Over 250 of the world's top young sailors from a record 62 countries will take part in the event, hoping that success now will ultimately lead to Olympic Gold in six years time.

British talent includes Tom Phipps, 17, who makes his third appearance at the Championships after winning Gold in 2004 and Silver in 2005.

Phipps said: "I love representing Great Britain at the Volvo Youth Sailing ISAF World Championship, and I am definitely up for the challenge of doing it again!"

He will partner 16-year-old debutant Richard Glover from Weymouth in the Hobie 16 class.

Windsurfer Beth Williamson, 18, is also intending to make her mark in the Windsurfing competition.

14 June 2006