A local contingent of promising sailors will be looking to make their mark at this week's International Optimist Dinghy Association (IODA) World Championships that commences today in Cesme, Turkey.

Representing Bermuda in Europe this week are Brian Bulhoes, Connor Astwood, Owen Siese and Christopher Sposato.

Bulhoes and Astwood competed at last year's International Optimist Dinghy Championships in Sardinia, Italy and the pair's past experience at this level could again prove valuable in Turkey as the Islanders look to measure up against some of the world's best.

For rookies Siese and Sposato, this year marks their first trip to the Opti Worlds where team leader Martin Siese is optimistic the Island's young sailors will acquit themselves well.

The Bermudians arrived in Europe last week and since then have steadily adjusted to sailing in variable conditions.

"The team have been practising every day acclimatising to the local conditions and running through race drills with their coach (Pablo Weber)," team leader Siese said. "Conditions so far have been very good - bright sunshine and good winds. The first practice day was sailed in 20 plus knots, but each day since has seen a little less wind."

The 2008 International Optimist Dinghy Association World Championships run from July 17 -24.