The Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club is set to host the GP14 World Championships on Belfast Lough this August, with entries already sold out.

More than 100 boats will compete in the championship from August 8-14, attracting sailors from Ireland, the UK and other countries. A waiting list is in operation after record-breaking demand.

Local businesses in Holywood and across North Down are expected to benefit, as many visitors plan to extend their stays to explore the area’s coastline, towns and attractions. Hotels, restaurants, cafes, shops and visitor attractions are all likely to see increased trade during the week-long event.

Competitors span a wide age range, from 16 to over 80, demonstrating the intergenerational appeal of the GP14 class.

Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club commodore Lindsay McCarty Nolan said the event was a chance to welcome the world to Belfast Lough and show what Northern Ireland has to offer. She noted that the club was preparing to provide a warm welcome and that many participants would use the trip as an opportunity to discover local hospitality and scenery beyond the racing.

The championship is expected to draw spectators both onshore and online, with race updates and visitor information to be released in the coming weeks.