THE Blue Riband of Irish open sea swimming, namely, The Irish Times Dun Laoghaire Harbour race, has attracted an all time record of 160 entries for Sunday's gala occasion.

The presence among the contestants of a man in his 60th year and an 11 year old youngster reflects the wide span of interest in the men's event. It also puts into perspective the burden of daunting proportions placed on the handicapper Joe Browne.

A trial race was found necessary at Blackrock recently to assist in the allocation of handicaps.

The men's race, which follows the women's (4.3,0), will be longer this year by a quarter of a mile, stretching the total course distance to a gruelling mile and three quarters. The scratch man is Steve Saunders of Trojan. He starts 20 minutes after the "go men." Kevin Williamson on (17.30) and Tony Cruise" and Ken Turner on (17.10), are well placed.

Selina Hart of Cormorants is the back back marker in the women's race (90 entries) at 10 minutes 15 seconds.