A total of 28 leading skippers – the winners from the most competitive classes of Skandia Cowes Week 2006 – will race on an equal level in identical one-design Laser SB3s at the inaugural joint Performance Sailcraft Europe Ltd/Volkswagen Touareg King of Cowes event. This one-day event takes place on Friday 3 August - the day before the start of Skandia Cowes Week 07.

To qualify as one of the most competitive classes at this event, a point spread of 12 or less including discard between first and third place was required.

The invitation-only event offers a brand-new Volkswagen Touareg as a prize to the winning helmsman, and a free SB3 trade-in for the owner. Not surprisingly interest in the event was huge with most competitors signing up immediately.

The prizes for 2nd and 3rd place are equally challenged and rewarding, with a pristine Volkswagen EOS and Laser GXD also 'up for grabs'. The allocation of helmsmen to each Laser SB3 was decided by an independent draw that took place on Tuesday 29 May 2007. Qualifying helmsmen from the diversity of 28 classes were randomly selected to team with Laser SB3 owners and their boats.

Keep an eye on yachtingworld.com for exclusive news as it happens throughout the day. There’ll also be interviews with the prizewinners to find out what they thought about this inaugural event.

Also, watch out for yachtingworld.com’s streaming news stories throughout Skandia Cowes Week including news from the successful Laser SB3 sportsboat class where a staggering 98 boats will be taking part.

Read more about the King of Cowes event by clicking on the news stories below:

King of Cowes is champagne sailing
More tight sailing in the second race, where the final leg sees most action

First blood to the Wolf
Glynn Wwilliams wins first race of the Volkswagen Tourag King of Cowes.

Sailing stars ready to do battle.
The Volkswagen Touareg King of Cowes at Skandia Cowes Week.

King of Cowes countdown
The organisers announce the official runners and riders list.

King of Cowes
Build up for the coveted title of 'Volkswagen Touareg King of Cowes' begins.

Big entry for King of Cowes
A veritable line up of 28 Skandia Cowes Week 2006 winners confirm they will compete in the Volkswagen Touareg King of Cowes Regatta.

Big race planned for Cowes Week winners
Performance Sailcraft Europe Ltd and Volkswagen Touareg team up to create a very special invitation-only sailing event.