Sir Ben Ainslie set to wow crowds in day of competitive America's Cup racing in Southsea

TENS of thousands of spectators are expected to pack out Southsea today to roar on Sir Ben Ainslie as competitive America's Cup racing action kicks off in the Solent.

By The Newsroom

Published 23rd Jul 2016, 08:00 BST

Updated 25th Aug 2016, 20:15 BST

22/7/2016 (NEWS)

Practice racing took place on Friday Day 1 of the America's Cup World Cup Series in Portsmouth.

Picture: Sarah Standing (161043-7892) PPP-160722-175903001 — 22/7/2016 (NEWS) Practice racing took place on Friday Day 1 of the America's Cup World Cup Series in Portsmouth. Picture: Sarah Standing (161043-7892) PPP-160722-175903001

And it’s great news for sports fans and Sir Ben’s British challengers as the Met Office has confirmed it’s set to be a scorcher in the south-east.

The cup programme starts with a grand ceremony where the America’s Cup trophy will arrive via a Royal Marine landing craft at Southsea Castle at 11.15am.

The Blades Aerobatic Display Team will wow spectators with a performance above the skies of the Solent from midday.

Then the action really heats up when the sailors compete in three races in a bid to secure points.

The ticketed Race Village arena will once again be open from 11am, while Southsea Common will remain open to all for free and families can bring picnics to enjoy while watching the day’s entertainment.

Southsea Tens of thousands Met Office