Huge numbers in IRC classes expected at International Paint Poole Regatta

A huge turnout is expected for Poole Regatta 2014 © David Harding / www.sailingscenes.co.uk

The J70, J80, J24 and MOCRA fleets will be holding their National Championships as part of the International Paint Poole Keelboat Regatta next year, however it'll be the IRC fleets that will outnumber the lot!

Yes there will be class racing for Flying Fifteens, XODs and Redwings too but it will be the IRC cruisers that fill the largest classes.

These prestigious fleets join those already committed to the event; these include the Tidal Nationals for 2.4s, the R19 fleet's Championships and Southern Area's for the Sonata, Impala and Shrimper fleets.

Now well established on yachting calendars the 2014 event will provide racing over five different start lines, four in Poole Bay and the other in-harbour.

The regatta is to be held over the late Spring Bank Holiday, 24th – 26th May and is jointly run by the eight Combined Yacht Clubs of Poole. These local clubs have great facilities for visiting sailors and offer a full programme of social events during the regatta.

Competitors can expect a warm welcome at their reception on board a 'tripper ship' alongside Poole Quay, then parties and dancing at the Poole and Parkstone clubs with a final prize giving presentation at the Royal Motor Yacht Club on the Monday.

Originally conceived as a way of celebrating the Millennium this regatta has gone from strength to strength and from those humble beginnings expects to host in the region of 250 keelboats in 2014.

International Paints came 'on board' in 2006 and have been delighted with the response from competitors who return time and again to compete. One who has competed in each of the six previous regattas told us: "We come to Poole mainly because the bay offers sheltered waters and excellent racing. However it's the social side which sets this regatta apart from the rest – you just need plenty of energy for the non-stop partying!"

The organisers have been meeting continuously since the last event in 2012, firstly to iron-out any issues raised and then to create new and exciting ways of keeping ahead of the game. For instance they've made a concerted effort to encourage French sailors and for 2014 team entries are welcomed for the new Regatta Trophy.

Entry fees remain unchanged so put May 24th-26th in your sailing calendar now and take a look at the new regatta website for more information, www.pooleregatta.co.uk