month circumnavigation of the world from Spain last month. Dominic Watson, GAC Pindar’s Operations Manager – Seafreight, says: “The addition of such a prestigious powerboat race series to our portfolio brings an exciting challenge for our team of experts. Their passion and commitment match that of the drivers and teams who will compete, and we look forward to playing our part in what will be an incredible series.” Steve Curtis, OPGP’s Acting President, adds: “We were incredibly impressed with the fresh and innovative approach in GAC Pindar’s proposal, which exactly mirrored the ethos of OPGP. Their knowledge, experience and sailing credentials are second to none. We’re looking to really take power boating to the next level with the OPGP and are confident of doing so with GAC Pindar helping to drive us forward.”