Around 70 yachts are expected to take part in the Chartering International IRC Championship - the highly competitive inshore series organised by the Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC). Starting on Friday 6 June, the series will consist of eight inshore races finishing on Sunday 8 June.

Sponsoring the series for the first time, Chartering International's Yacht Manager, Declan O'Sullivan said: "In recognition of the support we get from the UK's yachting community, we are happy to be able to sponsor the 2003 IRC Championship. CIL is proud to assist the RORC with this event and show its support for UK yacht racing in a tangible way."

The event has attracted a large number of top racing yachts from around the country, including three Admiral's Cup challengers who will be using the series as part of their training programme in the build up to the major regatta in July. Chernikeeff, the IMS 50 will be sailing under the Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club banner with the Sailability Admiral's Cup team. Paralympic Gold medallist Andy Cassell will skipper the boat in the IRC Championship and the Admiral's Cup, when half of his team will have disabilities, providing the opportunity to compete on equal terms with the best sailors in the world.

The Royal Thames Yacht Club big boat team for the Admiral's Cup, Kit Hobday's Farr 52, Bear of Britain will also be out on the race course putting his crew through their paces along with Nick Hewson's Farr 52 Volvo for Life Team Tonic, representing the Royal Southern Yacht Club.

As well as the usual Prima 38 and HOD35 contenders, other entries at the bigger end of the fleet include Nick Lykiardopulo's Kerr 55 Aera and two new Swan 45's Keith Miller's Crackerjack and Glynn Williams Wisc. "We are also delighted that Nigel Musto, whose company sponsors the IRC Rule, will be taking part in his Kerr 9m, The Office," said Peter Wykeham-Martin, RORC General Manager.

Yachts will be competing for the RORC IRC Championship Trophy, as well as Class prizes and RORC Medallions. A Final prizegiving ceremony will be held after racing on Sunday 8 June in Cowes Yacht Haven and a full social programme has also been arranged for the 3-day series including a Pimms Party at the Royal Yacht Squadron Pavilion on Saturday 7 June with complimentary Pimms provided by Chartering International, followed by the day's prizegiving.