J/Newsletter- January 17th, 2023
Embark this week on another thrilling voyage across the globe as we navigate the exhilarating world of sailing through captivating stories and reports from some of the most prestigious regattas. From the heart of Europe to the azure waters of the Florida Keys and the picturesque landscapes of Australia, join us as we explore the latest sailing events.
For starters, let’s set sail in Dusseldorf, Germany, where the world’s largest sailboat show- BOOT DUSSELDORF- unfolds its grandeur at the Messe Conference & Exhibit Center. With over 300 sailboat-related exhibitors, this cultural event seamlessly blends the beauty of Dusseldorf along the Rhine River with the excitement of the latest sailing innovations. Step into Hall 16/Booth D21 to witness the unveiling of the J/99 shorthanded offshore speedster, the World Champion J/112E sports cruiser, and the magnificent J/45 performance cruising yacht.
Then, across the Atlantic we go, to bask in the sunshine of Key West, Florida, where the Southernmost Regatta, powered by Sailing Inc., paints a vibrant picture of tropical racing. Amidst the aquamarine waters of the Florida Keys, one-design fleets of J/70s and J/111s grace the seas, offering not just a sailing experience but a cultural immersion and a reunion with friends during the winter months.
Half a world away, we then venture Down Under to Sydney, Australia, where the Corinthian Yacht Club of Australia entries triumph in the highly competitive 2024 J/70 NSW Championship. Against the backdrop of gusty winds and a challenging course, sailors showcase their skills and determination in an 18-boat fleet. The racing drama unfolds against the stunning Australian scenery, creating a spectacle of prowess and perseverance.
Also in Sydney, we join Team DISKO TROOPER- CONTENDER SAILCLOTH on their adventurous journey in 2023, marked by victories in the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia’s Two-Handed Series and the Australian J/99 Nationals. Experience the thrill of the 50th Rolex Fastnet Race, a 690.0nm navigational challenge that pits sailors against the best two-handed fleet in the world – a testament to courage, skill, and the spirit of sailing.
Upcoming Events
J/80 Worlds Announcement!Prepare for a return to the roots of the French J/80 fleet as La Rochelle, France, hosts the J/80 World Championship. Organized by La Rochelle Nautique and backed by institutional partners, this event promises not only high-level competition but also a beautifully organized spectacle for participants. Join the French J/80 Class in a celebration of sailing excellence in the historic city of La Rochelle.
Edgartown Race Weekend Announcement!Kickstart your 2024 racing season on Martha’s Vineyard with Edgartown Race Weekend, hosted by the Edgartown Yacht Club. From ‘Round-the-Sound coastal sprints to the historic ‘Round the Island Race, join sailors in a three-day event filled with excitement and camaraderie. Set against the backdrop of picturesque Edgartown, Massachusetts, this weekend promises an unforgettable start to the sailing season.
Enjoy this journey, where each tale unfolds the spirit of adventure, competition, and the sheer joy of sailing in regattas around the world.
Visit BOOT Dusseldorf Show Extravaganza- See J/99, J/112E & J/45!
(Dusseldorf, Germany)- The massive, world-famous, Boot Dusseldorf Boat Show is taking place from January 20th to 28th in Dusseldorf, Germany at the sprawling Messe Conference & Exhibit Center.
With over 300 sailboat-related exhibitors, there is no question that the world’s largest sailboat show in the heart of Europe is an exciting place to visit.
Renowned as one of the major “arts” centers in Europe, Dusseldorf is both a cultural attraction along the gorgeous Rhine River as well as an amazing boat show to attend- truly one of those cultural events the entire family can enjoy!
On display in Hall 16/ Booth D21 will be the latest J/99 shorthanded offshore speedster, the World Champion J/112E sports cruiser, and the magnificent J/45 performance cruising yacht…Read more here.
The Southernmost Regatta – Key West Update
(Key West, FL)- The Southernmost Regatta, powered by Sailing Inc., has been enjoying gorgeous, sunny, days sailing in the aquamarine waters of the Florida Keys! The event started on January 15th. Two one-design fleets of J/70s and J/111s have been enjoying what makes Key West great; the opportunity to race at a tropical venue, experience the island culture, and reconnect with our friends during the cold winter months. In addition, there will be an ORC Division and an ORC Doublehanded Division…Read more
JUNO Wins NSW J/70 Championship
(Sydney, Australia)- After an exhilarating two days and six thrilling races, the Corinthian Yacht Club of Australia entries have not only showcased their outstanding skills but have also secured the top two positions in the highly competitive 2024 J/70 NSW Championship, hosted by the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron.
The challenging races, set against a backdrop of gusty SSE breeze reaching up to 25 knots, provided a true test of the sailors’ prowess and determination in the highly competitive 18-boat fleet.
As the competition unfolded, Tim Ryan’s VAMOS led the pack on the first day with an impressive 10 points, closely followed by Reg Lord’s JUNO holding strong at 13 points. Meanwhile, Rob Davis, at the helm of CELESTIAL representing Sandringham Yacht Club, secured the 4th position…Read more
Family Adventures on the DISKO J/99!
(Sydney, Australia)- 2023 was a big year for Team DISKO TROOPER- CONTENDER SAILCLOTH! We started the year finishing the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia’s (CYCA) Two-Handed Series. Then try our hand at short course racing for the inaugural Australian J/99 Nationals. It was fantastic to win both.
Seeking a new adventure we then switched our focus to the 50th Rolex Fastnet Race. The 690.0nm course from Cowes, Isle of Wight down the English Channel, across the Irish Sea around the famous Fastnet Rock, and back to Cherbourg in northern France is a fantastic navigational challenge, but more importantly, an incredible opportunity to line up against the best two-handed fleet in the world. 96 of them to be exact.
Coordinating a campaign from the other side of the world is a solid challenge. Especially when there are only two of you to do the work! But we pulled it off and had an amazing experience. We chartered a J/99 from Key Yachting and took our sails across. In hindsight, one week was ambitious for getting the boat ready. And, we would have benefited from doing some of the lead-up races. Unfortunately, it’s a long way from Australia…Read more
UPCOMING EVENTS
The J/80 World Championship Announcement
(La Rochelle, France)- It’s a return to basics for the French J/80 fleet since the first J/80 World Championship in France was organized and contested in La Rochelle in 2002.
Building on the merger between the two clubs that were the Société des Régates Rochelaises and the École de Voile Rochelaise, La Rochelle Nautique capitalizes on the know-how, the skills, the history of these two sailing institutions supporting sailing in La Rochelle. The entire La Rochelle Nautique team is committed to making the J/80 World Championship an exceptional event, with the support of its institutional partners: the city, the department, and the region.
The French J/80 Class is organizing the J/80 World Championship in La Rochelle. In addition to a high-level competition, the J/80 class has prepared with the La Rochelle Nautique Club a very beautiful organization for the pleasure of the participants.. Read more
Edgartown Race Weekend
(Edgartown, MA)- Start your 2024 racing season on Martha’s Vineyard with Edgartown Race Weekend, hosted by the Edgartown Yacht Club from June 20th to 22nd, 2024!
Join us for ‘Round-the-Sound coastal sprints on Thursday, June 20th, and Friday, June 21st, followed by the historic ‘Round the Island Race on Saturday, June 22nd. Read more
J/Gear January 20% Off Specials
(Newport, RI)- The first special of the 2024 sailing season is the Marmot ThermoVest; it’s available in both men’s and ladies’ models. The vest offers superb quality and comfort from top to bottom. It comes with a full zip front and side pockets.
Material:The lightweight, durable shell is sustainably sourced from recycled 30D nylon fishnet for water-resistant comfort and warmth
Features:- 3M® Thinsulate® featherless insulation offers the performance of natural down without allergens- Zippered hand pockets- Adjustable drawcord hem
Order the J/Marmot ThermoVest here.