The Round Britain and Ireland Race  starts at the Royal Yacht Squadron at Cowes on Monday 7th August 2006.  I am on board the yacht 'Incisor'.

"Round the world, across the Atlantic, Round Britain... many sailors who have done these three might suggest that the rocky shores of the British Isles pose perhaps the greatest challenge of all."  Ellen MacArthur, August 2002.

The approximate race distance around the British Isles is some 1789 miles and the first yachts should cross the finishing line about ten days after the start. The race course takes the yachts around the outside of Ireland and Scotland and they will expect to experience all weather conditions and eventualities in this tough challenge.

"This is a tough race which is over three times as long as the Fastnet and the skippers and crews will have no let up for over 10 days as they battle their way around the coast of Britain. We look forward to a great race." (Chris Little, Commodore of the Royal Ocean Racing Club)

The crew form a team of ten that have trained intensively before the race. The three qualifying races that take place in the English Channel are excellent preparation for the race itself. They have also trained in the Solent and undergone and Sea Survival training.

They are united by their enthusiasm and are committed to working hard and achieving the best result they can in the massive challenge of racing non–stop around Britain and Ireland.