ROLEX Golden Spinnaker Ball Raises $100,000 for US Sail Team

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ROLEX Golden Spinnaker Ball Raises $100,000 for US Sail Team

Savannah Rallies to Stage Elegant Evening in Savannah

SAVANNAH, GA (July 7, 1996)--The long-awaited Rolex Golden Spinnaker Ball, co-presented by NationsBank on Sunday, July 7, left its mark on Savannah and US Sailing Team history as its 340 black-tie guests dined and danced at the Hyatt Regency Hotel. Proceeds from ticket sales, sponsorships and live and silent auction items were earmarked to benefit the US Sailing Team and totalled more than $100,000 by the end of the evening. Honored guests included President and CEO of Rolex Watch U.S.A. Roland Puton; President of NationsBank (Georgia) Jim Lientz; and the 16 members of the US Sailing Team who are in Savannah for the Olympic Regatta.

"The evening was spectacular," said Mr. Puton, "and appropriately celebrated the pursuit of excellence that is a trademark of our national sailing team and all who associate with it."

Highlights included: --a pre-Ball cocktail reception with a grand entrance by Team members escorted by the Scottish Color Guard and Bagpipe Group;
--a spirited presentation by ESPN's sailing commentator Gary Jobson;
--a live auction that culminated in a $13,000 bid for an Olympic flag signed by the entire 1996 U.S. Olympic Yachting Team;
--and music by members of the Savannah Symphony, featuring pianist Bob Alberti.

"The Ball reflected the gracious hospitality of Savannah, honored the men and women of our US Sailing Team and provided a memorable evening for all guests," said Rolex Ball Committee Chairman and Savannah businessman Frank Stanton. "It was an immediate sellout and Savannah business leaders and residents came to the fore to donate additional funds, goods and services. Combined with the generosity of Rolex and NationsBank, this enabled our committee to secure over $100,000 in funds to help ensure the future success of the US Sailing Team."

The US Sailing Team is comprised of the country's top five ranked sailors in each of ten Olympic divisions. Ranking qualifies Team members for travel and equipment grants as well as participation in Team coaching, technology, psychology and physiology programs. The 1996 Olympic Regatta begins in Savannah on July 22 and concludes August 2.
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