The so-called golden age of yacht racing in the early decades of the 20th Century, saw the Cowes Regatta continue with the graceful 23m, 19m, and 15m boats racing, followed by the famous J Class boats in the 1930s.
In 1957 the first Admiral’s Cup, organised by the Royal Ocean Racing Club, was held, bringing an international aspect to the regatta.
Prime Minister Edward Heath steered the British Admiral’s Cup team to victory at the helm of his 42ft (12.8m) yacht, Morning Cloud, in 1971.
Cowes Combined Clubs was formed in 1964 to run and organise the regatta.
Previously each club would run its own races, with separate rules, racing marks and start and finish lines.
The Royal Yacht Squadron line became the universal start line and one set of sailing instructions and racing marks was introduced.
