Newport-Bermuda Race organisers are expecting a record number of entrants for the annual 635-mile crossing which is celebrating its centennial year.

The race entry record stands at 182, set in 1982 and equalled in 2002.

But with a number of guaranteed regular competitors still to register, the projected number for 2006 stands at an impressive 220 boats.

Anybody wishing to register has until next Wednesday, March 15, to do so, with organisers stressing yesterday that there was no limit to the number of entries they would accept ? provided the boat and crew were competent and qualified to race.

Entry forms for the race which begins on June 16 can be found at www.bermudarace.com.