On 5 August spectators can once again enjoy the Artemis Challenge at Cowes Week, now recognised as one of the pinnacle events at the celebrated regatta. The race – a 50-mile sprint around the Isle of Wight – is open to IMOCA 60s, and the winning skipper will be awarded £10,000 to donate to charity.

Designed to celebrate IMOCA 60 racing in British waters, the race will be the ideal warm up for the big boats ahead of the Rolex Fastnet Race.

In 2008 it was a wet and gusty event, with eight IMOCA 60s taking part. It was a hard fought race, which ended with British skipper Brian Thompson claiming first prize onboard Pindar – in one of the fastest recorded times for circumnavigating the island.

The 2008 event saw former Labour Party spin-doctor Alistair Campbell join Artemis Ocean Racing I, whilst Davina McCall sailed with Alex Thomson on Hugo Boss and England Rugby player James Haskell crewed on Artemis Ocean Racing II. This year’s race is shaping up to be a classic with some high profile celebrity names to be announced over the coming months.

For more information, visit www.artemisonline.co.uk .