It’s time for companies to be counted for the 2007 Marine Industry Regatta as Sunsail wants to start collecting the entry money.

We now have an online entry form that will need to be completed, after which Sunsail will start demanding money with menaces.

The current list of entries stands at 37 and that’s without us really pushing for entries. But time is rushing on and we need to get a move on with this now.

The regatta runs out of Port Solent after Easter next April. We collect the boats – Jeanneau Sun Fast 37s – on the Tuesday evening, April 24, and then have supper and a few other amusing things that evening.

On the Wednesday, April 25, we set off early for The Solent and hope to run four races (depending on the weather) with three to count.  If we run three races, two will count. We’re scheduled to get back to Port Solent around 17.00 to hand the boats back and have a prizegiving, then we all head off home.

The cost of this event is £654 + VAT, plus a second cheque for £100 made out to the John Merricks Sailing Trust (the 2008 regatta will be the same price).

Now you need to log onto the regatta website – marineregatta.com – and download the entry form pdf. Print that off and complete it, then send it to Sunsail and await their demands for money.

Saltwater will also be in touch with you nearer the time to talk about filling the crew bags – every crew member will get a navigator’s bag, hopefully filled with goodies.

We have 50 boats reserved at Sunsail and look forward to another fun-packed regatta.

If you want more information on the regatta,  email pnash@boating business.com