Windsurfers are preparing to take part in the legendary Portland Harbour Dash this September.

Competitors will set sail across Weymouth Bay on September 21 and September 22 with a Le Mans-style start at Overcombe Beach.

Sailors will race across Weymouth Bay into the North shipping channel of Portland Harbour, out of the East channel, and back to Overcombe Beach.

Organised by the Official Test Centre (OTC) the dash is open to windsurfers, wind foilers and wing foilers and raises funds for the Will Houghton Foundation (WHF).

The foundation provides funds to UK charities that help six to 24-year-olds reach their potential through sport and education.

For the last seven years, it has supported the Portland-based Will Mackaness Trust, which works with OTC to teach local children to swim, sail and windsurf while building confidence and independence.

OTC Director, Tris Best, said; “It’s great to be able to hold this legendary local event again. I’d like to thank the Portland Harbour Authorities for being so supportive.

“With the revolution that foiling has brought to all water sports, I think the record for The Dash has never been more achievable. We look forward to welcoming everyone to Overcombe in early June and raising some money for such a worthwhile cause.”

In 2011, Olympian windsurfer Nick Dempsy broke Ade Bugler’s 20-year-old record for the Habour dash by two minutes, clocking just over 16 minutes.

This year's race winners will be presented with their prizes by the widow of Brian Matthews, Connie Matthews.

Brian died in January 1986, the day after his 60th Birthday, and the Dash was created in his memory.

Chair of the Will Houghton Foundation, Richard Houghton, added: “Will learnt to windsurf in Portland Harbour and was never happier than when he was on the water. We are delighted that OTC has chosen to support WHF’s work with charities in Portland and Weymouth and look forward to a record-breaking Dash.”

There is a suggested entry donation of £25.00, with all proceeds going to WHF.

To enter, contact The Official Test Centre (OTC) on 07817 717904.