By IW Observer.co.uk
The Island Sailing Club (ISC) is working with Cowes Yacht Haven to stage a ‘Round the Island Race Village’, which will be open from midday on Friday, June 24, and throughout the race weekend.
Daniel Jehan, managing director of the Cowes Yacht Haven, said: “We are very excited to be hosting the Race Village and look forward to entertaining competitors, supporters and spectators with our pop-up food hall, bar area and terrace.”
Race partners Marathon Watch, B&G, Helly Hansen, Chelsea Magazines and Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust will all have stands offering fun activities, great product promotions and support for competitors.
The Round the Island Race welcomes sailors from all over the world, from professional sailors to keen amateur crews, families and first-time racers, competing on the same 58-mile racecourse around the Island’s coastline.
More than 100 trophies are up for grabs and most boats have the chance to win several different prizes. The most famous is the Gold Roman Bowl, which has been awarded to the overall winner of the race (now the IRC division) since the first race in 1931.
The race itself takes place on June 25 and race director, David Atkinson, said: “For the first time since the pandemic started we are delighted to be able to offer a terrific onshore hospitality programme at both the Race Village and the Island Sailing Club in Cowes.
“It’s also fantastic to see entries returning from abroad this year, plus we’ve also got the highest percentage of first-time participants we have ever experienced. I think there are lots of new owners keen to challenge their boats and crew with our incredible race.”
Isle of Wight Observer