The next Around Alone Race, a favourite among long-distance solo sailors, will start and finish in its original home of Newport, Rhode Island following an agreement between Southampton-based organisers Clipper Ventures plc and Newport authorities.

In a deal said to be worth in excess of US$1million to Sir Robin Knox-Johnston's ocean racing and marine events company, the Clipper Ventures and Newport will enter into three profit-sharing deals relating to local merchandising, local sponsorship, and a waterfront festival timed to coincide with the September starting date.

Newport will also provide Clipper with extensive goods and services including moorings, race offices and media facilities.

Already, more than 20 entries from 12 races have been received for the 28,800 mile race. From the Newport start-line they will race across the Atlantic and stop over on the English south coast. They will then proceed to Cape Town, South Africa; New Zealand, and Salvador, Brazil. Competitors are expected back in Newport in spring 2003.