championships at the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club yesterday.

The regatta, being held in Island waters for the first time, is aimed at youngsters between the ages of eight and 16.

But competitors are subject to the same rules as advanced sailors and several were disqualified in yesterday's practice races in the Great Sound.

Premier Gordon later welcomed dozens of competitors from the US, Ecuador, Venezuela, Brazil, Mexico, and Canada.

In yesterday's action, Erik Storck of the US won with compatriot Kitty Lovelace and young Mexican Andres Akle finishing runners-up. Bermuda's top finisher was Alexander Kirkland who finished fifth. Racing begins in earnest today at 9.30 a.m.

WIND BLOWN -- Skippers from Bermuda, Mexico and the US wait to be landed at Bar's Bay on Hamilton Harbour at the end of yesterday's practice races for the North American Optimist class championships which begin today. More than 70 competitors from seven countries are competing.