Fastnet Race

The biennial Rolex Fastnet Race is considered one of the world's classic ocean races, the 608-mile course a test for skippers and crews with its tricky tidal currents and changeable weather conditions. The race, which is organised by the Royal Ocean Racing Club, with the Royal Yacht Squadron and the Royal Western Yacht Club, starts off Cowes, Isle of Wight.
With over 200 boats taking part, the yachts head west down the Solent and out through the Needles, past the major south coast headlands, Anvil Point, Portland Bill, Start Point, and Lands End rounding the famous rock and the Scilly Isles before finishing at Plymouth.
Like no other, the Rolex Fastnet Race attracts every type of sailor and boat from just about every sailing country in the world. Sailing schools, corporate institutions, family owned and crewed cruiser-racers, dedicated amateurs, club sailors along with the hardened champions from the Grand Prix circuits, are all attracted to compete in the best known offshore race in the world. All competitors come to enjoy the challenge of one of the trickiest and most demanding sporting events that an individual or a team can aspire to today.

More info at http://www.rorc.org