Entries for the Metre Class Centenary Regatta (22-27 July) in Cowes topped 50 this week, as yachts built to the one-hundred year old Metre Rule prepare to travel from around the world to the Solent for the July celebrations of the formula which has spawned so many famous yachts, classes, and challenges since it was first introduced in 1907.

Several dozen 6-Metres will be taking part, going into this event straight from their world championship the previous week. The class is fiercely competitive despite the fact that many of the yachts were built in the 1920s and 30s, and the oldest entered so far, Cailin, was built in 1913.

Today’s total entry of 8-Metres stands at eight, with several more entries to follow, and includes the 1931-build Saskia which is being shipped to Cowes from Australia.

A clutch of 5.5 and 5 metres are also entered, as are – so far – three 12-Metres Kelpie, Italia, and the 1957 British America’s Cup Contender Sceptre. The event is also being celebrated by the 2.4-metre class, a one-man hull, of which thirteen are already entered. As well as the 50 crewed entries, even the One-Metre class will make an appearance, raced by their shore-based radio operators in the sheltered confines of Cowes Harbour.

A fleet of Darings, which are built to the Metre Rule, will also be taking part.

The Metre Regatta, hosted by the Royal Yacht Squadron, is part of a festival of Classic and Metre racing which, as well as this event, includes the 6 Metre World Championship and the British Classic Yacht Club Regatta in Cowes, and the 8 Metre World Championship on the Clyde in Scotland.