When competitors of the British Classic Yacht Club Regatta arrived at Cowes Yacht Haven yesterday, they were greeted by the sound of wind screaming through the rigging of the 54 classic yachts moored in the marina.

A forecast check out at Bramble Bank revealed winds in excess of 35 knots, and when these failed to moderate by the midday deadline, officials were left with no alternative but to call off racing for the day. Provisionally, the plan is to replace yesterday’s lost race by sailing two races on Friday.

Today the entire fleet will compete in a long inshore race, with a decision on whether to set a round the island course being made based on the prevailing weather conditions.

For more, visit www.britishclassicyachtclub.org .