Exiled Scot, David Cullen and his wife live in Hong Kong and last took part in the Scottish Series aboard a Sadler 32 fifteen years ago.

They are back this year along with a group of Hong Kong sailors going by the name of Team Struan in a chartered Marten 49.

Another overseas-based crew making its way to Tarbert this May is a group of airline pilots based in Dubai. Jo Gillespie and his crew are members of the Dubai Offshore Sailing Club and each year choose an overseas event in which to compete.

Previously they have raced at race series in Cape Town, Whitsunday Islands, Australia, British Virgin Islands and Cowes, but this will be their first experience of racing in Scotland.

The 4-day format of the event especially suits the high fliers, because they can travel, practise and race with only taking one week off work.

The organisers warn there's a late entry fee charge for entries received after April 22 (equal to 20% of entry fee) so it's in owners' interests to get entries in early. Entry forms available from Hazel Watson at the Clyde Cruising Club on 0141 221 2774, email:

info@clyde.org or via the website: www.clyde.org