INTEREST is growing in the Biscay Challenge, a demanding 540-mile double-handed offshore race planned from the Solent to northern Spain in June.

“It is very pleasing to report that we continue to have a high level of interest and I feel confident of welcoming a fleet of at least 30 boats on the start line on June 13,” said Hon Race Director, Roger Townsend, a former Commodore of the Royal Southampton Yacht Club which is organising the race.

The Royal Southampton has pioneered double-handed racing in the UK and is widely acclaimed as the leading exponent of this style of yacht racing.

Mr Townsend says the register of interest so far has been so good, that organisers are likely to fill the allocation that host sponsor, marina operator, EKP can offer at its marina at Hondarribia, the destination venue on the Spanish and French border.

“We have asked them to negotiate the provision of additional berths in a larger marina at Hendaye, which is just across the river in France. If we have to take that up, we will find ourselves in the bizarre situation of mooring boats for the same race in two different countries; but do not be alarmed - we will be laying on a shuttle service to bring those moored in France over to Spain for the evening events. It is only about a three minute trip.”

Interest has been registered from both the UK and Spain and first entries have already been confirmed.

Royal Cornwall Yacht Club, with which the Royal Southampton has strong links, has nominated the Biscay Challenge to be a qualifier for its AZAB in 2011, subject to the usual race conditions. The Biscay Challenge is also an official qualifier for the Royal Western YC’s Shetland Round Britain and Ireland Race, scheduled for next year.

“Someone has told me that it is going to be a really hot summer in 2009. I will drink to that!” said Mr Townsend.

For further information on the race go to www.biscaychallenge.com Or contact: Cathy Crawley Racing Secretary Royal Southampton Yacht club 1 Channel Way Ocean Village Southampton SO14 3QF T: +44 (0) 203 8021 0872 E: racing@rsyc.org.uk