THE quay at Ocean Village in Southampton was packed with families saying goodbye to their loved ones on Saturday as the eight boats in the Round Britain Challenge set off on their adventure.
The former BT Global Challenge 72 feet racing yachts are mainly crewed by sailing novices who have put in two weeks intensive training as preparation.
The bright sun of the previous few days had vanished to be replaced by a blustery wind that raised the possibility of the course's 10 day record being shattered.
After the start in Cowes Bay, the yachts head along the south coast, swing round the famous Fastnet Rock on the south coast of Ireland, swing up beyond the Shetlands and then down the east coast of the UK before returning triumphantly to Southampton Water.
FOR MORE ON THE ROUND BRITAIN CHALLENGE YACHT RACE GO TO OUR DEDICATED SAILING SITE SAIL SOLENT AT: http://www.thisissouthampton.co.uk/hampshire/sailsolent/
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article