NorthLink Ferries has linked up with the Shetland Islands Fireball Association to become the official regatta sponsor of the 2003 Fireball European Championships.

The sponsorship package includes free return travel from Aberdeen to Lerwick for all competitors and their boats. The NorthLink logo will also be seen throughout the regatta on all Fireball sails, with the event being re-branded the 'NorthLink Fireball European Championships'.

A total of 50 Fireball dinghies are expected to take part in the regatta with competitors travelling to Shetland from Scotland, England, Ireland, France, Germany, Switzerland and Slovenia.

NorthLink's marketing projects manager, Elaine Tulloch, said: "We are delighted to be able to support the Fireball European Championships and to be a part of bringing this prestigious event to Shetland. As well as being a tremendous sporting occasion and a wonderful sight to watch, the regatta will also be a boost for the island's economy."

The regatta commences with a warm up event, the Shetland National Championships on Friday 11 and Saturday 12 July. The European Championships then follow from Sunday 13 July, with the final race on Friday 18 July. The regatta concludes with the Annual Round Bressay Race on Saturday 19 July, in which it is hoped that the local yachts fleet and visiting Fireball dinghies can compete.

The races are to be sailed in Breiwick, to the south of Lerwick each afternoon of the regatta. Principal Race Officer for the regatta is local man Bruce Leask, assisted by a team of five helpers. John Manson will be assisted by Fireball International in measuring the boats for the event, while Johan Devocht from Belguim will lead a team from Germany, England, Ireland and Shetland on the International Rules Jury.

Chairman of the Shetland Islands Fireball Association, John Manson, said: "The generous assistance from NorthLink Ferries has played a large part in attracting such a large number of entrants to take part in this year’s event, many travelling great distances to be here. The event will help promote Shetland both as a sporting venue and a tourist destination."