Over 40 nations have already applied for entry to the ISAF Sailing World Championships – the pinnacle event for the Olympic Classes in 2007 taking place in Cascais, Portugal from 28 June-13 July.

With two weeks still remaining for nations to apply for their priority places, the 2007 event looks well on the way to eclipsing the 71 nations who appeared in Cadiz four years ago.

The 2007 ISAF Worlds is the principle qualification regatta for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, with 75 per cent of all national places to be decided. ISAF Member National Authorities (MNAs) have until 31 January 2007 to apply for one Priority Place in each of the 11 Olympic events in Cascais. Priority places in Cascais have already been accepted by over 40 nations from Africa, Asia, Europe, Oceania and North and South America.

Helmut Czasny (AUT), Manager of the ISAF Competitions Department, said: “So far the response to online entry has been very enthusiastic. We are still awaiting entry from a number of the larger sailing countries, so things are looking very positive for a real spread of nations in Cascais. The 2007 ISAF Sailing World Championships will be one of the highlights of ISAF’s Centenary year and a perfect opportunity to show off our sport on a worldwide scale.”