AN exciting showdown of champion yachts looms with a powerhouse cast of almost 30 entries confirming their participation in the 7th Manila to Boracay Regatta and the 17th Presidents Cup flagging off on Feb. 14 at the Manila Yacht Club.

Seven foreign countries?Hong Kong, New Zealand, Singapore, Ireland, The Netherlands, Switzerland and Australia?have enlisted themselves for this exciting event organized by the Manila Yacht Club and sponsored by Standard Insurance and Smart Infinity with the support of Manila Bulletin, Lifestyle Asia, Seair and Sea Wind Resort.

This gives top Filipino entries led by Ernesto ?Judes? Echauz a tough challenge for the national and international titles up for grabs.

Echauz hopes to continue his winning streak after the impressive win of the Subic Centennial in the Rolex China Sea Race. Also hoping to power the country?s title bid are Karakoa, skippered by Ray Ordoveza, Jo de Ros, skippered by George Hackett and Selma Star of Jun Avecilla.

Leading the foreign challenge are Hong Kong?s Frank Pong, who will be bringing his prized boat Jelik; Neil Pryde and his yacht HiFi; Quantum, which will be skippered by Australian Ray Roberts; Freefire of Hong Kong national Sam Cham; and the Full Metal Jacket of New Zealand?s Chris Meads.

Others are Ireland?s RappareeXXX, skippered by David McKenna, Swiss Roland Buser and his boat Stella and Klan Huisjes aboard MS Salona.

?It is quite an important race, not only in terms of sailing, but has become a huge tourism drawer for the country,? said Martin Tanco, head of the Sailing committee.

Participants will leave Feb. 14 for the 7th Manila to Boracay Regatta while the 17th Presidents Cup Regatta will be staged Feb. 18 to 21 maneuvering on Boracay?s strong winds and choppy waters.