The Phuket Youth Sailing Club (PYSC) was a big winner during the recent Kata Rocks Superyacht Rendezvous (KRSR), as THB 150,000 was raised through a silent auction for an important cause.
On Day two the resort hosted the Feadship Owners’ Dinner in a Kata Rocks Penthouse Sky Villa. Kata Rocks wanted try something different for such a unique gathering of yacht owners, Superyacht industry leaders and Sky Villa owners. They looked for a local abstract artist with great talent – intending to have him or her paint live and create an experience that evolved throughout the evening. One of Thailand’s top abstract artists, Watcharin Rodnit of Negarta Asian Art Gallery, was commission to create an original work that would be featured at a silent auction benefiting PYSC.
Diners looked on with keen interest as he imaginatively rendered his impression of KRSR in vibrant colour using oil on canvas. Watcharin was also in attendance on Day Three for the final gala Charter Season Opening Party, when Kata Rocks put his painting up for auction.
During the evening, a pair of friendly bidders kept the engagement light-hearted, gradually upping the ante over several hours to support this important cause. Both key characters clearly had a good time with the understanding that it was for a good cause. At the end of the evening the final bid exceed expectations, attracting a final bid of THB 150,000 much to the delight of KRSR organisers.
Kata Rocks and the Negarta Asian Art Gallery generously donated all proceeds to the PYSC, a body that aims to promote and develop sailing for the next generation of sailors on the island. In the end PYSC proved a perfect group to provide such an impactful donation to.
Katy Gooch, Vice President Phuket Youth Sailing Club, said that PYSC was delighted with the result. “We would like to take this opportunity to thank Kata Rocks for sponsoring the Phuket Youth Sailing Club, helping to promote youth sailing on Phuket for underprivileged and local Thai children. Sailing has made a tremendous difference to these kids, not only teaching them to sail but has helped develop their independence and confidence. The ability to take a boat, sail it, and be comfortable, all by themselves on the sea, gives a great sense of achievement.
“Having to rig their boats and make sure they have everything when they are on the water, also teaches them organisational skills and responsibility. Helping other kids get ready and putting boats in the water together, teaches them care and team spirit, while racing has also taught them how to cope with success and defeat,” Ms Gooch added.
