Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club, Cowes has announced that it will host the 2006 Vice Admiral’s Cup on the weekend of 30 September to 1 October.

Introduced by the RCYC in the wake of the Admiral’s Cup’s cancellation, the Vice Admiral’s Cup was an instant hit with competitors who loved its combination of ‘first past the post’ racing and laid back social events.

The level-rating and short course format, which produced a fast, furious, fun and above all extremely close competition in 2005, will be retained for this year’s regatta. Entry is open to yachts of a series production class of which at least four shall be constructed with fleets being organised as follows:

• Class 1 – 44′-46′ Class. Maximum IRC rating 1.240

• Class 2 – 37′-41′ Class. Maximum IRC rating 1.18

In addition the club is keen to introduce a fleet to include smaller boats such as the Mumm 30 if sufficient interest can be generated. Owners of suitable boats are asked to register their interest as soon as possible.

Racing will take place in the central Solent with après sailing parties being hosted at the RCYC’s Cowes clubhouse. Already many of 2005’s competitors, which included Swan 45s, Farr 45s, DK46s, Farr 40s and a Kerr 11.3, have confirmed their attendance. In addition the Beneteau 40.7 Class has enquired about making this the final weekend in their 2006 Championship and so an entry of at least 25-30 boats is expected.

For details and entry form contact Louise Morton, Secretary, Royal Corinthian Yacht Club, The Parade, Cowes, Isle of Wight PO31 7QU. E-mail louise@rcyc.co.uk, telephone 44 (0)1983 293581 or visit www.rcyc.co.uk.