There could be a local presence in the Charleston to Bermuda race by its fifth running in 2005.

While ruing the lack of Bermudian participation on the eve of the biennial event's fourth edition, race officials have expressed optimism in the increase in numbers and the possibility of some of the Island's sailors competing in two years.

Sixteen boats are scheduled to set sail for the Island from South Carolina, USA, tomorrow and the winning vessel is expected here by next Wednesday. In 2001, only six boats finished the race which has been struggling but which new management (the South Carolina Maritime Heritage Foundation) are trying to revitalise.

"It's not been an extremely successful event from the numbers point of view. It's growing and this represents a big increase over the numbers last time and from what I understand several local skippers have expressed an interest in competing in the next race in two years' time," said one of the local officials, Ralph Richardson.

"It takes a little while to decide to get a boat together and get everything in place (to race) but there's some interest locally. We're very happy with the boats we have gotten. It's a sign that the race can grow."

Organiser Hank Hofford believes this sailing spectacle can be the catalyst for tourism and business links between South Carolina and the Island.

"We're trying to take the Charleston to Bermuda race to a new level. The last three times it has run there have been around eight or ten boats and it has been a wonderful experience, but we haven't really hit the critical mass it deserves and can do," he said during a visit to the Island earlier this year.

"We hope to strengthen the connection between Charleston and Bermuda in tourism and on the business level. They are sister locations in many ways.

"They were established around the same time and have a common history from our roots in the British empire. We'd love to have some Bermudian boats involved and we are looking for people willing to participate in the race."

This year's race should generate extra attention as world-famous sailor Neal Petersen of South Africa - aboard No-Barriers.com - aims to break the record for the 777-mile race.