THE countdown is on for a much anticipated boating regatta with new changes and exciting races to look forward to.

This East Coast Regatta, a competitive boat racing festival which traditionally takes place over the August bank holiday weekend, will run from August 26 until September 2.

The eight-day racing spectacle, renowned for its broad range of classes and both weekend and mid-week prizes, continues to hold its rank as one of the most popular late-summer family holiday events.

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Fans can look forward to fierce competition among classes like the Dragon, RS Elite, Squi, and local Royal Burnham and Royal Corinthian One-Designs.

A thrilling addition to this year's event is the Sandhopper class, returning to Burnham Week after a successful run the previous year.

The class will witness entries from Thorpe Bay YC, on the Thames Estuary, and Maylandsea Bay YC on the River Blackwater.

Scott James, chairman of the Sandhopper class association, anticipates a higher turnout this year.

He said: "The competition was exceptional last year and this has prompted a lot of interest for the 2023 event.

"In fact, we already have eight boats from Thorpe Bay preparing to sail at this stage, and realistically we expect at least 10, if not more in total."

Edwin Buckley, Burnham Week principal race officer, expressed delight over the growing visitor interest, adding: "We are looking forward to welcoming not only local teams but also visitors to this East Coast August spectacular.

"As well as a full-on racing schedule for cruisers, dinghies and keelboats with the likes of the ECODs also returning this year, we are pleased that the gig rowing teams will be in full force once again on the first weekend.

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"In addition to this, we’ve introduced the Interclub Rowing Competition, whereby members of all three clubs – Royal Corinthian YC, Royal Burnham YC and Burnham SC – have a chance to go head-to-head.

"We’re also planning some friendly competition between local paddleboard teams the same weekend, so we look forward to seeing everyone there."

For more information about the event and to buy tickets, visit burnhamweek.com.