THE COWES Torquay Cowes powerboat race has postponed its 2020 event until 2021 as a result of coronavirus regulations banning mass gatherings.

Organisers from the British Powerboat Racing Club have today (Wednesday) announced they have been forced to delay their 60th Cowes Torquay Cowes race to 2021.

A spokesperson for the BPRC said: "We have arrived at this difficult decision after much deliberation and in so doing we have considered a number of factors, including the latest Government guidance relating to travel restrictions and social distancing in relation to the Global Covid-19 pandemic.

"On this basis, we feel that in the context of the significance of this anniversary in the longstanding history of the club’s race, the event would undoubtedly be compromised and to an unacceptable degree and should not proceed this year.

"The BPRC would still like to host an offshore powerboat race on the weekend of 30th August 2020 but at the time of writing this statement, it is not clear whether such restrictions would allow this to happen or not.

"In the interests of allowing all stakeholders adequate time for preparation for such an event, a final decision as to the viability of this will be made on Monday June 15.

"The directors would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your unwavering support for this great race over the years and very much look forward to welcoming you back to racing at Cowes just as soon as it is feasibly appropriate to do so."