Six Metre Worlds: Look at this entry list of, literally, sailing royalty – and it's still growin

VANCOUVER – We don't often preview events because there is just so much else going on, and if the organizer issues a pre-regatta release it's usually more of a sop to the event sponsors than real news. Of course there are exceptions, and not just for the AC, VOR and Olympics. Next week's J-Class Worlds in Newport, RI is one example; your Ed. previewed it on our Tuesday live show yesterday. Another is the International Six Metre World Championship in Vancouver September 15-21. And these previews come by way of personal contact from friends, not press releases that other sites love to cut and paste.

Among the 46 boats representing nine countries already entered are the following notables: Craig Healy (USA), Russ Sylvestri (USA), Hugo Stenbeck (SWE), Dennis Conner (USA), Lars Grael (BRA), Lars Guck (HKG), Ron Holland (NZL), Andy Beadsworth (GBR), and His Majesty King Juan Carlos of Spain (father of the current King Felipe who is also a keen sailor and former Olympian in the Soling Class, but, as far as we know, not racing in the 6M Worlds), among others.

Nice to see that the resurgence in metre-boat racing continues, with the 12s planning a series of major events over the next two summers in and around Newport, RI, while the 6s ramp up on the West Coast starting with the Worlds next month hosted by the esteemed Royal Vancouver Yacht Club.

Like the J-Class Worlds in Newport, RI next week, the 6M Worlds looks like a fun regatta to follow, if not visit in person (to say nothing of competing!).

HM King Juan Carlos winning a regatta at Sanxenxo, Spain in his Six Meter BRIBON in March this year. Photo courtesy of Europa Press / gettyimages.