Raymarine has announced it is to continue its sponsorship of the Classic Channel Regatta. The bi-annual event, which takes place this year from 4-11 July, has already attracted entries from over 80 boats.

Chloe Bartle, Marketing Manager for Raymarine in the UK says: “The Classic Channel Regatta attracts a large number of some of the world’s most beautiful and historic boats. Raymarine is proud to be involved for the third year and once again will be supporting the event with prizes.”

To qualify, boats have to be built pre-1975, with bermudan or gaff rigs. The regatta starts with two days racing in Dartmouth, a cross channel race to Paimpol in Northern France, followed by a passage race to Guernsey, and concludes with the Classic Round Sark race and prize giving.

Notable yachts already taking part include from France the late Eric Tabarly’s 1989 Wm. Fife cutter ‘Pen Duick’ which is still owned by his family, and the French Navy training yachts ‘Mutin’ and ‘La Grande Hermine’. From Britain there are many famous names from the belle époque of yachting including Argyll, Lutine, Pazienza, Clarionet, Cervantes IV and Vashti. Regatta Organiser Bruce Thorogood says: “This third edition of the regatta looks set to be a great success with many famous and interesting yachts taking part and great support from the three ports of call. And we are delighted to have the continued support of Raymarine who are sponsoring the prizes for the Classic Channel Race.”