Get Ready For Round The Island Race This Weekend

(c) Paul Wyeth

This weekend's Round the Island Race is set to be action packed, both on and off the water.

The annual spectacle takes place on Saturday, with entries open until tomorrow (Wednesday June 4). 

Hundreds of boats of all sizes, from professional competitive sailors to eager amateurs, have signed up.

The Race Village on Cowes Parade will also open at 2pm on Friday afternoon, with live music, bars, food vendors and exhibitors on offer throughout the weekend.

The pre-race weather briefing takes place at the Race Village at 6pm on Friday.

"Round the Island is all about involving as many people as we can into the race weekend," said Dave Atkinson, Race Director.

"We want Cowes to come alive and we invite people to come and sample the atmosphere at the Race Village.

"There's some brilliant entertainment available over the whole weekend, plus the chance to find out so much more about the race, with giveaways, competitions and activities for all.

"The race itself is one we're really looking forward to and wherever you are on the Island, there's some great vantage points to watch it from, so please get involved."

Race organisers have teamed up with the National Trust Isle of Wight to welcome people to The Needles Old Battery to watch the race free of charge. 

Spectators must park at The Needles Landmark Attraction and either walk or use the shuttle bus service to the Battery.

Other popular viewpoints include Cowes seafront, Bembridge Ledge and Culver Down.

The race starts from the Royal Yacht Squadron at 7.30am and it will continue for around 90 minutes to allow for a staggered start for the different categories.

It is anticipated that boats will start to finish back at Cowes from around 10.30am, subject to weather and wind conditions. 

For details about Round the Island Race, including to sign up by Wednesday 4th June, visit roundtheisland.org.uk