KEY WEST -- By sea and land, sailors from around the world have congregated over the past week in the Southernmost City for Monday's start of Key West 2010 presented by Nautica, which is one of the biggest annual international regattas in North America.

With the temperature on the rise, race officals are hoping Key West's dependable breezes and warm waters will welcome crews, from over 14 countries and 20 states, during the weekend practice sessions before the five days of intense competition kicks off.

According to officials, the turnout for both classes is up from last year, with an impressive roster of Olympians, America's Cup and World Champions in the mix. They will be joined in the Division 1 races by two IRC classes, which range in size from 40 feet to Irvine Laidlaw's Wally 82 foot "Highland Fling XI." These largest vessels -- the IRC, PHRF and one design boats -- will race in three divisions. Grand Prix headliners include the Farr 40 and Melges 32 fleets.

However, race officals are quick to note that, "There's talent galore in the other seven classes as well and there's tough competition from veterans and newcomers alike."

The Melges 24, J/105 and J/80 classes will do battle on Division 2. All three classes have Key West champions back to defend their coveted titles.

In Divison 3, the three classes will be highlighted by: James Madden's high performance J/125 "Stark Raving Mad," in PHRF 1, nine boats from seven different states, along with Canada and Ireland in PHRF 2 and in PHRF 3, which has the smallest boats in fleet, local favorite Mark Milnes' J/24 will be challenged by boats from the Great Lakes, New England and Canada.

Also new to Divison 3 and race week this year is a multihull handicap class. Officals said they have plenty of optimism for growing this class of trimarans and catamarans over the next two years.

International Team Competition has also become an exciting tradition over the years, and 2010 is no exception, as nine strong squads are focused on the coveted Nautica Watches trophy.

There are 10 races scheduled over five days with the potential for two races on Friday. Event Access Cards are required for admittance to activities at the Race Week Tent. Race Headquarters is at the Historic Seaport, on the corner of Caroline and Margaret Streets adjacent to the Race Week Tent.

Fans can follow the action through several differnt websites like: SailingScuttlebutt.com along with nightly on demand video, after 9 p.m. on T2P at www.T2P.tv. Offical scratch sheet, schedules and news can be found at www.Premiere-Racing.com

"We are very grateful to our loyal race week sponsors and industry partners. They all present high quality products and exemplify the best in business practices and customer satisfaction," said Premiere Racing President Peter S. Craig. "We encourage all racing sailors to show their appreciation and patronize these outstanding companies that participate in our sport and provide vital support to events."