Under the agreement the WPNSA, which is the host venue for the sailing during the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics, will become the start and finish port for all circumnavigations in the series and will host the prize-giving ceremony.

The RBIC features racing three times a year around Great Britain and Ireland, covering 2,800 miles and with nine official stopovers.

An important element in preparing teams for the estimated 28-day race will be the training weekends for which the WPNSA is ideally suited, with the marina having direct access to the deep waters of Portland Harbour and Weymouth Bay which is essential for experiencing demanding seas.

Vendee Globe sailing star and OSTAR winner Steve White said: "The RBIC is shaping up to become a fantastic event.

"It is no small thing to sail around Britain and Ireland, and you will surely meet some varied and testing conditions.

"The race format makes this a uniquely affordable event in terms of both time and berth fees, so now there are no excuses or reasons not to sail around our country."

Chris Knight, business manager at the WPNSA, said: "We are looking towards a sustained relationship with the Round Britain and Ireland Challenge and are enthused to be involved with a national race that has its roots firmly in Weymouth and Portland.

"Through the set of unique challenge series we are hoping to encourage sailors from all over Great Britain and Ireland to enjoy our world class waters and on-shore yachting facilities."

The first race gets under way in April 2011.


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