Peter Hedley, Commodore of the Island Sailing Club, will welcome Sir Robin Knox-Johnston to announce the launch of the 2003 Round the Island Race at the London Boat Show at Earls Court on 2nd January 2003.

The event has attracted up to 1,800 entries each year, ranging from the highest calibre of professional sailor to the family cruising yachtsman, perhaps competing for the first time. In 2003 the race will take place on 21st June - the longest day, and an appropriate date for the world's largest yacht race.

The Commodore will also be welcoming on board the growing family of race partners who will be supporting the event in 2003:

Haven Knox-Johnston - the pleasure craft insurance specialists,

Marina Developments Ltd - the UK's leading marina group,

Lombard Marine Finance- the UK's leading provider of asset finance with over 35 years of experience in marine finance,

Red Funnel - who continue their successful partnership with the Island Sailing Club from 2002 into 2003

Ocean World - the official clothes merchandiser located in the heart of Cowes with 20 years' experience of the race,

Champagne Mumm - who have been involved with yachting for over 25 years,

Pindar - leading specialist printers and sponsors of Emma Richards and Pindar in the Around Alone Race,

Raymarine - the international electronics manufacturer meeting the needs of the huge cross section of participants in the race.

The Island Sailing Club is delighted to be working with these organisations, all at the forefront of their respective market sectors. These race partners' involvement in the Round the Island Race ensures the event's continued high profile in 2003.