Mercedes-Benz has extended its on-going support to 21-year-old Olympic sailing hopeful Aoife Hopkins as she attempts to qualify for the forthcoming 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo.
The continued support sees Mercedes-Benz retain its status as the only vehicle manufacturer supporting Ireland’s bid for further Olympic glory in the Laser Radial class.
Hopkins will continue to drive a Vito Mixto which she uses to transport her team, herself and her equipment to events here in Ireland and overseas. Fitted with features fit for a sailing star, specifications include a leatherette interior, leather multi-function steering wheel, interior chrome package, air conditioning, audio 15 sound system, and a reverse camera. It has an eye-catching presence at sailing events throughout Ireland and beyond, thanks to its silver and grey livery.
Aoife says: “I am delighted to have the support of Mercedes-Benz whose involvement in sailing ensures that my preparations for Tokyo are off to a flying start.”
From Howth, Aoife has been sailing since the age of nine and has held the Women’s Laser Radial Irish national champion and U21 European champion titles, among other accolades.
The single-handed Laser Radial event is one of four events Irish sailors are aiming to contest in at the Tokyo Games. The first of three Olympic trials for Irish selection, the World Championships, will see Aoife compete in Australia this month.
Wishing her every success in her preparations for Tokyo, Fergus Conheady, sales manager for Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles said: “We are proud to support another of Ireland’s amazing young sailors and wish them every success as they challenge to be the sole competitor in the Laser Radial class to qualify to represent Ireland.”
