Yacht racing has contributed dramatically to the developement and improvement of sailing in recent years. New boats, new designs, better equipment and skilled crews are making this more of a spector sport than it has ever been in the past; even if the spectators are watching through the internet.
There are two professional, exciting, round-the-world yacht races in progress now. The Vendee Globe single-handed race in Open 60's and the Volvo Round the World race in 70' racing boats.
Take a look at the action on their websites:
