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The Island Sailing Club (ISC) has announced that entries are now open for the 2023 edition of Britain’s Favourite Yacht Race, the Round the Island Race, which is being held on Saturday 1st July 2023.

The annual Round the Island Race is something of a unique event in the sporting calendar and is the fourth largest mass participation event in the UK (after the London Marathon, Great North and South Runs). It’s rare to find a sporting occasion that encourages enthusiastic amateurs to compete against the elite pros and Olympians of a sport, all on an equal footing and around the same racecourse. This race does just that and celebrates the varied collection of sailors that compete, all of whom love to have a cracking day out on the water. 

Few things can compare to the sight of hundreds of boats racing, whether you’re within the fleet yourself or spectating onshore from one of the many excellent vantage points on the stunning Isle of Wight coastline. The huge fleet is split into classes of similarly matched ratings and will all start from the famous Royal Yacht Squadron line in Cowes from 08:00.

Race Director, David Atkinson said: “We can’t wait for this year’s edition of the race; I’ve ordered a moderate south-westerly breeze and lots of sunshine! I’d say if you only race once this year, make it Round the Island Race - we guarantee you’ll have a wonderful time with your friends and family. Our team will be there to support all the competitors as they plan their race, including some great online tools such as blogs, videos and webinars. We know everyone loves to continue the fun onshore after the race so we’re planning some après-race parties on Saturday evening.

For those getting competitive or even out to break some records, we have our world-class race technology, offering real-time tracking and an incredibly speedy results service online.”     

B&G is delighted to be the Official Race Marine Electronics Partner for a second year. B&G’s team of experts will be hosting some exclusive webinar events for participants to help them get the most out of their electronics as they prepare for race day. Experts will also be on-site in the run-up to the start to assist with any last-minute queries.

Tracy Cox, Global Brand Manager at B&G, said: “We are proud to bring 65 years of experience and innovation to a partnership so close to our brand’s home on the South Coast and to partner with the world-renowned Round the Island Race. Our team of experts will be delivering tutorials and unpacking specific features to offer real insights into the capabilities of the electronics on-board. We look forward to the opportunity to spend time and support sailors at all levels, get first-hand feedback on the products and perhaps even introduce some of our latest kit.”

Emma Russell, Marketing Manager for Helly Hansen in the UK and Ireland, commented: “We work closely with professionals and enthusiasts to develop our collections, and our latest Summer Collection has been designed with feedback from professional sailors to ensure those participating in the race can belong in the moment and stay and feel alive. We wish everyone the best of luck in the race!”

The Island Sailing Club, based on the Isle of Wight, is proud to have organised this globally renowned race for over 90 years. The ISC would like to invite race competitors to become members and is offering an exclusive membership package. Please contact the ISC office to find out more.

Early Bird entries will close on Saturday 25th February when the standard entry fee kicks in. For all the latest news on social media - @roundtheisland and #RoundTheIsland #RaceForAll.