Starting with a Bang

Cowes Week, the worlds largest and oldest yachting regatta started with a bang today. Over the next week thousands of yachts of from the smallest dinghys to Ocean Racers will contest races in the Solent.
Today started in almost perfect conditions with hot sun and a stiff breeze.
Spectators can get close to the action at the starting line shown here and along the Parade. Although it's almost impossible to know what is going on due to the unintelligible rules and several races going on simultaneously,it does make for a great spectacle.
Cowes town a sleepy place for 90% of the year really comes to life with thousands of partying visitors crowding the streets.