World elite here

Frank Cassidy 1538 - 1538 • Published 12 Jul 2007 10:51

Between Monday July 16 and Saturday July 21, the Royal Northern and Clyde Yacht Club is hosting the 8 Metre Centennial championship, sponsored by Chopard.

Yachtsmen from all over the world will travel to Helensburgh and surrounding areas and more than 20 boats are expected to take part in the week-long programme of races and celebrations ashore.

As well as the competitors, their families and supporters, these graceful vessels are also likely to attract many yacht enthusiasts and spectators to the area.

The International 8 Metres, originally built to the Metre Class Rule formulated in 1907, have stood the test of time due to the graceful lines and beauty of the class.

Not only are there new yachts being built to the present Metre rule but there is a renewed enthusiasm for yachts being built to old designs and an extensive refurbishment and refitting of many yachts, some over 60 years old.

The RNCYC, founded in 1824 and based in Rhu, has been associated with the class since the inception of the Metre Class rule back in 1907.

Since then, the club has presented the class with the World Cup and more recently the Neptune Trophy for which yachtsmen compete today.

Commodore of the RNCYC and regatta chairman, Jock Fleming, said: 'We are delighted to be hosting this prestigious international event, particularly in its centennial year and look forward to welcoming the competitors, their families and spectators to the Clyde for an exciting week of racing and celebrations.'

Next week"s event is organised in association with the International 8 Metre Association, is sponsored by Chopard, and is supported by Highland 2007, Argyll and Bute Council, Argyll and the Islands Enterprise, Bunnahabhain whisky, Marccain and Krolls.

n The Metre boat rule is the outcome of a mathematical formula which incorporates the main dimensions such as length, width and sail area which influence the speed of the yacht.

To find out more about the 8 Metre class and the event visit the web-site 8metre-rncyc.com

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This article appeared in Helensburgh Advertiser 12 Jul 07

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