Race has announced several significant changes.

The race, scheduled to begin in Marion, Massachussets, on June 18, 1999, will carry on with the implentation of the AMERICAP handicapping system, as well as the development of a new website to provide information.

Both were new features in this year's Newport-Bermuda crossing.

The AMERICAP system, developed by US Sailing, is fair, simple to understand and inexpesive, said race spokesperson Faith Paulsen. The system provides varying handicaps for wind speed and direction, taking into consideration the race course.

A single number handicap system, used previously in Newport-Bermuda, does not take into full consideration yacht speed or wind direction. While the 1998 Newport-Bermuda Race was the first major yacht race to adopt AMERICAP, the system had been tested in Southern California for six months.

The goal is to provide good competition and fair comparison of different yachts, said Cruising Club of America's George Bauer.

The Marion-Bermuda race committee also announced the sponsor of a new trophy.

Ocean Spray, a leading juice-drink company, will provide a trophy to the yacht club or sailing organisation whose three-member team has the best corrected combined time.

The trophy will reside with the winning club until the next race.

Information about the Marion-Bermuda Race and other related matter can be accessed at: http:/www.marionbermuda.com.

Unlike the Newport race, Marion is largely a fun race for family and friends.

It is designed for cruising yachts and prohibits the use of spinnakers. It formerly allowed only the use of celestial navigation but starting in 1999 will have two navigation divisions -- electronic and celestial -- both of which will share equally in the distribution of prizes.

The exception is the Navigators Trophy, which will be awarded to the best celestial yacht.