A family behind the very first Cowes Week in 1826 is still protecting the prestigious event two centuries after it began.
Jim Kernahan, CEO of connectivity firm TrellisWorks, is the great, great, great, great grandson of Charles Day, who was instrumental in setting up and running the first ever event 200 years ago.
Jim, whose company now supplies the IP-CCTV and connectivity for the Cowes Harbour Commission, said it was an honour his family is still supporting the event as it marks its 200th anniversary on the Isle of Wight.
He said: “The island and event have a special place in our family’s hearts, and it is amazing to feel that all these years on from my ancestor first being directly involved in the origins of Cowes Week, that my company is also to play an important part in the regatta week of today.
“TrellisWorks has supported the Cowes Harbour Commission for a number of years and has helped to develop its CCTV and gate systems to keep the iconic harbour safe. During the 200th anniversary event they will provide all the connectivity and IT support to keep day to day operations secure.”
TrellisWorks, which was founded by Jim in 2004, operates the 34 cameras, automatic gate access and barriers which function around the harbour during the busy regatta. Working with Cowes Harbour Commission the port will see an influx of activity for this year’s North Sails Cowes Week events, with more than 500 competing boats, 5000 competitors, 40 daily races in 30 different classes and over 100,000 visitors attracted to the town.
Jon Kidd, Harbour Master of Cowes Harbour Commissioners, said: “Cowes Week is one of the most prestigious sailing events in the world and attracts some of the world’s top sailors looking to compete for the Gold Cup.
“TrellisWorks’ support helps to keep the harbour connected and contributes significantly to the overall management of safety in the harbour.”
Cowes Week, which starts on Saturday 1 August, is one of the longest-running sailing regattas in the world. Attracting over 5,000 professional and amateur sailors from across the globe it also sees around 100,000 visitors flocking to the island to enjoy the festivities.
The event was founded in 1826 by Jim Kernahan’s great, great, great, great grandfather Charles Day, who himself sailed and set up yacht builders Day and Summer. Charles also donated £100 towards the first Gold Cup and was also directly involved in helping the people of Cowes and the Harbour Board, improve the facilities to make the location suitable for important visitors and Royalty.
The event was later taken over by the Royal Yacht Squadron (RYS) and is now held every year at the beginning of August for a week. Working with Cowes Week Limited the Cowes Harbour Commission oversee the busy waterway and during the regatta provide two rows of deep swinging moorings to accommodate the larger yachts attracted to the event.
