Photo by Peter Bentley

Photo by Peter Bentley



Entries to the Hoya Round the Island Race 2001, the largest and most popular
yacht race of its type in the world, have exceeded last year's number of
entries by soaring to 1,609 yachts. They continue to flood into the Island
Sailing Club daily.

Last year saw a staggering 1,582 yachts on the start line; the race record
is 1,813, which was set in 1989, the centenary year for the Island Sailing
Club. For safety reasons, the club limits entries to 2000. So far, they
have yet to turn yachts away because of this limit, but as the popularity of
the race grows from year to year, those days are numbered and competitors
are well advised to get their entries in early.

The increase in entries is seen as a sign that sailing in Britain is
growing in popularity in both the professional and amateur arenas. A
circumnavigation of the Island offers a challenging natural course for
sailors, and this race brings together thousands of people to celebrate and
share what is sure to be another magnificent day for the Hoya Round the
Island Race.

Final entries to the Hoya Round the Island must be received by midday
Saturday 9th of June. The race office is preparing to receive dozens of
last minute entries, some delivered by hand to beat the deadline.

In addition to holding a revered place within the yachting calendar,
yachting events such as the HOYA Round the Island Race bring in over £58
million of revenue to the island every year. As sailing grows in
popularity, and events such as Hoya Round the Island Race make it more and
more accessible for spectators, this figure is expected to grow.

The 50 nautical mile Hoya Round the Island Race, is to be held on Saturday
June 16th, with staggered starts throughout the morning from 0800-1000 BST
off the Royal Yacht Squadron starting line at Cowes. Organized by the
Island Sailing Club, this is the sixth year running that Hoya Lens UK
Limited, manufacturers of high quality ophthalmic lenses, has sponsored the
Hoya Round the Island Race.

Event site: www.hoyaroundtheisland.org.uk