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The event was created with the assistance of the Bermuda Optimist Dinghy Association (BODA) to expose juniors to leading international sailors in a mentoring atmosphere and provide opportunities to learn about sailing and match racing.

The world's top Optimist Class sailors from countries represented by Gold Cup participants have been invited to Bermuda to participate in the five-day development program, which will be held October 18-21, concurrent with the King Edward VII Gold Cup.

"The Bermuda Optimist Dinghy Association is delighted to join with the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club and Renaissance Reinsurance in hosting the Junior Gold Cup," said John GARDNER, BODA president. "Where else in the world can the sailors of tomorrow stand shoulder-to-knee with the best of today? Bermuda may be a small country, but with generations of seafaring we are committed to maintaining a world-class attendance in international racing from Optis onwards."

Over the course of the week, the Junior Gold Cup schedule will mirror that of the skippers and teams participating in the King Edward VII Gold Cup. While match racing in Bermuda's legendary event takes place on Hamilton Harbour, the juniors will race in their own regatta on Bermuda's Granaway Deep.

The week also includes an opportunity to learn more about sailing through practical drills in Optimists and attend briefings with the world's top sailors. After racing, the junior sailors will attend the King Edward VII Gold Cup press conferences at the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club.

On the final day of the program, Sunday, 26 October, the Renaissance Reinsurance Junior Gold Cup will hold its final match on the King Edward VII Gold Cup course, with a prize giving to follow onshore.