he will become only the second Bermudian to do so in the 10th biennial Bermuda One-Two Race.

Only Mike Vogley has previously sailed the Bermuda banner in the event which will see at least 45 competitors racing single-handed from Newport to Bermuda and then doubled-handed back to the popular east coast port -- hence the name.

Parris yesterday spoke with anticipation of his first venture into the regatta which comes just a week before the Marion-to-Bermuda Race.

And even though he enters as a newcomer, the 30-year-old Parris, who has been involved with boats "from the time I started walking'' was openly optimistic with regard his chances.

"I'm in the racing division and of course I'm looking to win,'' said Parris, who will pilot his 35-foot J105 Learning to Fly to Newport alone tomorrow in order to be assured of being ready for the start.

"I'm going out there to compete. Just taking part is an accomplishment in itself, but I've been training quite a bit and I'm looking to do well.'' Parris recently returned from Antigua Race Week in the Caribbean, which he used as his final test.

Asked why he decided to join the fray in what is potentially a risky proposition, he replied: "It's the self sufficiency of being on your own with no one to help you but you. You have to be very safety conscious and take less risks.

"There aren't that many who like to sail on their own...it's sometimes crazy when you have a lot of people on board. You have to be comfortable with yourself and know your boat.'' The desire to compete, Parris said, came two years ago and since then he has achieved two crossings while totalling 2,300 single-handed ocean miles.

Crossings are expected to take four or more days, with the St. George's Dinghy and Sports Club the local hosts for the competitors and their craft.