ANTICIPATION is building ahead of the start of Weymouth Speed Week in October.

The first and the longest-running speed sailing event open to all types of wind-powered craft starts on Saturday, October 5.

An organiser said: “We look forward to seeing friends old and new from across Europe, and possibly further, at this year’s event. As always the first weekend will incorporate the youth event.

“This year is proving to be a tough one for many of the organisers and our resources are very stretched. A number of important changes are necessary in order that we can run the event this year.

“We are only offering full week entries and the youth weekend.

“This is partly due to the very limited number of GT31s available and our wish to make best use of them.

“For those wishing to take part for two days this may be possible from the seventh onwards provided you have your own GT31.

“Entries will close two weeks before the event and only those who have made payment at that time will be eligible to take part and receive their event shirt.”

Last season, Belgian competitor Patrick van Hoof laid down the fastest mark of 34.16 knots in choppy conditions on the 500m course.

On that occasion, a strong southerly wind meant the speed strip was in the middle of the harbour rather than along the beach, providing lumpy conditions unsuitable for optimum speed.

The event, featuring over 60 participants, started with a bang thanks to the tail end of Storm Callum.

Eventual winner of the youth fleet was Weymouth Tyler Baker at 28.748 followed by Olympic hopeful James Faley, also of Weymouth, in second with 28.583 knots. Third was Sam Jones and fourth Lewis Limm.

To register to take part this year and for further details go to weymouthspeedweek.com