As high winds continue to dominate the local area, race officials at the International 14-World championships remain optimistic that the regatta will reach a conclusion, writes Colin Thompson.

Manager of Sailing and Dock operations at the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club, Kevin Blee, yesterday said that despite the recent spate of postponements sailors' morale remained high and that the competitors were amusing themselves during the interval sight-seeing, relaxing and body-skiing.

"Basically we are continuing to monitor the weather. The combination of blustery conditions since Sunday have been too much for the boats.

"There were a lot of breakdowns and tow-ins on Saturday and the conditions have been consistently adverse since - if not worse!" said Blee.

Race officials have decided to revert to a two race per day format in a bid to re-schedule the postponed races and with two races having been completed so far, they are hoping for at least one good day of suitable conditions so the competitors can get in the minimum four required races that constitute a series.

"We have been going out there everyday since Sunday looking at the conditions and we are not just relying upon the weather forecasts," said Blee.

"We need to get in four races to make it a series - we presently have two races in the bag and with two days remaining it would be wonderful to have the opportunity to complete the series.

"Whether the conditions will allow for us to go out tomorrow (Thursday) is still up to Mother Nature, we are still playing it by ear and just waiting for further developments.

"There is a phenomenon that exists called `Regatta Weather' which basically means you receive the exact opposite weather of what you would expect to get at that time of the year.

"That happens all over the world and is not unique to Bermuda."

Current US champion Zach Berkowitz remains on top of the leader board after sailing to victory during both of last weekend's opening races.

He remains a firm candidate for the title, while defending champion, Kristopher Bundy holds down fourth position.

Although Hurricane Olga has moved to the south of the Island her winds continue to influence local conditions.

Racing is scheduled to commence at noon today in the Great Sound - weather permitting.