Nassau, Bahamas – Commonwealth Bank’s late Chairman, Robert “Bobby” Symonette was an avid helmsman and a giant of a man, imbued with wisdom, wit and a will to preserve our Bahamian heritage. Today, the Bank continues to pay tribute to his memory with the steadfast support of sloop sailing in The Bahamas.
Over the last five decades, the Bank has generously extended its financial assistance to countless regatta associations that promote this celebrated tradition. Among its 2011 recipients is the National Family Island Regatta (NFIR) which once again receives a bronze sponsorship.
Reflecting on its longstanding corporate sponsorship with the NFIR, the Bank’s President Ian Jennings said, “We are proud to champion Commodore Danny Strachan and the National Family Island Regatta. We believe that sporting and cultural events such as sloop sailing play an integral role in the positive social development of our country. To this end, the Bank applauds the tireless efforts of individuals, organizations and institutions, like NFIR that work consistently to preserve a treasured tradition, which demonstrates true Bahamian determination, competition and sportsmanship.”
The Bank’s support also extends to the promotion of regatta and cultural dates in its annual calendar. The 2011 “Bahama Beaches” calendar lists an array of events and in particular, nine months of activities for sailing enthusiasts, residents and visitors alike to participate in or just sit back and enjoy the beauty of sailing.
As the NFIR Association celebrates 58 years of unbroken sloop sailing in George Town, Exuma, Commodore Strachan noted that it is through corporate sponsorship that his organization is able to keep a great cultural tradition alive for future generations. He added, “We are grateful that Commonwealth Bank continues to partner with us to help make this another successful Regatta. Commonwealth Bank’s reputation as a good corporate citizen is well known throughout The Bahamas and they have always contributed to positive and worthwhile activities in our communities. I encourage other corporate citizens to follow Commonwealth Bank’s lead “.
Commonwealth Bank is the nation’s largest publicly-held firm with approximately 6,500 shareholders. The Bank continues to lead the industry in service and convenience with eleven branches in New Providence, Abaco and Grand Bahama and has a community giving program that helps support numerous causes vital to the social development of our nation.
By Tanya Hutchinson
