With the series leadership still wide open, next week’s national championship in Plymouth promises to be an exciting end to a terrific circuit. Having experienced both extremes – from the light winds and sunshine of Quiberon, to the strong winds and waves of Garda – everyone is waiting to see what the West Country has to offer.

The event is being hosted jointly by Mayflower Sailing Club and the Royal Plymouth Corinthian Yacht Club, with a 15 race series planned from August 26-31.

The week kicks off with a pre-event training session by former Olympic coach and 4000 fleet regular, Rob Andrews, on Saturday. Racing starts gently on Sunday with a practice race and the first points race, before reaching full championship velocity at three races a day from Bank Holiday Monday.

Sponsors – including Gul, Seldon, Quba and Noble Insurance – are providing additional support, with daily prizes and lots of beer. This year, we’re introducing a Buddy system and daily Improvers’ prizes to ensure that the usual suspects don’t run off with all the loot. And not forgetting the infamous Duckhams Award – given out every day for acts of gross incompetence (why, oh why, are there always so many worthy nominations?).

And did we mention the socials ? Well, this is one of the best social fleets in the world, so we’ll be aiming to live up to our reputation.

Tempted ? Beg, borrow or steal (or even buy?) a 4000 and get down to Plymouth this weekend. Find out more by visiting the Laser 4000 website : www.lasersailing.com/laser4000 (“Information” tab) or go to the Mayflower site : www.mayflowersc.org.uk (“Whats New” tab) for an entry form.

Can’t make it ? Watch out for the daily reports coming live from sailpower.com.