largest in the event's 94-year history.

As of yesterday, race organisers had received 179 completed entry forms -- one more than the record fleet -- with more expected over the next fortnight.

George Bauer, public relations officer for the Newport-based Cruising Club of America, said: "Our record was 178 boats for the 1972 race and we got the same number again in 1982.

"We've had 179 entries so far, but that number could change -- upwards or downwards. There are a few more boats out there we are expecting to enter.'' Asked if he thought the starting line-up could swell to 200 boats, Bauser said: "I suppose there is a chance of that, but I think it's extremely unlikely.

"The maximum number we would expect would be about 190, but you never know.

We had a very large attendance at the Safety at Sea seminar last week, 605 people, and that suggests there will be quite a few doing the race for the first time.'' At least five Bermuda skippers will be taking on the 635-mile crossing from Rhode Island.

Veteran Warren Brown will be at the helm of War Baby once again and other locals include Colin Couper with Babe , Paul Hubbard and Bermuda Oyster , Stephen Sherwin and his newly acquired yacht Borderlaw and Les Crane on Monterey .