High winds on the south coast yesterday kept hundreds of boats entered in Ford Cork Week alongside various marina berths, all hoping for an abatement in conditions overnight. The biennial event is scheduled to begin for most classes today, although the two Sigma divisions attempted to get under way yesterday.

As many as 25 boats were sheltering from the westerly gales in Kilmore Quay's new marina, although several tried to leave yesterday morning but were forced back by the weather. With winds veering and easing slightly last evening, the crews were hoping to leave for Crosshaven and the first starts overnight.

Meanwhile, the Sigma 33-footers considered starting their UK national championships, but eventually decided to abandon racing before lunch time. Their larger counterparts, the Sigma 38-footers, requested a start from the race committee and shortly after 2.0 p.m., about 20 of the class set off from Weavers Point on their overnight offshore course.

The boats set off on an "up/down" course, taking them from the Cork Harbour entrance to Kinsale and back again - twice. This fleet was expected home this morning and is not scheduled to race again until tomorrow.

The bulk of the 670 boats stayed alongside Crosshaven's marinas and docks all day yesterday. Plans to test sails and drill crews had to be abandoned, while others reviewed weather websites and charts with grim predictions of similar conditions for the early part of the week.