Wicklow Harbour is gearing up for the start of the SSE Renewables Round Ireland Race, which will commence at 1 p.m. on Saturday.
The biennial 700 nautical-mile offshore race will see 49 boats vying for top honours in the challenging event.
The forecast for the initial 36 hours predicts headwinds from the south as the fleet charts its course past the Tuskar Rock off the coast of Wexford and towards the iconic Fastnet Rock off West Cork. Participants are hopeful for favourable "sleigh-ride" conditions as they journey along the Atlantic seaboard.
With teams hailing from various parts of Ireland, the UK, France, and the United States, the competition is set to be fierce. The coveted 'line honours' will be awarded to the first boat to cross the finishing line at Wicklow. Overall victory will be determined at the correct time, offering smaller boats the chance to win.
American George David holds the course record, set at just over 50 hours in 2016 aboard Rambler 88. However, with a diverse range of entries this year, a new record may not be on the cards.
Race director Kyran O'Grady expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating that despite some last-minute setbacks, the spectacle of nearly 50 boats congregating at the start line promises an impressive display for onlookers at the Wicklow town shoreline.
With a diverse array of entries, ranging from modern vessels like Laurent Pages' Teasing Machine to classic boats like George Radley's "Imp," the SSE Renewables Round Ireland Race is poised to offer an exhilarating six-day challenge for participants. Weather and tides are expected to play a crucial role in determining the victor.