tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63306619509165820702024-02-20T10:24:50.719-05:00J/Sailing NewsletterUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger596125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-61810023941298233452021-05-11T20:22:00.000-04:002021-05-11T20:22:36.260-04:00J/Newsletter- May 5th, 2021<table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" style="color: black; font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 150%; width: 600px;">
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<img align="none" alt="Sunset on Chilean lake in the Andes Mountains" data-file-id="104629" height="373" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b5017dad-46cb-43f4-bc3d-facae62939ef.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 373px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /><br />
<h2><span class="subTitle">The Sun Never Sets on J's Sailing Worldwide</span></h2>
Over the past few weeks, there is mounting evidence humans are finally figuring out how to mitigate the pandemic problem driven by the dreaded covid-19 virus and its various mutants. As a result, more and more events are opening worldwide on four continents so far- Australia, Europe/Asia, South America, and North America.<br />
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Our friends Down Under enjoyed a fun offshore event that took place about 90.0nm north of Sydney, Australia. The occasion was the increasingly popular, very laid-back Port Stephens Regatta, a J/88 and J/122 certainly enjoyed themselves and celebrated with some silverware. <br />
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Over in Europe, the J/70 class is starting its schedule in various countries. The Italian J/70 Cup Act I took place at the picturesque Marina de Nettuno, Italy; the YC Nettuno hosted an enthusiastic 28-boat fleet that were treated to breezy conditions and big waves. Similarly, the United Kingdom J/70 Grand Slam Series I was hosted by the Warsash Sailing Club on the Solent for a fleet of 26 boats. Then, in the offshore department, it was quite busy on the Solent as well. The RORC Doublehanded Offshore was a good test at 91.0nm for a silverware-winning J/109; the RORC Inshore Race of 25.0nm proved to be a challenge for a J/80, J/111, and J/121; and the JOG Sopranino Race of 48.0nm saw stellar performances from a J/120 and J/105.<br />
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Down in South America, the Argentinean J/70 Class hosted their San Isidro Labrador Regatta, held north of Buenos Aires on the Rio de La Plata for a fleet of 28 boats.<br />
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Their neighbors up north of the Equator held several events from the east to the west coasts. For starters, the J/111 North American Championship was hosted by Annapolis Yacht Club on the Chesapeake Bay. Concurrently, the Annapolis NOOD Regatta was also taking place for one-design fleets of J/22s, J/24s, J/70s, J/80s, and J/105s, also hosted by AYC. Northeast of them up the Atlantic coastline, the American Yacht Club Spring Series concluded its second weekend of racing for one-design fleets of J/44s, J/105s, J/88s, J/70s and offshore classes for PHRF and ORC Doublehanded.<br />
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Three thousand miles west on the Pacific coast in southern California, San Diego Yacht Club hosted their popular Yachting Cup off San Diego's famous Point Loma for a one-design of J/105s, and PHRF handicap racers like a J/120, J/111, J/145, and J/125. Finally, up in San Francisco, the St Francis Yacht Club hosted their US Sailing Match Racing Qualifiers on a fleet of matched one-design J/22s. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off Annapolis, MD- Chesapeake Bay" data-file-id="116526" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/33f3861e-5bff-bbe9-950f-d9042574116b.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h3><span class="title">J/70 North American Championship Preview</span></h3>
(Annapolis, MD)- A preview of the 2021 J/70 North American Championship took place last weekend during the Annapolis NOOD Regatta, sailing on the choppy, cols waters of Chesapeake Bay. While nowhere near the sixty boats entered for this weekend's event, it will be interesting to see how last week's leaderboard fair against a deeply talent-laden fleet. Having "practiced" well last weekend, the host Annapolis Yacht Club will be looking forward to providing a solid four-days of sailing with up to a dozen races sailed. <br />
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Who's the odds-on favorite to be one of those at the top of the leaderboard? None other than a local "home-boy", past J/24 World Champion and America's Cup Champion Terry Hutchinson from Annapolis, MD. Last weekend, Terry, co-owner Jenn Norwood, tactician Scott Nixon, Gil Hackel, and Dan Morris sailed USA 419 in challenging weather conditions, with massive breezes and currents, and they managed to eclipse many top J/70 teams...much to their surprise. <br />
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However, as experienced sailors as they are, Hutchinson/ Norwood are under no illusions the J/70 N.A.'s will see the competitiveness level rise several notches. Needless to say, it's truly a "rogue's roost" of Olympic, World, and European champions taking aim at their competitors to be "top dog" by the time the dust clears on the racetrack. A highlight of those teams may include John Evans' AIRPLANE, Josh Becker's AWKWARD TURTLE, Dan Goldberg's BAZINGA, Joel Ronning's CATAPULT, John Brigden's COOL STORY BRO, John Heaton's EMPEIRIA, Doug Rastello's GOOD TO GO, Travis Odenbach's HONEYBADGER, Trey Sheehan's HOOLIGAN: FLAT STANLEY RACING, Chris Kostanecki's JENNIFER, Alex McPhail's NESSUNA, Steve Benjamin's REGGAE SHARK, Peter Duncan's RELATIVE OBSCURITY, Peter Barrett's RESET, Rich Witzel's ROWDY, John Brim's RIMETTE, Brian Keane's SAVASANA, Bruno Pasquinelli's STAMPEDE, Ryan McKillen's SURGE, Bruce Golison's TEN, Dave Jannetti's VERY ODD, Buddy Cribb's VICTORY, and Mike Goldfarb's WAR CANOE.<br />
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Racing starts on Wednesday of next week and concludes on Saturday, with up to three races per day scheduled. For <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/event_scratch_sheet.cfm?eID=13209" target="_blank">more J/70 North American Championship sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 sailing offshore" data-file-id="106741" height="368" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b59c6fbf-b302-4d55-a70a-1b378d642ffb.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 368px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h3><span class="title">Edlu Distance Race Preview </span></h3>
(Larchmont, NY)- The classic spring opener for offshore races has been Larchmont Yacht Club's annual Edlu Distance Race. For many sailors, it provides the incentive to clear off the cobwebs accumulated from over a year of not sailing, make sure the winches and blocks spin properly, the wheel/ rudder bearings didn't lock up, and sails actually go up and down. Having been starved of going down to sea and dreaming about it for over a year, there must be more than a few sailors that recall that yearning in <em><strong>John Masefield's famous poem- SEA FEVER:</strong></em><br />
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"I must go down to the seas again, to the lonely sea and the sky,<br />
And all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by,<br />
And the wheel's kick and the wind's song and the white sail's shaking,<br />
And a grey mist on the sea's face, and a gray dawn breaking....."<br />
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With one of the best turnouts in years, the sixty-boat fleet will be looking forward to one of two courses the Larchmont YC Race Committee can select: Course #1 – from the start around Eaton’s Neck Point Lighted Gong Buoy and return for about 32.0nm or Course #2 – from the start around Twenty-Six Foot Spot Lighted Bell Buoy mid-sound off Lloyd’s Neck and return for about 18.0nm. <br />
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Looking forward to this offshore "sprint" are twenty-four J/Teams (40.0% of the fleet!). Sailing in the eleven-boat ORC Division is Steven Levy's J/121 EAGLE, John Greifzu's J/109 GROWTH SPURT, Bill Ingraham's J/124 TENEBRAE, and Len Sitar's big blue J/160 COUGAR. <br />
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In the PHRF Doublehanded divisions is Josh Burack's J/105 PEREGRINA and Glenn Marck's J/109 WATERDOG. In the 28-boat PHRF Spinnaker division are two J/111s (Ken Luczynski's USMMA team on BLACK DIAMOND and Bill & Jackie Baxter's FIREBALL), Cory Eaves' J/109 FREEDOM, Arthur Hanlon's J/112E DAUNTLESS, Chuck Taus' J/33 SIRIUS, Kurt Locher's J/42 ATALANTA, Neeko Helbich's USMMA team on the J/44 VAMP, Jason Viseltear's J/80 UPSETTER, and Jim Weil & EJ Haskell's J/92 VIXEN. In PHRF Plus-One division is Ron Richman's J/133 ANTIDOTE and Richie Palmer's J/105 TOLO. PHRF Non-spinnaker class has Erick Blanc's J/112E REBELLE.<br />
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Finally, the J/88s are sailing as a one-design class with six teams ready to do battle for 32 miles straight! The usual suspects may be at the top of the leaderboard; such as Justin Scagnelli & Tim Price's ALBONDIGAS, Iris Vogel's DEVIATION, Larry Cutler & Andrew Weiss' ONE TOO MANY, and Kevin Marks' VELOCITY. For <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14271" target="_blank">more Edlu Distance Race sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><img align="none" alt="J/Gear May 20% off special" data-file-id="116458" height="312" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/cbeaf15a-99f6-5052-4dbe-163601c28a65.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 312px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h3><span class="title">J/Gear May 20% Off Special!</span></h3>
(Newport, RI)- Here is an excellent opportunity for the whole crew to get more awesome sailing gear. <br />
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<span class="subTitle"><b>J-Under Armour Quarter-zip</b></span><br />
The J-Under Armour Quarter-zip top provides Under Armour technology with a competitive design appearance. A bold stripe details the sleeve. It is made of 100% polyester, a soft and durable circular knit construction with brushed interior for extra warmth. It comes with the J logo of your choice embroidered. Order<a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_13&products_id=320" target="_blank"> your customized J-Under Armour quarter zip here</a>.<br />
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<span class="subTitle"><b>J-Sport Shell:</b></span><br />
This is light weight for easy packing. It comes in navy with red detailing. It is a perfect mate for unpredictable weather. Water and wind repellent, it offers a stow-away hood for a quick head cover. Poly-construction for easy care, it comes with the J logo of your choice embroidered. <a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=3_16&products_id=228" target="_blank">Order your customized J-Sport Shell here</a>.<br />
<hr /><h3><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span></h3>
May 8- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14271" target="_blank">Edlu Distance Race- Larchmont, NY</a><br />
May 9-15- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/event_scratch_sheet.cfm?eID=13209" target="_blank">J/70 North American Championship- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
May 29- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14383" target="_blank">50th FIGAWI Race- Falmouth, MA</a><br />
May 28- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14276" target="_blank">Storm Trysail Block Island Race- Stamford, CT</a><br />
May 29-30- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13251" target="_blank">CORW Spinnaker Cup Race- Monterey, CA</a><br />
May 31-<a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13254" target="_blank"> CORW Coastal Cup Race- Santa Barbara, CA</a><br />
June 3rd- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13255" target="_blank">CORW SoCal 300 Race- San Diego, CA</a><br />
June 4th- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13259" target="_blank">Susan Hood Trophy Race- Mississauga, ONT, Canada</a><br />
Jun 3-6- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14283" target="_blank">Southern Bay Race Week- Hampton, VA</a><br />
Jun 4- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13210" target="_blank">Annapolis to Newport Race- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
Jun 5-6- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=12983" target="_blank">Cedar Point One-Design Regatta- Westport, CT</a><br />
Jun 5-6- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14422" target="_blank">COLORS Regatta- Chicago, IL</a><br />
Jun 5- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14387" target="_blank">Eastport One-Design Classic- Eastport, MD</a><br />
Jun 5-6- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14558" target="_blank">Throwdown in MoTown- Detroit, MI</a><br />
Jun 5-6- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14489" target="_blank">Women's Open Keelboat Championship- Hamble, England</a><br />
Jun 11-13- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14311" target="_blank">New York Yacht Club Annual Regatta- Newport, RI</a><br />
Jun 11-13- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13227" target="_blank">Chicago NOOD Regatta- Chicago, IL</a><br />
Jun 11-12- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14518" target="_blank">Mills Trophy Race- Toledo, OH</a><br />
Jun 12-13- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14380" target="_blank">Champagne Charlie Regatta- Hamble, England</a><br />
Jun 16-20- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13168" target="_blank">J/24 North American Championship- Blue Point, NY</a><br />
Jun 18-20-<a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14435" target="_blank"> Cleveland Race Week- Cleveland, OH</a><br />
Jun 21-25- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14265" target="_blank">Anacortes Race Week- Anacortes, WA</a><br />
Jun 21-25- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13033" target="_blank">Storm Trysail Block Island Race Week- Block Island, RI</a><br />
Jun 24-26- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14430" target="_blank">Landsail Tyres J/Cup Regatta- Hamble, England</a><br />
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For additional <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j-sailing-calendar/sailing-regattas" target="_blank">J/Regatta and Event dates in your region, please refer to the on-line J/Sailing Calendar</a>.<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j22"><img align="none" alt="J/22 Scooby Overall Champion" data-file-id="116494" height="328" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a22156c9-ff06-e84d-62da-5675f69c6194.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 328px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2><span class="title">Annapolis NOOD a Celebration for J/Crews!</span></h2>
<h3><span class="subTitle">J/22 SCOOBY Crowned as Overall Winner!</span></h3>
(Annapolis, MD)- J.R. Maxwell and the crew of the Annapolis-based J/22 SCOOBY were happy with their results Saturday in the big breeze of the 2021 Helly Hansen NOOD Regatta Annapolis; consistency being the key in the highly tightly competitive 15-boat fleet.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j22" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22s sailing on Chesapeake Bay" data-file-id="116202" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/17ecf0f4-facf-48fb-bb93-8e074ce7e81a.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="subTitle"><b>J/22 Overall Winner</b></span><br />
And after winning Sunday’s first two races, they were well on their way to winning the regatta. Until the final race. With an over-early start, they were recalled to the line, restarted, and looked up the course to see the work ahead.<br />
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“We had to grind back from being second-to-last and finished fifth in that race,” Maxwell says. “Today was all about the puffy conditions so you had to stay in the puffs and that wasn’t always intuitive of where that was going to happen. We figured that over time.”<br />
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Like most sailors Maxwell and his team have had limited time sailing over the duration of the pandemic, but were happy to back on the water and racing again together.<br />
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“We’re super happy with the win this year,” Maxwell says. “We’ve been sailing this regatta for the better part of a decade and we were ready to get this one this time. We had a regatta last weekend that we won so we were feeling good coming into this weekend.”<br />
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With Maxwell on SCOOBY was crew Jim Schmicker and Matt Spencer (with Bryan Pryor sailing on Saturday only) and as winner of the J/22 class they were also selected as the overall winner, earning a berth to compete in the Helly Hansen Caribbean NOOD Championship in October.<br />
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Rounding out the top spots in the J/22s were Brad Julian's YARD SAIL in second, Jeff Todd's HOT TODDY in third, Aden King's RIDING DIRTY fourth, and Jake Doyle's ZESTY ENTERPRISE in fifth position. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j35" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/35s sailing off Annapolis" data-file-id="110030" height="308" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c579fb06-bf4f-4302-b92f-5ed3499e2529.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 308px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="subTitle"><b>J/35 Nail-biter Finale</b></span><br />
The J/35s are one of the few legacy classes of the Annapolis NOOD, which has been hosted for more than 30 years by the Annapolis YC (with race committee support by Eastport YC and the Severn Sailing Association) and while the J/35s were smaller in numbers, the battle of the top of the fleet was a big one, with Roger Lant’s ABIENTOT winning the tiebreaker over the perennial champions on James Sagerholm’s AUNT JEAN.<br />
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“They are very, very fast upwind so if you let them get away it’s a tough battle after that, so we worked on a strategy to deal with them on the starting line,” said Lant. “We carried out our plan and it went well.”<br />
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What was that plan?<br />
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“The boat that won the start won the race. They were looking for space on the starting line and we were looking to engage, so yesterday we engaged them fairly hard.”<br />
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But after AUNT JEAN won the day’s first two races, Lant had only one option- to win the final race!<br />
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“We knew we had to control him at the start, but we also had to win the start, get ahead and get clear. They are such a fast boat upwind, especially in conditions where the racecourse is even like it was today.”<br />
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But still, to win also requires good crew work under pressure.<br />
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“As skipper, I’m the most fortunate skipper on the course,” Lant says. “I have a core crew that has been sailing together for three year and the skills keep building and today we had some of the most fabulous crew work I’ve ever seen on the boat. Exceptional.”<br />
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The balance of the podium and top five included Jim McNeely's MAGGIE in third, Mike Wood's VALHALLA in fourth, and Masci McGonigle's WINDEPENDENT in fifth place. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j80" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/80s sailing on Chesapeake Bay" data-file-id="113574" height="430" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/61a6542b-4f6d-4e2a-883b-3c77e9991d5b.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 430px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="subTitle"><b>J/80 Cliff-hanger Finale</b></span><br />
Conor Hayes and Jeff Kirchhoff’s J/80 MORE GOSTOSA, also contributed their win to the flawless crew work of their team, which has had limited sailing over the past years. More than once, says Hayes, it helped them get back places that ultimately impacted the final outcome—they won by a single point.<br />
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“The wind was pretty spotty, so it was about finding the pressure and staying in it on the runs,” Hayes says. “It was surprising the current was flooding all day and that was a big factor.”<br />
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After the winning the second to last race of the day, Hayes knew the points were extremely close between his team and runner-up Daniel Wittig’s TURBO SLOTH, but he had no idea how close. All he could do for the last race was keep TURBO SLOTH in his wake. That didn’t happen, and it almost went worse.<br />
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“We had a tough start in that last race,” Hayes says. “We wanted to start at the pin but got shut out. We were able to tack out immediately onto port and were in phase [with the windshifts] and from there it was a matter of just staying in more wind. It helps to have boatspeed and good crew to be able to get out of bad situations like that.”<br />
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The balance of the top five included Tom & Jennifer Kopp's KOPP-OUT (aka The Lasso Way) in third, Mike Hobson's MELTEMI in fourth, and Sarah Alexander's MORE COWBELL in fifth.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing Chesapeake Bay" data-file-id="116582" height="384" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c3f13868-f8ea-29d0-33f2-6733ef8ceac0.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 384px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="subTitle"><b>J/70 Mind-blowing Finish</b></span><br />
Terry Hutchinson, skipper of the winning J/70 USA 419 he co-owns with Jennifer Norwood, had a similar starting experience in the first race of the day and he, too, almost lost the regatta. They were buried in the start and immediately found an escape route.<br />
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“We didn’t trust the Velocitek [a GPS-based starting device],” Hutchinson says. “We were poked [close to the line] and I didn’t pull the trigger. The boat on our leebow was about a boat length ahead of us at the start, unfortunately. It was a rookie mistake. When we set up at 40 seconds we were in a good spot, but I felt exposed.”<br />
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With the focus of his crew, Scott Nixon, Dan Morris, Gil Hackel, and Jennifer Norwood, they clawed their way back to an eight-place finish in the 40-boat fleet— no small feat— which Hutchinson says ultimately won the regatta for them. Although, they did win the next race and finished second in the last to secure the win by 7 points over John Heaton’s EMPEIRIA.<br />
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“Yesterday was a lot of fun because it was breezy,” Hutchinson says. “We weren’t fast in the first race and then when it lightened up, our limited time in the boat didn’t bite us as hard and we were more competitive.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/70 winner- Terry Hutchinson" data-file-id="116626" height="430" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/1c580c96-0a84-7fd5-a27c-25f50db0e480.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 430px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
“We were much better today and it’s amazing how hard this racecourse is in Annapolis. The course location was hard because the current was good on the right, but there was pressure [more wind] and shift on the left so you had to balance the two.<br />
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“You did not want to be in the middle. In the first race the leader came out of the right, and in the second, the leader came out of the left. Each leg was unique to itself, which kept us on our toes.”<br />
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Behind the Hutchinson/Norwood team was John Heaton's EMPEIRIA in second, Rich Witzel's ROWDY third, Doug Rastello's GOOD TO GO fourth, and Peter Duncan's RELATIVE OBSCURITY in fifth place. <br />
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Winning the J/70 Corinthians Division was James Gary's AVACUCHO, followed by Mike McNamara's TEA DANCE SNAKE in second, and Kelly McGlynn's BEARNARCHY in third. <br />
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How did things go down in the other classes? <br />
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<span class="subTitle"><b>North Sails Doublehanded ORC division</b></span><br />
Richard Born's J/120 WINDBORN took the bronze, with John Bell's J/100 HIWASSEE taking eighth place. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24s sailing on Chesapeake Bay" data-file-id="111242" height="294" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/d957285a-e5d6-4df0-981f-5ec994882f61.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 294px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="subTitle"><b>J/24's Experience a Good'ole Fashioned Butt-whippin'</b></span><br />
The ten-boat class may have been a bit surprised that class octogenarian Tony Parker would wake up after his Rip Van Winkle-esque pandemic experience and still remember how to sail a J/24. Well, for those in the know, racing a J/24 for Tony is a bit like riding a bike, having been racing the class since inception in 1978 out of Portland, Maine. Now based in Washington, DC, Parker and his BANGOR PACKET team demonstrated near-perfection, winning all eight of their races. Having a similar score of mostly seconds, Pete Kassal's SPACEMAN SPIFF team sailed home to an 18 pts tally. They were followed by Pat Fitzgerald's RUSH HOUR in third with 25 pts total. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105s sailing off Annapolis, MD" data-file-id="110026" height="342" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/384596c5-ce5d-4f66-b37c-4f0d57b941a4.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 342px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="subTitle"><b>Shoot-out at Houston's OK Corral for J/105s</b></span><br />
The huge, competitive J/105 fleet didn't disappoint with regards to close competition like their colleagues in other classes. However, it was not the home boys that were showing everyone their transom going home. Instead, it was a pair of Texans hailing from Houston's Galveston Bay that topped the leaderboard in a "mano-a-mano" fight to the end. In the end, Bill Zartler's DEJA VOODOO led fellow Texan Ken Horne's FINAL FINAL by closing with a 2-2 to win with 27 pts. Third was Cedric Lewis & Fredrik Salvesen's MIRAGE with 32 pts, fourth Hugh Bethell's JESTER with 35 pts (winning the last two races somewhat convincingly), and fifth Doug & Amy Stryker's MAYHEM. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j30" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/30s sailing Chesapeake Bay" data-file-id="109994" height="290" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/0bf28dd9-5b45-49ee-a5ba-4aa720aee13e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 290px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="subTitle"><b>J/30 Triad Trade Podium Finishes To the End</b></span><br />
Perhaps the most interesting battle in the one-design classes was amongst the passionate J/30 owners. No one would've guessed beforehand that a trio of boats would monopolize the podium finishes in every race! In short, the main issue was the trade-off of covering one competitor while another "escaped" to do their own thing...often times it was the "escapee" that won the race and beat the other two in their own duel! After six races, it was clear that Bob Rutsch & Mike Costello's BEPOP had a slight edge to win class with a 1-3-1-2-1-2 tally for 10 pts. Taking the silver was Bruce Irvin's SHAMROCK with a 2-1-3-3-2-1 record for 12 pts. Earning a well-deserved bronze medal was Tristan Keen's INFECTIOUS SMILE with a 3-2-2-1-3-3 scoreline for 14 pts! <a href="http://www.outsideimages.com" target="_blank">Sailing photo credits- Paul Todd/ Outside Images.com</a>. For<a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank"> more Helly Hansen Annapolis NOOD Regatta sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111s sailing on Chesapeake Bay" data-file-id="116802" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/da13bdc1-8090-08a9-f753-4f282d6af351.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2><span class="title">SPACEMAN SPIFF Two-peats as J/111 North American Champion</span></h2>
(Annapolis, MD)- Sailing their 2021 J/111 North American Championship concurrent with the Annapolis NOOD Regatta, the seven teams were truly put to the challenge this past weekend on Chesapeake Bay. <br />
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The first day of the regatta was canceled due to gale-force winds and massive chop. After getting blown off the water the first day, “challenging, puffy conditions” is how SKELETON KEY's skipper Peter Wagner described the second day. “We had to keep our eyes out of the boat and change gears frequently, but it was really good racing.”<br />
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With three races in winds that started near 20 knots and faded and shifted through the day, Wagner and his crew on SKELETON KEY, emerged as the top boat, winning the first two races and finishing fourth in the third. The outcome, he says, was better than he expected having not raced the boat since August 2019.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111 sailing upwind" data-file-id="116746" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/033e4e58-da6c-4f3c-a63d-28b44f63076d.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
“It’s been a long time,” Wagner says. “We got out to do some boathandling work in San Francisco before we brought the boat here, but no racing, it was just putting ourselves through our paces and making sure the boat was still functional.”<br />
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For the day’s first two races, Wagner says, they were able to get off the starting line clean and control their own race, sailing the course as efficiently as possible.<br />
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“That was pretty important because things were changing quickly and we had to be able to react to the changes as they happened. In the third race, we ended up on the wrong side of one windshift and the result showed, but that will happen sometimes.<br />
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“In that race, you had to be on the right [side of the course]. We got stuck a little too far left and couldn’t quite find a shift to come back. We almost did, but our friends on [Rob Ruhlman’s] Spaceman Spiff faceplanted us at a critical moment, bouncing us back left and sealing our doom. That was a good move by them.”<br />
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Wagner says his team did a great job settling into their roles after a long absence and their boathandling and speedwork were as good as could be expected. For tomorrow, the third and final day of racing, Wagner’s goal is to continue sailing well and not worry about the rest of the fleet, which are not far behind on the scoreboard.<br />
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“It’s about incremental improvements,” he says, “and for me, I guess the one area to improve getting back in sync with my mainsail trimmer, so we’ll continue to focus on that.”<br />
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Stumbling out of the blocks with a 6th place on the first racing day, Rob Ruhlman’s SPACEMAN SPIFF crew regained focus to win two of the six races on Sunday to capture the title by one point over Andrew and Sedgwick Ward’s BRACO with Rod Jabin’s RAMROD a point further back in third. <br />
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Ruhlman was the defending champion from 2019, as the 2020 event was cancelled due to the pandemic. <b><i>The Ruhlman "family" crew consisted of Mike Case, Martin Kullman, Doug Moose, Abby Ruhlman, Ryan Ruhlman, Maegan Ruhlman and Mark Wiss. </i></b><br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/111 Spaceman Spiff team" data-file-id="116694" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4f8fcdeb-0eb9-d801-9892-ac9ec24f7c71.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
J/111 Class Director Chris Howell interviewed Rob after the event for perspectives on what it took for his family team to win.<br />
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<strong>How does it feel? </strong><br />
Ruhlman: How does it feel? Fantastic! Particularly because of the way it all came together on the last day. Trust me, none of us left the house on Sunday morning with winning even on our mind. This is a really tight, competitive class; top three was our goal. And as always, doing this with my family is incredibly special.<br />
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<strong>What was the key to the victory?</strong><br />
Ruhlman: From our side, it took perseverance and a belief in ourselves. In all honesty, when our good friends on SKELETON KEY pulled the trigger a bit early at the start of Race 4, that opened the door to the possibility of a step up. This Class is so competitive and the boats so even that one misstep at any point in the race is very difficult to recover from.<br />
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<strong>What is it you like about the boat and the Class? </strong><br />
Ruhlman: Our family has grown up in Lightnings (and by “grown up,” I mean since birth), with the exception of my wife Abby, but she may has well have since she was introduced to it at 19 years old. The one-design aspect of it, with the boats as even as they are, and the lack of an “arms race”, is great. Maybe more importantly is the camaraderie. After several years (a lot of these guys know each other from racing all kinds of other big boat classes), I’ve gotten to know a lot of really neat people and look forward to seeing them onshore as much as I do offshore. For me, it’s the Lightning Class of big boats.<br />
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<strong>What’s next for the team? </strong><br />
Ruhlman: We’ll likely spend most of the summer in the Great Lakes where the J/111 Class is growing very nicely. There are three boats in Detroit now. We have three 111s in Cleveland already and a fourth on the way with the impending delivery of Jeff Davis’ new 111. It is quite possible we will have six, maybe seven J/111s at both Cleveland Race Week and Put-in-Bay Race Week. Might be time to start a Great Lakes Championship!<br />
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We do also have our Lightning North American Championship in Cleveland this summer, which is a qualifier for our Worlds in May of ‘22 and the Lightning Women’s, Junior’s and Master’s Championships are being held at our home (Lightning) club, Pymatuning, where we will all be competing as well as helping conduct the event. After that, it will be back to J/111 World’s prep and then the main event in Hampton, Virginia.<br />
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In the end, with SPACEMAN SPIFF winning with a 6-3-2-1-1-4 tally for 17 pts, the Ward's BRAVO posting a 3-6-1-3-4-1 record for 18 pts, and Jabin's RAMROD (top local boat) driving to a 4-2-3-2-3-5 for 19 pts, it's readily apparent that Ruhlman's commentary was prophetic... nothing comes easy in the J/111 class they are so well-sailed and so close in speed and tactics. Rounding out the top five was Wagner's SKELETON KEY with a 1-1-4-7-5-3 record for 21 pts and Martie Roesch's VELOCITY scoring 2-5-7-4-2-2 for 22 pts, finishing fourth and fifth, respectively. Tough racing, indeed, when the winner has a near "middle of fleet" average of 2.85 and fifth place had a 3.66 average...not much difference! For<a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank"> more J/111 North American Championship sailing information</a><br />
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<hr /><img align="none" alt="J/88 Australia" data-file-id="116702" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/80d1842e-efdf-08f4-4f7b-161153ec428a.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2><span class="title">J/88 and J/122 Triumph @ Port Stephens Regatta </span></h2>
(Port Stephens, NSW, Australia)- The Sail Port Stephens 2021 Regatta was held 19-25 April with the Port Stephens Trophy Event held 23-25 April with 130 keelboats and 50 trailerables and off-the-beach classes enjoying the mild-Autumn conditions. <br />
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Sail Port Stephens goal is to give competitors the best possible on and off water regatta experience in one of the east coast’s finest sailing destinations, a little over 2 hours north of Sydney by car or an easy 90.0nm day sail. The Port Stephens slogan is "Incredible By Nature"! And, if you love pristine beaches, crystal blue waters, spectacular sunsets over the nearby ranges and great sailing conditions then this is the place to be.<br />
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Two particularly outstanding results for the three-day event were the J/88 JOJI and J/122 JACKPOT, both winning their class convincingly. Mark Wharton’s J/88 JOJI winning 1-1-2 in their 26 boat Division 3 fleet. Rob Hale’s J/122 JACKPOT with 12-2-2 scores in their 22 boat Division 1 fleet.<br />
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Friday, the fleet looked spectacular as they headed offshore from Port Stephens under spinnaker, rounded the offshore islands then headed to the mark off Fingal Bay’s white sandy beach. A westerly of around 12-14 knots stayed for their course. Saturday was the Broughton Island Passage Race with light and variable breezes and a few DNF’s, but there was no stopping the J’s. Sunday, the South Westerly breeze returned for the final day of the regatta being an inshore W/L race. Reports from Mark (J/88 JOJI) and Rob (J/122 JACKPOT) are below:<br />
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<span class="subTitle"><b>J/88 JOJI:</b></span><br />
“It was J/88 JOJI’s second Sail Port Stephens Regatta, its first in 2019 when the fleets got smashed by a 40-knot southerly squall in the last race. Not a fun moment or one to repeat. So this year’s breeze and weather conditions were just what the race organizers ordered. It was a record fleet of 130 boats spread across a number of varied divisions. The racing was serious but lots of fun too with some close quarter starts and tense top mark roundings.<br />
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JOJI went into all races knowing who the local boats were, as local knowledge was key to master the currents and breeze shifts. The size of JOJI relative to the Division 3 fleet meant that it was essential to get a clear air start. Lucky for us, all three starts were good and so we managed to break away from the main fleet to chase down the fast locals.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/88 winners" data-file-id="116622" height="384" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3eb1c6f5-93e1-242d-1eb4-210a0f1dc85c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 384px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
The first 2 races were passage races out offshore around the Islands and made for terrific asymmetrical spinnaker sailing. The 3rd race, an up and down with two marks top and bottom to give the 60 or so boats room at either end.<br />
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JOJI’s handicap wins in the first two races didn’t separate the field very much “points wise” and going into the last race four boats were within a couple of points of each other. The pressure was on.<br />
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The 3rd race started in similar fashion, close quarters, downwind start, gybing onto port on the line and positioning for clear air again. And, also keeping the local gun boat within reach. JOJI’s superior speed upwind along with some great crew work on the tacks meant we knocked off the “boat to beat” and he eventually got buried in amongst the bigger boats. JOJI maintained its clear air lead and took line honors and 2nd on handicap and winning the series by a clear 16 points.<br />
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A great result for JOJI and its crew!“<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j122" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/122 sailing Australia" data-file-id="116562" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/fd70206e-853a-9aae-4739-0cdc91681b91.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="subTitle"><b>J/122 JACKPOT:</b></span><br />
Sydney-based J/122 JACKPOT lived up to her name again with a convincing win at Sail Port Stephens regatta over the weekend. The result is even more impressive as this is the first time JACKPOT has competed in the ever-growing Sail Port Stephens regatta. <br />
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“It’s a very different sailing area to our beloved harbor, with much more navigational effort required for the shallows, channel markers, wind shifts, and tidal effects than we are used to,” said Rob. <br />
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At 40ft, JACKPOT was at the smaller end of the impressive 22 boat competitive fleet including Farr 52, Dehler 46, First45’s, McConaghy 47, first 47’s, and an X43 to name a few.<br />
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Rob Hale commented, “the first race was very light with plenty of shifts and tidal influence, we were a bit rusty, but still managed a 12th. Being one of the smallest boats in the fleet, we had to re-think our start line tactics which helped us come back with vengeance in race 2 with a hard fought second place. Race three was inshore, but again we managed a second place totaling 16 points for this three-race regatta, a clear 4 points ahead of our closest competitor.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/122 Jackpot team" data-file-id="116678" height="430" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/978c832b-7e6c-28c0-4c03-8cff771c5729.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 430px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
It’s such a good feeling when you know you are at the smaller end of the fleet, but finish with the top four boats crossing the line and look back thinking that was another great race.<br />
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Port Stephens is a beautiful and scenic place to race, and we will be back to defend our title in 2022. We would like to thank our competitors for keeping us on our toes, Port Stephens Race organizers, and of course, our trusty crew for a great event.”<br />
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<strong>Sailing Photo Credits: J/122 Jackpot photos by D Edmiston. J/88 Joji photos by Sail Port Stephens.</strong><br />
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<hr /><img align="none" alt="J/109 racing on Solent, UK" data-file-id="116370" height="384" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/87e429d4-e903-cf38-aade-ce47316be0a9.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 384px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2><span class="title">J's Buzzing Bank Holiday Series in U.K.</span></h2>
<h3><span class="subTitle"><b>J/109 Wins RORC Doublehanded Offshore, J/120 Screams to a Win!</b></span></h3>
(Cowes, Isle of Wight, England)- The Solent was buzzing with activity over the May Bank Holiday with well over one hundred keel boats taking part in racing. Inshore and offshore races organized the Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC) and the Junior Offshore Group (JOG), attracted no less than 27 J/Boats, and they were very much in the chocolates.<br />
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<span class="subTitle"><b>RORC Doublehanded Offshore</b></span><br />
The RORC ran their first overnight doublehanded race this year, a 91-mile marathon which was to last over 17 hours. Starting from the Squadron Line the fleet raced upwind to the east. After exiting The Solent, they were off the breeze for a spinnaker run along the South Coast of the Isle of Wight. After passing The Needles, a broad reach into Poole Bay was followed by a harden up to finish at North Head.<br />
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Mike Yates’ J/109 JAGO, racing with Eivind Boymo-Malm</b>, was the winner, beating Sam White & Sam North racing Mzungu by just 12 seconds after time correction! RORC Yacht of the Year for 2021 Jangada was third. The big win was made even more special by the fact that of the 29 teams taking part, the competition included Solo Round the World sailors, Figarist, Olympic Medallist and World Champions.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j109" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/109 sailing doublehanded in England" data-file-id="116666" height="384" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a9a89ce3-8c25-86bc-a137-1c8ff8018bfc.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 384px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
“It was a very complex race, with many sail changes and tactical decisions from beginning to end,” commented JAGO's Mike Yates. “A big cloud at the Nab Tower caused a split in the fleet and we just managed to hold our kite. Our jib top was very effective on the southside of the island and the decision to go offshore at St Catherines worked well with a breeze filling in from the southwest. We also just made several tidal gates in the latter part of the race. We are delighted to win and all credit to Elvind, two-handed racing is heavily reliant on teamwork, so he deserves just as much praise.”<br />
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<span class="subTitle"><b>RORC Inshore Race</b></span><br />
The RORC fully-crewed inshore race was essentially a 24-mile windward-leeward from the Squadron Line to Bembridge Ledge and back. The impressive fleet included professionally sailed FAST40+ yachts and an IRC optimized TP52 plus an array of performance race boats, built for the IRC rule. However, the breeze built during the latter part of the race, giving an advantage to the smaller boats. Ross Bowdler’s J/80 JUSTIFY, was second in an impressive fleet.<br />
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“A big thank you to the RORC for the race,” commented J/80 JUSTIFY’s Bowdler. “It is so cool to race against the big boats and get a great result.” JUSTIFY will be at the Landsail Tyres J-Cup confirmed Ross. “We did our first J-Cup last year and really loved it. The atmosphere is just great because we get to race against other J/Boats. This year it looks like we will be able to party, and I can tell you we have no problem with our rating in that department!”<br />
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<span class="subTitle"><b>JOG Sopranino Race</b></span><br />
Fourteen J/Boats took part in Salcombe Gin Sopranino Race on Saturday May 1st organized by JOG (Junior Offshore Group). The 48-mile course was also essentially a windward-leeward from Cowes to Owers and return. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j120" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/120 sailing on Solent, England" data-file-id="116490" height="384" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/55c7a0d1-4686-5153-2cfb-b675175c02c1.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 384px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Stuart Lawrence’s J/120 SCREAM 2 took Line Honours in the 58-boat fleet winning IRC One and placing second overall. IRC Class Two was dominated by J/Teams, with the top six teams all racing models of the J/Family. IRC 2 was won by David McGough’s J/109 JUST SO. Second was Chris Burleigh’s J/109 JYBE TALKIN' and third was Gordon Craigen’s J/105 JACANA. Tom Hayhoe and Natalie Jobling, racing J/105 MOSTLY HARMLESS was third in the Doublehanded Class.<br />
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A substantial number of J/Crews will be racing in the first big regatta of the season for the Royal Southern Yacht Club. The May Regatta will be held this weekend, 8-9 May. 26 J's have already entered including ten J/70s for a new style Sprint Series. An armada of J/Teams is expected for the Landsail Tyres J-Cup which will be held 24-26 June. Online entry is open and, with the planned relaxation in restrictions, the band is booked for the first big party of the summer! For<a href="http://www.rorc.org" target="_blank"> more RORC offshore sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 sailing Yachting Cup" data-file-id="116554" height="322" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/88866726-f305-77e7-4bb8-056d21668c92.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 322px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2><span class="title">J/105 J-OK Wins Yachting Cup Overall</span></h2>
(San Diego, CA)- The 2021 Yachting Cup, one of San Diego Yacht Club’s most popular signature regattas, was a little smaller in size this year, but it certainly matched the on-the-water spirit of Yachting Cup’s past. While normally hosting nearly 100 boats, the 2021 regatta hosted forty-eight teams, all eager to race and itching for good competition. J/Crews sailed quite well in conditions that varied from postcard-perfect Saturday to a stormy Sunday. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j145" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/145 sailing off San Diego, CA" data-file-id="116518" height="322" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/83bf46e2-032f-be61-580b-4deae1b4f86a.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 322px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h3><span class="subTitle">Day 1- Gorgeous "Shorts & Shades" Sailing</span></h3>
On Saturday, the conditions on both the “far” and “near” ocean courses were shifty at about 225 degrees, seeing sporadic puffs from 5 to 11 knots. The day started with a short postponement while the breeze filled in. <br />
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The conditions were described as perfect for Ed Sanford’s J/111 CREATIVE that finished first in the PHRF-C class at the end of the day. “The conditions were perfect for our 111, especially when it hit around 8-10 knots. However, we did have to steer through the waves, and it was challenging going upwind on port tack,” commented Sanford.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111 sailing off San Diego, CA" data-file-id="116606" height="322" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/ab175563-51fb-624e-53ae-cd633875dce4.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 322px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The third race for the PHRF classes finished with a 6-mile race home. “The first and third race for us were pretty much flawless. Coming down the channel in the last race was challenging, but perfect once we got past Ballast Point. The kite was pulling like you couldn’t believe and we just started gaining distance boats in front of us,” said Sanford. <br />
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In the J/105 one-design class, Stewart Cannon’s J-OK stood first with a 2-1-1 tally. Cannon has owned his J/105 J-OK for over 20 years. His crew has been sailing together for some time and they all rely on a full team effort for success. “We really enjoyed ourselves out there,” stated Cannon, while his team chimed in. Crew Ryan Lorence added, “We spent all day going the way we thought it was going to go, and it went the opposite, but luckily we were able to get through. We had to switch gears and change some jibs, but we had a pretty good day.”<br />
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Post-racing, competitors were invited to take "to-go" cocktails back to their boats and enjoy live music by Stylus Overhaul. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j125" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/125 sailing off San Diego, CA" data-file-id="116462" height="322" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/1e7a248c-6ad9-5881-839b-794008d1988f.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 322px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h3><span class="subTitle">Day 2- Tempestuous Finale</span></h3>
It wasn’t exactly a day of smooth sailing on day two. With misty weather and large, choppy ocean swells, teams used to sailing in champagne San Diego were in for a bit of a challenge, especially compared to the previous day's conditions. It seemed while most boats were up to it, a handful were not able to look past the waves and towards success on the horizon by the final race.<br />
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Overall 2021 Yachting Cup winner, J-OK, was one of the boats that embraced the ocean and saw the regatta the whole way through. The crew attributes their success this weekend to working together as a team.<br />
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“We put together a good team and we have a good boat,” said J-OK Crew Jim Dorsey. “It’s one hundred percent teamwork. It was very tough steering conditions today, and Stewart (Cannon) did an excellent job. Between Jim and Stewart, they really worked it,” added Julie Mitchell, the J-OK Tactician.<br />
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Rounding out the J/105 leaderboard was George Scheel's SUN PUFFIN in second, Steve & Lucy Howell's BLINK! in third, Donica & Scott Ryder's SANITY in fourth, and Rich Bergmann's ZUNI BEAR in fifth position.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j120" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/120 sailing off San Diego, CA" data-file-id="116574" height="322" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3951bf67-15d8-d178-2271-ef835fd7fd6e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 322px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
In the PHRF C division, John Laun’s J/120 CAPER did not give up against Ed Sanford’s J/111 CREATIVE in any of the day's races, earning three bullets and putting them ahead by one point.<br />
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“It was a fun day with challenging conditions. The boat was set up well for it, and we had more breeze, so it was a little quicker. Our boat really likes 15 knots or more,” started Laun. “The first race stood out the most and set the tone for the day. It showed us that our set up was right. In between the first and second race, we switched jibs to match the wind,” he finished.<br />
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Behind the J/120 and J/111 sweeping the top spots in PHRF C division was Chuck Nichols' J/120 CC RIDER in fifth place. <br />
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In the ORC Division scoring, Sanford's J/111 CREATIVE won quite handily, posting five bullets on their way to a runaway victory. <br />
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The PHRF B division saw a few big J's participating. Taking second was Rudy Hasl's J/145 PALAEMON, followed by Ernie Pennell's J/145 MORE MADNESS in fifth and Standish Fleming's J/125 NEREID in sixth place. <br />
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PRO Summer Greene explains Sunday's sailing, “we were averaging about 15 knots the whole day, but the sea state was really bad and made it hard on all the teams. There were a lot of kite catastrophes and messy mark roundings. We were still able to get in three races. About a third of the boats dropped out before the last race, but the lead boats were still there, their boat handling was a bit better, and we thought it was important to get that last race in for them.”<br />
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Due to State and County protocols, there was no formal award ceremony. After the racing, awards were announced, and competitors were invited to pick them up at their convenience. <br />
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"Congratulations to all of our first-place finishers. San Diego Yacht Club is proud this year to be able to host our premier regatta of the season: Yachting Cup. A special thanks goes out to the Race Committee for all their hard work, especially on rough days like today. It feels good, during these crazy times, to be back on the water sailing and being able to participate in something that feels fairly normal. We hope everyone will be return for the 2022 Yachting Cup so we can continue to grow this event into something bigger and better,” concluded Chair Patrick Murray. <strong>Sailing photo credits- Mark Albertazzi</strong> For <a href="http:///www.sdyc.org" target="_blank">more Yachting Cup sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j44" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/44s sailing Long Island Sound" data-file-id="95009" height="334" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/935d38ee-e737-467e-a75f-9da44c3ec056.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 334px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
<h2><span class="title">AYC Spring Series Closes with Dozen Races</span></h2>
(Rye, New York)- The second half of the 2021 American Yacht Club Spring Regatta held on April 30 – May 2 had over 50 boats entered in the One Design, PHRF, and ORC classes to compete off Rye, NY on Long Island Sound. The AYC Race Committee was able to complete races for the Short Course ORC and J/44 classes, and one distance race for the Coastal Racing course, which included PHRF, Doublehanded, and Mixed Doublehanded classes.<br />
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The weekend began with a gale warning holding teams shoreside Friday. The wind subsided Saturday afternoon to a more manageable 15-18 knots across the Long Island Sound allowing just enough time for three races. Sunday started off light and shifty with the rain looming over the New York City skyline, before giving way to sunshine and a little more pressure for three more races rounding out the series.<br />
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Continuing where they had started on the first weekend of racing, Bill Ketcham's MAXINE sailed a very consistent series to win the J/44 one-design class with 17 pts after eleven races, counting all podium finishes. Frequently giving them a run-for-the-money was Don & Dick Rave's RESOLUTE, finishing just three points back to take the silver. Rounding out the podium was Tom Blackwell's BREAKAWAY with a total of 29 pts.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j88" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/88s sailing Long Island Sound" data-file-id="116222" height="340" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/1d1761b9-e1bf-4c25-a746-8b5c301b4972.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 340px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Winning the J/105 one-design class was Paul Beaudin's LOU LOU, winning seven races enroute to a somewhat dominating win in the highly competitive class with 18 pts total. Second was Dave Willis' SOLUTION, counting nine podium finishes for a total of 25 pts. Taking the bronze in his first known podium finish in the J/105 class was Greth Lester's ECHO, showing flashes of brilliance, like winning the first race, but getting "unglued" and inconsistent in other races to fall behind the leaders. <br />
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The J/88 one-design class was a tale of two weekends and two protagonists "flip-flopping" their roles in the fleet. On the first weekend, it seemed Iris Vogel's DEVIATION team could do no wrong and was winning by a good margin in the light to moderate conditions and flat water. Then, the second weekend saw a dramatic change in wind/ wave conditions which proved to be the undoing of the DEVIATION crew, but also much to the liking of the dynamic duo of Lawrence Cutler & Andrew Weiss on ONE TOO MANY. After closing with four straight bullets, the ONE TOO MANY boys finished tied with DEVIATION, winning the tie-breaker on countback. Watching the battle unfold from the bleacher seats on both weekends was another fun-loving duo on ALBONDIGAS, Justin Scagnelli & Tim Price, taking home the bronze for their second successive major event of the season. <br />
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The J/70 one-design class saw Jean Marc Papin's PEN SEGAL take the class win with nearly all bullets, followed by Ben Hunt's NO NAME in second, with Gibbons Sinclair's HALF MINE II taking the bronze. <br />
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In the Coastal PHRF Division, it was Steven Levy's J/121 EAGLE that won class with consistent sailing. Just two points back, Robert Schwartz's J/109 NORDLYS took the bronze. In the Coastal ORC Mixed Doublehanded, it was Todd Aven & Barbara Karpinska's J/99 THIN MAN that took the silver!<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j22" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22 match racing" data-file-id="116614" height="430" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a35ca105-bc06-fcfb-8dd1-69a430f30a59.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 430px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2><span class="title">Toole Wins J/22 Match Racing Qualifier </span></h2>
(San Francisco, CA)- St Francis Yacht Club members are witness to a remarkable variety of sail racing, but there is one type of sail racing that is distinct even to the casual observer - the intense head-to-head battle of match racing – right outside the expansive floor-to-ceiling windows of the famous Grill Room and its commanding views over San Francisco Bay. <br />
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By way of background, US Sailing will hold its Match Racing Championship in Long Beach in October, after a series of seven qualifiers around the country. On May 1-2, 2021, the St. Francis hosted the NorCal qualifier in its fleet of evenly matched J/22s, sailed by teams of four. With identical boats, this was a test of the tactical acumen of the skippers and the boat handling skills of the crew, sorely tested in the high winds of last weekend, gusting over 30 kt. In fact, crew went overboard on both days during fast maneuvering or in broaches due to the high winds. The bosun boat was busy assisting with equipment repair or replacement, and swapped out one boat due to collision, a reflection of the speed and intensity of match racing on SF Bay.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j22" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22s match racing San Francisco" data-file-id="116650" height="414" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/8b016b30-fb37-d7e0-545d-59ef109adcdb.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 414px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Over the two days of round-robins, for a total of 12 matches, Team Toole and Team Breault came to the forefront and seemed evenly matched. In the end, Oliver Toole (StFYC) took a one-point victory over Nicole Breault (StFYC), finishing 11-1 compared to her 10-2. When racing head-to-head they split, with Breault beating Toole on Saturday and the reverse on Sunday. The difference, in the end, was when Jack Barton (representing San Francisco YC) topped Nicole on Saturday.<br />
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The big story is that Toole, a two-time All-American sailor from Stanford and a team racing champion, came into the event without match racing experience. However, he and his wife Kelly have sailed together for over ten years and are quite familiar with the City Front and J/22s, having practiced team racing there many times and successfully represented the Club at the Baldwin Cup and Morgan Cup. In addition to their brother-in-law Jack Ortell at bow, they were bolstered by Olympian Craig Healy on board as trimmer and tactician. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j22" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22s sailing San Francisco Bay" data-file-id="116602" height="430" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/6954a0e2-a3d2-1b82-a65d-fc673dcfb341.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 430px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
“Though I graduated from Stanford in 2014, our team has stuck together. We were quite comfortable in the breeze, since our St. Francis group has practiced 4x4 team racing here in these conditions many times in recent years before we left to race elsewhere. It was terrific having Craig on board with his immense match racing talent, and of course super fun to qualify for the national championship. We’re looking forward to expanding our circle with the right team for Long Beach’s Catalina 37’s, obviously a much bigger boat requiring different skills and some large people.”<br />
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Breault commented that, “we had some fresh new faces in this regatta and that bodes well for the match racing scene in California. Quite a few skippers asked me afterwards to set up some sparring sessions so we can keep playing the game and honing our skills!” Her team consisted of Maggie Bacon (bow), Karen Loutzenheiser (trim), and Molly Carapiet (main/tactics). <br />
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Brock Paquin, representing Cal Maritime, finished third, with crew of Justin Zimna, Kyle Collins, Lukas Kraak.<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing Italy" data-file-id="116654" height="320" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f9733cf2-7b16-7cb6-3c4c-83f99d3e3059.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 320px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2><span class="title">JENIALE EUROSYSTEM Tops J/70 Cup Act I</span></h2>
(Marina de Nettuno, Italy)- The first event of the 2021 J/Cup Italy took place off Anzio and Nettuno, a pretty seaside town southwest of Rome. The regatta was hosted by Marina de Nettuno and Yacht Club Anzio-Nettuno for the fleet of three-dozen teams from across Italy. The teams were treated to strong breezes for the three-day event, so strong in fact, that the third and final day had to be canceled due to enormous seas breaking at the entrance to the marina. <br />
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After a seven-race series, it was Massimo Rama's JENIALE EUROSYSTEM that took the class honors against some of the best-known European teams from the past four years. Rama commented, "we're so excited about this early season result, probably the result of the many winter training sessions in the waters of Genoa, which helped us greatly improve as a crew. It is precisely thanks to the excellent on-board synergies that we have managed to be consistent in the regatta this weekend and to achieve this important result that I really want to thank my crew for. The J/70 proved to be a fun boat once again and the fleet level is growing from stage to stage. At the next stage in Rimini, we hope to continue doing well!" <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 sailing Italy" data-file-id="116474" height="348" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/2bfdadc7-1194-a107-c720-d5f010e07b6e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 348px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Sailing in his home waters, Luca Domenici's NOTARO Team finished in second place. His team included tactician Diego Negri, a famous sailor in Italy as a champion in multiple classes. Domenici commented, "what a fantastic day in the waters of Anzio and Nettuno, where I was born and raised. And, how nice it is to win three such challenging races on a day where marine weather conditions left all the participants heavily challenged. Afterwards, the greatest emotion was celebrating these victories with my family; I'm thankful they were here supporting me during the regatta. It was an incredible day for our NOTARO Team, we can't wait to get back on the water for the next act of the J/70 Cup 2021."<br />
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The bronze medal went to the young ANIENE YOUNG crew of Luca Tubaro, also winner of the Corinthian category. In fact, rounding out the Corinthians Division behind Tubaro was Ludovico Fassitelli's JUNDA-SUMUS CAPITAL and Mauro Brescacin's LA FEME TERRIBLE. <br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/Cup Italy winners" data-file-id="116686" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/bb3fe1b0-0d0e-e062-62b4-85b3a6ad3f6e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
The next Italian J/70 Cup regatta is scheduled for the weekend from June 11 to June 13 in Rimini. The main sponsor of the J/70 Cup 2021 is Lincoln International. The official clothing partner Sail Racing, official sport nutrition partner Alphazer, official timekeeper Garmin, technical partners Armare, Savona Shipyard, Remigo, Quantum Sails and official supplier Girmi and Serena Wines.<br />
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Watch <a href="https://www.facebook.com/j70italianclass/videos/2848300275423851" target="_blank">video by Zerogradinord for the J/70 Italian Class.</a> For <a href="https://www.facebook.com/j70italianclass" target="_blank">more Italian J/70 Cup series sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off Buenos Aires, Argentina" data-file-id="116434" height="386" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9d0ca261-06fa-dc43-6f5f-10c32c7b7258.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 386px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2><span class="title">NEGRONI Tops Regatta San Isidro Labrador</span></h2>
(Buenos Aires, Argentina)- One of the most important regattas on the evolving Argentinean J/70 regatta calendar is the San Isidro Labrador Trophy hosted by Club Nautico San Isidro along the Rio de La Plata. Such was the passion and desire of the Argentinean sailors to get rolling on the waters again within the state's pandemic guidelines that twenty-eight boats registered to participate in the event- a record turnout for any J/70 regatta in Argentina! <br />
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Over the course of the weekend regatta, the two protagonists that battled for class supremacy ended up with a fearsome battle in the last race to determine who would beat who. In a classic regatta scenario, Paolo Cosentino's NEGRONI team from Yacht Club Argentino (P. Pruden, P. Consentino, and L. Carissimi) won the first race and posted a 6-4-1 in the next three races to be the leader without throw-outs, but a loser with a throwout. With one more race in the cards, Alejandro Irigoyen's BUTANTAN team (J. Fregonese, L. Cerrato, and G. Martinez) had a disastrous first race 14th, but managed to get their act together and reeled off a 1-1-2 in the next three races. As a result, with a good fifth and final race, they could toss their 14th to win the regatta. As one might expect, the scenario was not lost on Cosentino's NEGRONI team. With a fifth race started on Sunday, the NEGRONI team simply match-raced BUTANTAN into the bottom of the fleet, forcing them into an 11th place finish. As a result, NEGRONI won with 12 net points with BUTANTAN having to settle for second place with 15 pts net. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 Argentina" data-file-id="116438" height="394" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/1b8ba733-0870-c6a0-ff6f-946e6e07b880.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 394px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
While the top two teams were dueling for supremacy on the high seas, the battle for the final step on the podium, in fact for the top five, was nothing short of an epic 15-round battle in the boxing ring. Emerging from that four-boat, wildly swinging, race-to-race fortunes was the Silva family's aptly named MERCENARIO 6, skippered by top woman helm Martina Silva. They took the bronze medal on the podium on a count-back tiebreaker at 25 pts each over Van Avermaete’s SI QUERIDA. One point back was the Gwozdz & Herman-Suarez's BACHAJO in fifth place. For <a href="https://www.facebook.com/j70argentina/" target="_blank">more Argentina J/70 Class sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 sailing on Solent, England" data-file-id="116670" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/ccb64f6e-8a5f-c8c0-1684-7edd7e10bf88.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2><span class="title">CALYPSO Victorious @ J/70 UK Grand Slam I</span></h2>
(Warsash, England)- Twenty-three teams competed in Round One of the J/70 UK Grand Slam Series. The event was organized by the Warsash Sailing Club as part of the Warsash Spring Championships 2021.<br />
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Calascione & Peters racing CALYPSO took the first victory in the seven-event series, scoring three wins out of seven races held in brisk and beautiful conditions on The Solent.<br />
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Paul Ward’s EAT SLEEP J REPEAT (still the defending J/70 World Champion) recovered from a Black Flag DSQ to post consistent results, but fell short by a single point to finish second. Nick Phillips’ CHAOTIC scored a hat trick of bullets in the final three races snatching third place, ahead of Graham Clapp’s JEEPSTER and Martin Dent’s JELVIS (a J/111 World Champion).<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing on Solent" data-file-id="116510" height="384" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f5cd0cbc-c304-3ff2-d275-e0d5d4d50592.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 384px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Notable performances included Simon Patterson’s STANDFAST, Jonnie Goodwin’s HARLEQUIN and Charles Thompson’s BRUTUS. The mid-fleet peloton is always a competitive arena in the J/70 Class with three teams tied on points after seven races. Duncan McCarthy’s team came out on top on countback from J/70 stalwart Patrick Liardet, racing COSMIC, and a new team in the J/70 Class, Tony Dickin’s EXCESS.<br />For <a href="https://j-70.co.uk/" target="_blank">more United Kingdom J/70 Class sailing information</a><br /><br />
<hr /><h2><span class="title">J/Community</span></h2>
<h3><span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span></h3>
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<strong>J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">J/Boats from around the world here</a>. <br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/37 cruiser racer brokerage sailboat for sale" data-file-id="116250" height="356" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9bb2fa6c-48ec-4ce1-8259-8611242f6d1e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 356px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2><span class="subTitle">Gorgeous, well-equipped J/37 Cruiser-Racer for Sale</span></h2>
CARINA had a spectacular racing career; she's fully equipped and ready-to-go on its next adventure. The performance of the J/37 on the race course is only half of the story with CARINA. She also can be a great cruiser with comfortable accommodations and equipment to cruise the coast of Maine or head south for the winter. <br />
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Did we mention the Beer-can racing possibilities and bragging rights? Finally, she's not too big to sail shorthanded if you just want to use her for day sailing. The perfect mix with J/Boat performance and Comfort features for the cruiser.<a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/J37-Ocean-Racer-wCeZjNUw" target="_blank"> Check out the full details and call us at Northpoint Yacht Sales</a><br />
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<hr /><img align="none" alt="Isler Weather Academy" data-file-id="116406" height="168" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/2dbafd2f-8d0b-923c-ebb4-82ef93a41186.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 168px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2><span class="subTitle">Weather Models 201 - Which Weather Model is Best?</span></h2>
So many models - so little time! Marine Weather University announces an upcoming course in these ubiquitous forecasting tools. Taught by renowned sailing meteorologist Chris Bedford along with 2x America's Cup winning navigator, Peter Isler, this class will explore these powerful forecast guides. Students will learn:<br />
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* How to determine which model(s) to use for a specific application<br />
* What high resolution models are available in your location <br />
* The differences in the various models<br />
* Professional techniques to avoid being overwhelmed with too much data and too many choices<br />
* Where to find models in graphic and GRIB form<br />
* Best practices for the display, interpretation and use of various weather models<br />
* Individual models strengths and weaknesses<br />
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Weather Models 201 will feature two lectures - first offered as live webinars May 18 & 20 @ 5:00pm Pacific time. All course content and the lectures will be posted online for 24/7 on demand access. Attendance to the live webinars is not required. Sign up <a href="https://isleracademy.teachable.com/p/weather-models-201" target="_blank">here to register for the event at Isler Academy</a><br />
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<span class="subTitle"><img align="right" alt="NYYC Commodore Tom Harrington" data-file-id="116486" height="214" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/ab1bf8d6-0563-c085-2d4f-6c0882f06ef1.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 214px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></span><h2><span class="subTitle">* Eight Bells- Thomas J. Harrington</span></h2>
J/Boats and the New York Yacht Club are saddened with the passing of Commodore Thomas J. Harrington on April 27th. From 2013 through 2014, Commodore Harrington served as NYYC's 63rd Commodore. He was 81 years old.<br />
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“Commodore Harrington brought great energy and passion to the concept of bringing the Club to members outside of our physical clubhouses," says current Commodore Christopher J. Culver. "His vision has become fully realized during this pandemic.”<br />
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Harrington joined the Club in 1991. His passion for sailing had started years earlier, while an officer with the U.S. Marine Corps, and developed as he pursued an MBA at Columbia Business School in New York City. He moved to London after graduating, working for Chemical Bank, and purchased half-ownership in a Soling, which he raced on the Solent. Upon his return to North America, he dove into larger yachts, racing in the Caribbean and then in New England and the Mid Atlantic aboard his J/30 and J/35, both named Obstreperous.<br />
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He fostered a loyal crew and enjoyed success in both classes. In September of 1995, sailing with largely the same team, Harrington won the J/30 North American Championship and the J/35 National Championship on consecutive weekends. Commodore Harrington also knew the importance of giving back to the sport, and he served in leadership positions for one-design classes and chaired a North American championship.<br />
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After moving on from one-design racing, Commodore Harrington twice raced her to Bermuda. He was also part of a consortium of Club members who formed the Black Watch Alliance and purchased the 68-foot 1938 Olin Stephens-designed Black Watch (formerly Edlu II). The boat served on submarine patrols off Eastern Long Island during the Second World War.<br />
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Commodore Harrington enjoyed a long career at Chemical Bank, including as president of its International Leasing subsidiary. After leaving Chemical Bank, he founded Spectrum Capital, Ltd., serving as president and CEO. He is survived by his wife Alane and their sons Jamison and Tucker.<br />
</td></tr></tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-41466180687409024922021-04-28T09:00:00.002-04:002021-05-03T19:11:47.013-04:00J/Newsletter- April 28th, 2021<img align="none" alt="Sunset on Chilean lake in the Andes Mountains" data-file-id="104629" height="373" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b5017dad-46cb-43f4-bc3d-facae62939ef.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 373px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">The Sun Never Sets on J's Sailing Worldwide</span></h3>
Spring has sprung for many sailors "up above" while our friends "down under" are slowly concluding their extended fall series. On America's west coast, the pre-eminent offshore "fun" race recently took place in southern California and northern Mexico along the Pacific coastline. The Newport Offshore Sailing Association (NOSA) hosted their offshore "sprint" known as the 125.0nm Newport to Ensenada Race- Newport Beach, California to Ensenada, Mexico. Concurrently, they've expanded their format to include shorter distances for those with less time- the Newport to San Diego (90nm) and the Newport to Dana Point Race (25nm). <br />
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Over on America's east coast, the American Yacht Club started its annual Spring Series, much to the delight of dozens of J/Sailors participating in the J/44, J/105, J/88, and J/70 one-design classes, plus others in PHRF handicap like J/109s, J/111s, J/99s. <br />
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South of the Tex-Mex border, a large fleet of J/24s celebrated the Mexican Navy's 200th birthday on the gorgeous, aquamarine, flat waters of Acapulco Bay, hosted by Acapulco Yacht Club.<br />
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Off to the Caribbean, a multitude of J's celebrated the end of the Caribbean winter circuit sailing season on St Maarten, sailing the Simpson Bay to Friar's Bay Race and return<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24s sailing off Annapolis" data-file-id="111242" height="294" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/d957285a-e5d6-4df0-981f-5ec994882f61.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 294px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Annapolis J/FEST (aka NOOD Regatta) Preview</span></h2>
(Annapolis, MD)- IF there was ever proof that J/Sailors in general are passionate, enthusiastic sailors, one only needs to look at the astonishing statistics for the 2021 HELLY HANSEN Annapolis NOOD Regatta being hosted by Annapolis Yacht Club from April 30th to May 2nd this coming weekend. A total of 157 teams are participating, of which 124 of them (79% of the fleet!) are J/Teams sailing J/22s (16), J/24s (10), J/70s (40), J/80s (13), J/30s (13), J/35s (5), J/105s (21), J/111s (7), and 2 in the Doublehanded class. <br />
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The sailors may be treated to a little bit more than what they bargained for in the weather department. As is often the case on the Chesapeake Bay in the springtime, the somewhat unstable weather patterns can dish out rapidly changing sailing conditions. This weekend the NOAA forecasts indicate 15 to 35 kts northwest winds trailing a massive front that is rolling through Thursday evening. Then, the powerful nor ‘westers will diminish into a somewhat benign 8-15 kts Saturday and shifting, backing into the southwest on Sunday at 6-14 kts. No matter what, whatever cobwebs that may have accumulated over the past pandemic year will no doubt get blown out over the horizon in short order!<br />
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In the sixteen-boat J/22 class, many of the regional class leaders are in attendance, including Sandy Adzick's HOT TICKET, Jeff Todd's HOT TODDY, Aden King's RIDIN' DIRTY, JR Maxwell's SCOOBY, Brad Julian's YARD SAIL, and Jake Doyle's ZESTY ENTERPRISES. <br />
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The ten-boat J/24 class will feature the four-decade class veteran Tony Parker on his famous BANGOR PACKET along with Pat Fitzgerald's RUSH HOUR, Pete Kassal's SPACEMAN SPIFF, and Sam McGuire's BLOW'VIATE. <br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/105 sailors in Annapolis" data-file-id="110062" height="402" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/741d6777-0635-4f16-82c4-c1b855bb8bc8.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 402px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
The ten-boat J/30 class continues to enjoy its on-going renaissance with many beautifully restored/ reconstructed boats ponying up to the starting like a bunch of ancient thoroughbreds at Churchill Downs. Familiar faces include Bob Rutsch & Mike Costello's BEPOP, Dan Watson's AVITA, Jim McGinnis' BLITZ, Heidi Fritz's SUZIE Q, and Tristan Keen's INFECTIOUS SMILE. <br />
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With just five-boats, the J/35 class will certainly not be lacking for strong competition. A few class veterans will be going at it hammer & tong all weekend. Watch for good battles between Jim Sagerholm's AUNT JEAN, Jim McNeely's MAGGIE, and Roger Lant's ABIENTOT. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 sailing off Annapolis, MD" data-file-id="109574" height="258" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f9f46cdb-c4f0-4a75-b51e-49bb1586dc5a.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 258px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
At forty-boats, the J/70s all have their eyes fixated on their upcoming J/70 North American Championship sailing on the same Chesapeake Bay waters in the following two weeks. Many top teams are in attendance, including Andrew Fisher's BUTTON FLY, John Brigden's COOL STORY BRO from San Francisco, CA; John Heaton's EMPEIRIA from Chicago, IL; Doug Rastello's GOOD TO GO from Newport Beach, CA; Travis Odenbach's HONEYBADGER from Pittsford, NY; Cate Muller-Terhune's MURDER HORNET; Marty McKenna's RARITY; Peter Duncan's RELATIVE OBSCURITY; Sandy Askew's RIMETTE; Brian Keane's SAVASANA; Bruno Pasquinelli's STAMPEDE from Fort Worth, TX; Bruce Golison's TEN from San Diego, CA; and Terry Hutchinson's USA 419 (yes, the America's Cup guy and J/24 World Champion!). Quite the rogue's gallery of talent preparing for the J/70 NA's as well as the J/70 Worlds later this summer in Long Beach, CA. <br />
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The thirteen-boat J/80 class will certainly have its fair share of top-flight competitors vying for class honors. Amongst the contenders to the leaderboard will be Bert Carp's ELEVEN, Mike Hobson's MELTEMI, Sarah Alexander's MORE COWBELLS, Ramzi Bannura's STACKED DECK, and Dan Wittig's TURBO SLOTH. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105s sailing off Annapolis, MD" data-file-id="110006" height="318" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c5e742a4-daf6-469f-8d40-8568df24e423.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 318px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
With their J/105 North American Championship happening in late fall 2021, the twenty-one-boat fleet has most of the local leading teams in attendance, such as Andy Kennedy's BAT IV, John Kircher's CHESSIE, Ben duPont's CTRL ALT DEL, Bill Zartler's DEJA VOODOO, Ken Horne's FINAL FINAL, Cedric Lewis & Fredrik Salvesen's MIRAGE, Don Santa's SANTAS REIGH DEAR, Carl Gitchell's TENACIOUS, and Bill Sutton & Bob Taylor's TRIM. <br />
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Finally, enjoying a tour of the Bay around government markers will be the North Sails Doublehanded Class of ten boats. Hoping to grab some silverware will be John Bells' J/100 HIWASSEE and Richard Born's J/120 WINDBORN (a famous class winner in both the Annapolis to Newport Race and the Bermuda Race). For <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">more Helly Hansen Annapolis NOOD Regatta sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111s sailing one-design race" data-file-id="101049" height="354" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/8aa236d8-f1c2-44e2-8954-74f15dc6f6ae.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 354px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/111 North American Championship Preview</span></h2>
(Annapolis, MD)- Sailing their 2021 J/111 North American Championship concurrent with the Annapolis NOOD Regatta, the seven participating J/111 teams will also have their eye on getting their teams and boatspeed dialed in for their J/111 World Championship later in the fall on Chesapeake Bay. <br />
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If there was ever a fleet that would drive the handicappers delirious at the Las Vegas or Ladbrokes UK betting parlors, it would be the J/111s. Basically, all seven boats racing have been on the podium of a major J/111 regatta in the past three years. Those teams include Andrew & Sedgwick Ward's BRAVO from Long Island; Ken Comerford's MONEYPENNY from Annapolis; Rod Jabin's RAMROD from Annapolis; Ian Hill's SITELLA from Hampton, VA; Peter Wagner's SKELETON KEY from San Francisco, CA; Rob Ruhlman's SPACEMAN SPIFF from Cleveland, OH; and Marty Roesch's VELOCITY from Annapolis. Grab a bowl of popcorn, a six-pack of brewskis, pull up a chair and watch the battle unfold all weekend-long! For <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">more J/111 North American Championship sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><img align="none" alt="RORC Cowes Round Island offshore" data-file-id="116234" height="308" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/dc8458ff-d0d8-4e8a-a57f-b4fb1ca64484.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 308px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">RORC Spring Series Offshore Race Preview</span></h2>
(Cowes, Isle of Wight, England)- After a year and a half of disruptions to offshore racing due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Royal Ocean Racing Club is delighted to confirm an overnight race for Offshore and Two-Handed teams starting on May 1st.<br />
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The combined entry list for May 1st has a fleet of 48 yachts, including all the top Two-Handed boats from the inshore RORC Spring Series. For crewed entries, the RORC Spring Series will conclude this weekend. Michael O'Donnell’s J/121 DARKWOOD is just two points behind the leaders, currently holding down the bronze step on the podium. <br />
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“Safety always comes first; it is just too early to run an overnight race for fully crewed teams. However, when the club offered to run an offshore race for Two-Handed teams, the response was an overwhelming!” commented RORC Racing Manager Chris Stone. “Details of the course for IRC Two-Handed will be determined by the weather, but our intention is to set an overnight race, taking the Two-Handed fleet out of the Solent. For crewed teams racing under IRC, the final race of the Spring Series will be inshore with a target time of 6-8 hours.”<br />
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Racing for their first time this spring are a few top offshore doublehanded teams that may prove to be the "dark horses" in the racing that has been dominated by the smaller 30-34 foot boats. They include Clive Miles & Will Ayliffe's J/122 JANGLE, Simon Harris & Dan Laws J/112E J'OUVERT, Deborah Blair & Tim Long's J/88 TIGRIS, and Mike Yates' J/109 JAGO. It would be a shocker to the UK two-handed offshore community if these yet untested teams sweep the podium! Stranger things have happened, time will tell. <br />
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The RORC fleet is scheduled to start racing from the Squadron Line Cowes from 10:00 BST on Saturday 1st May. For <a href="http://www.rorc.org" target="_blank">more RORC Spring Series sailing information</a>. <br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j80" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/80s sailing off Spain" data-file-id="111330" height="378" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/1b7cd951-060e-452a-b79d-c67e36b47810.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 378px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/70s and Women J/80 Teams Invited to Copa del Rey MAPFRE!</span></h2>
(Copa del Rey, Spain)- The 39th Copa del Rey MAPFRE, organized by the Real Club Náutico de Palma (RCNP), will be held from 31st July to the 7th of August, 2021. Racing will take place on the Bay of Palma in front of the historic and incredibly picturesque waterfront of the city of Palma on the island of Mallorca. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off Palma de Mallorca, Spain" data-file-id="95605" height="383" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/10441b49-087d-40e4-a171-a2ea6d71f8cf.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 383px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
For the first time the European J/70 class is invited to participate as well as women's team to sail on supplied J/80s from the local Palma J/80 fleet. Sailing in Palma for most sailors ranks as a "bucket list" event, such is the notoriety of the region for fun in the Mediterranean sun!<br />
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<img align="right" alt="J/80 women's team" data-file-id="51441" height="138" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/8bab40a2-d483-4bb9-ab94-427e3920c43e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 138px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 250px;" width="250" />Generally, the regatta is nothing short of spectacular. For four straight days, the competitors can expect clear blue skies in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea with the noon-time sea breezes building from the southwest into the 8 to 15 kts range...at least that's what the local chamber of commerce claims on their brochure! No question, that part of the Med is famous for its remarkable weather in August and is a reason why Palma is notoriously famous amongst the world's "glitterati", with numerous famous super yachts often parked inside the marinas. Treat yourself to an amazing experience. <a href="https://www.regatacopadelrey.com/noticias/noticia_ampliada.php?ln=uk&id=450&fbclid=IwAR0QruosiiWxoLyRM4yTmqstXAOPoMM2aNjPi7GfcZQWCRmzdXa1uwz10d0" target="_blank">Click here and learn more about the Copa del Rey MAPFRE</a>.<br />
<hr /><img align="none" alt="J/Gear May Special" data-file-id="116242" height="312" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/57b38117-1389-4516-b389-69a4f2cf8220.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 312px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Gear May 20% Off Special!</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)- Here is an excellent opportunity for the whole crew to get more awesome sailing gear. <br />
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<span class="subTitle">J-UnderArmour Long Sleeve Zip Top:</span><br />
This is performance at its best. The 4.67 oz., 100% polyester UA tech™ fabric is quick-drying, ultra-soft, and has a more natural feel. The Moisture Transport System wicks sweat and dries fast and the anti-odor technology prevents the growth of odor causing microbes. The zip top features a performance loose fit with the UA logo on left bicep and your chosen J/logo on the left breast.<a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_13&products_id=322" target="_blank"> Learn more here</a>.<br />
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<span class="subTitle">J-Sport Shell:</span><br />
This is light weight for easy packing. It comes in navy with red detailing. It is a perfect mate for unpredictable weather. Water and wind repellent, it offers a stow-away hood for a quick head cover. Poly-construction for easy care, it comes with the J logo of your choice embroidered.<a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=3_16&products_id=228" target="_blank"> Learn more here</a>.<br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span></h2>
Apr 30- May 2- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">Annapolis NOOD Regatta- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
Apr 30- May 2- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">J/111 North American Championship- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
May 9-15- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/event_scratch_sheet.cfm?eID=13209" target="_blank">J/70 North American Championship- Annapolis, MD</a> <br />
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For additional <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j-sailing-calendar/sailing-regattas" target="_blank">J/Regatta and Event dates in your region, please refer to the on-line J/Sailing Calendar</a>.<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j145" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/145 sailing Newport to Ensenada Race" data-file-id="116238" height="306" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/1d88c0df-c3f1-4500-87f8-4c96ccbbf614.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 306px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Challenging Newport 2 Ensenada Race</span></h2>
<span class="subTitle">Mother Nature Throws Everything including Kitchen Sink @ Racers!</span><br />
(Newport Beach, CA)– One hundred three boats started the traditional 125.0nm race to Ensenada; while nineteen did the 14.0nm sprint course to Dana Point, CA; and forty-one chose the course around the Coronado Islands with a finish after 92.0nm in San Diego, CA.<br />
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Here is the report from on-board the J/145 KATARA:<br />
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"KATARA and sistership J/145 PALAEMON have competed head-to-head numerous times along the California coast and are always well-matched. The two sisters were scheduled to participate in the 2021 N2E Ensenada course when PALAEMON owner Rudy Hasl contacted KATARA owner Roger Gatewood, letting him know that if we switched to the Newport to San Diego course two other J/145s, ANDIAMO 2 and MORE MADNESS, would join us. The chance to race four of these powerhouses against each other head-to-head was a no-brainer! Sign us up, was our response! <br />
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The race started in a pleasant 8-10kt southerly breeze with all four 145s on their light-medium genoas. KATARA took the inside slot and spent the first several hours exchanging leads with PALAEMON, a mile or so further out. As the breeze slowly shifted right KATARA deployed her Tweener sail. While it didn’t buy much, KATARA started ever so slowly edging out with maybe a 0.1kt edge at times. As the breeze continued to decay and slowly shift right KATARA peeled to the A1 and PALAEMON to the A2. <br />
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The breeze continued to decay as the sun set and the 145s approached North Coronado island, a mark of the course. As we approached the rock, KATARA’s navigator noticed that AIS indicated that, after nearly 80.0nm of racing, all four J/145s were inside of a 1.0nm ring of one another! WOW! This was close racing offshore!<br />
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The breeze fell off to near 'triple-naughts' (0.00 kts) as the four big J’s struggled to find a path around the rock. KATARA and PALAEMON found small zephyrs of air and slowly escaped to the East side of the rock. The final 12.0nm was a constant battle of KATARA sneaking out a half mile before losing her air and having PALAEMON close the gap again and approach from the rear. Ultimately, KATARA held her lead, finishing just over 8 minutes ahead of their friends on PALAEMON. ANDIAMO 2 and MORE MADNESS were less fortunate with the rock and it’s difficult breeze, finishing some 3 hours later. <br />
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The following evening, PALAEMON's owner/ skipper Rudy Hasl, a San Diego Yacht Club member, hosted what was likely the largest gathering of J/145 sailors ever, organizing a dinner with over 50 guests between the four crews! Much, much fun was had by all....kudo's to Rudy and crew for organizing the group and the shindig at the club! THANK YOU!"<br />
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Apparently, KATARA and PALAEMON plan to compete again in the SoCal 300 and hope the other two sisterships join them!<br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/145 Katara at San Diego Yacht Club" data-file-id="116286" height="332" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c7fda5b3-cd37-454c-9856-a5eb3b81497f.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 332px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
As for the rest of the Newport to Ensenada event, here's how those races went for other J/Teams. <br />
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For the Newport 2 Ensenada course, Viggo Torbensen's J/125 TIME SHAVER took the silver in PHRF A class with Scott Torrance's J/124 FORGIVENESS taking fifth place. In PHRF B Class, Dave Gorney's J/105 NO COMPROMISE took the bronze. Then, in PHRF C Class, Chuck Bowes' J/29 RHUMB RUNNER placed fourth. <br />
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For the Newport to San Diego race, while the quartet of J/145s were dueling each other, it was Tom Barker's J/65 GOOD CALL that took the silver in PHRF A class. Notably, GOOD CALL lost to an all-carbon Swan 65, mostly stripped out, with all brand-new carbon sails while GOOD CALL enjoyed their on-board 100-bottle wine cooler, five stateroom HVAC system, satellite-connected broadband Wi-Fi, and four stainless-steel slide-out drawers (refrigerator/ freezer) full of food, caviar, champagne, and other yummy things. The off-watch on GOOD CALL is just as popular, perhaps more for some, than sitting on deck on a full-moon night with the moon light dancing across the undulating Pacific swells...hmmmm, tough choice! <br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/29 sailing Newport to Ensenada Race" data-file-id="116254" height="366" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4902deea-ed1f-4d31-bd2b-1cf670bd4393.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 366px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
In the PHRF B class, Tom Pollack's J/124 MARISOL took the silver with Mike McCarthy's J/88 BLUE FLASH finishing in fourth place. <br />
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Finally, in the Newport to Dana Point "wind-sprint", it was Charles Brewer's J/124 HEARTBEAT 4 winning, followed by Tom Garrett's youth team on the J/70 SLOOP JOHN B in fourth, and Matt Campbell's J/120 ADIOS in fifth place. <br />
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On social media, follow all the action on these links:<br />
<strong>Facebook-</strong> <a href="http://www.Facebook.com/newporttoensenada" target="_blank">Facebook.com/newporttoensenada</a><br />
<strong>Instagram-</strong> <a href="http://www.Instagram.com/newport_to_ensenada" target="_blank">Instagram.com/newport_to_ensenada</a><br />
<strong>Twitter-</strong> <a href="http://www.Twitter.com/newsfromnosa" target="_blank">Twitter.com/newsfromnosa</a><br />
For <a href="http://www.nosa.org" target="_blank">more Newport 2 Ensenada Race sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24s sailing Acapulco, Mexico" data-file-id="116282" height="312" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/36a6e875-1332-4f89-b4be-83924cbcdb00.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 312px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/24s Celebrate Mexican Navy's 200th Anniversary!</span></h2>
(Acapulco, Mexico)- In commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the foundation of the Mexican Navy, there was a gala yachting event held in Acapulco, Mexico for this important milestone. <br />
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The Mexican Navy personnel helped transport many of the J/24's from the lake at Valle de Bravo (2 hours west of Mexico City a mile high in the mountains) to Acapulco's harbor at no cost! The Acapulco Yacht Club hosted the event in which a fleet of ninety-six boats participated from different classes.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24s sailing off Acapulco, Mexico" data-file-id="116218" height="202" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/04e38ab3-5833-47fd-bea1-47bec9cc3a72.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 202px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Sixteen J/24s took advantage of this opportunity to sail the beautiful calm waters of Acapulco Bay from April 20th to the 22nd. The teams enjoyed absolutely amazing sailing conditions all three days. <br />
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There were many social events practicing safe distancing and all the safety requirements for COVID 19, but this did not deter a great week of sailing and much fun for everyone involved!<br />
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"We had so much fun that we are seriously considering making this an annual event where all our friends from around the world will be welcome! We hope to see you soon in warm sunny Acapulco Bay," said enthusiastic J/24 owner Leopoldo Farias.<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j88" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/88 one-design sailing on Long Island Sound" data-file-id="116222" height="340" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/1d1761b9-e1bf-4c25-a746-8b5c301b4972.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 340px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Spring Sprang on Long Island Sound</span></h2>
(Rye, New York)- The first weekend of the 2021 American Yacht Club Spring Regatta on April 24-25 had over 50 boats entered in the One Design, PHRF, and ORC classes to compete in Rye, NY.<br />
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Racing began with a light, variable wind on day one, but the breeze built significantly as the day progressed. The Race Committee was able to complete four races for the Short Course ORC and J/44 classes, and one distance race for the Coastal Racing course, which included PHRF, Doublehanded, and Mixed Doublehanded classes.<br />
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Day two began with a wet and chilly morning, but the rain tapered off just in time for the start of the first race. The day proved to be somewhat more challenging for everyone, with 50-degree wind shifts combined with dramatic changes in wind velocity and direction.<br />
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All the races were conducted by Principal Race Officers John (“Tinker”) Myles on the East Course, and Commodore Nicholas Everett on the South Course, along with their respective Race Committee teams.<br />
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Amongst the five-boat J/44 class, it was past New York Yacht Club Commodore Bill Ketcham's familiar navy-blue MAXINE that leads the series by just one point with finishes of 3-1-4-1-1-3 for 9 pts. Just behind them is Don & Dick Rave's RESOLUTE with a 1-3-2-2-2-4 tally for 10 pts. Lying third is Tom Blackwell's BREAKAWAY with a 2-4-1-4-3-1 record for 14 pts. <br />
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The PHRF Coastal Division saw a near clean sweep of the top ten by J/Crews. Sweeping the podium were Cory Eaves' J/109 FREEDOM in first, Bob Schwartz's J/109 NORDLYS in second, and Steve Levy's J/121 EAGLE in third! Finishing fifth was Jim Weil & EJ Haskell's J/92 VIXEN, and seventh was Jason Viseltear's J/80 UPSETTER.<br />
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The J/88 one-design class saw Iris Vogel's DEVIATION press the pedal-to-the-metal and firewall it all the way around the race track, winning the first three races on Saturday and completing the weekend on Sunday with a 2-3-1 for 6 pts net! Behind her it was a full-on duel between Larry Cutler & Andrew Weiss' ONE TOO MANY and Justin Scagnelli & Tim Price's ALBONDIGAS. Just one point separates the two after six races. <br />
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The always-competitive J/105 class of seven boats saw tight racing amongst the top three boats. Currently leading by two points is Paul Beaudin's LOU LOU, followed by David Willis' SOLUTION in second, and just two points further back is Gareth Lester's ECHO. <br />
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In the J/70 one-design class, it's Jean Marc Papin's PEN SEGAL leading after winning five races, with Ben Hunt's NO NAME in second with 10 pts and Gibbons Sinclair's HALF MINE II in third place. <br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 sailing off St Maarten" data-file-id="116230" height="294" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c62a9acc-0ab3-44a3-9eca-c1a02880c238.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 294px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/105 Blindingly Fast @ St Maarten Finale</span></h2>
(Simpson Bay, St. Maarten)- The traditional end-of-the-season regatta for the winter Caribbean circuit for St Maarten sailors is the St Maarten Yacht Club's Simpson Bay to Friar's Bay Race and return. <br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/105 Solstice winners off St Maarten" data-file-id="116270" height="390" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7325b95c-9c15-4083-bc47-55bb09ab58eb.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 390px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
Virtually all the major players in the St Maarten sailing community attended their grand finale and super-fun race. In the end, it was Jordan Mindich's J/105 SOLSTICE that "blinded the fleet with science and brilliance", taking overall honors over two very fast, hard-charging Melges 24s and a J/70 (all of whom have won many regattas). This time, Garth Steyn's J/70 IGY RACING could not overcome his good buddies on the M24s to have to settle for fourth place by one point. <br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Community</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span></h3>
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<strong>J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">J/Boats from around the world here</a>. <br />
<br />
<img align="none" alt="J/37 cruiser racer brokerage sailboat for sale" data-file-id="116250" height="356" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9bb2fa6c-48ec-4ce1-8259-8611242f6d1e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 356px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Gorgeous, well-equipped J/37 Cruiser-Racer for Sale</span></h2>
CARINA had a spectacular racing career; she's fully equipped and ready-to-go on its next adventure. The performance of the J/37 on the race course is only half of the story with CARINA. She also can be a great cruiser with comfortable accommodations and equipment to cruise the coast of Maine or head south for the winter. <br />
<br />
Did we mention the Beer-can racing possibilities and bragging rights? Finally, she's not too big to sail shorthanded if you just want to use her for day sailing. The perfect mix with J/Boat performance and Comfort features for the cruiser.<a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/J37-Ocean-Racer-wCeZjNUw" target="_blank"> Check out the full details and call us at Northpoint Yacht Sales</a><br />
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<hr /><img align="none" alt="SAIL Kids alright sailing" data-file-id="116306" height="414" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3da2fa6d-3c54-4999-a64f-6e4c7365d0a1.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 414px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">The Kids Are Alright!</span></h2>
<em><strong>SAIL magazine's Lydia Mullan</strong></em> recently wrote an article about America's community sailing centers that are ushering in a new generation of sailors. In most cases, those community sailing centers are making use of inexpensive, easy-to-sail, fun, easy-to-maintain J/22s, J/24s, and J/80s. Here is the introduction to the story:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j80" target="_blank"><img align="right" alt="J/80 Hudson River Community Sailing" data-file-id="116294" height="341" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3a0eb82e-b599-428c-bcec-ff3bc59d0250.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 341px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></a>"I'm sitting in a yacht club, having dinner with three other members of my crew, all of them men 40 years my senior. They're lamenting the tragic state of sailing. "Look around us:' one of them says, gesturing to the other patrons. "Where are the young people?" Another turns to me, "Why don't people your age sail anymore?" I didn't know it then, but it's a question that I would be asked again and again over the next few years. <br />
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Today, America's yacht clubs, and sailing in general, appear to be experiencing a population crisis. There are many reasons for this. Sailing's reputation for posh exclusivity has gone out of style. <br />
<br />
There's also the question of cost. Based on 2020 U.S. Census Bureau data, on average Millennials (currently ages 25-35) make 20 percent less than their parents did. Women make even less, and women of color even less than that. Finally, there are the many other roadblocks to sailing: social barriers, informational barriers, geographic barriers. Race, sexuality and socioeconomic status are all factors. <br />
<br />
Fortunately, in recent years a solution has quietly begun to take shape in towns and cities across America in the form of a growing number of community sailing centers. <br />
<br />
<img align="right" alt="J/80 Hudson River Community Sailing skipper/ sailor" data-file-id="116278" height="387" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9751636e-5220-4294-b26d-0cda0e2cb276.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 387px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" />Currently, <a href="http://www.ussailing.org/recreation/community-sailing/" target="_blank">US Sailing recognizes about 50 accredited centers</a>. There's no single definition of a community sailing center, but a qualifying factor is that each center owns boats available for use by its members or the general public. This shifts the startup cost away from individuals and lowers the barrier for entry. <br />
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Today's sailing centers often have an outreach and education curriculum, but there are as many different ways to organize these as there are sailing centers. The appeal of this system is obvious. If you can't afford a boat, no problem. You want to sail but don't know anything about boat maintenance? That's fine. Same thing if you have no place to store a boat, need a few lessons to gain confidence or don't have any sailing friends. The list goes on and on. The model works especially for young people. It's no exaggeration to say today's sailing centers are welcoming a whole new generation of sailors from communities that would likely never have otherwise been able to get out on the water. <br />
<br />
<em><strong>Hudson River Community Sailing (HRCS) in New York (located at Hudson Yards)</strong></em> serves as an excellent example of a program going above and beyond in its efforts to expand water access in its community. Like many community centers, HRCS is young- founded less than 15 years ago by Bill Bahen with four donated Rainbows. Today, the center has many programs, including adult sailing and an adaptive sailing program for veterans utilizing a large fleet of J/24s and J/80s. However, its shining star is a youth program run in conjunction with the New York City school system. Every year, about 200 middle and high schoolers from all five boroughs take part. In addition to learning how to sail, students build boats, and learn about weather, marine sciences, and conservation. And while students receive course credit for these efforts, HRCS takes most pride in teaching life skills like communication and problem solving. <br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/24 Hudson River Community Sailing" data-file-id="116298" height="454" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/1331dcbb-05ac-481d-abdd-fab186349c98.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 454px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
"I am fond of saying, 'Don't teach sailing, use sailing as a venue to teach other amazing things,"' says HRCS's community sailing director Don Rotzien. "Sailing creates stronger communicators, better leaders, better problem solvers, better neighbors... The benefits go far beyond time on the water. If you can figure out how to sail safely and effectively, you can apply that kind of problem solving to every day you're at work or interacting with people." <br />
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Though the focus is on teaching sailing to develop life skills rather than to create life-long sailors, graduates often find their passion in the program, with alums going on to careers sailing tall ships or working in marine sciences. Some even return to work with HRCS. <br />
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Despite the success of these programs, growing the sport of sailing is no walk in the park. These kinds of organizations face a host of different challenge with little precedent for how to navigate many of them. <br />
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"Every community sailing center has to operate with a startup mindset," says Rotzien, who is also a member of US Sailing's Community Sailing Center Committee. He jokes they're gluttons for punishment, because they're constantly seeking new barriers to whittle away in order to get everyone access. It's a super-human amount of work— partnering with schools, writing grants, doing outreach to under-represented communities, getting waterfront property access, maintaining the fleet of boats, troubleshooting retention issues. <br />
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"We have to fight to get people who don't see themselves in the sport in the door," Rotzien says. <br />
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What follows are just a few of the many great programs out there working to raise the next generation of sailors- <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UH_98NpcTmnR7CmHor9XQzw0CaVWK3qc/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">click here to view or download the PDF of SAIL's The Kids are Alright! article.</a><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-1975594821563290502021-04-21T08:21:00.002-04:002021-04-29T08:30:19.903-04:00J/Newsletter- April 21st, 2021<img align="none" alt="Sunset on Chilean lake in the Andes Mountains" data-file-id="104629" height="373" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b5017dad-46cb-43f4-bc3d-facae62939ef.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 373px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">The Sun Never Sets on J's Sailing Worldwide</span></h3>
Happy Earth Day! It's hard to believe that human beings feel compelled to celebrate saving our blue-marble colored life-raft called Earth. Nearly 8.0 billion strong so far and climbing rapidly, is it possible that humans have no clue that too many people in the raft can sink it?<br />
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Paradoxically, the Covid-19 pandemic has indeed proven that human activity is a bad thing for Mother Earth... pictures abound of "unseen" cities (anyone seen the Taj Mahal?), gorgeous vistas, mountain ranges, clear blue oceans, streams, even a near-swimmable labyrinth of canals in Venice, Italy! Shocking? Perhaps. But, it's 100% clear evidence that human-induced pollution and activity of all sorts is having a material effect on our environment. <br />
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Let us all hope the past year's eye-opening perspectives provide "lessons-learned" in some form or another as it relates to the environment. Sailors may be one of the most attuned as a group to the environmental issues we face. <br />
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The fate of our oceans was remarkably well-explained by Californian Wesley Marx in his eponymous book- THE FRAIL OCEAN published in 1967- a half-century ago! An avid surfer, diver, boater, Wesley expressed his concern for our Seven Seas and mankind's misuse of its resources. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Frail-Ocean-Blueprint-Change-Millennium/dp/0881791784" target="_blank">Read it, highly recommended! You can find it on Amazon here</a>. An excellent companion read regards environmental issues is also Rachel Carson's SILENT SPRING. <br />
<hr /><img align="right" alt="Newport to Ensenada Race poster" data-file-id="116198" height="300" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/454d5587-9778-45f7-8ebc-6836e2f64ff0.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 300px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 222px;" width="222" /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Newport 2 Ensenada Race Preview</span></h2>
(Newport Beach, CA)– Nearly 170 boats will cross the start line of the 73rd Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race, April 23rd off the Balboa Pier. Perhaps the cleverest element of the event is the race organizers- NOSA- have offered three courses to the intrepid adventurers that cannot wait to get out on the open, unrestricted, Pacific Ocean! Talk about "horses for courses", more than two dozen J/Teams are entered in all three ocean "sprints". The classic race goes from Newport Beach/ Balboa Pier start line to Ensenada, Mexico and that start line has 120 boats doing the 125.0nm passage. Twenty boats will take the day-race course down to Dana Point (about 25.0nm) and forty boats will take the mid-range course around the Coronado Islands and finish off Point Loma in San Diego. <br />
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A big "thanks" to everyone for good behavior and helping to reduce COVID restrictions. And, an even bigger "thanks" to the Mexican Navy offering landing assistance so that sailors will be able to safely disembark and enjoy Ensenada.<br />
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Answering that "siren song" to go offshore seems innate and is a common bond for many sailors. In a 1962 America's Cup dinner given by the Australian Ambassador at the Vanderbilt family's former estate- The Breakers- then USA President John F. Kennedy made some prophetic remarks about that passion on September 14th, 1962. <a href="https://www.jfklibrary.org/asset-viewer/archives/JFKWHA/1962/JFKWHA-127-003/JFKWHA-127-003" target="_blank">Listen to it here</a>. He explained:<br />
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"I really don't know why it is that all of us are so committed to the sea, except I think it is because in addition to the fact that the sea changes, and the light changes, and ships change, it is because we all came from the sea. And, it is an interesting biological fact that all of us have, in our veins, the exact same percentage of salt in our blood that exists in the ocean, and, therefore, we have salt in our blood, in our sweat, in our tears. We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch it, we are going back from whence we came."<br />
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<img align="none" alt="President John F Kennedy sailing with family" data-file-id="108506" height="370" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3af0382a-1ad9-49fc-a268-b90c167bae45.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 370px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
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Recently, when one person about to sail the race was asked "why sail the N2E", he commented:<br />
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"There’s a misconception about yacht racing, boat racing, in that some think it’s stuffy, blue-blazer-boring kind of stuff. But, in reality it's not. Sailing is a fun passion-based hobby, in which everyone has a story about overcoming adversity. Sailing is really about solving problems; things break as boats do and you figure it out. Perhaps the best part? It's sitting with a crew member at the helm in the middle of the night, 30 miles offshore, freezing, talking about life, watching the moon; man taking on machine and nature, the whole thing is magical.”<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 sailing to Ensenada, Mexico" data-file-id="94789" height="384" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/2c799b93-3402-40f4-9c96-140cd826505a.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 384px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
Sailing the classic N2E course are John Staff's J/111 OBSIDIAN, Scott Torrance's J/124 FORGIVENESS, Dave Gorney's J/105 NO COMPROMISE, Chuck Bowes' J/29 RHUMB RUNNER, and Brian Kerr's J/92 DOUBLE DOWN.<br />
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Taking the fast-track out and around the Coronado Islands to San Diego is the largest collection of J/145s ever- four of them- including Robert Pace's ANDIAMO 2, Roger Gatewood's KATARA, Ernie Pennell's MORE MADDNESS, and Rudy Hasl's PALAEMON. Joining them will be Tom Pollack's J/124 MARISOL, Dean Stanec's J/130 NIGHT'S WATCH, Derek Gaertner's J/27 PROJECT 53, Fed Hayem's J/46 MISTER J, and Mike McCarthy's J/88 BLUE FLASH. On a PHRF overall handicap basis, that will be one remarkably competitive division!<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j145"><img align="none" alt="J/145 sailing offshore" data-file-id="92541" height="383" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/30ed8318-0285-4491-953a-2c66c9e2688c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 383px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
Another tough collection of J/Crews are sailing the Newport to Dana Point race. Talk about a wind-sprint! Taking a "swing for the fences" in this race are Joaquin Cobelo's J/109 MARIAH, Matt Campbell's J/120 ADIOS, Charles Brewer's J/124 HEARTBEAT 4, Jock McGraw's J/22 TEKEELA, Tom Garrett's youth team on the J/70 SLOOP JOHN B, and the duo of Richard Bennett & David Matthews on the J/92 FIREWATER. <br />
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As pandemic restrictions have been lifted, options for social activities have increased. The annual Yachtsmen’s Luncheon and pre-race dinner at Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club, albeit without the infamous crowds, are being held. Plans for Sunday’s trophy ceremonies at the festive Hotel Coral and Marina are still being determined, pending the number of revelers, and in coordination with the host city’s guidelines. In light of Ensenada’s restrictions on large gatherings, Sunday afternoon’s awards ceremony, always joyful and celebratory, may be conducted in shifts. For <a href="http://www.nosa.org" target="_blank">more Newport 2 Ensenada Race sailing information</a><br />
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On social media, follow all the action on these links:<br />
<a href="http://www.Facebook.com/newporttoensenada" target="_blank">Facebook.com/newporttoensenada</a><br />
<a href="http://www.Instagram.com/newport_to_ensenada" target="_blank">Instagram.com/newport_to_ensenada</a><br />
<a href="http://www.Twitter.com/newsfromnosa" target="_blank">Twitter.com/newsfromnosa</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 sailing Annapolis NOOD Regatta" data-file-id="116210" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/5a50d942-57b3-4f6f-8f70-3928f83df4c0.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Great Start to Chesapeake Sailing Season</span></h2>
(Annapolis, MD)— The Helly Hansen NOOD Regatta returns to Annapolis, April 30 to May 2, for its 33rd edition, with more than 160 teams expected to race in boats ranging from 20 to 40 feet. The annual spring regatta, which is considered the premiere local sailing event of the year, also serves as the unofficial kickoff for the robust and thriving Annapolis sailing scene.<br />
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“What I’m hearing is that a lot of sailors have been using the downtime of the pandemic to work on and improve their boats while also going to school with webinars all winter long. They’re keen to apply all that learning to the race course for real,” says Dave Reed from SAILING WORLD, which co-hosts the event with Annapolis Yacht Club and other area yacht clubs. “After a year of so many regatta cancellations, sailors are ready to get back to racing in a big way. The Annapolis NOOD has always been an amazing event, and this year will be no different.”<br />
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The Helly Hansen NOOD Regatta series is the largest national sailing circuit, with Annapolis serving as the third event of five, along with regattas in St. Petersburg, Florida, San Diego, Chicago, and Marblehead, Massachusetts. At each regatta, one team is selected as the overall winner, earning a berth at the championship in the British Virgin Islands in late October.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j22" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22s sailing Annapolis NOOD Regatta" data-file-id="116202" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/17ecf0f4-facf-48fb-bb93-8e074ce7e81a.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
With such national prestige and a reputation for its professional race management, the Annapolis NOOD continues to be a major draw for competitors from all points of Chesapeake Bay and afar. This will be especially true in late April as competitors registered in two of the regatta’s largest classes will be using the event to train for major class championships later in the year. <br />
<br />
The J/70 class, for example, will host its North American Championship in early May in Annapolis and its World Championship in California in August, so organizers expect a high number of professional sailing teams will be in attendance, training and studying the venue’s challenging winds and tides. In addition, the J/111 class (36-foot/seven crew) will host its North American Championship at the NOOD.<br />
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“We’re especially excited this year,” says competitor Bill Carruth, who races with his wife, Linsley, in the J/105 class. The J/105s will have its North American Championship in Annapolis in October. Their NOOD fleet could have as many as 30 of these 35-footers. “It is a blast to have so many J/105s on the starting line,” Carruth says. “These are good sailors and they know the rules, so we tend to be aggressive, which makes it’s entertaining and exciting.”<br />
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In all, 11 classes will compete over three days, on race courses set on the waters south of Bay Bridge and immediately outside Annapolis Harbor and the U.S. Naval Academy, which will also field teams across a few classes. Regatta organizers have also added a new competition with the North Sails Doublehanded Distance Race where two-person teams will one day-long endurance race on Saturday, May 1, starting and finishing at entrance of the Harbor. <a href="http://www.outsideimages.com" target="_blank">Sailing photo credits- Paul Todd/ Outside Images</a> For <a href="http://www.sailingworld.com/nood-regattas" target="_blank">more Annapolis NOOD Regatta sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 sailboats sailing offshore" data-file-id="116110" height="316" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/66791ad0-da6b-4762-819f-ecde6b6e8ace.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 316px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Great Lakes College Keelboat Racing Announcement!</span></h2>
(Chicago, IL)- The 2021 Great Lakes Intercollegiate Offshore Regatta will be held September 24th to 26th in Chicago, IL. This annual fall regatta provides an opportunity for collegiate sailors to experience offshore keelboat racing with past participating teams coming from college sailing programs in the Midwest and beyond.<br />
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Chicago T10 and J/105 fleet members provide the sailboats and are on-board during racing as a safety precaution. The collegiate sailors drive, crew the boat, and manage strategy and tactics. Chicago-area yacht clubs provide facilities, and the fleets provide financial support, participant gifts and awards.<br />
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The regatta consists of windward/leeward buoy races on Lake Michigan offshore of Chicago. Teams arrive on Friday and have the opportunity to practice on their assigned boats that afternoon. Race committee attempts as many races as possible all-day Saturday and on Sunday morning. Award ceremonies are Sunday during lunch and teams have the afternoon for travel back to campus.<br />
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Past participating college teams have included; Michigan, Michigan State, Miami of Ohio, Hope College, Western Michigan, Wisconsin, Grand Valley State, Toledo, Northwestern, St. Mary’s College of Md., Michigan Tech, Minnesota, Ohio State, South Florida, Miami, Baldwin Wallace, Indiana University, Marquette, Cleveland State University, United States Naval Academy, University of South Carolina, Notre Dame, Illinois-Chicago and more.<br />
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Past participating Chicago J/105 one-design fleet owners have included; THE ASYLUM, SEALARK, VYTIS, FLYING PIG, GANGBUSTERS, KINSHIP, and more....hopefully many more this year!<br />
<hr /><a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_13&products_id=316" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/Gear April Special" data-file-id="115118" height="312" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/8f929153-c41d-4ca2-a403-ccd285000597.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 312px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Gear April 20% Off Special!</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Awesome Under Armour Performance Polo shirt!</span></h3>
(Newport, RI)- Here is an excellent opportunity for the whole crew to get Under Armour Polo shirts at a special price. Under Armour have been a leader in the performance arena for some time now and their gear is perfect for a marine application. This polo boasts rugged construction and features a distinctive comfortable fit.<br />
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The fabric is 95% polyester, 5% elastane, it is a smooth, soft anti-pill fabric, has an anti-odor technology to prevent the growth of odor causing bacteria, and offers 30+ UPF protection from the sun’s harmful rays!<br />
Order <a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_13&products_id=316" target="_blank">your beautiful, comfy Under Armour Performance Polo here</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span><br />
Apr 8-11- <a href="https://www.charlestonraceweek.com/" target="_blank">Charleston Race Week- Charleston, SC</a><br />
Apr 30- May 2- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">Annapolis NOOD Regatta- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
Apr 30- May 2- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">J/111 North American Championship- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
May 9-15- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/event_scratch_sheet.cfm?eID=13209" target="_blank">J/70 North American Championship- Annapolis, MD</a> <br />
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For additional <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j-sailing-calendar/sailing-regattas" target="_blank">J/Regatta and Event dates in your region, please refer to the on-line J/Sailing Calendar</a>.<br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Community</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span></h3>
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<strong>J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">J/Boats from around the world here</a>. <br />
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<img align="none" alt="Brokerage J/109 cruising sailboat for sale" data-file-id="116206" height="340" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/976cd770-03e0-4cf9-ba3b-095a100003b5.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 340px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Gorgeous J/109 For Sale</span></h2>
Hop aboard this J/109 and be welcomed into an incredibly spacious cockpit outfitted with a suite of brand-new B&G marine electronics. Included are a 12" touch screen Chart Plotter at your helm, and three displays forward at the top of the companionway. There's also an ICOM VHF radio mounted to the port side of the helm, ergonomically easy to reach controls for the newly rebuilt autopilot ram. She's also equipped with a binnacle compass, shore power at her stern, manual and electric bilge pumps, hot and cold transom shower, and a stern mounted swim ladder. Relax comfortably on her set of five, white ultra-leather cockpit cushions and listen to the impressive Kenwood 60-Watt sound system.<br />
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This J/109 is equipped with the removable transom dock box for extra storage. Should you wish to return to One Design racing- this is super-easy to take off her transom. To port is her propane locker and to starboard is an ample storage locker that is accessible from both a wide deck hatch and an access door at the rear of her head.<br />
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As you proceed forward along her side decks, you'll see that ALL her running rigging is new! Two-tone light grey decks compliment her flag-blue hull. There's a new dove grey helm cover, matching dodger and set of four winch covers. A solar powered vent fan in her forward hatch for constant fresh circulation of air as well as screens for all her hatches! Deck hatches were replaced with OEM in 2019.<br />
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In terms of sails, you won't find a better outfitted J/109 on the market! She has a new main, and jib built by North for the 2019/2020 season.<br />
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<a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/J109-SYBARITA-qYpkjlGQ" target="_blank">Learn more about this "Bristol-condition" J/109 sailboat for sale that is currently located in Maine and ready to go cruising at a moment's notice!</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.marksetbot.com" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="MarkSetBot robotic mark for sailboat racing" data-file-id="116074" height="308" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9cadc329-1866-456e-9ec3-1d67d3da90a8.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 308px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Save Our Seas (and lakes) with Robotic Marks?</span></h2>
USA pioneer MarkSetBot and their colleagues in Switzerland- WaterSportsMarks- were celebrating Earth Day along with many regatta organizers that hope to take advantage of such ground-breaking technology. <br />
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There's no better day to make a commitment to running clean, sustainable regattas than to consider the use of robotic marks for at least the port end of the starting line and for the windward mark, the two most "changeable" marks on a race course. <br />
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A true test of the MarkSetBot solution was at this year's Charleston Race Week. With winds hitting 19 kts and currents traversing the courses at 3.5 kts, it was probably the most severe test yet of the robotic mark's capabilities. A huge "bonus" was that NO ONE could carry away the mark by hooking the ground tackle on their keels-- a common site in year's past sailing on Charleston Harbor. This resulted not only in reduced anxiety for nervous skippers, but also dramatically reduced logistical burdens on the PRO's regards having to cancel and restart races!<br />
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<a href="http://www.watersportmarks.com" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="Swiss Watersportmarks.com" data-file-id="116214" height="307" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f70929a9-14d0-4ee5-8abb-7bf8b0bb8860.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 307px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
In partnership with SAILORS FOR THE SEA and 11th HOUR RACING, our MarkSetBot friends had this to say on improving good practices regards our environmental impact:<br />
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"We're committed to fostering sustainable practices on and off the water. Here are our favorite ways to make an impact at your next event. If you're looking for more ideas or to become a certified Clean Regatta, check out our friends at Sailors for the Sea (you can even earn Clean Regatta status by using our Bots!).
<ul>
<li>Eliminate single-use items like plastic water bottles, straws, bags, and dinnerware.</li>
<li>Host a beach, marina, or boatyard clean-up in conjunction with your regatta.</li>
<li>Ensure proper waste bin placement and signage to educate participants on composting and recycling and divert food waste from landfills.</li>
<li>Use paperless event management, including use of whiteboards, online regatta management systems, or email to share regatta information and results.</li>
<li>Spread the word about your sustainability initiatives and why a Clean Regatta is important to you. Your work might inspire someone else to make an impact. </li>
</ul>
<em><strong>Bonus Tip! Use MarkSetBot robotic buoys to set and adjust the course.</strong></em> Simple and efficient, robotic marks eliminate the need for seabed destructive anchors and fossil-fuel-burning power boats whose sole purposes are moving around marks. At the end of the race day, they can even be charged via solar power.<br />
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MarkSetBot has been recognized by Sailors for the Sea, World Sailing, and 11th Hour Racing as an impactful way to make your regatta more sustainable. Plus, robotic marks make on-the-course social distancing easier by drastically reducing the number of people needed to set the course. <br />
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For<a href="http://www.marksetbot.com" target="_blank"> MarkSetBot information</a>. For <a href="http://www.watersportmarks.com" target="_blank">the Swiss Watersport Marks model information</a><a data-flip-widget="flipit" href="https://flipboard.com">Add to Flipboard Magazine.</a><script src="https://cdn.flipboard.com/web/buttons/js/flbuttons.min.js" type="text/javascript"></script>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-18284995264530020382021-04-14T11:05:00.002-04:002021-04-18T11:12:08.744-04:00J/Newsletter- April 14th, 2021<img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing at sunset" data-file-id="112582" height="324" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4066bd8e-a010-478b-a26f-1053f7a4d1a7.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 324px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">The Sun Never Sets on J's Sailing Worldwide</span></h2>
It was cause for celebration this past weekend as the Charleston Offshore Racing Association (CORA) managed to host their 25th Anniversary Charleston Race Week, much to the delight of several dozen J/Sailors from across the world. Blessed with amazing conditions, all classes and all courses sailed their full slate of races all three days of competition. Similarly in the United Kingdom, the Royal Ocean Racing Club's Offshore Spring Series had another gang-buster race up and down and around the Solent for a fleet of twenty-five IRC racers, with several J/Teams performing quite well. <br />
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Then, in the J/Community section, it was more cause for celebration as an "island" J/70 sailor managed to take his MOD 70 trimaran around the Fastnet Race track in record time...an eye-opening performance. Enjoy. <br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/9 daysailer hull decked in Bristol, RI" data-file-id="116046" height="182" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c587d0d9-6fbc-4cb3-ab2d-34ce2b79d5b2.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 182px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/9 Daysailer Update- Decked Out, Looking Good!</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)- J/9 #1 is decked and in final assembly at CCF Composites in Bristol, RI. She looks nearly ready to sail! The deck hardware is installed, most of the interior components are fitted, and the after-deck finish work is underway. Next week, the keel will be fitted and then the boat will head to International Marine for bottom paint followed by an early May launch.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/9 daysailer deck" data-file-id="116038" height="238" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a441576b-e586-42c2-82ab-aa3d0c3cf78c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 238px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
We’re looking forward to hosting an active demo-sail schedule in Bristol and Newport from mid-May to mid-June and then the J/9 will be displayed and sailed (in the pursuit class) at Storm Trysail’s Block Island Race Week. Thereafter, demo-sails will be available out of Stonington, CT for July and August, and back in Newport for September.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/9 daysailor cockpit" data-file-id="116070" height="354" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a1dd8d6a-19cc-47b9-9df8-2b034484c463.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 354px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Despite the industry shortage of labor and raw materials, we’re happy to report that CCF Composites has pulled out the stops to get J/9 production up and running. Hull #2 (RCR Yachts) is in assembly and hull #3 (Sail California) is in the mold. The target is an initial production rate of a boat every two weeks by summer and then ramping up from there to handle the backlog of nearly 30 boats. For <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank">more J/9 daysailer information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24 sailboats off start" data-file-id="116154" height="354" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/5492a47a-420e-4647-908d-42351d68ef6b.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 354px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">2022 J/24 World Championship in Corpus Christi!</span></h2>
(Corpus Christi, TX)- The International J/24 Class Association (IJCA) will hold its 2022 World Championship at Corpus Christi Yacht Club in Corpus Christi, Texas USA from July 14th to 22nd, 2022. Due to pandemic-related concerns, the scheduled host for the 2021 Worlds in Mendoza, Argentina will move to a later year. <br />
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Brad Stokes, Regatta Chair, said, “Corpus Christi Yacht Club, host of the 1988, 1982 and 1979 J/24 North American Championships and recipient of the US Sailing St. Petersburg trophy for excellence in race management is pleased to welcome J/24 sailors to experience our favorable wind conditions and our southern hospitality.”<br />
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IJCA Chair Will Welles added, “We are very pleased that Corpus Christi will host the 2022 Worlds, and we are hoping that many teams will come and compete in this great sailing venue!” <strong>Sailing photo credits- Priscilla Parker.</strong> For <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank">more J/24 Class sailing information</a><br />
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<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing at J/Cup" data-file-id="116150" height="358" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/5ee7710a-5dbb-4d17-a4f2-8fab62a671f8.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 358px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Landsail Tyres J/CUP Announcement</span></h2>
(Southampton, England)- Key Yachting is delighted to announce the launch of the 2021 Landsail Tyres J/Cup. This will be the first major regatta in England following the proposed final stage of the UK Government roadmap to cautiously ease lockdown restrictions.<br />
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"Landsail Tyres are thrilled to once more be supporting the J-Cup regatta," said Chris Saunders, Landsail UK Brand Manager. "This will be Landsail's seventh regatta and being the first one after Covid restrictions are expected to ease - it is going to be extra special. The J/Boats community always delivers exciting racing, and we can't wait to see who comes out on top this year!"<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j109" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/109 sailboats starting" data-file-id="116134" height="334" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9efc0bfa-d60d-447e-afd6-10478c08e483.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 334px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Hosted by the Royal Southern Yacht Club, well over 50 teams are expected for the exclusive J/Boats regatta. Three one-design classes will be competing including the J/70 Class and J/109 Class. The J/111 Class has the added thrill of competing for the National Championship. A variety of J/Boats crewed by friends and family, as well as professional sailors, will be racing in organized IRC Classes.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/CUP Awards banquet" data-file-id="116186" height="320" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/310c4a36-acd9-48e7-ad24-0488dc8f1cf9.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 320px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
The Landsail Tyres J/Cup invites all J/Boats owners and crew to take part in three days of exciting racing in The Solent with daily prize givings. The most coveted award at the Landsail Tyres J/Cup is the J/Cup itself, which will be awarded at the J/Cup 2021 Dinner.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 sailing offshore" data-file-id="116090" height="324" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7ff37c77-deb1-4373-9267-d528bd4871f7.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 324px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
“A big thank you to Landsail Tyres for their continued support of the J/Cup, this is going to be a lot of fun,” commented Key Yachting’s Wayne Palmer. “For over 20 years this has been the event that brings the J/Boats family together and that is especially important in the current climate. The Key Yachting team is just as passionate about the regatta as the hundreds of sailors that will be taking part. We are determined to make it a memorable event for everyone involved.” <a href="http://www.pwpictures.com" target="_blank">Sailing photo credits- Paul Wyeth/ PwPictures.com</a> Event Reporter: Louay Habib<br />
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The 2021 Landsail Tyres J/Cup is open for entry. <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eid=14430" target="_blank">Online registration and race documents including the Notice of Race can be found at YachtScoring</a>. <br />
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<hr /><a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_13&products_id=316" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/Gear April Special" data-file-id="115118" height="312" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/8f929153-c41d-4ca2-a403-ccd285000597.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 312px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Gear April 20% Off Special!</span></h2>
<span class="subTitle">Awesome Under Armour Performance Polo shirt!</span><br />
(Newport, RI)- Here is an excellent opportunity for the whole crew to get Under Armour Polo shirts at a special price. Under Armour have been a leader in the performance arena for some time now and their gear is perfect for a marine application. This polo boasts rugged construction and features a distinctive comfortable fit.<br />
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The fabric is 95% polyester, 5% elastane, it is a smooth, soft anti-pill fabric, has an anti-odor technology to prevent the growth of odor causing bacteria, and offers 30+ UPF protection from the sun’s harmful rays! Order <a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_13&products_id=316" target="_blank">your beautiful, comfy Under Armour Performance Polo here</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span></h2>
Apr 8-11- <a href="https://www.charlestonraceweek.com/" target="_blank">Charleston Race Week- Charleston, SC</a><br />
Apr 30- May 2- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">Annapolis NOOD Regatta- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
Apr 30- May 2- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">J/111 North American Championship- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
May 9-15- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/event_scratch_sheet.cfm?eID=13209" target="_blank">J/70 North American Championship- Annapolis, MD</a> <br />
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For additional <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j-sailing-calendar/sailing-regattas" target="_blank">J/Regatta and Event dates in your region, please refer to the on-line J/Sailing Calendar</a>.<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j88" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/88 sailing at Charleston, SC" data-file-id="116130" height="354" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f0d4f31f-0185-4f3f-98da-4c45a6ca3ab1.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 354px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Awesome 25th Anniversary Charleston Race Week!</span></h2>
(Charleston, SC)- Expectations were high for this year's celebration of the 25th anniversary of Charleston Race Week. Hosted at the Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, the dozens of volunteers from the Charleston Offshore Racing Association (CORA) delivered in spades after more than a year off. With the added bonus of having the weather Godz cooperate for once, most all fleets were able to fulfill their full schedule of races, with most one-design fleets experiencing ten races after three days of sailing!<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 woman skipper Maggie" data-file-id="116138" height="332" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/0428cecd-335b-4995-ab1a-a1ba0bda73c2.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 332px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The sailors experienced mostly sunny days with southerly winds; with winds varying from southeast to southwest, depending on the degree of cloud cover, and breezes ranging in velocities from 6 to 16 kts. As usual, the mostly ebbing currents of up to 3.5 knots played havoc with laylines both upwind and downwind for many sailors...many boats "doing donuts" after hitting one of the robotic MarkSetBots being used as marks. <br />
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A total of 188 boats in 16 classes were finally able to celebrate the 25th anniversary race week in Charleston, SC. Not surprisingly, passionate J/Sailors across the country couldn't wait for this rendezvous with destiny! Of the 188 boats registered, 103 of them were J/Boats sailors (a stunning 55.0% of the fleet)! <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 sailboats starting" data-file-id="116034" height="158" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4bc99af2-13c9-488d-a406-e9ca41d2ac04.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 158px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The regatta featured five one-design J/Classes, including J/22s, J/24s, J/70s, J/88s, and J/105s. In addition, there were two “Pursuit-style” sailing divisions for both PHRF and ORC handicap rated boats that included a J/30, J/35, J/109s, J/111s, J/120s, J/121s and a J/122. <br />
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Starting with the biggest fleet in the regatta, the J/70s near runaway winner was Bruno Pasquinelli's STAMPEDE. With the red bull billowing broadly on their big white chute, there were most often seen at the front of the fleet, posting seven podium finishes to win with just 24 pts net; quite a feat in this hotly contested fleet! Joel Ronning's CATAPULT returned to their regatta-winning form and gave the Stampeders a good run-for-the-money, but were not able to close the gap fast enough on the last day, taking the silver with 40 pts net. Rounding out the podium was Mike Goldfarb's WAR CANOE, winning two races on their way to earning the bronze with 43 pts net. The balance of the top five include John Heaton's Chicago team on EMPEIRIA in fourth and Dave Jannetti's VERY ODD in fifth. <br />
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The J/70 Corinthians Division was won by Henry Filter's Napolitan crew on WILD CHILD, followed by Alex Meleny's TRUCKIN in second, and Mike Sabinash's SABOTAGE in third position. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24 one-design sailboats off Charleston Harbor" data-file-id="116174" height="320" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/013f694e-2835-4cff-857d-a61b1003c57c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 320px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The large 19-boat J/24 class saw a full-blown duel take place for class honors. In such a classic confrontation, it was the final race that determined the outcome for the two protagonists that are well-known amongst J/24 class veterans- Kirk Reynolds on TYRUS and Aidan Glackin on MENTAL FLOSS. After trading off bullets in the first six races, it became a war of attrition to see who would blink last. In the end, it was Reynolds' TYRUS crew that avoided the "send it down the mine shaft" race to win by two points. Glackin's MENTAL FLOSS crew sailed a stellar series, save for their 9th place in race 2 that slowed down their chances for the win. Watching the fireworks taking place all weekend-long from the bleacher seats was Denny Vaughn's HABANERO, themselves winning two races but suffering from inconsistency to settle for the bronze. Rounding out the top five were Chris Stone's VELOCIDAD and Jim Thurlow's FORTITUDE in fourth and fifth, respectively. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j22" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22 sailboats sailing Charleston Harbor" data-file-id="116142" height="374" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/8425a4c5-730f-4e5c-93d0-3686307f4f14.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 374px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The J/22s were subject to a good'ole butt-whippin' by Justin DaMore's YEM team, counting seven bullets in their scoreline to win with a mere nine points net. An easy second-place performance was earned by Fed Plasecki's CoC 7 team with 17 pts. net. The bronze went to Nathan Bowen's USA 8 team with 29 pts. net. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j88" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/88's sailing on Charleston Harbor" data-file-id="116058" height="320" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e516ee3d-72c6-4d5d-8eb0-a57a4445a18c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 320px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
A near-dozen J/88s showed up for some of that famous southern hospitality and no one left disappointed. Great sailing, great food, spirited competition across the board. Such was the evenness of the racing that every single boat on the podium had a double-digit race to get discarded, a first to be sure for this class. Sitting in third place after the first day, brothers John & Jordan Leahey's DUTCH from Chicago, IL decided they were ONLY going one-way on day two- "go left young man" was the local advice they heeded in spades. For four straight races, they would start at the port end of the line, check-in with the tour guides at Fort Sumter, stamp their ticket for being the ONLY boat in the left corner, then proceed to the windward mark to rejoin the fleet. A winning formula it was for that day! They were rewarded with three bullets in four races to leap to the front of the fleet at the end of the "moving day" (the second to last day of the regatta). The final day dawned gray and served up the most bizarre wind conditions of the regatta. Not doing themselves any favors, the DUTCH team posted their second-worst race of the regatta with a 9th place. That left the final race to determine who amongst the top three teams would win the regatta. In the end, the DUTCH'ers traded in their "left turn signal" for a "right turn signal" in the finale...and rolled the dice. In short, that strategy worked again..."when in doubt, hit a corner", if not left, then why not right?! LOL. DUTCH won the final race to take class honors by 4 pts. Second went to their arch-nemesis in the hotly-contested J/88 Chicago Fleet- Andy Graff's EXILE. Just three points back, after torpedoing their chances at a class win with a DFL in race 9, was Justin Scagnelli and Tim Price's ALBONDIGAS from the Long Island Sound J/88 fleet. The balance of the top five included Brian O'Malley's BLUE in fourth and Andrew Weiss' ONE TOO MANY in fifth. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105s sailing on Charleston Harbor, SC" data-file-id="116110" height="316" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/66791ad0-da6b-4762-819f-ecde6b6e8ace.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 316px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Not surprisingly, the J/105 fleet was treated to a complete "white-washing" by Ken Horne's Houston, TX team on FINAL FINAL. Proving themselves in the 2019 J/105 North American Championship in Marblehead, MA with a second place, Horne's crew continues to post strong performances in the class. After nine bullets in nine races, they elected to not sail the last race and went home. The Schaedler/ Taylor duo on WHISTLER posted eight podium finishes in their final tally to take home the silver. Third was Joe Highsmith's DEAD ON ARRIVAL with 35 pts net. The rest of the top five were Joe Pitcavage's SPECTACLE in fourth and Bill McKenzie's RUM FRONT in fifth place. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j122" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/122 Teamwork sailing on Charleston Harbor, SC" data-file-id="116166" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9885b508-7b23-4362-9cf2-e839774ecc67.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The ORC B Offshore division was treated to a podium sweep by three top J/Teams. Winning for the millionth-time was Robin Team's J/122 TEAMWORK with 6 pts net. They were challenged hard by two J/121s. Bob Christoph's LOKI traded bullets with TEAMWORK in a few races, but that was not enough to overcome TEAMWORK's consistency. Both teams tossed 3rds (!) but LOKI had to count one more third to settle for second place. Third was Bill Wiggin's & Ashley Maltempo's WINGS. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j121" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/121 LOKI sailing Charleston Harbor, SC" data-file-id="116062" height="290" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/ee654331-44e5-4709-815c-21f8d9d4372a.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 290px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
In PHRF A Pursuit Spin division, J/Teams took six of the top eight places. Richard Moore's J/120 KEELFORCE took the silver with Bob Musor's J/130 SCEPTRE earning the bronze. Fourth was John Keenan's J/120 ILLYRIA, sixth Willy Schwenzfeier's J/35 ARROW, seventh Ed Goss' J/36 SOUL, an eighth Bill Hanckel's J/120 EMOCEAN. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j120" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/120 sailing on Charleston Harbor, SC" data-file-id="116122" height="328" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c71edca3-7668-4ff1-a07c-9bf9c25776e0.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 328px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The PHRF B Pursuit Spin division, the Warrior Sailing Team took third place with their J/95 WARRIOR 95, while Mark Swatta's J/30 LAS BRISAS finished fifth. <br />
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Thanks to Quantum Sail Design Group for its team of professionals that did on-site daily weather briefings, discuss tactics and strategy provided on-the-water "live" commentary on all racing circles. For <a href="https://www.charlestonraceweek.com/" target="_blank">more Charleston Race Week sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j121" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/121 Darkwood sailing on Solent RORC series" data-file-id="110150" height="332" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b6958388-adb2-4939-9173-df29cbde74d9.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 332px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/121 Silvers @ RORC Springs Series 2</span></h2>
(Cowes, Isle of Wight, England)- The Royal Ocean Racing Club continues its Offshore Spring Series on the Solent this past weekend. The races are designed to provide around 5 to 7 hours of racing around government marks in and out and around the Solent. Blessed with more solid spring sailing conditions, several of the J/Teams that are participating are beginning to find their strides as they work out nearly a year's worth of "rust" from not being on the race track. <br />
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This past weekend, it was Mike O'Donnell's J/121 DARKWOOD that took 2nd IRC Overall in the fleet of twenty-five-boat IRC Class. Other J's in the top ten included Andy Theobald's J/122 R&W in 8th, Rob Cotterill's J/109 MOJO RISIN' in 9th, and David Ward's J/92 JACKDAW in 10th. For <a href="http://www.rorc.org" target="_blank">more RORC Offshore Spring Series sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Community</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span></h3>
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<strong>J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">J/Boats from around the world here</a>. <br />
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<a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/J-122-F30MAWUN" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="brokerage J/122 used sailboat for sale" data-file-id="116194" height="300" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a9cb831f-8ef2-4b93-8a7f-b8f4d22665bc.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 300px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">J/122 Offshore Cruising Racing Sailboat For Sale</span></h2>
Currently in Marblehead, MA, this well-maintained J/122 is in excellent condition and has current upgrades to its full-race North Sails inventory and and a full complement of electronic equipment. She is ready to do Bermuda Race or Halifax Race. "Turn-key" full race or full cruise! She is the one head, twin aft cabins layout. Lots more to see. Please <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/J-122-F30MAWUN" target="_blank">contact J/Dealer Hill & Lowden for more details. For more information and contact click link here</a>. <br />
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<img align="none" alt="MOD 70 Powerplay sailing on Solent, UK" data-file-id="116054" height="324" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/ea1d4d64-91d2-4384-9f99-c21fe15e87b6.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 324px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Fastnet Race Course Record Set by J/70 Sailor & J/22 CAY supporter!?</span></h2>
In the <em>"you won't believe what J/Sailors are doing when not sailing their J's"</em> department, J/70 sailor Peter Cunningham and J/22 Youth sailing program supporter from the Caymans Islands Sailing Club has been exploring a few adventurous, if not extreme, elements on his "bucket list". Recently, his POWERPLAY Team tackled the Fastnet Race course record in his MOD 70 trimaran (a wee-bit different VMG than his J/70!). Here is their report.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="Rolex RORC Fastnet Race course" data-file-id="116050" height="226" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c48085c4-1a17-4195-b413-fea8eacc8eb1.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 226px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
Led by Peter Cunningham and skippered by Ned Collier Wakefield, the MOD 70 POWERPLAY completed the original Fastnet Course of 595 nautical miles in a new record of 25 hrs 4 mins 18 secs.<br />
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“It was kind of ambitious, but the conditions were right, and the team was ready to go,” commented Peter. “The POWERPLAY crew was fantastic. Miles (Seddon) did a brilliant job navigating, we had two wonderful drivers in Ned Collier Wakefield, who set up the boat and runs the program, and the fastest sailor on Earth- Paul Larsen- who drove in some incredibly bad conditions.”<br />
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Shortly after midday on Monday 05 April, in a bitterly cold strong northerly wind, POWERPLAY started their Fastnet record attempt crossing the Squadron Line off Cowes, Isle of Wight. <br />
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<img align="none" alt="MOD 70 Powerplay off The Needles, Isle of Wight, UK" data-file-id="116078" height="340" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/50b53d2e-761c-49aa-811f-50d5f6ee845b.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 340px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
POWERPLAY made short work of racing to Lands' End and powered across the Celtic Sea at speeds in excess of 30 knots. POWERPLAY rounded the famous Fastnet Lighthouse and raced through the night. On Tuesday 06 April, at 13:42 and 19 seconds BST, POWERPLAY reached the Plymouth Breakwater, where the team celebrated their amazing run of 25 hours, 4 minutes and 18 seconds.<br />
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“We didn’t leave much out there, we were pushing really hard and everything aligned,” commented Skipper Wakefield. “I am not going to lie, it was pretty full-on, especially in April with an arctic northerly with snow around. With the apparent wind we saw 50 knots over the deck, and we hit a top speed of just under 40 knots. The lads did a brilliant job, changing sails about every half an hour. It was rough, physical and very cold. As a crew, we have done cumulatively over 50 Fastnet Races, we love the course, and to do it faster than it has been done before is really cool.”<br />
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<img align="none" alt="MOD 70 Powerplay team" data-file-id="116158" height="346" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7e3fd0a4-ef01-4c69-8a6d-946252384bf2.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 346px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
PowerPlay Crew for Fastnet Course Record: Peter Cunningham, Ned Collier Wakefield, Tom Dawson, John Hamilton, Paul Larsen, Jack Trigger, Miles Seddon, Martin Watts. More <a href="http://powerplay.ky" target="_blank">about Team POWERPLAY</a><br />
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</table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-9516016051045826492021-04-07T09:00:00.002-04:002021-04-15T15:19:59.584-04:00J/Newsletter- April 7th, 2021<img data-file-id="111686" height="328" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c2455c16-7bee-4b40-bcab-c3479aaea0fa.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 328px; margin: 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">The Sun Never Sets on J's Sailing Worldwide</span></h3>
It has been a somewhat busy time Down Under for the past few weeks as both the J/24 and J/70 classes are well into the middle of their sailing seasons. The Australian J/70 Nationals were recently sailed in Melbourne, Australia, hosted by the Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron with racing taking place on Phillip Bay. Sailing in the same waters, the J/24 Victoria State Championship also took place hosted by Sandringham Yacht Club for a strong fleet of fifteen boats. Then, on Good Friday a J/111 sailed an incredibly nasty, rough race of 308.0nm from Brisbane to Gladstone along Australia's Sunshine Coast.<br />
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Over in South America, the Argentina J/70 Class has been racing on Mar de la Plata with events being run by YC Argentino, Mar de la Plata YC, and YC Olivos. An average of a dozen boats have been racing offshore of Buenos Aires. Earlier, the J/24 Campeonato del Centro Republica took place on the gorgeous Lago San Roque in foothills of the majestic Andes Mountain range. The regatta had a strong turnout of J/24s. <br />
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In the USA, there was great enthusiasm for the Helly Hansen St Petersburg NOOD Regatta for J/24s, J/70s, and J/105s and offshore boats that included doublehanded J/112E's dominating their fleet! The J/24 Easter Regatta in Columbia, North Carolina was recently hosted by Columbia Sailing Club for a happy fleet of a dozen-plus boats.
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing at Charleston Harbor" data-file-id="94065" height="383" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f2829b68-939d-4482-b1c1-7c4e8b1fda03.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 383px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Charleston Race Week Preview- A Rendezvous with Destiny!</span></h2>
(Charleston, SC)- Starting two weeks later than its traditional schedule the weekend before Easter/ Bank Holiday, the amazingly popular Charleston Race Week will be taking place this weekend from April 8th to 11th at the historically famous venue (Fort Sumter is where the American Civil War started) for a long three-day weekend of sailing on six courses spread around the huge harbor.<br />
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The Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina serves as host for the event and the CORA organization provides all logistical and professional race management for the 500+ sailors. While the on-water racing is fun, fast & furious, it’s the après’ sailing social activities on the beach ashore with loads of rum, beer, southern food, and live music that keeps sailors coming back for more fun-loving memories in the Deep South....NOT this year, sadly enough, due to the pandemic protocols. <br />
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While the party atmosphere that has always been synonymous with Charleston Race Week is not possible in 2021, the focus this year will be on the race course for one of the largest, most popular regattas in North America.<br />
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A total of 188 boats in 16 classes are entered following a one-year layoff caused by the pandemic, and finally able to celebrate its 25th anniversary in Charleston, SC.<br />
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“When you boil it all down, great racing is the main reason why Charleston Race Week has become such an iconic event,” observes event director Randy Draftz. “After all that has happened over the past year-plus, I think sailors just want to go racing again.<br />
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“We have been thrilled by the response from the national sailing community to the return of this great regatta and will be introducing several new features designed to enhance the racing experience.”<br />
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While COVID-19 continues to pose a threat throughout the world, social gatherings remain risky with state and local government officials advising against such activity. As a result, there will be no post-race events this year, but Charleston Race Week management is confident social-distancing, mask-wearing and hand-washing will allow for a successful and safe three days of racing.<br />
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Not surprisingly, passionate J/Sailors across the country have been anticipating this rendezvous with destiny for well over a year! Of the 188 boats registered, 103 of them are J/Boats sailors (a stunning 55.0% of the fleet)! <br />
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The regatta features five one-design J/Classes, including J/22s, J/24s, J/70s, J/88s, and J/105s. In addition, there are two “Pursuit-style” sailing divisions for both PHRF and ORC handicap rated boats that includes a J/30, J/35, J/109s, J/111s, J/120s, J/121s and a J/122. <br />
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Starting with the biggest fleet in the regatta, the J/70s will have their hands full negotiating the shoals and currents and wildly shifting breezes on 3/4 mile windward legs (max!). Despite the challenges, for most J/70 sailors, it is like a big college regatta, but on keelboats. Looking forward to that experience are many top J/70 teams loaded with talent, including Joel Ronning's CATAPULT, John Heaton's EMPEIRIA, Maggie McKillen's MAGATRON, Cate Muller-Terhune's MURDER HORNET, Mike Illbruck's PINTA (with John Kostecki as tactician), Peter Duncan's RELATIVE OBSCURITY, Brian Keane's SAVASANA, Chuck Thompson's SOAK RACING from the United Kingdom, Bruno Pasquinelli's STAMPEDE, Ryan McKillen's SURGE, and Buddy Cribb's VICTORY. <br />
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Another large class is the J/24s, which has attracted 21 entries – double the number that attended Charleston Race Week 2019! They will race on Circle 4 along with the J/22 class, which consists almost entirely of junior teams. Notable J/24s teams include Jim Thurlow's FORTITUDE, Taylor Borges' BLIND SQUIRREL, Mike Palazzo's JO MAMMA, Eric Trejo's junior team on the KELLY HOLMES-MOON BOAT GRANT, Chris Jackson's LUCIFER's HAMMER, Aidan Glackin's MENTAL FLOSS, Kirk Reynolds' TYRUS, and Chris Stone's VELOCIDAD. <br />
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The two other J/One-design classes sailing on Circle 3 are the 88s and 105s. The eleven-boat J/88 class promises to be a very closely-fought amongst a number of the class leaders. Look for these teams to be near the top of the leaderboard over the course of the regatta; Justin Scagnelli's ALBONDIGAS, Iris Vogel's DEVIATION, John & Jordan Leahey's DUTCH, Andy Graff's EXILE, Andrew Weiss' ONE TOO MANY, Rob Ruhlman's SPACEMAN SPIFF, and Tim Wade's WINDSONG. So competitive these teams are that any one of them can have a strong, consistent event and leap to the top of the podium. <br />
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The nine-boat J/105 class is also the largest turnout the class has seen in nearly a decade. The Ladbroke's Betting Parlour on the High Street in Liverpool would have a hard time handicapping this group, as there is a broad cross-section of teams in the mix. Nevertheless, watch for these crews to feature on the leaderboard; Ken Horne's FINAL FINAL (2nd in the 2019 J/105 NA's in Marblehead, MA), Joe Highsmith's DEAD ON ARRIVAL, Betsy Pilcher's JOYRIDE, Pete Boland's LONDON CALLING, the trio on RUCKUS (Matt Self/ Russ Smith/ Pat Chisum- e.g. "local home boys"), Bill McKenzie's RUM FRONT, and the "foreigners" from Lake Erie- the Schaedler/ Taylor duo on WHISTLER (yup, same famous boat from the Caribbean)!<br />
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As has been the case for many editions of Charleston Race Week, there will be pursuit racing and ORC racing out on the Atlantic Ocean. In the ORC B class of a half-dozen boats are four J/Teams; two J/121s (Bob Christoph's LOKI and Bill Wiggins/ Ashley Maltempo's WINGS), Robin Team's J/122 TEAMWORK (they hardly need any introduction, do they?), and John Keenan's J/120 ILLYRIA. <br />
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In the Pursuit Spinnaker A Class of eleven boats is Bob Musor's J/130 SCEPTRE, two J/120s (Bill Hanckel's EMOCEAN and Richard Moore's KEELFORCE), Willy Schwenzfeier's J/35 ARROW, John Wrangle's J/105 PALADIN, an Ed Goss' J/36 SOUL. With six J/Crews on the starting line, perhaps there's a chance for a J/sweep? Time will tell. Finally, in Pursuit Spinnaker B Class is Mark Swatta's J/30 LAS BRISAS and Warrior Sailing's J/95 WARRIOR 95 as the lone wolves carrying the J/flag in that fleet. <br />
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To help all participants get back up to speed quickly, Charleston Race Week will be providing TracTrac devices that deliver live tracking using the latest technology. TracTrac is an innovative analytical tool that records each boat’s performance and displays various metrics online in real time.<br />
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This marks the first time Charleston Race Week has implemented live tracking on all five courses. The TracTrac device will be included in your registration packet along with an instruction sheet.<br />
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In addition to live tracking, Charleston Race Week will also introduce on-course observers to provide expert commentary and analysis. These seasoned professionals will offer interesting insights and observations about various aspects of racing.<br />
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Also, Quantum Sail Design Group will have its team of professionals on-site to deliver daily weather briefings, discuss tactics and strategy or answers any other questions sailors might have. <strong>Sailing photo credits- Priscilla Parker.</strong> For <a href="https://www.charlestonraceweek.com/" target="_blank">more Charleston Race Week sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j80" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/80s sailing off Spain" data-file-id="113018" height="322" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b11bd9da-dfc8-4de5-90ee-15e099e3604f.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 322px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Announcing the Spanish J/80 Sailing Series!</span></h2>
(Barcelona, Spain)- The Spanish J/80 class is considered one of the best in the world; after all, amongst their teams they account for nearly a dozen J/80 World Championships (forget the fact they are several Olympic sailing Medallists amongst them). Building on that strength (a somewhat scary thought for the rest of the world), the Spanish class of more than 145 teams and 1,000+ sailors has created a new summer sailing series that will enable them to pursue their great passion for sailing in all of the most beautiful, iconic sailing venues throughout Spain. <br />
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The Spanish J/80 fleet hopes to get sailors of all ages, women's teams, youth teams and masters together. Clearly, they are a class that adapts to the times and promotes values as important as equality and sustainability amongst their ranks of sailors.<br />
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<strong>J/80 Spain Sailing Series</strong><br />
The 2021 J80 Spain Sailing Series calendar is made up of two major national events; the Spanish Cup to be held in June at the Real Club Marítimo del Abra and the Spanish J/80 Championship to be held in the waters of Cádiz, specifically at the Real Club Náutico La Linea in September.<br />
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In addition to these two national qualifying races in the ranking, one regatta per fleet will be added; Canary, Andalusian, Balearic, Basque, Cantabrian and Galician regattas, such as the Prince of Asturias Trophy and the Princess Alexia Trophy. All these regattas will be the scoring events to make the national ranking. The top ten best of the year will come out of this ranking with their direct pass to the Super Final, the J/80 Sailing Finals!<br />
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<strong>The Spanish J/80 Super Finals</strong><br />
The top ten teams by ranking at the end of the circuit will go to the Super Final. It will be a competition of champions that will be held for the first time in the month of October. The chosen venue has been the amazing natural amphitheater of Santander, and the host Real Club Maritimo de Santander will undoubtedly offer an extraordinary nautical show! For <a href="https://j80spain.es" target="_blank">more Spanish J/80 Sailing Series regatta information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_13&products_id=316" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/Gear April Special" data-file-id="115118" height="312" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/8f929153-c41d-4ca2-a403-ccd285000597.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 312px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Gear April 20% Off Special!</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Awesome Under Armour Performance Polo shirt!</span></h3>
(Newport, RI)- Here is an excellent opportunity for the whole crew to get Under Armour Polo shirts at a special price. Under Armour have been a leader in the performance arena for some time now and their gear is perfect for a marine application. This polo boasts rugged construction and features a distinctive comfortable fit.<br />
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The fabric is 95% polyester, 5% elastane, it is a smooth, soft anti-pill fabric, has an anti-odor technology to prevent the growth of odor causing bacteria, and offers 30+ UPF protection from the sun’s harmful rays!<br />
Order <a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_13&products_id=316" target="_blank">your beautiful, comfy Under Armour Performance Polo here</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span></h2>
Apr 8-11- <a href="https://www.charlestonraceweek.com/" target="_blank">Charleston Race Week- Charleston, SC</a><br />
Apr 30- May 2- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">Annapolis NOOD Regatta- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
Apr 30- May 2- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">J/111 North American Championship- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
May 9-15- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/event_scratch_sheet.cfm?eID=13209" target="_blank">J/70 North American Championship- Annapolis, MD</a> <br />
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For additional <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j-sailing-calendar/sailing-regattas" target="_blank">J/Regatta and Event dates in your region, please refer to the on-line J/Sailing Calendar</a>.<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off Australia" data-file-id="115794" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/83b8a7d9-99f0-4ee9-a469-ea1b66f65a7e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">VAMOS Crowned J/70 Australian Champions!</span></h2>
(Melbourne, Victoria, Australia)- This past fortnight, the Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron on the southern isthmus of Port Phillip Bay in Melbourne hosted the 2021 Australian J/70 National Championship. Plenty of fun and games and great sailing was had by all that were more than happy to get sailing on the water again. <br />
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For those "not in-the-know", Australia and their counterparts in the Antipodes "down under" (New Zealand) were one of the first few nation-states in the world to battle the pandemic aggressively (with incredible contact-tracing processes) to enable their countries to be the first to live a new "near-normal" lifestyle.<br />
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<strong>Here is the report from a three-time dinghy World Champion and top woman sailor- Nickie Douglass- a.k.a. "Sailor Girl". </strong><br />
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"With two strong days of racing down in the 2021 J/70 Australian Championship, the weather served up testing conditions for the racing crews and Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron race management team on the third and final day.<br />
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In what could be deemed the most challenging, yet exciting race of the series, race seven was a battle from start to finish. With the course set at 160 degrees, and the south-easter blowing directly from the club with the outgoing current, the shifts, which came in waves of pressure, were significant.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 Australia" data-file-id="115718" height="344" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/5c546ad2-69ce-4f76-8d14-c5bf99d967c2.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 344px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Reg Lord, defending National Champion and his team on JUNO were first to identify a left-hand shift during the start sequence, and popped at the pin cleanly as the gun went. Current regatta leader, Tim Ryan and his crew on VAMOS were just off their hip, and second-placed CELESTIAL were to windward of them, but opted to tack onto port shortly after starting, as did Karyn Gojnich and her team on THE JACKAL.<br />
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The next pressure line came from the right, and CELESTIAL and THE JACKAL looked to be making the most of the pivoting course. The local teams of JUMPIN' JACK FLASH, and the all-female team on SPIKE, and the only NSW Corinthians, MAYBE J were able to slip up the middle of the course while those on the left were left flailing in easing pressure.<br />
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The rounding at the first mark of the course, and the second gates were the same, with CELESTIAL leading from JUMPIN' JACK FLASH, SPIKE, MAYBE J, and THE JACKAL<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 sailing Australia" data-file-id="115754" height="456" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/44468674-8c67-4606-8a37-06de2842ca37.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 456px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
On the second circuit rounding the cans, a pod of dolphins joined in with the racing, making for a happy distraction for crews while trying to connect the dots with the fickle pressure.<br />
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CELESTIAL skipper Sam Haynes and his crew of David Chapman, Johnny Warren and Locky Pryor continued to lead around the final mark, but it was the local heroes on JUMPIN' JACK FLASH who stole the gun on the line thanks to the final puff coming more from the west to push them over the line.<br />
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Laura Harding and her all-female youth team on SPIKE from Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron rounded out the podium finishing in their best place of the regatta so far.<br />
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The results also meant that Tim Ryan on VAMOS and his crew who had been sailing a near perfect regatta, would have to sail in the final race 8 to secure their win over the closing team of Celestial.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing Australia" data-file-id="115746" height="378" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e4b1b655-7af9-4272-b7e5-df96af1ff18a.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 378px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
After a lengthy delay under AP, the breeze finally settled once again at 165 degrees, and the J/70 fleet for the first time of the regatta saw a change in the course, from a two-lap windward leeward to a three-lapper.<br />
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VAMOS triggered at exactly the right time at the pin to lead off the line, with the second-placed team of CELESTIAL right on their hip. VAMOS had their eyes on the prize and kept themselves in between CELESTIAL and the next mark, and the local team JOUST 70, skippered by Rod Warren slipped through to take the lead around the first and second marks of the course.<br />
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CELESTIAL opted to split from VAMOS, and took the left-hand turn at the bottom gate, while JOUST 70 ahead of them, then VAMOS at the same time as CELESTIAL, and then the youth all-female team on SPIKE all opted for the right-hand turn.<br />
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The next phase of the breeze came from the left, forcing CELESTIAL back to fourth, dashing their hopes of a chance to take the title.<br />
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The commanding VAMOS team of Rob Greenhalgh, Charlie Gundy and Jess Grimes, led by skipper Tim Ryan took the lead up the second beat and were not challenged for the remaining two laps. They crossed the finish line to take their sixth race win of the series, and the overall championship with a race to spare.<br />
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Rod Warren's JOUST 70 with Aaron Cole, Tim Smith and Ollie Vanderslot took second place, with Laura Harding and the all-female youth team on SPIKE backing up their race 7 performance with another third place.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing offshore Australia" data-file-id="115750" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/37c49d59-dda7-45e9-87f1-7c4eaa4133dd.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
With the Championship and runner-up positions already decided, VAMOS and CELESTIAL opted to head back to the beach for the final race of the series to allow the teams on JUNO skippered by Reg Lord, and THE JACKAL, skippered by Karyn Gojnich to battle it out for the final podium position.<br />
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JUNO opted to cover THE JACKAL in the pre-start forcing them to the right hand side with an early port tack duck off the line.<br />
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With the easing breeze, and the outgoing current, the top mark was a mess, with multiple crews doing turns for nipping the first mark of the course.<br />
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JUNO took command of the race, and took the win, securing third place in the overall Championship for the defending champion Reg Lord, and his crew of Tom Grimes, Murray Jones and James Hodgson.<br />
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Local team JO JO ZIP skippered by Ian Cooper with Neil Taylor, John Lindholm, Dean Taylor and Callum Burns had the best race of their series finishing in second.<br />
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Michael Nash, Peter Nash, John Watson, Garth Davies and Maria Nash on MAYBE J finished third to secure the Corinthian Division for 2021.<br />
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Laura Harding, Ella Grimshaw, Daisy Laing, Hannah Danks and Harriette Singh finished in sixth, to not only take the boat of the day bragging rights, but the Youth Division for 2021.<br />
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Karyn Gojnich, Sara Ladd, Ewa Lindelof and Kyle Dodds on SPIKE finished in fourth place to secure fourth overall in the championship and the Female Division for 2021.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/70 Australian winners" data-file-id="115790" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/fec664c6-39e1-42d5-8a9e-df49ce1ff049.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
1st Overall, Vamos (l-r) Charlie Gundy, Rob Greenhalgh, Jess Grimes, Tim Ryan, Matt McCarthy, Vice Commodore BYS <br />
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<img align="none" alt="Ladies winner J/70 Australia" data-file-id="115686" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/da4b9d43-eaef-4d98-a649-f091ce4e4b99.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
Ladies Division winner Karyn Gojnich with Matt McCarthy, Vice Commodore BYS<br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/70 Corinthian Australia winner" data-file-id="115682" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/25bba7cf-6946-4d51-8d66-72725c8b85e8.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
Corinthian Division Winner, Michael Nash with Matt McCarthy, Vice Commodore BYS<br />
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<strong>Sailing photo and story credits- Nic Douglass</strong> / <a href="http://www.AdventuresofaSailorGirl.com" target="_blank">www.AdventuresofaSailorGirl.com</a> / <a href="http://www.nicdouglass.org" target="_blank">http://www.nicdouglass.org</a><br />
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<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 sailing Argentina" data-file-id="115882" height="374" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c0cabdb9-3902-420c-b161-8ad0846f77f7.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 374px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Argentine J/70 Class Report</span></h2>
(Olivos, Argentina)- Nothing, not even the pandemic, was going to slow down or diminish the enthusiasm the Argentinean J/70 fleet had for getting themselves organized and out on the water sailing in their favorite "watering holes". Traditionally, the fleet starts their season off the famous city of Buenos Aires, on the muddy waters of Mar de la Plata. Between Yacht Club Argentino's amazing sailing facility on the city waterfront, to Mar de La Plata Yacht Club, and to Yacht Club Olivos cozy location on a harbor north of the city, the J/70 class enjoys world-class racing and Race Committee management. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 sailing off Buenos Aires, Argentina" data-file-id="115810" height="284" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/556d20d4-3ca3-43ba-876d-59e3fbb28dc0.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 284px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Despite the challenges of coping with strong river currents, the fleet PRO- Mario Laitan- managed to run a number of good races for both the traditional PIMMS CUP TROPHY regatta and the J/70 ANNIVERSARY Championship.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 sailing off Argentina" data-file-id="115906" height="366" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3ca4651c-e89b-4e88-a2e0-da5e3cfb10af.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 366px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The PIMMS CUP Trophy regatta was organized by YC Olivos for a twelve-boat fleet. After a good weekend of racing, it was Alejandro Yrigoyen's BUTANTE that took the gold, followed by José Arrondo's BBTO in second, and Francisco Campero's AMIGO VII in third position. <br />
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The Mar de La Plata YC hosted the ANNIVERSARY Championship for a fleet of a half-dozen boats. For two days the fleet was blessed with sunny weather and nice northerly winds of 8 to 16 knots. After a six-race series, it was BACHAJO that ultimately won the regatta by winning three of the 6 races. Their team was comprised of Juan Diego “Chiqui” Figueroa, Ignacio Giamonna, Leslie Jenkins and Julián Lobelos.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/70 Argentina winners" data-file-id="115902" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/ae323fbd-541c-4268-b87c-013769eada9f.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
Second place went to SI QUERIDA skippered by Francisco van Avermaete, with crew of Rafael de Martis, Gerónimo Galvan and Carlos Lacchini.<br />
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Rounding out the podium was MERCENARIO skippered by top woman skipper Martina Silva with her crew Trinidad (her sister), Gabriel Marino, Nacho Portis and Tobias Cédola. <strong>Sailing photo credits- Romano Cuenca photography.</strong> Follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/j70argentina/" target="_blank">the Argentina J/70 Class on Facebook page here</a> For <a href="https://j70argentina.com" target="_blank">more Argentina J/70 Class sailing information</a><br />
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<hr /><a href="http://http:/www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111 sailing Brisbane Race" data-file-id="115598" height="328" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/88908d99-591d-4ade-b5e3-d0ac51fd144f.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 328px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/111 Brisbane to Gladstone Race Report</span></h2>
(Brisbane, Australia)- The past Easter Weekend, the J/111 BLACK DOG sailed the Brisbane to Gladstone Race in near gale sailing conditions. Here is their report from owner/skipper Rodger Vinton. <br />
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"The 73rd Brisbane to Gladstone (B2G) yacht race started on Good Friday 2 April at midday. The course is 308.0nm long and starts in Brisbane (Queensland) in Moreton Bay, going to a turning mark off Redcliffe pier; before heading across the bay to Moreton Island then exiting the bay through the NW shipping channel. The course then runs past the Sunshine Coast, keeping Fraser Island to port, leaving Lady Elliot Island to port and then going across what is affectionately known as “the paddock” to Gladstone. The last 15.0nm is a trip up the shipping channel to finish off at the Gladstone Yacht Club.<br />
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There are many divisions in this race, including Vintage through to Modern yachts, competing in cruising and/or racing divisions. The boats range from 10.3 to the 30.48 metres Black Jack (100 ft Maxi). There were 37 boats that started the 2021 race, including the J/111 Black Dog with 7 crew skippered by Rodger Vinton.<br />
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The forecast was for southeasterly winds of 25-30 knots for the start and then building as the day went on with expected gusts of up to 35 knots and large confused seas off Breaksea at the northern tip of Fraser Island. We started with full main and 3.5 jib and ended up a few minutes late for the start re-running reef lines.<br />
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Just after the start we put up the A3 kite but it was too shy, so we changed down to the 3.5 jib and then we were off passing the fleet. The upside of a slow start was that we did get to see most of the other boats.<br />
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Once in the shipping channel we were able to hoist the A3 kite again and in the bigger gusts we hit 20 knots boat speed. At NW4 beacon we were going to drop the kite but a gust of 30+knots hit and we broached. It took a while to get the kite back onboard and then up went the 3.5 jib again. <br />
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At dusk we put the first reef in and sailed at about 150 AWA running down the large quartering swells. Dark rain clouds would come through and the wind speed would increase, occasionally hitting 40 knots. After Breaksea we jibed onto port to our next mark Lady Elliot Island and then after we reached Lady Elliot Island the wind dropped slightly with top gusts of only 25 knots. We put the A3 up again. This lasted about half an hour before the wind speed built and the A3 was reduced to tapes. <br />
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We carried on under reefed main and the 3.5 jib until the finish. The top boat speed we recorded was 24 knots under reefed main and 3.5 jib as we surfed down big seas and we also saw a top wind speed of 41 knots. During the night we were smashed by a big wave and it hit one of the crew with such force that her PFD auto inflated with a bang and set the strobe light off. The look of shock on her face was priceless and we then had to use one of the spare PFDs for the rest of the race. Now we know what happens to an auto PFD and why you need to carry spares.<br />
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Our experience with our first B2G race in 2018 was that in heavy weather no one eats much, so we took a lot of finger-food that could be eaten on the rail. We ate things like salad rolls, BBQ sausages, home-made pies, fruit, biscuits, lollies, trail mix, chocolate, and Doc’s rice pudding. Seasickness impacted a few crew, but was managed with the appropriate meds. All of our crew finished the race in one piece and our mascot toy dog SALTY survived, too – just a bit wet. Other boats and crew were not so lucky – there were 11 DNF’s including most of the favorites for line honours and IRC, with a couple of crew injuries including one needing to be air-lifted off in a medical evacuation.<br />
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We crossed the line in 6th place after 32 hours and 12 mins, we won the line honors trophy for a yacht under 37 feet and came 2nd in Division Two on both IRC and PHRF. A great result for our J/111!<br />
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The boat went very well, with all three people on helm enjoying the challenge of the ride. The only boat damage sustained was one A3 kite and the broken toilet lid. If only we’d not been a few minutes late for the start. Oh well, next time!"<br />
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<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 sailing St Petersburg NOOD" data-file-id="115958" height="368" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7b850510-1d90-41cb-8230-746e96b75f4e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 368px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/105 BREEZIN' BAYOU Smokes St Pete NOOD</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">J/112E's Sweep Doublehanded Class</span></h3>
(St Petersburg, FL)- The Helly Hansen St Petersburg NOOD Regatta was sailed over a three-day weekend last week with simply spectacular sailing conditions on Tampa Bay. Wait a minute, is that a "typo"? Spectacular sailing conditions at St Pete? While having earned an unenviable reputation for having at least one day of any winter regatta spent working on suntans or hiding in the shade, this year's event more than made up for any past sins committed by the weather Godz in the past decade! <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24 sailing off St Petersburg NOOD" data-file-id="115926" height="320" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4098a955-b26a-4d05-9f09-0ba397da945f.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 320px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Loving the conditions were not just the sailors, but the St Petersburg Yacht Cub Race Committee team. For three-straight days of racing it was almost a "set it and forget it" race course setup for all race circles. Overall, J/Crews had amazing performances across the board, from one-designs to handicap racing.<br />
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In the North Sails Doublehanded Distance Race division, the J/112E's dusted off their class. Winning was Harvey Ford and Tom Mistele's SILVER SURFER, followed by Chris Zibailo's DOPODOMANI. Rounding out the podium was yet another J/team- Tarry Grimsdale and Bill Wingrove's J/35 ROCKET! A sweep to say the least! Yet another J/35- Jose Suarezhoyos' NO WAY JOSE took the bronze in their Cruising World Rally Race. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24 sailing on Tampa Bay" data-file-id="115946" height="376" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b20c2d47-e2cd-4647-8403-e9bacbb992ea.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 376px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The J/24s saw Eammon Delisser's MAIN SQUEEZE never let off fire-walling the gas pedal as they cruised to a mere 10 pts total for the class win; e.g. 10 points in 10 races means all bullets. Doh! So much for eviscerating the locals. Mike Beattie's DAZE OFF collected a meaningful number of deuces to collect.....drum roll please.... the silver! Kudos to Katie Nelson's YELLOW TAIL team as she collected mostly "treys" to take home the bronze medal. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 sailing on Tampa Bay" data-file-id="115922" height="354" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/926314bc-5ccd-466d-a083-7bdaf2b4f72d.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 354px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
By contrast, the relative stratification of the top J/24s teams was not reflected in the J/70 class. After three days of racing, it was the final race on the final day that determined who beat whom. In the end, it was Matt Braun's ELE that won both the Corinthian Division and the Open Division by one point over Alex Meleney's TRUCKIN. Third was Chris Schoendorf's TAZ just three points back. <br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/105 St Petersburg NOOD winners" data-file-id="115938" height="400" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/0f7967e7-cf2a-4c37-8a47-d3ad039a5aa8.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 400px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
The big winner in the regatta was Stephen Mitcham's J/105 BREEZIN BAYOU, posting nearly all bullets to win their PHRF 2 Class by a big margin. Second was Bob Wetmore's J/29 FAMILY CIRCUS and taking fourth place was George Cussins' J/105 FIRE & ICE. In PHRF 3 Class, Herb Maguire's J/22 HOLY MOLY took fourth place. <br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/seanmotta/videos/10112282491575271/" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 sailing video" data-file-id="115654" height="332" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/800a8f80-6aab-4f37-8361-618f2611c647.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 332px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Watch <a href="https://www.facebook.com/seanmotta/videos/10112282491575271/" target="_blank">J/105 video in fast trim</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.outsideimages.com" target="_blank"><strong>Sailing photo credits- Paul Todd/ OUTSIDE IMAGES.com.</strong></a> For <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-st-petersburg/" target="_blank">more Helly Hansen St Petersburg NOOD Regatta sailing information</a><br />
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<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24s sailing on Lago San Roque, Argentina" data-file-id="115970" height="210" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/443c819c-4210-4dd4-9943-d2c134e21a23.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 210px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Cubria Wins J/24 Campeonato del Centro de la Republica</span></h2>
(Lago San Roque, Argentina)- As part of their traditional summer series way "down under", our friends in Argentina love to take their boats to the base of the spectacular snow-capped Andes Mountain range to a gorgeous lake in the foothills known as Lago San Roque. Google map the location. It will blow you away. A visual feast for land-locked sailors, an eye-opener for those accustomed to the wide-open seas. For the "locals", it's just another opportunity to have fun with family and friends, some of them owners of famous local vineyards you may know as the "malbec" varietal.<br />
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This year, the occasion was the ninth anniversary of the Campeonato Central hosted by the Club Nautico Cordoba in Villa Carlos Paz in the mountains. How popular is "mountain" sailing to Argentinean J/24 teams?! Well, an amazing twenty teams from across the country showed up for some fun in the sun in the mountains. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24"><img align="none" alt="J/24s sailing in Andes Mountains- Lago San Roque, Argentina" data-file-id="115966" height="320" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c3405d99-eefd-420d-af93-2f11e1badec4.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 320px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
This year the fleet was blessed. There were three days of mild winds from the northeast across the placid waters of Lago San Roque. Seven races were impeccably managed by Race Officer Leo Rivas. In the end, the winner of the event was Nico Cubria's RINA and his crew of Mario Cubria, Guille Aporszegui and Guillermo Bellinotto.<br />
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Taking the silver was Javier Moyano's GRAN CARAJO with crew of Hugo Camele, Adrian Berelejs, and Javier Macheu. Third was Ramiro Camilotta's PURA VIDA with team of Carlos Trigo, Pablo Fabre, and Martin Caruso. <br />
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Taking fourth and the top women's team was Trixi Agusti's CARNBURY with team of Lucrecia Arrambide, Rocio Agusti, Candelani Berbenian, and Mariana Felix. For <a href="https://clubnauticocordoba.com.ar" target="_blank">more Campeonato el Centro de la Republica sailing information</a> For <a href="http://j24arg.blogspot.com" target="_blank">more Argentinean J/24 sailing information</a><br />
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<hr /><img align="none" alt="J/24 Victoria States winners" data-file-id="115978" height="390" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/63902df5-43bd-4bba-9097-60131a4c1107.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 390px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">CHECKMATE Crowned J/24 Victoria State Champions</span></h2>
(Victoria, Australia)- Recently the Sandringham Yacht Club hosted their annual Victoria States J/24 Championship. The fleet was blessed with gorgeous sunny weather, winds ranging from 4 to 18 kts, the breeze starting northwest and shifting to the southwest on both days. Choppy seas made for difficult steering conditions upwind, with teams making the hard choice of which jib to use in the upper wind ranges- the 150% genoa or the 100% jib. The fleet was unusually over-eager and aggressive on the starting line, with lots of general recalls, restarts, U-flags and even several U-flag DSQs! <br />
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After an eight-race series, it was Brendan Lee's CHECKMATE that consistently powered their way to victory, winning four races and counting only podium finishes to win by a significant margin. Taking the silver was Warren Campbell's J-FORCE, posting all top five finishes for a cumulative score of 22 pts. The bronze went to Adam Keyes-Tilley's BAILE DE LUNA with 28 pts total. Rounding out the top five were Hugo Ottoway's BRUSCHETTA VI and Warren Slater's JAB in fourth and fifth, respectively.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/24 Victoria States PHS winners" data-file-id="115974" height="346" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/81bccb35-38a1-47e0-8aac-d61848b6b029.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 346px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
Winning the PHS handicap division was Darren Cuttsy's JOYRIDE, followed by Richard Taylor's HAYWIRE in second and Chris Ravesi's PANAREA in third position. <br />
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A big thank you to Sandringham YC Race Management and PRO Warren Campbell and the Committee for putting on a fabulous event. Plus, thanks to our contributors, Carina Tomietto, Craig Wiley, Adam Keyes-Tilley. More posts, video and info on the Victoria J/24 Facebook page. For <a href="http://www.j24.com.au" target="_blank">more Australia J/24 class sailing information</a><br />
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<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24s sailing Easter Regatta" data-file-id="115994" height="300" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3cb9a4aa-4f6f-4b5f-b354-939a260a2388.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 300px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">THE Easter Regatta</span></h2>
(Columbia, SC)- Sailed in J/24s since 1987, THE Easter Regatta has been one of the world’s most popular and enduring J/24 events. It offers an excellent mix of shore side events and world-class competition. Whether you are an amateur team attending your first regatta or a professional team contending for the top prize, you will find something that impels you to return year after year!<br />
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<img align="none" alt="Launching J/24s with a cherry picker" data-file-id="115986" height="430" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/64cd0c78-ea8e-44f3-a093-5bf886d13dd2.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 430px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
The Columbia Sailing Club offers first-class facilities, such as the new Bath House at the beach and camping area! Their “never-leave-the-club” option offers free camping (first-come, first-served), meals every day, and parties galore! The beautiful peninsula and gorgeous beach provide an unparalleled camping experience. Most importantly, the down-home southern hospitality tied everything together. This is the tradition that J/24 competitors have come to know and love. <br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/24 sailor's towing rig" data-file-id="115990" height="262" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/510d4f47-c6fc-45d8-94c8-6c9ae59bf412.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 262px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
The fourteen J/24s were thrilled to be sailing on Lake Murray. Three races were completed, and it was a battle to the wire. Winning by just one point was Chris Stone's VELOCIDAD over Charles Bumgardner USA 555. James Howard's CLASSIC completed the podium. Rounding out the top five was John Hirsch's DAZE OFF in fourth and Fred Wiedeke's CARAMELLA in fifth position. For <a href="https://www.facebook.com/J24EasterRegatta" target="_blank">more J/24 Easter Regatta sailing information</a><br />
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<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Community</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span></h3>
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<strong>J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">J/Boats from around the world here</a>. <br />
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<a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2005-J133-YCgd7FzU" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/133 brokerage sailboat for sale" data-file-id="116030" height="267" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4fbc31fb-ef9a-47d9-8ddc-0a9b21ac8ec4.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 267px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">2005 J/133 For Sale</span></h2>
The J/133 is the embodiment of the J/Boats ethos - setting a new standard for race-winning speed under multiple handicap systems, stability for shorthanded cruising, durability for rough offshore passages, an easy to manage sail plan and performance cruising comfort. <br />
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The J/133's generous sail plan provides performance in both breeze and light airs, and with a low center of gravity, makes for short handed stability while eliminating the need for multiple sail changes across wind speed bands. <br />
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Her generous cockpit and aft led lines deck layout transit readily from day sailing, to single handling to fully race crewed. <br />
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J-HAWK features the coveted performance cruising triple cabin interior and was factory loaded with many upgrade packages including her deluxe satin finished cherry joinery, a well-equipped double sink galley with refrigeration, stove and microwave, and Ultra-Leather pearl upholstery. Comfortable sleeping for 6 combined with excellent storage systems in each cabin plus port and starboard seating in the main salon provides comfort space and luxury for anything from day trips to blue water passage making. A MUST SEE cruising sailboat to fulfill your dreams of sailing the Seven Seas! Learn more about this J/133 brokerage sailboat for sale here- <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2005-J133-YCgd7FzU" target="_blank">https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2005-J133-YCgd7FzU</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off England on Solent" data-file-id="116022" height="370" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/d2378b50-45b1-4a4e-a0ef-7553a33d2cdd.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 370px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Easter J/70 Coaching Weekend</span></h2>
Organized by NORTH SAILS' Marshall King, the J/70 UK Class Coaching Weekend featured multiple world champions Andrew "Dog” Palfrey and Elliot Willis putting the ten J/70 teams through their paces. Enjoy the photos from Louay Habib and a "big Thank You" to Ian Wilson for the RIB ride and banter! <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing on Solent off England" data-file-id="116010" height="310" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a8f454ea-dd6b-47f8-9d4c-9aa4f3dcbdbb.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 310px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The UK J/70 class starts off their Grand Slam Series with the Warsash SC Spring Championships on the weekend of April 17th and 18th. For <a href="http://www.j-70.co.uk" target="_blank">more UK J/70 Class sailing information</a><br />
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</table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-45141026656274912622021-03-31T09:36:00.001-04:002021-04-04T09:42:47.432-04:00J/Newsletter- March 31st, 2021<img align="none" alt="winter sunset over Beavertail Point, Jamestown, RI" data-file-id="114550" height="286" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/0c44d266-041a-4517-aa92-d39bc11bbfc1.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 286px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
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<span class="subTitle"><b>The Sun Never Sets on J's Sailing Worldwide</b></span><br />
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Perhaps the most exciting news this week comes from opposite ends of the Atlantic Ocean. First, the RORC in the United Kingdom is hosting their 2021 season Spring Opener offshore race using the wildly popular Royal Yacht Squadron line (a simple transit to an offshore buoy) as the start off the Cowes, Isle of Wight waterfront. Across the "big pond" to sunny Florida, the second of the perennial Helly Hansen Sailing World NOOD Regattas is taking place in St Petersburg, FL this coming weekend. The event should be lots of fun for offshore boats as well as the J/24 and J/70 one-design classes. <br />
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Down in the Caribbean, the St Thomas Yacht Club pulled off three near-perfect days of sailing for the three-dozen boats that showed up for their STIR Regatta. And, the SAIL 22 J/70 Tuning Regatta completed its second installment with amazing sailing on Biscayne Bay, thanks to hosts Shake-A-Leg and RC/PRO work performed by SAIL 22 and the MarkSetBot robotic marks!<br />
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In the J/Community section, there's an entertaining video perspective by Sailing Anarchy's Scot Tempesta regards the on-going popularity and passion owners have for their J/111s.<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9"><img align="none" alt="J/9 hull molding" data-file-id="115106" height="175" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3a45cec1-e53f-4310-abcc-0d115cedd3d1.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 175px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 533px;" width="533" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/9 Daysailer Update</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)- Hull #1 is out of the mold! Sitting on a shop cradle, the hull is stunning, seemingly already gliding effortlessly through the water. Shown here in the prototype shop at CCF Composites, hull #1 is being utilized for constructing and verifying patterns for key interior components such as the main cabin berths and shelves, forward v-berth, and additional bulkheads. The main bulkhead, mast step and keel floors are fitted, and once patterns are finished it will move into the assembly area.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9"><img align="none" alt="J/9 deck molding" data-file-id="115146" height="257" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7a76ef11-9721-4d13-acd4-118efb110987.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 257px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 507px;" width="507" /></a><br />
Meanwhile, the J/9 deck mold is completed and the first deck is underway. The deck is shown below with just the skin coat applied. To this will be added structural fiberglass skins on either side of Corecell foam to produce an extremely strong but lightweight structure. <br />
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The J/9 structural and laminate engineering is being designed by Steve Koopman of SDK Structures, a leading engineering firm with extensive background in high-performance sailing.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/9 deck jig molding" data-file-id="115142" height="228" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/d1afe3f3-1658-4393-b485-c898ae5e3f87.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 228px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 572px;" width="572" /></a><br />
Above, a new fiberglass drilling jig is fit over the deck plug. They will position hardware on the deck plug and take the boat for a “virtual sail” to finalize hardware locations. We are excited to get the first boat in the water soon as Spring has sprung here in New England. We expect the first boat to be launched and sailing in the first week of May. Be sure to contact your J/Boats Dealer NOW to make arrangements for a demonstration sail in the near future. For <a href="https://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank">more J/9 Daysailer sailboat information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j121" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/121 Darkwood sailing Solent, England" data-file-id="110194" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/d0a89c75-79b8-4d15-86b0-34cae51cfade.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">RORC Spring Season Opener Preview</span></h2>
(Cowes, Isle of White, England)- The "stay at home" rule in the UK ends on the 29th of March allowing the Royal Ocean Racing Club to organize a Spring Series of racing in April and early May. With some government restrictions still in place, three races are planned to offer crews the chance for some early season training and race practice. The series is open to IRC rated boats, including an IRC Two-Handed Class.<br />
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The first race of the RORC Spring Series is scheduled to start this coming Easter Weekend on Saturday 3rd April from the Royal Yacht Squadron, Cowes. One long race is planned of approximately 6-8 hours duration. Needless to say, many J/Sailors are "chomping on their bits" to get their horses racing down the track! Everyone is praying the wind Gods delivery spectacular Easter weekend weather on the often-capricious Solent!<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j121" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/121 sailing Solent, England" data-file-id="110150" height="332" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b6958388-adb2-4939-9173-df29cbde74d9.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 332px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
One of those J/Teams competing is Mike O’Donnell’s J/121 DARKWOOD. This will be the first RORC race of the year in preparation for their Rolex Fastnet Campaign. “Like everyone else, we are desperate to get back on the water and this series is a very pragmatic solution to the current restrictions,” commented O'Donnell. “It is a safe way to get almost fully-crewed boats back racing. For us, this is an absolute no-brainer.”<br />
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Joining O'Donnell's J/121 DARKWOOD in the enormous twenty-nine boat IRC Offshore Class is Simon Bamford's J/111 KESTREL, Andy Theobald's J/122 R&W, and a quartet of unrelentless J/109s that are so familiar to many Solent racers, such as Mike Yates' JAGO, Kevin Armstrong's JAZZY JELLYFISH, Rob Cotterill's MOJO RISIN', and David McGough's JUST SO. That will be one tough division to compete against just with the J/crews listed here! <br />
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IRC Two-Handed entries include a duet of J/109s- Yates' JAGO and the McGough's JUST SO. For <a href="http://www.rorc.org" target="_blank">more information about the Royal Ocean Racing Club</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off St Petersburg, FL" data-file-id="115134" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3f57645d-b326-496c-b23f-244721c2ad90.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">St Petersburg NOOD Regatta Preview</span></h2>
(St Petersburg, FL)- The Helly Hansen NOOD Regatta is excited to be heading back to St Petersburg! Perhaps a different calendar weekend, but that's OK as long as it means the sailors are thrilled to be back in St Petersburg and back to one of our favorite clubs- St. Petersburg Yacht Club. The leadership at SPYC are determined to roll out the red carpet for all and hope there is always fun to be had on race day! Three days of racing are planned from April 2nd to 4th on Tampa Bay.<br />
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Even though no after sailing socials this year, the entire St Pete NOOD team will treat you to coffee and pastries on the main dock each morning and meet you right back there after racing with a cold beer!! Muchas cervezas, por favor!! Thanks to the beer sponsor Anchor Brewing, there will be coolers overflowing with "coldies" waiting on the docks when you return! Sounds awesome, a great break and antidote to the "pandemic blues" from the past year!<br />
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J/Crews across the spectrum are participating, many for their first regatta in well over a year. In the North Sails Doublehanded Division are two J/112E's; Chris Zibailo's DOPODOMANI and Harvey Ford & Tom Mistele's SILVER SURFER. Joining them will be Tarry Grimsdale & Bill Wingrove's J/35 ROCKET!<br />
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In the Cruising World Rally Race will be yet another J/35- Jose Suarez Hoyos' NO WAY JOSE- as well as David Mendelblatt's J/24 FAT LADY. <br />
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Hoping to make their mark in PHRF 2 Division will be a trio of J/Teams; including two J/105s (Mitcham Stephen's BREEZIN BAYOU and George Cussins' FIRE & ICE) and Bob Wetmore's J/29 FAMILY CIRCUS. Sailing in PHRF 3 Division is Herb Maguire's J/22 HOLY MOLY!! <br />
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On Circle C are two J/One-Design classes. Notable teams in the seven-boat J/70 class are Steve Knoop's AMERICAN FLYER from Chicago Yacht Club, Alex Meleny's TRUCKIN' from Vineyard Haven Yacht Club, Chris Schoendorf's TAZ from Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, and four crews from host St Petersburg YC (Jody Abrams' BSTF, Matt Braun's ELE, Tim Snyder's MORE THRILLS, and Preston Weaver's HELLY HANSEN JR CREW).<br />
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The J/24s should have an interesting battle with four bows pointing across the line as it could be reduced to multiple match races to determine the winner. Participating in that free-for-all is Mike Beattie's DAZE OFF, Andy Garrett's IRISH, Eammon Delisser's MAIN SQUEEZE, and Katie Nelson's YELLOW TAIL (girl power!). <br />
<a href="http://www.outsideimages.com" target="_blank">Sailing photo credits- Paul Todd/ Outside Images</a>. For <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-st-petersburg/" target="_blank">more Helly Hansen St Petersburg NOOD Regatta sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><img align="none" alt="J/92 sailing off Newport, RI" data-file-id="115130" height="474" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/0e2deda1-4a6b-4285-9bc3-297e3a6f1421.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 474px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Variety Adds Spice to Ida Lewis Distance Race in August!</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Something for Everyone Offshore and in the Bay!</span></h3>
(Newport, RI)– The 17th edition of the annual Ida Lewis Distance Race, scheduled for August 19th to 21st, literally offers something for every type of big-boat sailor. Not only are there classes for ORC, PHRF (including Cruising Spinnaker) and Double-Handed (Mixed Gender and Open) but also there are Youth and Collegiate challenges. As well, entrants have a choice of racing in either the traditional OFFSHORE distance race, starting on Friday (August 20) and requiring overnight sailing, or the shorter IN BAY distance race, starting and finishing Saturday (August 20). The latter is a holdover from Covid-19 adaptations made last year to accommodate sailors during uncertain times.<br />
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“Last year’s inaugural IN BAY distance race was a big hit,” said Event Chair Pat Kennedy, “because it allowed a lot of people to sail who otherwise – due to Covid restrictions – wouldn’t have been able to. On top of that it was not just another buoy race on Narragansett Bay; it was an exciting short distance day race of 33 miles, starting off Fort Adams and heading north around Conanicut and Prudence Islands. That said, the OFFSHORE distance race with its overnight component and long track record is what has made the Ida Lewis Distance Race one of the most iconic events on the East Coast.”<br />
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<img align="none" alt="Junior crew sailing offshore" data-file-id="115126" height="402" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/1aece6b1-9be2-499a-a38e-ab4a86e64c41.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 402px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
The OFFSHORE distance race starts off historic Fort Adams and finishes in front of the lighthouse that serves as the clubhouse for Ida Lewis Yacht Club, the event’s host. Based on wind and sea conditions, the overnight course is chosen by the Ida Lewis Race Committee just prior to the start and it can be anywhere from 112 to 169 nautical miles. The courses are aptly named for the scenic waypoints and offshore buoys (marks of the course): “Buzzards Bay”, “Point Judith”, “Block Island” and “Montauk”.<br />
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“We have been racing the Ida Lewis Distance Race OFFSHORE event since 2013,” said EC Helme (Newport, R.I.), skipper of the J/92 SPIRIT that has twice taken a second in its PHRF class. “Our typical program is really just day racing since the boat is pretty sparse, but the OFFSHORE race is perfect for a smaller boat. It’s a reasonable distance; never too far from a good bailout point; and usually there are boats that are similar enough to us to make it directly competitive. It’s a chance to push ourselves a bit and figure out currents, winds and tactics we don’t normally get to deal with.”<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j109" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/109 sailing offshore" data-file-id="115122" height="352" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/487b0445-d007-433d-b7b2-5922edc79780.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 352px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
One of the first teams to sign up this year for the OFFSHORE race was Bill Kneller’s (Newport, R.I.) J/109 VENTO SOLARE, which placed third in class last year in the IN BAY race, finishing the course in just over five hours.<br />
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“On the first leg from the start off Rose Island to R2 off Brenton Reef it was a spinnaker run,” said Kneller. “Our strategy was simple - sail our own race away from other boats, do transitions methodically with ample time to execute, and constantly change trim to optimize for the ever-changing conditions. The strategy paid off to reach the podium.” <br />
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<strong>Youth and Collegiate Challenge</strong><br />
Youth and Collegiate challenges have been popular components of the Ida Lewis Distance Race, encouraging a healthy future for the sport of sailing. With special trophies for each, the challenges are applied to both OFFSHORE and IN BAY racing.<br />
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Youth entries must consist of a minimum of two adults (one designated as Captain), and more than 40% of the crew must have reached their 14th birthday but not their 18th birthday prior to August 20, 2021.<br />
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Collegiate entries also must consist of a minimum of two adults (one designated as Captain), and more than 40% of the crew shall not reach their 26th birthday prior to August 20, 2021.<br />
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<strong>Compete for LOTS of Trophies!</strong><br />
Trophies for the Ida Lewis Distance Race OFFSHORE race will be given in ORC, PHRF (Aloha and Coronet divisions), ORC Double-handed and PHRF Cruising Spinnaker classes. Trophies for the IN BAY race will be given in PHRF (Aloha and Coronet divisions), PHRF Double-Handed and PHRF Cruising Spinnaker classes.<br />
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<strong>GMT Composites Boat of the Year Series</strong><br />
For 2021, the Ida Lewis Distance Race IN BAY race has been included as a qualifying event in the Narragansett Bay Yachting Association’s Boat of the Year series. The trophy for the series – the Narragansett Bay Boat of the Year Trophy sponsored by GMT Composites – is awarded in the Fall to the owner of the boat on Narragansett Bay that has achieved the best overall performance for the season.<br />
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For questions, please contact Ida Lewis Distance Race Chairman- Pat Kennedy- email"distancerace@ilyc.org". For <a href="http://www.ilyc.org/distancerace" target="_blank">more sailing information on the Ida Lewis Distance Rac</a>e<br />
<hr /><img align="right" alt="J/80 World Championship" data-file-id="115110" height="359" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/659bb093-c9e1-45f0-aac1-cd291c63d4a1.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 359px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 250px;" width="250" /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/80 World Championship Update</span></h2>
(Copenhagen, Denmark)- The KDY (Royal Danish Yacht Club) are hosting the 2021 J/80 World Championship in Copenhagen, Denmark. They have already postponed the event once due to covid-19 pandemic issues in Europe. it is now expected to be hosted in July.<br />
<br />
"Hygge" (enjoying life's simple pleasures) isn’t everything, but...<br />
<br />
As National Geographic so aptly explains it, “Denmark's capital has become the urban overlord of doing things the right way. They call it the happiest city in the world. So, what's the secret? Image-wise, everything in recent years seems to have gone the city's way. The omnipresence of the Danish concept hygge has helped paint it as a place of candlelit good times...”<br />
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It certainly has, and it is. But "hygge" isn’t everything. We’d like to add 1) a positive outlook and 2) sailing of course!<br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/80 World Championship- Copenhagen, Denmark" data-file-id="115102" height="104" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/83ee0662-5f14-4237-8977-68528e0be2d8.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 104px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<strong>Staying positive and moving ahead in our preparations</strong><br />
As many events have been moved into the month of September – lately even the Kiel Week we still believe that the J/80 World Championship in July will be OK. Who knows this may even be the racing season opening event! How is that for at title? We are certainly working hard in order to have all our ducks (and docks) in a row for when you get here. We are confident the J/80 Worlds will be the start of the international racing season here.<br />
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There is very strong interest in the regatta as it's an "Open" event. The entries are coming in as well are international requests for rental boats, and in the upcoming weeks you will read more about accommodation and travel arrangements as well as boat rental opportunities and you may even find out why the Spaniards cannot win the trophy – again!<br />
<br />
If you have questions, please contact us at email- j80worlds@kdy.dk. For <a href="http://j80worlds2021.com/" target="_blank">more J/80 World Championship sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_13&products_id=316" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/Gear April Special" data-file-id="115118" height="312" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/8f929153-c41d-4ca2-a403-ccd285000597.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 312px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Gear April 20% Off Special!</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Awesome Under Armour Performance Polo shirt!</span></h3>
(Newport, RI)- Here is an excellent opportunity for the whole crew to get Under Armour Polo shirts at a special price. Under Armour have been a leader in the performance arena for some time now and their gear is perfect for a marine application. This polo boasts rugged construction and features a distinctive comfortable fit.<br />
<br />
The fabric is 95% polyester, 5% elastane, it is a smooth, soft anti-pill fabric, has an anti-odor technology to prevent the growth of odor causing bacteria, and offers 30+ UPF protection from the sun’s harmful rays!<br />
Order <a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_13&products_id=316" target="_blank">your beautiful, comfy Under Armour Performance Polo here</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span></h2>
Apr 2-4- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-st-petersburg/" target="_blank">St Petersburg NOOD Regatta- St Petersburg, FL</a><br />
Apr 8-11- <a href="https://www.charlestonraceweek.com/" target="_blank">Charleston Race Week- Charleston, SC</a><br />
Apr 30- May 2- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">Annapolis NOOD Regatta- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
Apr 30- May 2- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">J/111 North American Championship- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
May 9-15- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/event_scratch_sheet.cfm?eID=13209" target="_blank">J/70 North American Championship- Annapolis, MD</a> <br />
<br />
For additional <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j-sailing-calendar/sailing-regattas" target="_blank">J/Regatta and Event dates in your region, please refer to the on-line J/Sailing Calendar</a>.<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111 sailing St Thomas, USVI" data-file-id="115214" height="370" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/6f46b8ee-2459-4604-b839-139efe8b1833.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 370px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Perfect St. Thomas International Regatta!</span></h2>
(St. Thomas, USVI)– With perfect conditions of 15 to 20 knots of breeze out of the east, keen competition and professionally set racecourses, the weather Gods delivered in spades for the 2021 St. Thomas International Regatta (STIR).<br />
<br />
After six round-the-islands races over three days, Marco Teixidor's J/111 CACHONDO posted a pair of podium finishes to ultimately take fourth in class. While missing the podium by just four points, it was big smiles pasted across their faces at the conclusion of the racing on Sunday...what's not to love about Caribbean racing in classic tradewinds, sun, and perfect "shorts & shades" weather!<br />
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<img align="none" alt="IC24s sailing St Thomas, USVI" data-file-id="115222" height="330" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/06fcf2b9-9afb-418f-97d7-0f3391f686d6.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 330px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
Following 15 sprint-style windward-leeward races also in a trio of days, St. Thomas, USVI’s Chris Rosenberg led the One-Design IC24 Class. Not surprisingly, it was experienced J/24 sailors that knew how to make these modded-J/24s go fast in the often-shifty conditions along the shoreline. Top USA team was a person familiar to most sailors in the J/70 and J/24 classes- David Franzel of Boston, MA; he skippered MAGIC BUS to earn the bronze on the podium. <br />
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The 14-boat IC24 Class proved the most competitive with it being nearly anyone’s win going into the last day of racing. In the end, Rosenberg, who served as tactician, with St. Thomas’ two-time Olympic sailor Cy Thompson on the helm, and experienced St. Thomas sailor Addison Caproni on the bow, won the class on BILL T.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="St Thomas Yacht Club" data-file-id="115226" height="298" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/6bdbb204-37fd-4e1b-9bcb-c1f769d93e21.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 298px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
“The first day for us was a learning curve, then on day two and three we honed in on what was working,” says Rosenberg. “It takes two sails to win, and Addison trimmed the jib perfectly. Cy was spot on with every start within a half a boat length of the line. It takes three to win and that’s what we worked hard to accomplish.”<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111 sailing off St Thomas, USVI" data-file-id="115194" height="376" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/62be7441-5321-4593-aaed-8b459b0dc98a.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 376px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
“Congratulations to the participants of this year’s St. Thomas International Regatta and kudos to the St. Thomas Yacht Club for executing a successful and safe event,” says Commissioner of Tourism Joseph Boschulte. “The St. Thomas International Regatta was the only major regatta in the Caribbean that wasn’t canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.<br />
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“This is a testament to the insightful leadership and smart policies enacted by the Government of the U.S. Virgin Islands to ensure we can offer fun events and engaging experiences while keeping our residents and visitors safe. We look forward to welcoming everyone back for the amazing marine schedule of events being rolled out throughout the remainder of the year.” For <a href="https://stthomasinternationalregatta.com/" target="_blank">more St Thomas International Regatta sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 sailing off Miami, FL" data-file-id="115138" height="258" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/869d1d6f-0ec6-451b-aa51-9426cd2a5db7.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 258px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">SAIL 22 J/70 Tuning Regatta- A Great Learning Experience</span></h2>
(Coconut Grove, FL)- Over the course of our "pandemic winter" of 2020/2021, there have been several imaginative events that were created for sailors that enabled them to go sailing in a safe, healthy way and adhere to any known pandemic "safe behavior" guidelines.<br />
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One of those events in Florida has been Ed and Becky Furry's SAIL 22 J/70 Tuning Regatta. The first event took place on Tampa Bay hosted at Davis Island Yacht Club and the second just took place off Coconut Grove (south Miami) with host Shake-A-Leg providing launch/ docking facilities. The dozen J/70 teams that participated enjoyed two days of very nice spring sailing on the gorgeous aquamarine waters of Biscayne Bay. The goal for the event was "training" and not focused on "winning". As such, there was constant on-the-water coaching and discussions amongst teams regards boat-speed, boat-handling, and sail trim/ rig tune setups. <br />
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In the end, several notable teams participated that offered their expertise to others, as well as picking up a few pointers themselves! Those teams included Pam Rose's ROSEBUD with Willem Van Waay aboard (3x J/70 World Champion crew), Laura Grondin's DARK ENERGY with Taylor Canfield providing guidance (multiple Match Race World Champion), Brian Keane's SAVASANA, and Buddy Cribb's VICTORY with Greiner Hobbs directing traffic (a multiple College All-American).<br />
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On the leaderboard, it was David Janetti's VERY ODD topping out the dozen crews, perhaps learning fastest from all the training/ speed lessons. Second was Chicagoan John Heaton' EMPEIRIA and third was Pam Rose's ROSEBUD. Kudos to class newcomer Doug Newhouse on YONDER and Lauran Grondin's DARK ENERGY for each dialing themselves in well-enough to win some races against very talented teams. Thanks to the Furry's SAIL 22 for organizing such a productive, helpful event (<a href="http://www.sail22.com" target="_blank">http://www.sail22.com</a>). <br />
For <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14317" target="_blank">more SAIL 22 J/70 Tuning Regatta sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Community</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span></h3>
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<strong>J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">J/Boats from around the world here</a>. <br />
<br />
<img align="none" alt="J/105 sailboat for sale" data-file-id="115114" height="290" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f8001563-e713-4dcf-a1c2-5d4a5cbe69da.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 290px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Good Value 2002 J/105 Sailboat for Sale</span></h2>
Less Demands + Fun = Best Sailing Value A fun and forgiving performance boat that is easy to sail, J/105 offers low maintenance with a simple layout, has great performance, a large cockpit, predictable handling characteristics and makes no pretenses of being a distance cruiser or live-aboard. There is less to maintain as all the extra Cabinetry and weight of things you won't use aren't there. So instead of varnishing toe-rails and troubleshooting systems you'll be enjoying a sail with friends. With less demands placed on you and your crew J/105 is more fun to own. For <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2002-J105-Bear-Spirit-LD7lxrha" target="_blank">more J/105 Bear Spirit used sailboat information</a><div><br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAlk30IHTPU" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111 Sailing Anarchy retro perspective" data-file-id="115230" height="321" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/2543ebcb-6fd3-490c-ac9d-c9e24e484918.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 321px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">J/111 Sailing Anarchy Retrospective</span></h2>
In his ongoing series of exploring why certain race boats generate a strong passion by a broad spectrum of sailors to either sail them or own them, Sailing Anarchy's Scot Tempesta hopped aboard a J/111 in San Diego, CA to offer up his point of view on this evergreen offshore racer. Enjoy the video- <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank">more about the J/111 here</a>.<br />
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</table></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-7598841760746701932021-03-24T09:43:00.002-04:002021-03-28T09:50:13.394-04:00J/Newsletter- March 24th, 2021<img align="none" alt="Sunset over Hong Kong Harbor" data-file-id="113054" height="251" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/0f84cee3-faf2-40ef-8c5d-bd8c33c9a3fc.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 251px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">The Sun Never Sets on J's Sailing Worldwide</span></h2>
The first weekend of spring was welcomed by most with a steady improvement in weather across the northern hemisphere. Three events in North America were fortunate to have a full slate of racing completed across the Deep South and the Southwest. Blessed with powerful frontal systems north of them, the J/22 Midwinters were sailed on Lake Ponchartrain, hosted by the famous Southern Yacht Club in New Orleans, LA. Out west, two big races took place. The San Diego Yacht Club hosted the annual HELLY HANSEN San Diego NOOD Regatta for one-design fleets of J/24s and J/105s. Then, starting last Friday, the epic 800.0 nm Newport to Cabo San Lucas Race took place, with the fleet treated to amazing downwind sleigh-ride conditions for most of the race. <br />
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In the J/Community section, we find an entertaining introduction to Nova Scotians enjoying frostbiting their J/22s up near the Arctic Circle, and sadly, a tribute to a long-time friend of J/Boats and the Johnstone family- Dr. Robin Wallace. Dr Robin was the Ida Lewis Yacht Club PRO for the first J/24 North Americans in 1978 and the first J/24 Worlds in 1979, both sailed off Newport, RI...his history with the J/Family ran deep...we are sorry to see him "crossing the bar" this past week.<br />
<hr /><img align="right" alt="J/105 sailing off St Thomas, US Virgin Islands" data-file-id="28877" height="141" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/5056cbaa-e657-47b8-9bb7-1fbf948a5bdb.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 141px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 250px;" width="250" /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">St. Thomas International Regatta Preview</span></h2>
(St. Thomas, USVI)- The starting horn is set to sound on the 2021 St. Thomas International Regatta (STIR) March 26th to 28th, launching three days of keen competition in one of the world’s top yacht racing destinations. Board members of the host St. Thomas Yacht Club (STYC) and STIR organizers have worked diligently and with strong support from the United States Virgin Islands Departments of Tourism and Health to plan a best of both worlds event. That is, highly competitive yacht racing with COVID-19 protocols in place on land and sea to protect the health and safety of sailors and island residents alike. The warm-up distance-style Round the Rocks Race on March 25th adds another great way for sailors to socially-distance at sea. Register for both at stthomasinternationalregatta.com<br />
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“It is our pleasure to welcome participants attending this year’s St. Thomas International Regatta. I commend the St. Thomas Yacht Club for ensuring that COVID-19 protocols are in place so competitors and spectators can safely enjoy the action both on and off our waters. We encourage everyone to comply with the Territory’s safety measures as they navigate our islands, experience our beautiful waters, rich history and culture, and the warmth of our people,” says Joseph Boschulte, Commissioner of Tourism, U.S. Virgin Islands.<br />
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<strong>COVID-Safety Top of Mind</strong><br />
Sound COVID-19 protocols implemented by the Government of the U.S. Virgin Islands have kept infection rates low. Key among these is that every traveler, age 5 and older, entering the territory by air or sea, is required to use the USVI Travel Screening Portal and submit a COVID-19 test result before travel. Upon arrival, social distancing is the rule and, in most businesses, ‘No Mask, No Service’ is in force.<br />
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At STIR, social distancing, mask-wearing, and hand sanitization stations are among COVID-19 protocols. On the water, crews in boats such as the one-design IC24 are limited to three this year, and bigger boat classes will remain in social bubbles throughout the regatta. <br />
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<strong><img align="none" alt="J/122 LIQUID sailing off St. Thomas, USVI" data-file-id="93373" height="383" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/75811e78-e3ae-4e48-803e-af1cda177ab4.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 383px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></strong><div><strong>Who’s Racing</strong><br />
The big boat CSA Racing Class entries include LIQUID, the perpetually podium-placing J/122 raced by Antigua’s Pamala Baldwin; and for their first time, Marco Teixidor's Puerto Rican team on the J/111 CACHONDO. <br />
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The largest class in STIR 2021 will be the One-Design IC-24s (the modified Caribbean J/24) with 20 entries. Because of their familiarity with J/24s, a number of American teams are headed down to the Caribbean for fun and frolic! Those teams include Chicago, Illinois’ Joe Hummel; his wife and friends will charter the IC-24 ROUNDABOUT from the St. Thomas Sailing Center (STSC) to race.<br />
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“My wife and I are avid sailors on Lake Michigan. In the off-season, we try to get out sailing and typically visit St. Pete in February and the Caribbean in March. Four of us will be racing, and since the crew is limited to 3 this year, we’ll be rotating one off each day. Given the 2 feet of snow and freezing temperatures at home, you can imagine how much we’re looking forward to sailing and enjoying USVI and in particular STYC.”<br />
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Two other teams from the Chicago area will be joining them; including Jarrett Altmin on SOUL SHINE and Jay Butler's BLACK PEARL from Oak Park, IL. <br />
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The STYC and STIR organizers thank the USVI Department of Tourism; Michelob Ultra, Stoli, Bacardi, and Milagro distributed by West Indies Company; and several other sponsors organizers look forward to announcing shortly. <strong>Sailing photo credits- Ingrid Abery/ STIR</strong> For <a href="https://stthomasinternationalregatta.com/" target="_blank">more St Thomas International Regatta sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 sailing Edgartown Race Weekend" data-file-id="109258" height="414" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e0bbda2f-c43c-4639-9551-c5d60798d96c.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 414px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Edgartown Race Weekend Update!</span></h2>
(Edgartown, Martha's Vineyard, MA)- As the weather starts getting a little warmer here in the Northeast, the Edgartown Race Weekend team is getting excited for this summer’s regatta. <br />
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So far, there are thirteen J/Boats registered to date for the Round Island Race- from J/160, J/122s, J/121s, J/120s, J/111s, and J/109s, to name a few. That's not enough! Double-check your schedules as you simply cannot beat the famous Round Island Race, truly one of the more spectacular races on the summer yachting calendar!<br />
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Edgartown Race Weekend is one of the nation’s oldest distance races, occurring every summer on and offshore the island of Martha’s Vineyard. A staple on the East Coast racing calendar, the highly-competitive and exceptionally fun race weekend includes both buoy racing and ‘Round-the-Island segments and attracts boats and teams of all sizes and calibers from around the U.S. and internationally.<br />
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With nearly 50 boats already registered for this year’s Race Weekend, we would like to encourage teams to reserve moorings and housing accommodations, as availabilities are quickly filling up. All logistical information can be found on the Edgartown Race Weekend homepage.<br />
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For more information, refer to the EYC website or contact Margaret Passafiume at (508) 627-4364 x18 or email at raceadministrator@edgartownyc.org. <strong>Sailing photo credits- Stephen Cloutier.</strong> For <a href="https://www.edgartownyc.org/club/scripts/library/view_document.asp?NS=PR&GRP=40011&DN=RACE" target="_blank">more Edgartown Race Weekend registration and sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_13&products_id=220" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/Gear Marmot special" data-file-id="114878" height="312" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c726532e-23bd-4624-a904-609eaa6251ff.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 312px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Gear March 20% Off Special!</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)- The Marmot zip top model #9276 has a 20.0% discount for March! The simple lines and full-on function of the J Stretch Fleece 1/2 Zip makes layering on and off the water a practical solution. The warm polyester stretch fleece with a comfortable flat-locked seam construction allows liberal movement. Marmot quality and durability throughout. It's perfect partner for all seasons. In black, marine blue, or red. <a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_13&products_id=220" target="_blank">Order your beautiful Marmot 1/2 zip top here</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span></h2>
Mar 25-28- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14317" target="_blank">SAIL 22 J/70 Invitational- Coconut Grove, FL</a><br />
Mar 26-28- <a href="https://stthomasinternationalregatta.com/" target="_blank">St. Thomas International Regatta- St. Thomas, USVI</a><br />
Mar 29- Apr 4- <a href="https://bvispringregatta.org/" target="_blank">BVI Spring Regatta- Road Town, Tortola, BVI</a><br />
Apr 2-4- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-st-petersburg/" target="_blank">St Petersburg NOOD Regatta- St Petersburg, FL</a><br />
Apr 8-11- <a href="https://www.charlestonraceweek.com/" target="_blank">Charleston Race Week- Charleston, SC</a><br />
Apr 30- May 2- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">Annapolis NOOD Regatta- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
Apr 30- May 2- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">J/111 North American Championship- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
May 9-15- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/event_scratch_sheet.cfm?eID=13209" target="_blank">J/70 North American Championship- Annapolis, MD</a> <br />
<br />
For additional <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j-sailing-calendar/sailing-regattas" target="_blank">J/Regatta and Event dates in your region, please refer to the on-line J/Sailing Calendar</a>.<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j22" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22s sailing off start" data-file-id="115090" height="260" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e7b8d409-9e9a-41b7-ad70-4451f052852f.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 260px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">BABY DOLL Screams to J/22 Midwinters Win</span></h2>
(New Orleans, LA)- For three-straight days, the thirty J/22s that made a giant leap-of-faith to head south and pray (hope!) that weather Gods would cooperate and permit them to enjoy the amazing Southern hospitality offered by the host Southern Yacht Club was ultimately fulfilled. The fleet was treated to a full-on, highly-competitive, nine race series. In the end, it was Glenn Darden's BABY DOLL that screamed to the front of the fleet on the first day of racing and was never severely tested for the duration of the regatta, earning the coveted 2021 J/22 Midwinter Championship crown. Here's how it all went down over those three days.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j22" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22s sailing upwind off New Orleans, LA" data-file-id="115030" height="316" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/301258c1-32ab-4465-bbf8-61a3c2ad8c45.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 316px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<strong>Day 1- Breezy, Choppy, Cool Day</strong><br />
Besides the sailors, perhaps the most excited person on the first day of racing was Southern Yacht Club's PRO and RC team. With such a solid forecast for breeze all three days, it made their job easy to layout the race course and manage the aggressive fleet. Conditions were breezy and bumpy on Lake Pontchartrain, testing some boats and equipment. Glenn Darden's BABY DOLL mastered the shifts, winning two of three races and placing second in the other for 4 points and the early advantage. Travis Odenbach’s HONEYBADGER bounced back from being over early in race two and added a pair of top three finishes for second place overall (14 points). Casey Lambert’s BLACKBURN MARINE RACING stood three points back in third. Nine total races are planned through Sunday.<br />
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Eager teams were greeted with a grey sky, and winds consistently in the mid-teens. Odenbach opened the regatta with a bullet, trailed by Darden and Benz Faget’s FATS (the local hero and super star on Lake Ponchartrain). Darden earned his first victory in the next contest, ahead of Tommy Meric Jr.’s CARNIVAL TIME and Lambert. Following Darden in the day’s final match were Alexander Schwinn’s TILT and Odenbach in 2nd and 3rd, respectively.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j22" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22s sailing upwind - New Orleans, LA" data-file-id="115006" height="316" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/ecc7966c-2f35-4025-93cd-08c52d6f2132.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 316px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<strong>Day 2- Classic, Shifty, Lake Racing</strong><br />
After four more races were completed on the second day, making a total of seven to count, only one point separated the leaders heading into the final two races Sunday. <br />
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Day one leader Darden’s BABY DOLL opened Saturday with a pair of bullets but added a 5 and 13 (their discard) for 11 net points. Odenbach’s HONEYBADGER notched all top-three finishes on the day, and now dropping a 10 from Friday, bringing him within a single point of the lead. Lambert’s BLACKBURN MARINE RACING remains in third place with 27 net points. <br />
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The teams enjoyed a brightening day on Lake Pontchartrain in winds averaging 7-10 knots with lighter chop. Darden picked up where he left off the prior day with back-to-back wins (first ahead of Lambert and Odenbach, then again topping Odenbach and Faget’s Fats in the second race). Odenbach took race six for his second victory of the series, followed by Boo Heausler’s REBOUND GIRL and Schwinn’s TILT. Mark Foster’s PRESSURE DROP led the fleet back to shore, as Odenbach placed second allowing him to close in on the overall Championship, and Faget came in third place.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/22 Midwinters winners" data-file-id="115058" height="364" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/382534b3-cbc5-408a-82d2-3fd4c06c14c9.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 364px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<strong>Day 3- Spectacular Sunny Finale</strong><br />
The final day saw a sunny day, mostly breezy and lumpy conditions on Pontchartrain. The Southern YC RC and PRO team knocked out two more races to complete the planned nine-race series.<br />
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Darden, of Fort Worth, TX, with crew Marcus Eagan, Jackson Benvenutti, and Sarah Raymond won Sunday's opening race. Odenbach’s HONEYBADER, just one point off the pace at the start of the day, placed seventh. HONEYBADGER stormed back to win the final contest, however, BABY DOLL placed fourth and secured the Championship with 16 net points (Odenbach ended with 20 pts). Lambert’s BLACKBURN MARINE RACING put together a solid weekend for third place (40 points).<br />
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Darden’s crew members were all from the New Orleans area. “Marcus and Jackson are wizards of this lake,” said Darden. “(It was) very streaky and shifty all three days. We like the lump with the breeze. We got off the line well, which was probably our key.”<br />
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Rounding out the top five were Foster's Corpus Christi, TX team on PRESSURE DROP in fourth place and Schwin's Fort Worth Boat Club team on TILT taking fifth. <strong>Sailing photo credits- Chris Howell/ J-22 Class. </strong>For <a href="http://www.j22mw.com" target="_blank">more J/22 Midwinter Championship registration & sailing information</a><br />
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<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 at San Diego NOOD Regatta" data-file-id="115098" height="362" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c55390e7-cf59-465a-a3fd-51fd7e20b8c0.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 362px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Gorgeous San Diego NOOD Regatta</span></h2>
(San Diego, CA)- The first of the famous HELLY HANSEN Sailing World NOOD Regatta series took place last weekend in San Diego, CA. The San Diego Yacht Club was blessed with classic SoCal sailing conditions from March 19th to 21st for the J/24 and J/105 one-design fleets and the North Sails Doublehanded Offshore Race on Saturday.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 woman skipper off San Diego, CA" data-file-id="115094" height="322" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/ae03e42f-9025-470a-bb74-73766dc05c98.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 322px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The always competitive J/105 class saw close racing all weekend-long. Winning in the end was Stew Cannon's J-OK with a very consistent 2-1-2-3-2 tally for 10 pts. Hot on their heels all weekend was George Scheel's SUN PUFFIN with a 1-4-5-2-1 scoreline for 13 pts. Rounding out the podium was Donica & Scott Ryder's SANITY with a 4-3-1-4-3 record for 15 pts. The balance of the top five included Steve & Lucy Howell's BLINK! in fourth place and Scott McDaniel's OFF THE PORCH placed 5th. <br />
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Bill Ramacciotti and Mike Davies J/24 GREENBACK BOOGIE leapfrogged into first place Sunday thanks to two first-place finishes and one second. “We had super-close racing all weekend among our fleet,” said Ramacciotti. “It was so much fun to see us finishing these races within seconds of each other.”<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24 sailing San Diego NOOD Regatta" data-file-id="115086" height="334" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/90897331-31bf-4560-8cf9-1f0db8e813e7.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 334px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Four of the five J/24s are local to San Diego, and Ramacciotti and Davies have a concerted effort underway to build the class. “We’re not big budget programs and our goal is to keep it accessible and get more people out sailing,” said Ramacciotti. “We are all weekend warriors so to speak with different years of experience and these boats provide the vehicle to help us all continue learning."<br />
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They also agreed that the winning strategy today was picking sides. “Calling the line and committing to one side or another was crucial, Ramacciotti said, “but when you sail in San Diego with shifty winds, it really comes down to boatspeed and crew work."<br />
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While the GREENBACK BOOGIE crew ended up with four bullets and four deuces for 12 pts to take the J/24 class win, Christian Seidel's CYGNET 2 was certainly in the hunt until the 7th race. At that point, Seidel's crew plunged down the mine shaft, garnering two 4th's to sink their chances of the class win. As a result, the CYGNET 2 team had to settle for the silver with 18 pts. Completing the podium was Brian Dolan's CALAMITY sailed a consistent series with all top four finishes to finish in fourth with 23 pts. <br />
<strong>Sailing photo credits- Mark Albertazzi</strong> For <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-in-san-diego/" target="_blank">more San Diego NOOD Regatta sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><img align="none" alt="The Cabo Race "finish line"- the bar and pool!" data-file-id="115066" height="328" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3e16f033-2ae4-4416-99f1-e969c056eb32.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 328px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">The Cabo Race Experience- J/145 KATARA's Entertaining Log</span></h2>
(Newport Beach, CA)- Last Friday, a fleet of eighteen offshore racers headed south from the Newport Harbor Yacht Club starting line set off Newport Beach, CA and they basically flew down the 800.0nm race down the Mexican coastline to the famous beachside resort of Cabo San Lucas at the southernmost tip of the Baja Peninsula. <br />
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Always a challenging race, this year the fleet was blessed with strong northerly breezes that fluctuated from northwest to northeast and back again. The conditions were epic for the "big boats", Roy Disney's PYEWACKET 70, a former Volvo 70 race boat, shattered the course record set many moons ago by 14 hours! That gives you an idea of how quick the race was for most of the fleet. <br />
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Looking forward to that challenge were two thoroughbreds in the J/Design stable. Racing in ORR Class C were Standish Fleming's J/125 NEREID and Roger Gatewood's J/145 KATARA. For the duration of the race, we received daily reports from KATARA's log...it makes for entertaining reading and insights on what it's like to sail offshore with a full race crew.<br />
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<strong>Log # 2</strong><br />
Position: 32 53.0N 1117 48W<br />
Speed: 12.8 kts<br />
Distance to go: 748.1nm<br />
Weather: Cool, Sunny. Seas 5-6'<br />
Winds: 298 at 16kts<br />
Sail Package: Tweener<br />
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The start occurred at 1300 PDT in a very light (3-6 kts) breeze out of the south. Weird for a downwind race, but we started with the LM Genoa up and started completely close-hauled.<br />
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First day is nearly in the books. Bow team Avery and Alex just executed their first offshore headsail peel, bringing us from the Light medium upwind genoa to the reaching Tweener (similar to a code zero). <br />
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We've just put blue watch (Ron, Clay, and Avery) to bed as we anticipate that we will be shifting from the Tweener to the A4 running kite in the next hour to hour and a half. One of our biggest competitors, Horizon (a Santa Cruz 50) is just above us with a kite up and working their way down to us. We'll likely do the same as they get closer, but we're currently working just a little hotter in the hopes that we can maintain more of the gradient pressure that exists just offshore of us at the moment.<br />
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Looks like everyone is having a good time. Steve got his first helm time in a race on Katara a few hours ago. Capt. Roger drove us through the start and several hours after that. Liam, Sam, Steve, Ron, and Roger have been our helmsmen so far.<br />
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If the forecast holds true, we're in for a pretty wild ride overnight and into tomorrow with breeze in to the 20s and a building sea state.<br />
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Hope everyone else at home is warm and dry in their beds - it's looking like it's going to be a little chilly for us out here tonight.<br />
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<strong>Log # 3</strong><br />
Position: 30 44.13N 117 28.7W<br />
Speed: 14 kts<br />
Distance to go: 625.9nm<br />
Weather: Cold! Seas 5-6'<br />
Winds: 306 at 23kts<br />
Sail Package: A4<br />
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It's almost the end of night 1. The crew is still working on getting in to their watch schedule, and I think several (myself included) are quite tired.<br />
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Just after sunset we went from our Tweener to our A4 heavy weather running sail. Avery and Alex managed the bow for the maneuver, Steve and Clay worked the mid-deck, Liam and I were on trim, Ron worked the main, and Roger drove. <br />
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There is an area of lower winds speed just inside of us which we've been attempting to avoid. So, at times, we're sailing a much hotter angle than we normally would with this sail. We've got validation in the fact that we can see Horizon, Bretwalda, and several others in our class doing nearly the same thing along our line.<br />
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We got distracted last night and no one made dinner, so snacks got hit hard. We'll make sure we've got someone on kitchen duty this evening.<br />
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Conditions have been very pleasant, with seas 6-7' and breeze mostly in the teens until just the last few hours where we have seen a build to near 20 kts.<br />
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<strong>Log # 4</strong><br />
Position: 29 27.2N 115 34.3W<br />
Speed: 12-18++ kts<br />
Distance to go: 532.34nm<br />
Weather: Beautiful day out with a slightly confused 6-8ft sea state.<br />
Winds: 308 at 22kts<br />
Sail Package: A4<br />
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What a day! Good breeze, cool weather, not too sunny, an acceptable sea state, and one hell of a fast boat. We've enjoyed the day running downhill bouncing between waves where our helmsmen (Roger, Sam, Steve, Ron, Liam, and I) have tried to keep the pointy side forward and the white side up. Earlier this morning we put in our first gybe and started reconnecting with the shore. We were leveraging a further right (320-ish) wind direction than we had seen before which made the port tack more optimal. <br />
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As I am writing this, I heard the loudest of roars from upstairs. Glancing through a port hole, I see an entire universe of white foam go flying by the window as the new deck team (Ron, Clay, and Avery) with captain Roger just laid down a new race record for the boat of 25.8 kts!! Ron sneaked this one out after having had to share the previous 22.8 kts record with Clay and Avery. Later, we were all awakened when our southern "gentleman" Steve was a whoopin' and a holerin' as he was laying down his own record.<br />
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Now. Where was I? Right. We're headed to shore. After a few hours on port working our way back to the coast the breeze went left (near 305) again which makes the starboard tack preferred. We executed our second gybe of the trip (a beaut, if we may be so bold) and started heading back offshore.<br />
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While not perfect conditions competitively for this boat, we've been sailing extremely well against our polars and our own modeling, and the crew is having an absolute BLAST!<br />
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Ron, Clay, and Avery just took the 1400 watch with Roger finishing out the last two hours of his captain watch with them. <br />
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I figure somewhere in the next 10-12 hours we'll be on the hunt for another righty where we can capitalize and head back ashore.<br />
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We've got our arrival "betting pool" started. It ranges from a *VERY* optimistic Avery hoping for a 0700 Tuesday arrival (hehe - not gonna happen, kid), to least optimistic old salt Ron guessing at 0400 Wednesday. For SOME reason they wouldn't let the guy with Expedition and all the routing work take his best guess.... The prize is absolutely nothing more than bragging rights, but it's a KATARA tradition.<br />
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<strong>Log # 5</strong><br />
Position: 28 32.3N 115 19.4W<br />
Speed: 15++ down to 11ish kts<br />
Distance to go: 484.14nm<br />
Weather: A stiffening breeze with a confused 7-9ft sea state.<br />
Winds: 315 degrees, 22 gusting 30kts<br />
Sail Package: keep reading...<br />
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Welp....Every great sailboat race comes with its challenges to test sailors' resolve and skill and to keep the thrill of adventure in the game.<br />
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About 1 hour ago we were screaming along under our A4 running spinnaker when a wave caught us and caused a roll out. OUCH! Unfortunately, this also "over-shocked" the A4 and we lost both sheets holding it in. An all-hands on deck was called and, in relative short order, the team had recovered the sail.<br />
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We're not making much headway with just the Light Medium #1 genoa, as the only other spinnaker we have for these conditions is the A3 reaching kite. Our plan for now is to be conservative overnight reaching under just the genoa and re-evaluate tomorrow morning at day break. Hopefully at that time we can get the Kite back up, as we're currently down over 3.6 kts VMG towards the finish line...UGH!<br />
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In other news, there were no injuries and we're currently making dinner - Chili Mac & Cheese - Thanks, Clay! Avery is also whipping up a salad for everyone.<br />
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<strong>Log # 6</strong><br />
Position: 27 27.1N 115 we.9W<br />
Speed: 10-20 kts depending on waves<br />
Distance to go: 403.4nm<br />
Weather: A stiffening breeze with a confused 7-9ft sea state.<br />
Winds: 315-330 at 18-24 kts<br />
Sail Package: Reaching A3<br />
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Now, we're back in this here sailboat race! Just before 2200 hrs, Roger and I did a comprehensive analysis of the forecasts, sea state, and current winds and decided it was time to launch the A3 kite. While not a downwind runner like the A4 that we lost, this sail is FAR superior for this task than our #1 Genoa was. We timed the hoist with a watch change (these are *VERY* big sails) and by 2230 we were under A3 and a full main again. VMC (velocity made good towards our target) jumped by over 5.6kts. We also did a gybe as part of the maneuver and are now working our way back towards the coast.<br />
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If the breeze continues to stay left (not exactly what's forecast) then we'll stay on this Port tack as far as it will take us - it's much closer to the finish line than the other board. If the breeze shifts left through the morning and in to the afternoon, then we will gybe out again for a little while to get clear of the peninsula.<br />
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Clay and Avery took kitchen duties this evening and we had a freeze-dried chili mac & cheese again dressed up with some fresh cut onions and cheese. Lots and lots of snacks aboard, so no one is going to go hungry.<br />
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We lost quite a bit of ground to our competition for the several hours we were running just on the Genoa, but we're slowing making some of that back up according to the tracker we all carry.<br />
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The sea state is challenging for our primary drivers, but Ron, Liam, Steve, and Sam are giving it their all and doing excellent.<br />
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Hope that the 320-330 TWD holds for us and that we just keep truckin' down range.<br />
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<strong>Log # 7</strong><br />
Position: 26 27.2N 114 1.3W<br />
Speed: 9-12 kts<br />
Distance to go: 308nm<br />
Weather: Champagne sailing.<br />
Winds: 300-320 at 11-20 kts<br />
Sail Package: Light Air Runner A2 Spinnaker, Spinnaker Staysail, Full Main<br />
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Early this morning the breeze decayed enough for us to downshift to our light-air running spinnaker, the A2. Not only did it give us a boost in speed and better angle, but all of us who drove it say it's a heck of a lot easier on the helmsmen.<br />
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We're currently the inside boat and we just executed a gybe to get us out and around Lazarro Point. I figure we'll be here for 5-6 hours before gybing back on to Port tack.<br />
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Breakfast was home-made pancakes and sausage (thanks, Sam!) and was hugely well received.<br />
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Roger and Sam are swapping watches as we speak with Roger taking the 1200-1600 Captain's watch. For the first 2 hours of his watch, he'll have the current deck team of Liam, Alex, and Steve to help him. The off-watch appear all to be asleep which is great, because there's still plenty of fighting and sail wrangling left to be done.<br />
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Alex, our last second pick up when one of our crew couldn't get his passport sorted in time (dang Rona), is doing an excellent job on his first offshore adventure. Great attitude and always ready to jump in.<br />
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Our other newbs, Avery and Steve, both seem to be excelling and soaking in the experience. I think Steve summed it up just a few minutes ago on deck when we were talking and he goes, "I could get used to this. This is pretty good stuff. Think I might have to do some more of this". You tell em, Steve!<br />
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First 24 hours of the race we covered 254.5nm, a really great run for this boat. We'll know what the second 24 looks like in about an hour once we've passed the 48-hour mark.<br />
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If you've got any influence with whoever you believe controls the wind, put in an order of a hard Lefty right around our boat for about the next 6 hours that we can capitalize on as a header and make better angle to the finish line.<br />
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Latest projections have an arrival of late evening on Tuesday - but we all know how fickle these things can be. We've still got a lot of racing (over 300nm) to do, and almost anything could happen.<br />
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<strong>Log # 8</strong><br />
Position: 24 52.9n 113 12.2w<br />
Speed: 9-13 kts<br />
Distance to go: 215 nm<br />
Weather: More Champagne sailing.<br />
Winds: 300-320 at 14-19 kts<br />
Sail Package: Light Air Runner A2 Spinnaker, Full Main<br />
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Less than 250nm to go! Much of today was extremely enjoyable conditions. Cool and sunny on deck, pleasantly cool and dry down below for crew rest, and champagne sailing. Wind at a great angle with plenty of pressure to keep us moving. We launched the Spinnaker Staysail to compliment the A2 and they worked nicely together most of the day. As the evening came in, we got a little uptick in wind speed as well as a slightly more confused state. We've dropped the Staysail as it's easier to control and recover the spinnaker without it.<br />
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Early evening, we made a gybe over to starboard tack to work our way out away from the coast to line up for what we were hoping was a layline right past Lazaro Point. Unfortunately, when we gybed back, we weren't quite clear of the point, and more importantly there was growing concern on the latest forecast models that there was a large hole forming over the point and bay just below it. Our initial routing runs had us cutting through there with minimal impact on pressure and a shorter distance. Now that appears unlikely, we've gybed back over to starboard again for what should only be a 3-5 hours before we'll head back over to port tack to follow the coast around towards the finish. This is the first significant slip of our routing arrival times, now projecting either very very late Tuesday or early sometime in the first few hours of Wednesday.<br />
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Dinner was freeze dried sweet and sour pork and it seemed to go over fairly well. We picked up a bunch of bags of pre-made salads as well which have been going well before dinner.<br />
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Seems everyone is in their sleep cycle and have been doing well at being on deck ready to go for the start of their watches.<br />
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Spinnaker trim teams Clay/Avery, Liam/ALex, and Alex/Steve had been doing their best to keep the kite full in concert with the drivers in what has, at times, been challenging confused seas.<br />
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Ron, Sam, Steve, and Liam have done the lion's share of the driving, and I've jumped in 4 or 5 times to get them some rest and a chance to eat.<br />
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Roger seems to be enjoying himself, and these are certainly conditions that makes one wish to be on deck.<br />
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Speaking of which, I'd rather be up there hanging out with the Blue team (Ron, Clay, Avery) and their 1st half watch captain Roger than down here, so we'll sign off.<br />
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<strong>Log # 9</strong><br />
Position: 23 47.9N 112 13.0W<br />
Speed: 10-12.5 kts<br />
Distance to go: 136 nm<br />
Weather: Gorgeous sunrise on a clear crisp day.<br />
Winds: 310-325 at 14-19 kts<br />
Sail Package: Light Air Runner A2 Spinnaker, Full Main<br />
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Dawn of the last day! And what a gorgeous dawn it is. Roger, Avery, Ron, and Clay have had what most consider to be the coveted watch - the 0600-1000 dawn patrol. They've spent the last hour or so watching a gorgeous sunrise on what's currently a beautiful cool crisp morning.<br />
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We're currently in VMG mode (go down wind as fast as possible watching your target wind angle) and we're watching very closely several of the competitors ahead of us. There is a large area of light air that started to develop overnight right off the coast north of Cabo. We gybed out to put a little more distance between us and that and so far, have had steady breeze near 15 kts.<br />
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Nereid, the J/125, is a ways ahead of us and closer to shore and the latest position reports indicate she's lost a significant amount of speed. We're currently tracking the same line as the Santa Cruz 50, Horizon (an EXTREMELY well sailed local boat), and are watching anxiously to see any sort of deterioration to their speed. We're using the boats ahead of us as a set of whiskers to help determine when we may want to gybe out again (hey, you get to be up front, but you've gotta share data- Sailing Instruction 2.13.4).<br />
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Our arrival time has slipped some due to the expected lighter breeze later today, now looking at something like 0200 tomorrow morning. Still a very quick run down here. When we did the Puerto Vallarta race down here last year at this time, we were less than half way there and nearly completely becalmed.<br />
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Sam is whipping up some freeze-dried biscuits and gravy (right, I have no idea how you freeze dry biscuits either.... stand by and we'll update on edibility on the next log) and fresh eggs (from past experience we have determined that freeze-dried eggs are absolutely inedible and aren't even suitable for wild animal consumption).<br />
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<strong>Log # 10</strong><br />
Position: 23 27.9N 111 37.9W<br />
Speed: 8-10 kts<br />
Distance to go: 99.5 nm<br />
Weather: Gorgeous clear crisp day.<br />
Winds: 290-305 at 10-14 kts<br />
Sail Package: Light Air Runner A2 Spinnaker, Full Main<br />
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Welcome Shore Family, to this special "double-digits" edition of the KATARA Log. Just moments ago, we sailed through the 100nm to destination mark and are now officially in the double-digits!<br />
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It's been a very pleasant day, but we'd certainly sign up for more breeze if that was an option. There is a very large hole in and around the finish line, and several of the faster boats that were ahead and approaching it this morning struggled to get through. The forecast swears we are supposed to be bringing some breeze with us from behind which would be awesome, but we've spent most of the early morning up to now trying to sort when to gybe out to shift lanes and when to come back in and optimize our VMC (velocity made good on course). It's a fine line, because every step we take outside adds mileage to our distance but sailing too close to the hole and losing pressure is equally as devastating. Looks like we may be in for 2-3 more sets of small hour-long gybes to shift lanes as we get closer. For now, she's light but cooking along.<br />
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Breakfast freeze dried biscuits and gravy was met with generally positive reactions, with Liam and Alex seeming to particularly like it. The fresh eggs Sam made for on top were universally appreciated.<br />
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We got Clay on the helm for the first time this trip this morning 0900-1000. These are very tricky conditions and we've largely been sticking with our most experienced offshore helmsmen (Ron, Liam, Sam, Steve, and I). Clay did an excellent job and took great coaching from Sam and I who took turns sitting next to him walking him through the maneuvers. Roger, Avery, Alex, and Clay have been largely leading the spinnaker trim team and have been giving it their all to keep us powered up and give the helmsman the options he needs to keep the pressure on.<br />
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Looking like a very late-night arrival - somewhere near 0200 PDT perhaps. The crew house starts today, so as long as we can find our way to, and inside, it we'll have a lovely nice dry clean place to lay our heads this evening.<br />
<br />
<strong>POST-LOG</strong><br />
In the end, thanks to the KATARA team for their daily log of their experience sailing one of the signature offshore races in the Southern California yachting schedule. It's a classic race and challenge for what is largely a "downhill sleigh ride". Despite their 7-8 hours of 3.5 kts VMG under genoa on their third night, the consequence of blowing up their A4 downwind runner, the KATARA team managed a 4th in class, just behind their classmates- Standish Fleming's J/125 NEREID. For <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14334" target="_blank">more Cabo Race sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Community</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span></h3>
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<strong>J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">J/Boats from around the world here</a>. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://jnet-app.now.sh/listings/J120-Beautiful-Wood-Interior!-gbVoBvOR" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/120 Sailboat For Sale" data-file-id="115022" height="272" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b362ffc3-c5b7-4d77-9505-fac66637bb73.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 272px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<strong>A Bristol-maintained J/120 with Beautiful Wood Interior For Sale!</strong><br />
The appropriately-named BLUE CHIP is now available for sale....one of the very few J120's in the U.S. that has the full cherry wood interior. This treatment (initially a $30,000 factory option) provides an aura of elegance that is simply not available in most performance yachts. <br />
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In addition to adding many new features, the owner has completely refitted the boat back to Bristol condition including replacing most of the rod rigging, repainting all spars and topsides, new Awlgrip deck surfaces, replacing all running rigging, adding a reverse-cycle heating and air conditioning system, a stereo system throughout, a strong track luff system for the main, a custom-built stack pack (Quantum Sails), a fully battened main sail, a helm bimini, and much more. <br />
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To our knowledge, there is no comparable J/120 in the U.S.A. Please contact Scott Spurlin- email- Scott@JBoatsSouthwest.com or cell# 512-423-2179. For <a href="https://jnet-app.now.sh/listings/J120-Beautiful-Wood-Interior!-gbVoBvOR" target="_blank">more BLUE CHIP J/120 brokerage information</a><br />
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<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8su4Y-CNmW0&t=1s" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22 sailing off Nova Scotia" data-file-id="114994" height="322" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/1fdabfb7-b8fa-4e13-a14b-551c5cd4fd80.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 322px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Frostbiting at 44.6 deg. North</span></h2>
<strong>Commodore Sean McDermott of Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron shares a video and update:</strong><br />
<br />
"As the oldest yacht club in the Americas (since 1837), it's a day at Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron to shovel snow, frostbite J/22s, and finish at the fire.<br />
<br />
"Our plan was to start our Spring J/22 frostbiting with the first sign of decent weather and, as soon as provincial COVID-19 health regulations eased a little. With a maximum outdoor gathering limit raised to 150 persons, we were given the green light… and then we had a big snowstorm on the day before the start!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8su4Y-CNmW0&t=1s" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22 sailors apre's sail" data-file-id="115042" height="322" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/884ffd4e-9068-41cd-b612-49a641037faf.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 322px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Undaunted, teams used the hatch sliders on the J/22s to shovel snow off the decks and out of the cockpits, and soon enough we were good to go! Double windward-leewards in shifty conditions made for a ton of fun on March 20. Now our fingers and toes are collectively crossed that we can run our bi-annual Marblehead to Halifax Ocean Race with our friends from Boston Yacht Club." Enjoy <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8su4Y-CNmW0&t=1s" target="_blank">the short YouTube sailing video here</a> Thanks to our <a href="https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2021/03/22/video-frostbiting-at-44-6n/" target="_blank">friends at Scuttlebutt Sailing for the round-the-campfire enjoyment</a><br />
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<img align="none" alt="Robin Wallace sailing" data-file-id="115078" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4b5c3b25-61e6-4723-94d7-9f32b2046ed4.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">EIGHT BELLS- ROBIN WALLACE</span></h2>
Dr. Robin Wallace of Middletown (RI), 84, crossed the bar at home on March 20th after a long struggle with prostate cancer. Born Alan Robin Gordon Wallace on November 20, 1936, in Weymouth, England, he was the only child of Dr. Gordon and Muriel Wallace.<br />
<br />
Robin grew up sailing in Weymouth with his father. Robin graduated with a Degree in Medicine from Exeter College in Oxford University. He first visited Newport in 1964, when his father was Commodore of the Royal Dorset Yacht Club, the Challenger of Record, for the British America’s Cup Challenge, as well as Fleet Surgeon; the same position his son would hold years later for the New York Yacht Club.<br />
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Robin desired to do his residency in the United States and did so at the Children’s Hospital in Boston. After completing his residency in the United States, he moved to Newport, and established his practice in association with Dr. Fred Pearce at the Aquidneck Medical Associates.<br />
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Soon after he commenced his practice, although a British Citizen, Robin was drafted into the U.S. Army where he served in Vietnam as a Major in the Medical Corps. After his service, he returned to his practice on Memorial Boulevard until retirement in 2003. He remained however the "school doctor" for St. George’s School until 2017.<br />
<br />
To describe Robin as an icon in Newport is an understatement. Robin quickly established himself, not only as a sought-after pediatrician but also as an avid promoter of sailing.<br />
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As a member of the Ida Lewis Yacht Club, he and his predecessor, Race Committee Chairman Robert Conner, were determined to establish new standards of excellence in race management.<br />
<br />
<img align="right" alt="Robin Wallace as Ida Lewis YC PRO" data-file-id="115062" height="355" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/97a781bc-5ffc-4183-98c4-136a1b9f1457.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 355px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 300px;" width="300" />Robin not only worked on the water, but he promoted sailing events for Newport. As the Chairman of the State Yachting Committee, for over seventeen years, he educated the state legislators of the tremendous economic impact that sailing produced for the state.<br />
<br />
Probably the most successful events for Newport and the State of Rhode Island were the Volvo Ocean Races in 2015 and 2018 which, it is fair to say, would not have stopped in Newport without the efforts of the State Yachting committee advocating for the release of state funding required to support the event.<br />
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Sailing was not Robin’s only love. He was devoted to St. George’s School. He conducted morning “sick call” at the school for over thirty-five years and was instrumental in upgrading the health center and the general wellness of the St. George’s community.<br />
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After the loss of the America’s Cup in 1983, Robin was one of the founding members of Sail Newport, a public sailing organization that provides sailing instruction and boating facilities to the public (as co-founding member, J/Boats supplied the J/22's as the principal teaching platform). Currently all 4th graders in the Newport school system are introduced to sailing at Sail Newport. The organization also runs regattas and hosts many different sailing events and activities that contribute to the betterment of the entire community.<br />
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Robin was a Commodore of Ida Lewis Yacht Club and also a long-time member of the New York Yacht Club. He was active in race management at both clubs this past season as sailing was one of the sports that one was able to participate in during the pandemic. He was also a long-time active member of the Newport Reading Room.<br />
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Robin has been long loved by several generations of his pediatric patients and their parents and will be greatly missed by them and a wide spectrum of friends. In fact, for years Robin was the pediatrician for Bob and Mary Johnstone's youngest son- Peter Johnstone. Without Robin's unwavering, critical eye to whip Peter into shape, we are forever grateful Pete's still around with us today! Pete is now the second-generation running Dad's powerboat business- MJM Yachts down in Washington, NC. <br />
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Robin leaves two cousins in England, his St. George’s family, his Sail Newport family, his Ida Lewis family, the Murphy family, his loyal friends Bill and Pat Steel, and a host of friends in Newport and beyond.<br />
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Those wishing to <a href="https://www.memorialfuneralhome.com/obituary/577299/dr.-robin-wallace/" target="_blank">commemorate Robin may do so by donating to Sail Newport, 72 Fort Adams Drive, Newport RI 02840</a>.<br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-52764238949256937682021-03-17T10:00:00.002-04:002021-03-21T14:59:28.157-04:00J/Newsletter- March 17th, 2021 <img align="none" alt="Sunrise offshore" data-file-id="98849" height="214" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f7a32d87-661e-4f1e-8403-111758264d30.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 214px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">The Sun Never Sets on J's Sailing Worldwide</span></h3>
With spring-time peeking around the corner in the northern hemisphere, and sailors are getting accustomed to living and playing within the pandemic guidelines in various regions, more and more events are braving the elements to get a real 2021 sailing season underway. In the coming weeks, one hopes the European "third wave" is quelled quickly so that schedules for a number of one-design and offshore classes can get underway soon.<br />
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Over in the Americas, the season is starting off slowly but surely. Down south, the J/105 Midwinters was just sailed on Galveston Bay, hosted by Lakewood Yacht Club for a very eager group of sailors. Likewise, a fleet of twenty-two J/70 sailors took to the beautiful waters of Biscayne Bay to sail the Bacardi Invitational, hosted by Biscayne Bay Yacht Club and Shake-A-Leg Foundation in Miami, FL. Out west, the first J/105 fleet in the world hosted their inaugural "Pi" Race on San Francisco Bay for doublehanded sailors.<br />
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Not to be outdone, the nascent efforts of the J/80 one-design class in India continues to grow year-by-year. This past week saw their first "offshore" race of about 80.0nm in the Bay of Bengal in south India. The event was called the UNIFI CAPITAL J/80 Offshore Race based in Chennai, India. <br />
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Finally, in the J/Community section below, learn about the Storm Trysail Club Offshore Symposium that was hosted virtually in November 2020 with leaders in all aspects of seamanship, racing, military, expeditions, and so forth... it has numerous lessons about leadership and safety offshore that's well-worthwhile to watch- it includes a 70-minute YouTube video.<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j22" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22 one-design start" data-file-id="111202" height="282" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/62b134eb-c168-44e4-9cc8-4ef7b6bef39e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 282px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/22 Midwinter Championship Preview</span></h2>
(New Orleans, LA)- From March 18th to 21st, the gorgeous new Southern Yacht Club will be hosting the J/22 Midwinter Championship on the challenging, choppy waters of Lake Ponchartrain. The thirty teams from across the country should be blessed with spring-like windy conditions with breezes forecast to start in the northwesterly quadrant and slowly, persistently shift right all weekend. <br />
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<img align="none" alt="J22 Midwinters weather" data-file-id="114718" height="164" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7d628e91-581f-447a-8909-67e87e7c624e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 164px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
The entry list has many class leaders participating; all eager to get on the water and enjoy the fresh air on the water, the wind in your hair, and the sun on your face. Some of the notable teams with Midwinter, North American, and World titles in various classes include Benz Faget's FATS, Tommy Meric's CARNIVAL TIME, Dwight LeBlanc's WILD TCHOUPITOULAS, Travis Odenbach's HONEYBADGER, Glenn Darden's BABY DOLL, Mark Foster's PRESSURE DROP, Chip Carpenter's WIZARD, and Casey Lambert's BLACKBURN MARINE RACING.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="Southern YC in New Orleans, LA" data-file-id="114174" height="204" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/8c0acccf-4c27-478a-87c2-c5296ea64a93.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 204px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
The Southern YC welcomes all teams with open arms and will surely provide their famous red-carpet treatment for their guests. The regatta promises to be epic given the depth of talent, the often-challenging choppy waters of Lake Ponchartrain, and the very shifty puffy winds shifting from NW to NE over the three days. For <a href="http://www.j22mw.com" target="_blank">more J/22 Midwinter Championship registration & sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><img align="none" alt="sailing off San Diego, CA" data-file-id="105581" height="408" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3ed32a60-831c-432d-9060-2abcdc793bcc.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 408px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">San Diego NOOD Regatta Preview</span></h2>
(San Diego, CA)- The first of the famous HELLY HANSEN Sailing World NOOD Regatta series will be taking place in San Diego, CA this coming weekend. San Diego Yacht Club will play host for the event from March 19th to 21st for one-design fleets of J/24s and J/105s and an offshore North Sails Doublehanded Race.<br />
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The J/24 class features teams like Brian Dolan's CALAMITY from Tucson, Arizona (the long-distance traveler award!); Christian Seidel's CYGNET 2, Bill Ramacciotti's GREENBACK BOOGIE, Ryan Jurkowski's IRIE, and Dave Wethereit's SUPERDRY.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 sailing off San Diego, CA" data-file-id="105641" height="414" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/ab91d61b-1297-4d67-a3c5-5d1b4c74f247.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 414px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The always highly-competitive fleet of eight J/105s will see a number of the class stalwarts participating for their first time in over twelve months! Those teams include Steve & Lucy Howell's BLINK!, Stew Cannon's J-OK, Scott McDaniel's OFF THE PORCH and Bill Quealy's J RABBIT SLIM. <br />
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Looking forward to the challenge of sailing large boats doublehanded offshore is Stephen Driscoll's J/105 JUICED and Rudy Hasl's J/145 PALAEMON. Should be fun to watch these teams wrestle their boats around the track off Point Loma. <a href="http://www.joysailing.com" target="_blank">Sailing photo credits- Bronny Daniels/ JOY Sailing.com</a>. For <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-in-san-diego/" target="_blank">more San Diego NOOD Regatta sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j145" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/145 Katara sailing Cabo San Lucas Race" data-file-id="92541" height="383" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/30ed8318-0285-4491-953a-2c66c9e2688c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 383px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">NHYC Cabo Race Preview</span></h2>
(Newport Beach, CA)- On Friday midday, a fleet of eighteen offshore racers will be pointing their bows across the starting line set by the host Newport Harbor Yacht Club and will soon be headed 800.0nm south from Newport Beach, CA down to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. It is a famous race, a famous challenge, and anything can happen. Often the most significant decisions are which teams have chosen between hugging the Mexican coastline or heading offshore to steadier winds...it's often a roll of the dice. <br />
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Looking forward to that challenge are two thoroughbreds in the J/Design stable. Racing in ORR Class C are Standish Fleming's J/125 NEREID and Roger Gatewood's J/145 KATARA. Both are well-prepared, well-sailed boats with strong tactical/ strategic navigational teams on board. Furthermore, both boats have demonstrated the ability to win more than their fair share of silverware as well! With solid breezes forecast from the north, the fleet should have a reasonably quick sleighride down to the famous ocean resort of Cabo San Lucas! For <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14334" target="_blank">more Cabo Race sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j120" target="_blank"><img align="right" alt="J/120 sailing Yachting Cup" data-file-id="74925" height="160" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/05aee6c9-230e-4884-b679-00cabd29c303.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 160px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 250px;" width="250" /></a><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">San Diego Yacht Club's Yachting Cup is a Go!</span></h2>
(San Diego, CA)- After a full year of limited racing, postponed regattas, and socially distanced sailing, it seems like the world of competitive racing is finally getting back on course. In October 2020, San Diego Yacht Club hosted a postponed edition of the Yachting Cup, one of their most popular signature regattas. Thirty-seven boats came out as restrictions on boating eased - an event that typically hosts over 100 boats. A mere six months later, and the Yachting Cup is working to get back on course as well, returning to the weekend at the beginning of May where it’s been held in years past- May 1-2, 2021. <br />
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While the event might not be ramped up to its typical pre-Covid model, it is clear what the main attraction of the Yachting Cup really is: the sailing. SDYC Waterfront Director Jeff Johnson says it best, “The success of the event has been and will be being able to get out on the water. It’s an event for all of those that are looking to sail, and that’s why we do it - for the competitors. It’s not about the food and free drinks or fancy awards. It’s just to sail. And that’s what we’re doing.”<br />
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The 2021 Yachting Cup begins at 1200 on Saturday, May 1 and will be held on two ocean courses on the Coronado Roads. Competitors will be divided into one design fleets or Handicap Divisions (PHRF, ORR, ORR-ez). <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 sailing Yachting Cup" data-file-id="95221" height="382" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c3cc57dc-36fd-4a6d-b529-5aba195e1f85.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><div>Always one of Yachting Cup first entrants is SDYC Staff Commodore John Laun’s J/120 CAPER, who hasn’t missed a Yachting Cup in 20 years before last October’s regatta. Similar to many competitors, this will be his first opportunity back on the water. “This will be CAPER's first regatta in 16 months!! I’m excited to reunite with the crew. We’ve been together for over 10 years, some as long as 20. My crew is full of great friends and skilled sailors,” explained Laun.<br />
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Another J/120 skipper ready to get back out on the water after an injury last fall is SDYC Staff Commodore Chuck Nichols, sailing on CC RIDER. “I’ve raced in almost every Yachting Cup since the early eighties. The best racers in Southern California show up for the Yachting Cup. Everyone knows they will participate in good competition with good Race Committee work,” he started. “Between major regattas, we try to sail races that are similar to the types of courses we are going to see in the near future. Continuity of crew is critical to our success. They all know their jobs well and we work hard to get them out for every race on our calendar. Our crew is a fun-loving bunch who really enjoy joking around, but they also know when to hang up the hijinks and get down to racing.”<br />
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Back for another year to chair the event is Patrick Murray. “As we’ve endured an extremely long year dreaming of the things that we love to do, it’s time to get back at it and get back out racing. We’re excited to be hosting an event that will be building on the 2020 Yachting Cup as we work our way closer to a new normal,” he started.<br />
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“As with the 2020 edition, we’ll be focusing on the water and high-level racing on both courses. We expect to have extremely tight one design racing in the J/105 one-design fleet while we’ll have the bigger boats going head-to-head on the far course. One thing is for sure, you can count on all the teams bringing their A-games as the competition is always tight! We’ve had an active weather pattern here this spring, and that’s a good sign that we’ll get really nice sailing condition. We’re looking forward to having a great regatta! See you on the water," finished Murray.<br />
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Safety precautions are in place to ensure a healthy event such as socially distancing and wearing face coverings. SDYC is strictly following the protocols set forth by the County and the State. Due to continuing restrictions on gatherings, there will be no post-race socials on Saturday or Sunday evening. This year’s Yachting Cup will continue to feature a Skipper’s Meeting via Zoom. Awards will be announced at the Post Race Debrief after racing on Sunday, May 2. Awards will be available for individual pick-up or delivery. <br />
<a href="http://www.joysailing.com" target="_blank">Sailing photo credits- Bronny Daniels/ JOY Sailing.com</a>. For <a href="https://www.yachtingcup.com/" target="_blank">more SDYC Yachting Cup regatta and sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j109" target="_blank"><img alt="J/109s sailing Block Island" data-file-id="98125" height="370" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/d9b424b2-e4e0-4481-b39d-8599dbe12351.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 370px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Block Island Race Week Update</span></h2>
(Block Island, RI)- With just under 100 days left until Race Week, 150 teams have already joined Block Island Race Week presented by Margaritaville (seventy are J/Boats = 47%)! This is the highest number of early registrations in over a decade for the biennial Storm Trysail Club event. “We cannot underestimate the motivation for sailors and their families to return to doing what they love together,” says Event Chair Ray Redniss. “With increased vaccine rollouts and lower case numbers, we are cautiously optimistic that our 2021 event will be a great success.”<br />
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Still, the race organizers are managing expectations that 2021 won’t be exactly like past Race Weeks. The logistics of hosting a large regatta on an island demands months of preparation and - as one of the first major events to be held among so much uncertainty - a variety of necessary measures to keep sailors, volunteers and local families safe and healthy will be implemented. What those policies look like is still being determined.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111 sailing Block Island" data-file-id="97901" height="385" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/2629c514-a5fa-4862-b210-6e037727a61e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 385px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
“We meet each week as a team and are in constant contact with local businesses, a variety of experts, and our vendors,” says Redniss. “We know our sailors come for the fun, camaraderie, and competition, and our goal is still to deliver all that at the highest level, albeit safely.”<br />
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Regards J/Teams participation, so far here are the amazing numbers:
<ul>
<li>ORC 2- five J/121s and two J/122s</li>
<li>J/44 class- seven boats</li>
<li>J/88 class- five boats</li>
<li>J/109 class- thirteen boats</li>
<li>J/105 class- sixteen boats</li>
<li>PHRF 1- six J/111s and two J/122s (J/111s will get one-design start)</li>
<li>PHRF 2- a J/99, J/33, J/35</li>
<li>PHRF 3- a J/24, two J/29s, two J/80s</li>
<li>PHRF Cruise 1 Spin- a J/120, J/95</li>
<li>PHRF Cruise 2 Spin- a J/120, J/125, J/133</li>
<li>PHRF Cruise 3 Spin- a J/29</li>
</ul>
Racers planning to attend should have already started to make their housing, docking, and ferry arrangements, as we have been notified there are only a few reservations still available. Do not wait to plan ahead for your week away! Come one, come all, and join in on the fun! It promises to be an EPIC Block Island Race Week! <strong>Sailing photo credits- Stephen Cloutier.</strong> For <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eid=13033" target="_blank">more Block Island Race Week sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><img align="right" alt="J/70 Europeans- Denmark" data-file-id="113582" height="279" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7f596ab7-3f7b-40bc-89b3-35b751b947e6.png" style="border: 0px; height: 279px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 250px;" width="250" /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/70 European Championship Postponed</span></h2>
(Copenhagen, Denmark)– The Royal Danish Yacht Club (KDY) Organizing Committee and the International J/70 Class Association met to review the Danish governments pandemic restrictions and decided to move the Championship to late August this year. Registration/inspections will start on August 27th, 2021 and the prize-giving ceremony will conclude the Championship on September 4th, 2021.<br />
<br />
The event was scheduled in June at the Royal Danish Yacht Club. Please see the revised Notice of Race that will be posted in the coming days. It's the hope of the KDY Organizing Committee to be able to host a great and “normal” regatta with activity at the harbor, socializing and great racing later this year<br />
For<a href="http://www.j70europeans2021.com" target="_blank"> more J/70 European Championship regatta information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_13&products_id=220" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/Gear Marmot special" data-file-id="114878" height="312" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c726532e-23bd-4624-a904-609eaa6251ff.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 312px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Gear March 20% Off Special!</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)- The Marmot zip top model #9276 has a 20.0% discount for March! The simple lines and full-on function of the J Stretch Fleece 1/2 Zip makes layering on and off the water a practical solution. The warm polyester stretch fleece with a comfortable flat-locked seam construction allows liberal movement. Marmot quality and durability throughout. It's perfect partner for all seasons. In black, marine blue, or red. <a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_13&products_id=220" target="_blank">Order your beautiful Marmot 1/2 zip top here</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span></h2>
Mar 18-21- <a href="http://www.j22mw.com" target="_blank">J/22 Midwinter Championship- New Orleans, LA</a><br />
Mar 19-21- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-in-san-diego/" target="_blank">San Diego NOOD Regatta- San Diego, CA</a><br />
Mar 19- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14334" target="_blank">NHYC Cabo Race- Newport Beach, CA</a><br />
Mar 25-28- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14317" target="_blank">SAIL 22 J/70 Invitational- Coconut Grove, FL</a><br />
Mar 26-28- <a href="https://stthomasinternationalregatta.com/" target="_blank">St. Thomas International Regatta- St. Thomas, USVI</a><br />
Mar 29- Apr 4- <a href="https://bvispringregatta.org/" target="_blank">BVI Spring Regatta- Road Town, Tortola, BVI</a><br />
Apr 2-4- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-st-petersburg/" target="_blank">St Petersburg NOOD Regatta- St Petersburg, FL</a><br />
Apr 8-11- <a href="https://www.charlestonraceweek.com/" target="_blank">Charleston Race Week- Charleston, SC</a><br />
Apr 30- May 2- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">Annapolis NOOD Regatta- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
Apr 30- May 2- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">J/111 North American Championship- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
May 9-15- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/event_scratch_sheet.cfm?eID=13209" target="_blank">J/70 North American Championship- Annapolis, MD</a> <br />
<br />
For additional <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j-sailing-calendar/sailing-regattas" target="_blank">J/Regatta and Event dates in your region, please refer to the on-line J/Sailing Calendar</a>.<br />
<hr /><a href="https://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing on Biscayne Bay, Miami, FL" data-file-id="114754" height="248" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b178a177-84a5-4bb3-8ecd-d57dd13877b0.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 248px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">HONEYBADGER Crowned J/70 Bacardi Champion</span></h2>
(Miami, FL)- This past weekend, the Bacardi Invitational for the J/70 class took place on Miami's Biscayne Bay, hosted by the Shake-A-Leg Foundation, with race management conducted by the Biscayne Bay Yacht Club.<br />
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<a href="https://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing Bacardi Cup regatta" data-file-id="114910" height="360" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f63b9db6-77c9-4e89-92e0-d36cb6c75f73.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 360px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The twenty-two boat J/70 fleet was simply blessed with classic, amazing Biscayne Bay sailing conditions all three days of the event. Starting off with two days of planing conditions in northerly winds, the smiles painted onto everyone's faces was palpable...pure joy as teams loved the good breeze, sunny weather, and turquoise waters of the Bay!<br />
<br />
An incredible nine races were run by the Biscayne Bay YC Race Committee and PRO team, helping out that process was the quick mark reset capabilities of the tres-cool MARK-SET-BOT buoys of the windward marks and gates!<br />
<br />
<img align="none" alt="J/70 Honeybadger winning crew" data-file-id="114874" height="340" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f941fb15-635a-4cdf-a69c-91e856ed2c83.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 340px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
In the end, the most remarkable performance came from the well-known cast of characters from upstate New York; winning with style and grace was Travis Odenbach's HONEYBADGER team that consisted of Andy Horton, Geoff Becker, and Danny Lawless. They eclipsed a truly star-studded fleet that was deeply laden in talent, leaving multiple World, European, North American Champions in their wake. On their way to the top of the podium, they collected an outstanding record of four 1sts, two 2nds, and two 4ths to count only top five finishes for 16 pts net. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 Surge 2nd at Bacardi Cup" data-file-id="114934" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/5e73e8e9-aa53-455b-a8bf-8a5b9c83894b.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
For the third straight time, it was Ryan McKillen's SURGE crew of Jeff Reynolds, Lucas Calabrese, and Sam Loughborough that took the silver. They put up a good fight but could not match the sheer consistency of the HONEYBADGER gangsters. Like their colleagues, they also posted all top five finishes, including two race wins, to end with 22 pts net. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing fast on Biscayne Bay" data-file-id="114818" height="348" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4014fafd-cf12-4db1-8965-429c2e45485f.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 348px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Rounding out the podium was World Champion Joel Ronning's team on CATAPULT that consisted of Jud Smith (another J/70 World champ), Kris Stoke, and Patrick Wilson. Winning two races and taking three 2nds, they were virtually tied for the lead with just two races to go in the series. However, a lighter air, shiftier day for the finale proved to be their undoing, posting an uncharacteristic 9-8 to close out the regatta and dropping to the bronze step on the podium. Rounding out the top five were John Brim's RIMETTE in fourth place and Vernon Robert's Chilean crew on MORENITA.<br />
<br />
Winning the Corinthians Division was Zach Segal's USA 1154 with crew of Ashton Hamerlin, Enrique Quintero, and Blake Cabasa. Second was the Brazilian crew on CLOUD NINE with Toribio Tedin as skipper and team of Emilio Miguel, and Javier & Enrique Dillon. <strong>Sailing photo credits- Bacardi / Mattias Cappizano.</strong> For <a href="https://bacardiinvitational.com/" target="_blank">more Bacardi J/70 Invitational Regatta sailing information</a> <br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105s sailing Galveston Bay" data-file-id="114810" height="296" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/02f20cbe-a750-4b0c-832b-5cad17d0f7f0.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 296px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">DEJA VOODOO Eclipses J/105 Midwinters</span></h2>
(Seabrook, TX)- The J/105 Midwinter Championship returned to the calendar this year as twelve teams competed at Lakewood Yacht Club in Seabrook, TX from March 11-14. Over the three-day regatta, the fleet enjoyed truly amazing Texas-style hospitality and pretty amazing sailing conditions- warm, breezy, and moderately choppy waters on Galveston Bay.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/105 Deja Voodoo winners" data-file-id="114854" height="284" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e57a2eb6-a322-4833-bf37-c04938aa9a2b.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 284px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
After the first day it was abundantly clear that one team must've consumed several spinach cans of Popeye's "whupass", flexed their muscles, and completely smoked the fleet. Starting first and never looking back. the DEJA VOODOO team left everyone in their wake as they peeled off all bullets on the first day. The second and third day of racing never saw them take their foot off the gas, keeping it "firewalled" and reeling off a bunch more bullets. In the end, Bill Zartler's team on DEJA VOODOO may have been surprised at their own incredible record, counting all bullets after tossing a 2nd place in the eight race/ one-drop series...just 7 pts net! <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105s sailing Midwinters in Texas" data-file-id="114826" height="274" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/80ab70d4-62c7-4bbd-8758-2a9f0403930f.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 274px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The Vice-champion of the last J/105 North American Championship in Marblehead, MA- FINAL FINAL- was put into the unenviable position of playing chase the entire regatta. Accumulating five deuces and the only bullet not taken by DEJA VOODOO, Ken Horne's team on FINAL FINAL sailed to a clear second place with 14 pts net.<br />
<br />
Completing the podium in the bronze position was Uzi Ozeri's BONBON, they closed with a 3-5 on the last day for all top ten finishes and 32 pts net.<br />
<br />
Rounding out the top five was John Barnett's PESTO with 35 pts net in fourth position and Mark Smith's EAU LA LA took 5th with 36 pts net. For <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14324" target="_blank">more J/105 Midwinter Championship regatta sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j80" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/80s sailing off Chennai, India" data-file-id="114898" height="314" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/1fe292a3-443b-4b62-b27b-b3452515c08f.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 314px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Successful UNIFI CAPITAL J/80 Offshore Regatta!</span></h2>
(Chennai, India)- The Unifi Capital Offshore Regatta, was held from the 11th to 14th March 2021 with a race between Chennai and Puducherry which are 160 kms apart in the Bay of Bengal in South India. Four J/80 class sail boats competed with teams- INWTC from Indian Navy, EMESA from Indian Army, VCS from Royal Madras Yacht Club and PSA from Pondycherry Sailing Association.<br />
<br />
The event was the first offshore Regatta in India complying with OSR Cat 3 requirements and was organized by Royal Madras Yacht Club under the authority of the Yachting Association of India, the apex sailing body. The Indian Coast Guard and the Indian Navy provided support and logistics for a safe event. World renowned sailors consented to participate in the event to get the press and media interested. Commander Abhilash Tomy, the first Indian to complete a solo, non-stop circumnavigation of the world in a sailboat and Lt. Cdr Vartika Joshi, the naval officer who captained the all-women team which circumnavigated the globe.<br />
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Event organizer Capt. Vivek Shanbhag said that for the first-time satellite trackers were used for continuous coverage. The website was given wide publicity for tracking the race in real-time on smart phones and laptops.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/80 winners of Unifi Capital Offshore Regatta" data-file-id="114974" height="460" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/6e0d1b71-508e-4efa-be52-bbe10671e376.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 460px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
The first leg had VCS leading from the beginning. Over the next 8 hours as the sun was setting, VCS was about 500 meters ahead of INWTC and about 3 kms behind were EMESA leading by a km over PSA. The race was a close reach with calm seas and 10 knots SW winds. Being a new moon, the sky was bright with a million stars and boats had to keep watch over the many fishing boats dotting the seas. In the last 2 kms the winds dropped to 4 knots and VCS was trying to spot the race committee vessel at the finish line among the numerous fishing boats with similar lights. Meantime INWTC hoisted their kite and narrowed the margin and got a slim lead over VCS. By the time VCS hoisted their kite, the winds dropped further, and the boats moved in slow motion with INWTC finishing 3 minutes ahead. Similarly, PSA bringing the rear managed to pip EMESA by a minute at the finish line. After 14 hours racing the finish was an absolute thriller! <br />
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After a good, long nights sleep, the next day saw the fleet prepare to sail the return leg to Chennai. The second leg had a wind change and was 10 knots from NE with the boats sailing a long beat to windward. VCS tacked and headed deep into the sea, with the other three teams hugging the coast. INWTC managed a comfortable lead of about 90 minutes over the next 10 hours and the next three boats finished within 4 minutes of each other! VCS, which was lagging behind by a huge margin of 5 kms, managed to continuously trim their sails and finished second. The last boat took about 16 hours. It was yet another nail-biting finish, an event rarely heard of in offshore racing.<br />
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As a result, the cumulative results of the two legs saw INWTC win with two bullets, followed by VCS with two 2nds, and a tie for third place between PSA and EMESA!<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105s sailing Pi Race" data-file-id="114722" height="186" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/994fbde4-eadd-46b7-b9f7-f6ed59d6bc2c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 186px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">ARBITRAGE Circles Fleet in J/105 "Pi" Doublehanded Race</span></h2>
(San Francisco, CA)- J/105 Fleet #1 continues to have fun organizing their own one-design doublehanded racing on San Francisco Bay. With races easily started and finished just off Golden Gate Yacht Club, and with a few hundred navigational buoys to choose from on Bay charts, it's easy to tailor a race course to the forecasted breezes and tides for the day. Here's Bruce Stone and Nicole Breault's report from aboard ARBITRAGE on the inaugural "Pi" Doublehanded Race held on 3.14.21 (get it? LOL). <br />
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"The wind was uncharacteristically from the south, around 8-10 kt, so the PRO set us on a reaching course from the Golden Gate YC's X Buoy against the 2-3 kt flood tide out to Pt. Bonita buoy and back.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 Arbitrage sailing San Francisco" data-file-id="114766" height="288" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/962c3505-c05a-434e-95c0-2bd2b6e218e7.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 288px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
We had an ultra-cautious start (not our usual, of course). We were a bit late at the start, as we decided to hoist the big asym spinnaker before the gun and allowed a generous amount of space so as to not risk being over-early. <br />
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Most of the other boats started ahead of us and then jib-reached up along the shore to avoid the flood and what appeared to be lighter air.<br />
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By contrast, we felt the extra sail area would allow us to plow ahead on the rhumb line, and that proved to be the winning formula against the adverse current. We were in much more breeze and we were well-ahead by the time the others hoisted their spinnakers. <br />
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We then nearly stopped dead when passing the south tower of the Golden Gate Bridge and running into both its wind shadow and a 4-5 knot flood...reducing our VMG to around 1.5 kt! We persisted and poked through to some relief. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105s sailing on San Francisco Bay" data-file-id="114762" height="254" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e1ae70ad-7f2e-4f86-948c-327c62d70265.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 254px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
We were then knocked toward the north shore of the entrance channel, but did not mind that as we expected early ebb, which proved to be true. As we got closer to the lee shore (on the north side of the channel), we were headed some more and dropped the kite, but then lifted back up to the mark and benefited from the ebb. <br />
<br />
After passing Pt. Bonita, we were still way ahead of the fleet. However, we couldn't locate the mark! We suspect it had been pulled for maintenance!! Oops! <br />
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We called our competitors on the radio and asked if any of them could find the mark. We then suggested they should round our spot (GPS coordinates) and race to the finish. Everyone agreed, and we then turned for a pleasant close-reach and then a beat home to the finish. It was notable that two of the teams, RUSSIAN ROULETTE and AKULA, had young crew on board. Nicole had baked some fruit pies and awarded them to the second and third place finishers, AKULA and AQUAVIT." <strong>Sailing photo credits- Don Weineke.</strong><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Community</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span></h3>
-----------<br />
<strong>J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">J/Boats from around the world here</a>. <br />
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<a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/1990-J-Boats-J44Norwalk-VwD9KM1x" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/44 custom boat for sale" data-file-id="114834" height="300" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/d3f7221a-23c2-4832-9260-43992b03383d.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 300px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
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Beautiful customized 1990 J/44 Available for Sale</b>. Southern Cross has an extensive inventory and has been meticulously maintained, spending most of her time sailing summers on Long Island Sound and fully winterized for the long winter seasons in New York. Learn more about this <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/1990-J-Boats-J44Norwalk-VwD9KM1x" target="_blank">custom J/44 McMichaels Yacht Brokerage listing here</a><br />
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<br />
<span class="subTitle"><img align="right" alt="Storm Trysail Club" data-file-id="89429" height="77" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c54138bd-47b8-4a96-9f21-f2fbf69584a7.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 77px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 250px;" width="250" /><b>* Learn about the Storm Trysail Club Offshore Sailing Leadership Symposium</b></span><br />
The Storm Trysail Club Released its Offshore Sailing Leadership Symposium Report Detailed Report, including a 70 Minute Video Recap of November 2020 Event. Read the report here- <a href="https://stormtrysail.org/reports/osls2020/" target="_blank">https://stormtrysail.org/reports/osls2020/</a><br />
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Last November, the Storm Trysail Club Seamanship Committee virtually gathered 90 accomplished leaders from within - and outside - the sailing world for its Offshore Sailing Leadership Symposium. World-class sailors, military officers, mountaineers, Merchant Marine officers, public health experts, and business executives worked together to better understand and promote a culture of safety and leadership in offshore sailing and to recommend improvements to Safety at Sea training and education. Their collective achievements include America’s Cup campaigns, summiting Mount Everest, commanding a US Navy nuclear submarine, solo and crewed circumnavigations, and combating Ebola and Covid-19.<br />
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“Until recently, the concept of ‘Leadership’ has been largely ignored while the use of safety-related equipment and specific maneuvers - such as recovering crew overboard - have been emphasized. Yet, Leadership is the glue that holds it all together,“ explained Event Chair Rich du Moulin. “Good leadership minimizes the chance of a dangerous situation, and when something does go wrong offshore, good leadership maximizes the chance for a satisfactory outcome. This comprehensive analysis includes observations and recommendations for leadership that have terrific applicability to handling challenges in business and other non-sailing situations.”<br />
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<strong>Principal findings coming out of the seminar include:</strong>
<ul>
<li>The Skipper/Owner is Ultimately Accountable</li>
<li>The Implications of Leading with High Character</li>
<li>Insights on Selecting and Training the Team</li>
<li>Critical Processes for Planning and Preparation</li>
<li>Methods of Ensuring Clear Roles and Responsibilities</li>
<li>The Effects of Ego on Teamwork</li>
<li>Positive Impacts of Open Communication</li>
<li>Error Chain Recognition and Maintaining Situational Awareness</li>
<li>Benefits of Adjusting Goals and Plans as Conditions Require</li>
<li>The Importance of Remaining Calm in an Emergency</li>
<li>How Maintaining Optimism is Key to Positive Results</li>
<li>Never Giving Up!</li>
</ul>
The 52-page report (<a href="https://stormtrysail.org/reports/osls2020/" target="_blank">https://stormtrysail.org/reports/osls2020/</a>) includes links to reference material, as well as a number of personal sea stories that bring to life actual crises, and the attendant learnings. Particular attention is paid to recommendations on how best to develop leadership qualities in young sailors and identifying leaders among crews. <br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-40748663325780857212021-03-10T07:00:00.002-05:002021-03-13T19:57:23.513-05:00J/Newsletter- March 10th, 2021<img align="none" alt="Sunset Bahamas" data-file-id="113910" height="328" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/8bb9b7c2-17f0-4746-abbe-0a39a25211ea.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 328px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /> <div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">The Sun Never Sets on J's Sailing Worldwide</span></h3>
March 10th, 2020. A day that will live in infamy. The day when the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the world was in a coronavirus pandemic scenario. In Rhode Island, we were locked down at home except for doing essential errands like go to the drugstore or the supermarket. Of course, with Newport surrounded by the ocean and blessed with amazing beaches, Ocean Drive, and state parks, going for a walk in fresh air was a God-send. Others were not so fortunate, which is why it seemed that Newport was soon overrun by escapees from the concrete canyons of big cities up and down the northeast coastline.<br />
<br />
With the infamous St. Patrick's Day celebrations just a week away, don't be surprised to see thousands of merry-makers out and about clearly suffering from cottage fever! C'est la vie, c'est la guerre. One hopes a "third wave" of the fearsome "mutants" doesn't wreck the party (as is happening today in Germany & France). A sobering thought to contemplate.<br />
<br />
On an upbeat note, several one-design classes and offshore organizations have figured out how to run events and comply 100% with suggested guidelines for covid-19 mitigation. The Yacht Club de Monaco hosted their popular Primo Cup- Trophee Credit Suisse last weekend on Hercules Bay, just off the famous port of Monte Carlo. The J/70 fleet had a great time racing over the weekend. <br />
<br />
Over in the Americas, the Long Beach and San Diego Yacht Clubs hosted their increasingly popular "Islands Race", an often-challenging offshore sprint going out around San Clemente Island. Enjoying the moonlit, starry night were a few J/crews. <br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 doublehanded off France" data-file-id="111206" height="270" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/57884bc4-73c6-4ed3-b4b4-80166f975a60.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 270px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Strong Worldwide Growth for J/99 Speedster!</span></h2>
(Les Sables d'Olonne, France)- Announced July 2018, international debut in Paris Boat Show in December 2018, then launched in January 2019 in Southampton, United Kingdom, the J/99 has garnered more than her fair share of accolades from the world's yachting press, the most prestigious "Best Boat" awards from various magazines, and most importantly, dozens of testimonials from her passionate owners from around the world. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 boating awards winner" data-file-id="107193" height="410" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/70944333-7aa3-40d7-8dad-cccc3425c974.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 410px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
After just two sailing seasons (including the highly abbreviated 2020 pandemic summer), the worldwide reach of the J/99 is somewhat astonishing- now sailing in 22 countries on four continents! Hull #100 should be building later this year! There are five or more J/99s in the following countries: France (12), Italy, Spain, Australia, Netherlands and USA (14). Here is the list of countries:
<ul>
<li>Antipodes (Australia, New Zealand)</li>
<li>North America (USA, Canada)</li>
<li>South America (Chile, Peru)</li>
<li>Europe (Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Malta, Netherlands, Portugal, Russia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and United Kingdom)</li>
<li>Asia (Hong Kong, Japan)</li>
</ul>
If you recall, the accolades just kept rolling in from the world press from professional offshore sailors that know a thing or two about offshore single and doublehanded sailing. Here are a few excerpts:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 sailing on Solent, UK" data-file-id="95357" height="333" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/657ca7f5-861a-4af3-975c-bc038424fd07.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 333px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
<span class="subTitle"><b>Pip Hare/ YACHTING WORLD review</b></span><br />
According to Pip, “the J/99 is all thrills, no frills on board the versatile 32-foot offshore speedster.... within ten minutes our demure departure was all but forgotten as we came bursting out of Southampton Water, our senses assaulted from all angles by the bitter north wind and our 100m2 dayglo yellow spinnaker. As the sun rose, everything about the day and this little powerhouse of a boat became bright, sharp and dynamic. I don’t know what the rest of the world was doing at 0800 on that January morning, but we were having a blast.<br />
<br />
The eagerly awaited J/99 directly targets a growing demographic of sailors who enjoy the fantastic short-handed racing scene available all across Europe.... from the first moment I stepped into the cockpit, this boat struck me with its no-nonsense approach. Sail handling is simple, the cockpit clean and well laid-out, the helm dynamic and responsive. Just cruising down the river, the boat felt light and seemed to directly translate every puff of wind into increased speed. Compared to the Class 40s I have spent much of the last two years racing, the J/99 felt like a go-cart – a promising combination of agility and power.” Read <a href="https://jboatnews.blogspot.com/2019/05/thrills-for-two-clever-new-j99.html" target="_blank">more of Pip's YACHTING WORLD review here</a><br />
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<span class="subTitle"><b>Andy Howe/ SAIL magazine review</b></span><br />
"This boat is gonna create more temptation in sailors’ minds than one could possibly imagine. She’s been touted as a "market disruptor" by SEAHORSE Magazine and "versatile & exciting" by YACHTING WORLD as she sits proudly on their April 2019 magazine cover. <br />
<br />
The all-new J/99, from J/Boats, checks more boxes than any boat they’ve produced in over 30 years, period.... the J/99 packs a lot of performance and versatility into a manageable size and budget.” Read <a href="https://jboatnews.blogspot.com/2019/03/expert-j121-j99-sailboat-reviews-sail.html" target="_blank">more of Andy's SAIL review here</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 sailing Pacific Northwest" data-file-id="112010" height="205" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/674fc45f-3351-4f95-a0c7-8181a7e72b08.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 205px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
<span class="subTitle"><b>SAIL NORTHWEST Review</b></span><br />
Some perspectives from Ben Braden after a San Francisco Bay sail on the 99. <br />
<br />
"I was able to do a demo sail on San Francisco Bay awhile back on the first boat Sail California brought in to the West Coast.<br />
<br />
That demo sail was great! From the east Bay in Richmond, CA, we went upwind around Angel Island, leaving it to port. We got some good puffs up by the bridge, then set the chute for the run back downwind towards the northeast Bay. She maneuvered well and reacted to the puffs, but not so much that you had to scramble to blow something. <br />
<br />
She dug in and sped up in the puffs rather than dropping the deck down and spinning to weather. This is when I first thought "rails", she's stiff, like being on "rails", she just accelerates forward.<br />
<br />
Pop the chute in 16+ kts of wind and she will slide off downwind, pushing 10 kts boatspeed easily.<br />
<br />
The J/99 is simple to drive and smooth to recover when the new guy driving gets excited with things and stops paying attention. <br />
<br />
Cool boat, stiff and responsive was my first impression." Read <a href="https://jboatnews.blogspot.com/2020/03/j99-pacific-northwest-debut-she-rides.html" target="_blank">more of Ben's review here</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 Duo Cat-Amania silver medal winner" data-file-id="106137" height="354" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/583b3ff6-ba61-45b7-832d-8b678f996441.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 354px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="subTitle"><b>J/99s Race-winning Performance in DUO CAT-AMANIA</b></span><br />
The Duo Cat-Amania, the premiere doublehanded offshore regatta in France, was hosted by the Yacht Club Crouesty Arzon (YCCA). An amazing fleet of fifty doublehanded teams participated in the event. The regatta is a combination of round-the-buoys plus point-to-point offshore racing legs. The regatta started in Crouesty and headed to Quiberon. Then, from there they headed to Lorient. Next leg was then to Concarneau. Then, the fleet returned to Morbihan, with a stopover in Locmiquélic, then La Trinité-sur-Mer, then back to Le Crouesty for the finish!<br />
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The J/99 J-LANCE 14 sailed by Frederic Bouvier and Benjamin Dutreaux took the silver, while the J/99 GRASSI BATEAUX sailed by Olivier Grassi and Frederic Duthil took 5th place.<br />
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Bouvier commented on their successful regatta. "All the races counted in the general classification," explained Fred. “Despite one bad decision in one race- a 20th- we always finished in the top 5 in front of larger sailboats than ours. In medium wind conditions, which normally favor large boats, we were successful, and we managed to keep a good pace. Our second place reaffirms the versatility of the J/99 at all wind speeds and in all weather situations. The J/99 is a well-designed sailboat that is fully in tune for doublehanded sailing. The level of competition was extremely high in this year's Duo Cat-Amania. We are also delighted with the fifth place of another J/99, Olivier Grassi and Fred Duthil's GRASSI BATEAUX."<br />
<br />
Perhaps most significantly from a competitive standpoint, the J/99s beat out a number of "professional factory teams" from the following camps- JPK (960, 1010, 1030, 1080), Beneteau (Figaro 2s) and Jeanneau Sunfast (3200, 3300, 3600). Read<a href="https://jboatnews.blogspot.com/2020/01/doublehanded-j99s-triumph-in-duo-cat.html" target="_blank"> more of Fred Bouvier's commentary sailing the DUO CAT-AMANIA</a><br />
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<img align="none" alt="Pascal Fan and J/99 crew" data-file-id="111370" height="352" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/6a686184-07b2-4149-971e-0e74ec546c21.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 352px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<span class="subTitle"><b>KING OF BLUE Views on Winning IRC E- Les Voiles de St. Tropez</b></span><br />
Owner Pascal Fan of the J/99 KING OF BLUE sailed "Les Voiles" with a largely family crew. Their performance was all the more remarkable considering they were up against a number of French offshore "factory teams" in their rather large division. Here's Pascal's commentary:<br />
<br />
“We are very happy with our races at Les Voiles. This year has been very special for us. We bought the J/99 at the beginning of the year, before the Covid-19 crisis. We were only able to sail on board in regattas in the spring. In fact, during the Sémac Trophy, we were fortunate to have finished 3rd overall!<br />
<br />
It is with great pleasure that we’ve participated in this 2020 edition of Les Voiles de St Tropez. We are so happy and so grateful to participate as a family and friends. During the various coastal races, we were around 3rd or 4th on the downwind tracks and 1st on the upwind tracks. Our J/99 KING OF BLUE is the real bomb! We were all delighted to sail on board! You really have to try it to enjoy!" Read <a href="https://jboatnews.blogspot.com/2020/10/j99-king-of-blue-victorious-at-les.html" target="_blank">more about the KING OF BLUE experience here</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 sailing in Australia" data-file-id="109126" height="340" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9497008b-30d4-4a5d-84b0-e718c519ecd5.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 340px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="subTitle"><b>AUSTRALIA Offshore Doublehanded Domination</b></span><br />
Sailing out of Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club in Pittwater (Sydney), Australia, our J/Dealer Ray and Sandra Entwistle have been sailing their J/99 JEDI as a doublehanded team.<br />
<br />
After their first 20.0nm race, Ray commented, "...the J/99 is so easy to sail, perfectly balanced, highly versatile and comfortable. She was also very dry considering the lumpy seaway and simply carved her way through the swell. The race was tactically challenging as we had to keep out of as much dirty air as possible with so many larger boats around us. We popped the A2 for the return run, Sandra cross sheeted the kite sheets and enjoyed the ride home...”<br />
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Then, in their next trio of races, skipper Ray offered this view, ”...we've been lucky enough to experience the J/99 in many different wind and sea states and the results have been just as impressive. The first race in 8-15 knots and lumpy seaway, second race in 15-25 knots and very rough seaway, third race in light conditions and fairly flat seas. The J/99 has performed outstandingly well in this wide range of conditions, is incredibly easy to manage, and a real joy to sail.” <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 sailing off Austrlia doublehanded" data-file-id="109098" height="276" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c91cb91e-d3c7-4a66-814c-093b09cf7dd8.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 276px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="subTitle"><b>A Woman's Doublehanded Perspective</b></span><br />
<strong>After a season of sailing the J/99 JEDI, Sandra Entwistle offered her perspectives.</strong><br />
<br />
"We’ve been practicing two-handed racing in our J/99 while joining in with fully-crewed fleet from the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (RPAYC) Short Offshore Point Score (SOPS) series. While Ray and I have sailed together for many years, we haven’t seriously raced two-handed since 2008 when we owned our J/109 Sweet Chariot. <br />
<br />
By no means am I a professional sailor or have any aspiration to enter the Olympics, I’m just keen to get out there and enjoy sailing. The J/99 is perfect for us as she can be easily sailed by two, large enough to race fully crewed plus has enough creature comforts down below for some family cruising.<br />
<br />
Actually, in all honesty, I prefer racing two-up as I get to do a bit of everything – from tactics to jib trim to kite trim to steering and all the tasks to make that happen. Paradoxically, I find it less stressful with just two on board, the reason being that we ensure we are organized and prepared for what’s going to happen next, I know what Ray is going to do and vice versa."<br />
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Sandra goes on to exclaim what happened after a 2 hour upwind leg and rounding the mark.. "after hoisting the kite, we immediately got a gust and scooted down the swell doing about 17 kts – woo hoo! The J/99 is so stiff and balanced, at no time were we out of control or concerned. Speed is your friend when going downwind as there is less sheet loading. <br />
<br />
...at then end of the run, we opted for a letterbox drop where the kite is dropped between the mainsail and boom and down the main hatch. That technique is by far the safest, easiest spinnaker drop for any shorthanded sailing team." Read <a href="https://jboatnews.blogspot.com/2020/10/australian-j99-continues-doublehanded.html" target="_blank">more of Sandra's experiences and lessons-learned here</a><br />
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There are several entertaining and instructive sailing videos on J/99s on YouTube. Here's the latest from Chile.<br />
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<a href="https://youtu.be/V-MZx_4xKOw" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J99 Chile sailing video" data-file-id="113598" height="320" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/828dea90-3b21-4310-b74d-8442d46ea090.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 320px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<a target="_blank"><b>Chile J/99 video on YouTube</b></a><br />
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If that video didn't get you excited enough to get on the water, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVJNzJFuYaa6CSL5DPymTSIDE7Y0EkXPk" target="_blank">enjoy this J/99 sailing videos playlist on the J/Boats YouTube channel</a> For<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"> more J/99 shorthanded offshore speedster sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off Miami, FL" data-file-id="113406" height="252" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a8b4d708-672c-4610-82a0-5643b4f43978.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 252px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/70 Bacardi Invitational Preview</span></h2>
(Miami, FL)- This coming weekend, the Bacardi Invitational for the J/70 class takes place on Miami's Biscayne Bay, hosted by the Shake-A-Leg Foundation, with race management conducted by the Biscayne Bay Yacht Club.<br />
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The twenty-four boat J/70 fleet has multiple teams with impressive pedigrees in this highly competitive class. Past J/70 World Champion Joel Ronning on CATAPULT has to be a front runner with back-to-back wins in 2019 and 2018, although he dropped to 4th last year. <br />
<br />
In 2020 and 2019, Ryan McKillen and his team on SURGE had to settle for second place and will hope to improve upon that this year. Their target is firmly in sight, with a win at the recent Bacardi Winter Series 2, with new crew on board in the form of Olympian Lucas Calabrese, who may be the component to secure an upgrade. <br />
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Always sitting high up the leader board is Brian Keane and his SAVASANA team. He previously placed 7th and 3rd as well as securing top five finishes at the J/70 Worlds. <br />
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Pamela Rose and her team on ROSEBUD have been steadily advancing up the leader board, rounding out Bacardi Winter Series 2 in 3rd place, and clearly have the skill to stake their claim on the podium. <br />
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During the Bacardi Cup there will be a special tribute to honor the life and legacy of James ‘Ding’ Schoonmaker who passed away on January 19, 2021. It was the special friendship between Ding, Tito Argamasilla Bacardi, and Frank Zagarino who in 1962 brought the Bacardi Cup to Miami from Cuba, thus saving this unique and special regatta. For <a href="https://bacardiinvitational.com/" target="_blank">more Bacardi J/70 Invitational Regatta sailing information </a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 Worlds off Torquay, England" data-file-id="101349" height="384" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/18d07d1d-d4a7-4bf9-b5d8-6f11c81b9bc2.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 384px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Back to Racing for J/70 UK Class</span></h2>
(Cowes, Isle of Wight, England)- The J/70 UK Class is looking forward to an exciting season of racing for 2021. Following the UK Government announcement of the roadmap to cautiously ease lockdown restrictions in England and following guidance from the RYA. The J/70 UK Class will have some coronavirus protocols in place, and we are planning a full season of racing from April through to October.<br />
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The 2021 J/70 UK Grand Slam Series will feature seven events with the best four to count, the J/70 UK Nationals will be a non-discard event and Grand Slam winners will be in both the Corinthian and Open Classes. Seven clubs will be hosting the J/70 UK Class: Warsash SC, Royal Thames YC, Royal Southern YC, Parkstone YC, Cowes CC, Royal Yacht Squadron, and the Hamble River SC.<br />
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The 2021 UK Grand Slam Series is expected to be the UK J/70 Class Qualifying Series for the 2022 J/70 World Championships in Monaco. Further details on the 2022 Worlds and UK Qualifying are expected from the J/70 International Class <br />
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Charles Thompson’s BRUTUS will be defending their win in the Corinthian Class for the J/70 UK Nationals and J/70 UK Grand Slam Series.<br />
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“I am sure I speak for everyone involved that it is fantastic to be looking forward to a full season of racing in the J/70 UK Class,” commented Charles Thompson. “Also, the training events organized by Marshall King are a great initiative, and the new sprint series is also designed to improve performance right through the fleet.”<br />
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The J/70 UK Sprint Series is a new and exciting edition to the 2021 calendar. Two days of weekend racing, hosted by the Royal Southern YC, will run from May through to September. With five short, sharp races per day, the series is designed to test raw speed and boat handling. The Sprint Series will also allow on the water coaching to add another dimension to the racing.<br />
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J/70 UK Class Chairman Paul Ward commented: “We are looking forward to welcoming all of the J70 fleet for this new race series format where the focus will be on improving our racing and sharing knowledge with all of the fleet. Working together to enjoy our racing and time on the water. “<br />
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With the J/70 UK Class craving to get out on the water, a big turn-out is expected for all of the events. <br />
Follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/j70uk/" target="_blank">J/70 U.K. Class on Facebook here</a> For <a href="http://www.j-70.co.uk" target="_blank">more J/70 UK Class information, including boat charter opportunities</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span></h2>
Mar 10-13- <a href="https://bacardiinvitational.com/" target="_blank">J/70 Bacardi Cup- Miami, FL</a><br />
Mar 11-14- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14324" target="_blank">J/105 Midwinters- Seabrook, TX</a><br />
Mar 18-21- <a href="http://www.j22mw.com" target="_blank">J/22 Midwinter Championship- New Orleans, LA</a><br />
Mar 19-21- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-in-san-diego/" target="_blank">San Diego NOOD Regatta- San Diego, CA</a><br />
Mar 19- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14334" target="_blank">NHYC Cabo Race- Newport Beach, CA</a><br />
Mar 25-28- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14317" target="_blank">SAIL 22 J/70 Invitational- Coconut Grove, FL</a><br />
Mar 26-28- <a href="https://stthomasinternationalregatta.com/" target="_blank">St. Thomas International Regatta- St. Thomas, USVI</a><br />
Mar 29- Apr 4- <a href="https://bvispringregatta.org/" target="_blank">BVI Spring Regatta- Road Town, Tortola, BVI</a><br />
Apr 2-4- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-st-petersburg/" target="_blank">St Petersburg NOOD Regatta- St Petersburg, FL</a><br />
Apr 8-11- <a href="https://www.charlestonraceweek.com/" target="_blank">Charleston Race Week- Charleston, SC</a><br />
Apr 30- May 2- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">Annapolis NOOD Regatta- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
Apr 30- May 2- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">J/111 North American Championship- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
May 9-15- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/event_scratch_sheet.cfm?eID=13209" target="_blank">J/70 North American Championship- Annapolis, MD</a> <br />
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For additional <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j-sailing-calendar/sailing-regattas" target="_blank">J/Regatta and Event dates in your region, please refer to the on-line J/Sailing Calendar</a>.<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off Monaco" data-file-id="114686" height="304" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/77987568-0b13-4e2d-a45e-e0cc415caa35.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 304px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">G-SPOT Crowned Primo Cup- Trophy Credit Suisse Champion</span></h2>
(Monte Carlo, Monaco)- The 2021 pandemic version of the famous Primo Cup- Trophee Credit Suisse took place on the storied waters of Hercules Bay in front of Monte Carlo, Monaco. Hosted by the eponymous Yacht Club de Monaco, the fleet of twenty local J/70s enjoyed two-straight days of nice sailing. Here are the reports of what happened over the three days of competition.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off Monte Carlo" data-file-id="114678" height="306" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b22faac5-2390-4534-94bc-21fbdc233926.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 306px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<strong>Day 1- Gorgeous Easterly</strong><br />
A 6-7 knot easterly wind blew in across the Bay all day long. That enabled the J/70 class to complete three races in nearly ideal conditions. At the conclusion of the day's racing, it was Giangiacomo Serena di Lapigio's G-SPOT that came out on top ahead of the crew on CER-APROTECT and Loïc Pompée's SAILING RACING TEAM. In the Corinthian (amateur) category, Cesare Gabasio’s TINN J70, Stefano Roberti PICCININA and Thomas Studer's JERRY comprised the podium after this first day.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailbota" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off Monte Carlo" data-file-id="114698" height="330" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a02cc9d4-e9f3-41eb-b98f-a5d196d06ccd.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 330px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<strong>Day 2- Awesome Big Wave Planing Conditions</strong><br />
It was a fantastic day for competitors with a 15-knot easterly gusting to 25 knots with a slight chop, optimal conditions for completing three races back-to-back.<br />
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Leading the J/70s after day one, the men on G-SPOT kept up the pace and by evening they maintained their top ranking, just two points ahead of Ludovico Fassitelli's JUNDA-SUMU CAPITAL. Pompée's SAILING RACING TEAM remained in a provisional 3rd place. In the Corinthian category, Gabasio's TINN J70 topped the table ahead of Roberti's PICCININA.<br />
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<strong>Day 3- Fade Away Sunday</strong><br />
After two great days of racing, the easterly finally blew itself out as the front continued to move off to the eastern part of the Mediterranean. As a result, all races were canceled on Sunday despite an attempt to get the fleet mobilized. <br />
<br />
“This year is very different, but it was important for us to maintain the link with members and keep some of our activities going, particularly as we prepare to host the J/70 World Championship next year,” explained Yacht Club de Monaco General Secretary Bernard d’Alessandro. “I also think it’s important for our young people to have an activity and maintain social ties. That is really essential for our club.”<br />
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As a result of Sunday's cancellation, the standing from Saturday evening stood. G-SPOT winning, followed by JUNDA-SUMUS CAPITAL and SAILING RACING TEAM. The Corinthians saw TINN J70 take the honors, followed by PICCININA. <br />
<br />
<strong>PETITE TERRIBLE- ADRIA FERRIES Wins Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series</strong><br />
In the interests of fair play vis-a-vis the international teams who normally descend on Monaco for this regatta, results of the Primo Cup-Trophée Credit Suisse did not count towards the Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series. Therefore, the only results that counted overall were from Act 1 (14-17 January) and Act 2 (4-7 February). <br />
<br />
Consequently, after 14 races, the redoubtable Italians on PETITE TERRIBLE- ADRIA FERRIES (skippered by Claudia Rossi) won the series quite handily. Rounding out the podium were two YC Monaco teams; Serena di Lapigio's G-SPOT taking the silver and Fassitelli's JUNDA-BANCA DEL SEMPIONE securing the bronze.<br />
For <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/primo-cup-trophee-credit-suisse/" target="_blank">more YC Monaco Primo Cup- Trophee Credit Suisse sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111 sailing Islands Race" data-file-id="114706" height="316" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3a2beda8-ccb7-4714-adfd-9f567388ba83.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 316px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/111 Flies Around Islands Race</span></h2>
(San Diego, CA)- A full year ago in Spring 2020, Newport Harbor Yacht Club and San Diego Yacht Club hosted the Islands Race with a just a hint of the Covid-19 influence over our lives, one of the last “normal” regattas before the pandemic took over. A few weeks later as the 2020 Puerto Vallarta Race sailed down to Mexico, the US fully embraced the initial Covid-19 lockdown and sailing hasn’t been the same since. But with patience and planning, this year’s Islands Race brought 32 teams to compete in the 142-mile coastal race from Long Beach, around Catalina and San Clemente to San Diego. And for those on the racecourse at night, the offshore racing experience and competition were back in all its glory.<br />
<br />
Many teams have not had the chance to compete in this way in over a year, so the Islands Race served as its own competition and also training and preparation for teams set to compete in the 600+ mile race to Cabo in March, and the 2225nm Transpac Race in July. Fifteen of the Islands Race teams will sail the Cabo Race, and 20 will sail in Transpac this year.<br />
<br />
Other than a half moon rising late in the night, the conditions were perfect. Conditions were nearly ideal for racing with a WNW breeze most of the day and evening. These conditions sent the fleet surfing quickly past the backsides of both Catalina Island and San Clemente Island. All boats were around the southwestern corner of San Clemente (Mark 3) by midnight. The sea state was also nice with mostly 6’ running swells and the occasional ‘growler’ in the night (a breaking wave astern that ‘roars’ ominously, especially loud when you can’t see them). From the turn at Mark 3, it is 71 miles to the finish, and it is a race with the sun. As soon as the sun rises, the wind across the 15-20 or so miles of ocean next to the coast tend to evaporate. Boats not finished by 6 am tend to struggle until the thermal breezes restart to fill that void around noon.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111 sailing offshore" data-file-id="114694" height="336" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/1dcf917c-c181-483c-a4eb-16cc04ac34ea.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 336px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Every year, it is a challenge to coordinate the course around San Clemente Island with permissions from the US Military. You might not know it, but there are dozens of charted exclusion zones which the military deploy like a playbook in order to run specific training exercises all around S. Sometimes they are “on,” sometimes they are “off.” With the help of Range Schedulers, we wait until two weeks prior to the race to see if the exclusion zones are going to require a 3-mile, 10 mile or 20+ mile zone. This year was ten miles. For a wide-open ocean, it sure seems crowded sometimes!<br />
<br />
The most notable performance by a J/Team was Doug Jorgensen's J/111 PICOSA. Enjoying the fast surfing and planing conditions at times, the flew around the track in 17 hr 37 min to correct out to 2nd place in ORR 4 Division. Then, in ORR 3 Division, Standish Fleming's J/125 NEREID took fifth place. <a href="http://www.jboats.com" target="_blank">Sailing Photo credits- Bronny Daniels/ JOYSailing.com</a>. For <a href="https://www.islandsrace.com" target="_blank">more Islands Race sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Community</span></h2>
<span class="subTitle"><b>What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</b></span><br />
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<strong>J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">J/Boats from around the world here</a>. <br />
<br />
<img align="none" alt="J/95 brokerage for sale" data-file-id="114682" height="334" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/95fd3146-e4a9-41b7-81ef-c57e6ea6b8a8.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 334px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">2016 J/95 Shoal Draft Cruiser For Sale</span></h2><b>
PRICE JUST REDUCED! This J/95 is a rare find, a nicely-equipped, fresh water, used J/95. </b><br />
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The boat has been sailed only on Lake Winnipesaukee, with its short summer seasons, and crystal-clear water. The boat has been very lightly used, is well equipped, and found in perfect condition. <br />
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The only way to find a J/95 in better condition, would be to find a new one. The boat has only been sailed 3 years, and never raced. This is a unique find and includes a custom Hall Spar carbon rig!<br />
Learn <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2016-J-BOATS-J-95-oOA1zJge" target="_blank">more about this cool J/95 shoal-draft cruiser here</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://youtu.be/vLzKizv-X3E" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24 Italy sailboat" data-file-id="114658" height="324" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4be0c70e-835a-42a4-9398-14b748f75aac.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 324px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">J/24 Lake Garda - a Phoenix Arising from the Ashes</span></h2><b>
Here is an amazing "Throwback Thursday" story for you armchair sailors.</b> <br />
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J/24 ITA-85 was built in 1982 by J/Boats Italy in La Spezia, the super yacht building capital of Italy just southeast of Genoa.<br />
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In September 2017, this particular J/24 sank on Lago di Garda in a huge storm that produced hurricane force winds of 70 knots in nearly an instant...your basic "microburst". It was a wall of water and wind whistling down out of the famous Italian Alps and ripping down the lake with great ferocity.<br />
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The fleet of J/24s racing on Lake Garda were caught nearly without any warning. Most of the fleet got knocked down and got their sails down. But, ITA 85 was caught with their mainsail up and their spinnaker flying. Not surprisingly, getting hit by a 70-knot microburst would flatten any boat. <br />
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The J/24 went down in over 240 meters (770 feet) of water with its mainsail "flying" and spinnaker still rigged on deck and spinnaker pole on the mast...exactly as it was set before the sinking. Thankfully, the crew was safe and were immediately rescued. <br />
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The boat was salvaged by deep-sea recovery specialists using sophisticated sonar and a submersible ROV (remotely operated vehicle). <br />
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Here is the <a href="https://youtu.be/vLzKizv-X3E" target="_blank">YouTube video of that J/24 rescue</a>.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/25 ITA 85 owners" data-file-id="114670" height="342" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/34027835-06d8-48a6-98bf-b877f1daae17.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 342px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
In short, once the boat was found and marked on GPS, the team waited for a calm day to do the rescue effort. The ROV went down with two ropes with large hooks attached. The ROV's articulating arm attached each hook (one to the forestay and another to a rope loop) and slowly pulled the boat to the surface. Once the mast breached the surface, divers attached inflatable bags all around the boat, inflated them to get the deck above water and pumped her out. Soon after, with mainsail still flying, the boat was towed back to the harbor. After a bit of a clean-up, she was good to go again and is still sailing on Lago di Garda! A true "phoenix arising from the ashes"! <br />
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According to J/Boats Italy founder Paolo Boido, "Thanks to Bob and Rod Johnstone who designed such a strong and lovely One-Design boat.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/24 ITA 85 salvage crew and owners" data-file-id="114666" height="290" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9bcf0f23-7997-430b-b3e2-be80956bc950.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 290px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
Also, thanks to my team at J/Boats Italy who built the boat, so well-built and strong, able to survive the heavy water pressure in depths of more than 240 mt (770 feet). That's about 23 ATM (atmospheres at sea level) or 341 PSI.<br />
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Amazingly, there was no damage to the mast, all shrouds were fine, the turnbuckles all worked, so did all the Harken blocks and even the Harken winches! We were shocked there wasn't more damage. It seems the ice-cold fresh water on Garda acted like a "preservative". The owners were so grateful to the salvage team and love sailing their beloved ITA-85 today!"<br />
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</table></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-91324160405216179072021-03-03T09:30:00.002-05:002021-03-07T19:21:23.174-05:00J/Newsletter- March 3rd, 2021<img align="none" alt="Jeff Adams- Morning sunrise in Newport, RI" data-file-id="113882" height="304" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f3a76914-0818-4078-b984-16363f3ffb00.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 304px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">The Sun Never Sets on J's Sailing Worldwide</span></h2>
It is going to be an exciting weekend for sailors in Monaco as J/70 teams flock to the principality for the annual first rites of spring, the opening regatta for the Mediterranean sailing season- the Primo Cup- Trophy Credit Suisse in Monte Carlo. On America's west coast, offshore sailors are looking forward to their start of the offshore season in southern California- the annual Islands Race sailing off San Diego, CA.<br />
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Last weekend, two fun events took place on opposite coasts in the USA. On the east coast, the J/24 class celebrated their first major regatta since the pandemic shutdown last March 2020. Nearly 30 boats enjoyed spectacular Biscayne Bay spring sailing conditions over three days, enjoying ten races in all! Then, on San Francisco Bay out west, the Singlehanded Sailing Society held their popular Corinthian Race for 180 teams sailing in both Singlehanded and Doublehanded divisions. <br />
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In the J/Community section, there is a report from the J/121 WINGS about their experience in the SORC Islands in the Stream Series and we also got a report from the Indian J/80 Class and the Royal Madras Yacht Club!<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off Monte Carlo, Monaco" data-file-id="106649" height="306" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/d2ae0837-f751-4c82-ae65-909928eb4e47.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 306px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Primo Cup- Trophy Credit Suisse Preview</span></h2>
(Monte Carlo, Monaco)- Launched in 1985 at the instigation of HSH Prince Albert II, the Yacht Club de Monaco’s President, the Primo Cup has established itself as the big meeting that opens the season in the Mediterranean for Europe’s one-design elite. In the past, more than 450 sailors on 100 boats in six classes have descended on Monaco to celebrate this great classic.<br />
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Because of the infamous pandemic, the 2021 edition will see fairly radical, substantive changes to the event in order to comply with current guidelines for safety. <br />
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The YC Monaco decided to adapt by maintaining this regatta with a reduced format which allows local crews to sail in compliance with current health measures. Only two classes, both of which are very active in the Principality, will be competing from Friday 5th March with the first warning signal at 12 noon for the J/70s. As every year, thanks to the support of long-time partner SLAM, the first three boats in each class of the Primo Cup-Trophée Credit Suisse will receive garments from the Italian supplier’s technical range.<br />
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In the interests of fair-play for the many international teams who usually descend on Monaco for the winter season, the results of the Primo Cup-Trophée Credit Suisse, which would normally also be the last act of the Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series, will not count towards the final ranking for 2021. Only results from Act 1 in January (14-17) and Act 2 in February (4-7) will count.<br />
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With an eye towards the 2022 J/70 World Championship hosted by YC Monaco, there are many highly experienced crews that are training in the local waters. <br />
<br />
One of the top Italian teams is Claudia Rossi's PETITE TERRIBLE- ADRIA FERRIES, current J/70 European Champions. They face tough competition from local sailors such as YCM’s Giangiacomo Serena di Lapigio (G-spot), Ludovico Fassitelli (Junda-Banca del Sempione). Loic Pompee's SAILING RACING TEAM, and Roberto Stefano's PICCINNA. As always with YCM regattas, young sailors from the YCM Club’s Sports Section also have an opportunity to pit their wits against the best on J/70s. For <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/primo-cup-trophee-credit-suisse/" target="_blank">more YC Monaco Primo Cup- Trophee Credit Suisse sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j125" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/125 sailing Islands Race" data-file-id="107597" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/476cd24d-1ee9-478e-92d9-282fba3613be.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Islands Race Preview</span></h2>
(San Diego, CA)- San Diego Yacht Club and Newport Harbor Yacht Club's Islands Race is making its way to the starting line on March 5th, 2021. Returning to the sea for its 11th edition running, this signature event is expecting over thirty boats to race from Long Beach, California, around offshore landmarks Santa Catalina Island and San Clemente Islands, and then to finish off Point Loma in San Diego. <br />
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<img align="right" alt="Island race course" data-file-id="91269" height="182" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/0199764e-a70b-4629-8948-ffe9a3ff6ded.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 182px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 250px;" width="250" />For many, the Islands Race kicks off the start of the 2021 Offshore Racing Calendar and doubles as a shakedown for the Newport Harbor Yacht Club Cabo Race or, on alternate years, San Diego Yacht Club's Puerto Vallarta Race. <br />
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With the race only involving one night at sea, it works as the perfect opportunity to gain offshore experience. Answering that call are a number of adventurous west coast J/Teams. In the seven-boat ORR-EZ class are two J/111s (Ed Sanford's CREATIVE and Doug Jorgensen's PICOSA) and Paul Stemler's J/44 PATRIOT. Then, in the five-boat ORR 3 Class is Standish Fleming's J/125 NEREID. <a href="http://www.joysailing.com" target="_blank">Sailing photo credits- Bronny Daniels/ Joysailing.com</a>. For <a href="https://www.islandsrace.com" target="_blank">more Islands Race sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j120" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/120s sailing off San Diego" data-file-id="105593" height="392" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c485fbdb-7e5e-4dd8-9079-6a4b62db6822.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 392px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">San Diego Starts NOOD 2021 Series!</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)- For nearly three decades, the Helly Hansen NOOD Regatta national series kicked off in St. Petersburg, FL, in February, but a shift in the 2021 calendar will put Southern California sailing front and center with the Helly Hansen NOOD Regatta San Diego, March 19 to 21.<br />
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With experienced race management teams at co-hosts San Diego Yacht Club and Coronado Yacht Club, competitive sailors in the region can expect top-quality races on San Diego Bay for the regatta’s smaller boats, as well as the deeper waters off Coronado for larger keelboats. As the first major regatta of the SoCal spring sailing season, the annual event will be a draw for local and visiting teams keen to freshen their skills from the long offseason of 2020.<br />
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For Helly Hansen, the regatta series’ seven-year title sponsor, the San Diego stop is a welcome beginning to the new sailing year. While the usual after-racing social events will not be held, organizers are keen to provide the best possible experience on the water.<br />
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“At Helly Hansen we make gear for professionals to feel and stay alive, and that’s also true for all the sailors of the NOOD Regattas,” says Helly Hansen Watersports Marketing Manager, Jenny Daudlin. “While 2020 was a challenging year, Helly has continued to bring along innovative new styles. There were some cool pieces in 2020 that people didn’t get to see, so we’re looking forward to reconnecting with the sailors in different ways and providing them the best gear possible to enjoy their time on the water safely.”<br />
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One trend that emerged through 2020 was the popularity of day-race formats that require fewer crew members. This movement is also fueled by the expectation of a two-person offshore discipline being added to the 2024 Games. In response to this rising demand for shorthanded races, NOOD Regatta organizers, in partnership with North Sails, added the North Sails Doublehanded Distance Race on Saturday, March 20. This daytime challenge will send competitors racing a variety of boats on one long course spanning San Diego Bay and offshore near Point Loma.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j145" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/145s sailing off San Diego, CA" data-file-id="113034" height="326" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/8b9b545b-6ca1-4e4c-9521-25b2cac49541.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 326px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Rudy Hasl, of San Diego, is one of the early registrants for the North Sails Doublehanded Race and says he’s looking forward to skippering his J/145 around the course— with the sole assistance of his long-time bowman, Anthony Garcia.<br />
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“I’m really glad they’ve added this race to the regatta,” Hasl says. “Doing the typical windward/leeward buoy races all day can be tough on the crew and the sails. So, I like this format, as it offers plenty of excitement for me.”<br />
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Hasl, 78 years young, raced doublehanded extensively when he lived in the Pacific Northwest. Now a full time SoCal resident, he says San Diego is just as challenging a venue to race, especially a boat the size of his J/145 PALAEMON. <br />
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“We’re going to try our best to play it safely and carefully,” Hasl says, noting that he and Garcia will be using specialized sails that are easier for two people to handle. “This is the first time we’ll have doublehanded this particular boat. Anthony is a super bowman because he has his way of checking the lines are run correctly. The boat is set up in a way that I can tail halyards from the back while steering.”<br />
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Their biggest challenge, he says, may be keeping the boat’s massive spinnaker sail from ever touching the water. “We’ve sailed with it and I have a sense of what’s involved in the process and think we can control the beast,” Hasl says. “The key with doublehanded racing is just doing things slowly and deliberately.”<br />
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Joining them in the Doublehanded class is Steve Driscoll's J/105 JUICED!<br />
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So far, the two one-design classes are showing good participation. The J/24s have five boats entered and the J/105s are up to a dozen already! Sign up now and join in on the fun! For <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-in-san-diego/" target="_blank">more San Diego NOOD Regatta sailing information and registration</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span></h2>
Mar 4-7- <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/primo-cup-trophee-credit-suisse/" target="_blank">J/70 Primo Cup- Trophee Credit Suisse- Monte Carlo, Monaco</a><br />
Mar 5-7- <a href="https://thesailinginc.com/thekeywestwinterseries" target="_blank">J/111 Key West Winter Series- Key West, FL</a><br />
Mar 5-6-<a href=" https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13258" target="_blank"> Islands Race- San Diego, CA</a><br />
Mar 10-13- <a href="https://bacardiinvitational.com/" target="_blank">J/70 Bacardi Cup- Miami, FL</a><br />
Mar 11-14- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14324" target="_blank">J/105 Midwinters- Seabrook, TX</a><br />
Mar 18-21- <a href="http://www.j22mw.com" target="_blank">J/22 Midwinter Championship- New Orleans, LA</a><br />
Mar 19-21- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-in-san-diego/" target="_blank">San Diego NOOD Regatta- San Diego, CA</a><br />
Mar 19- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14334" target="_blank">NHYC Cabo Race- Newport Beach, CA</a><br />
Mar 25-28- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14317" target="_blank">SAIL 22 J/70 Invitational- Coconut Grove, FL</a><br />
Mar 26-28- <a href="https://stthomasinternationalregatta.com/" target="_blank">St. Thomas International Regatta- St. Thomas, USVI</a><br />
Mar 29- Apr 4- <a href="https://bvispringregatta.org/" target="_blank">BVI Spring Regatta- Road Town, Tortola, BVI</a><br />
Apr 2-4- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-st-petersburg/" target="_blank">St Petersburg NOOD Regatta- St Petersburg, FL</a><br />
Apr 8-11- <a href="https://www.charlestonraceweek.com/" target="_blank">Charleston Race Week- Charleston, SC</a><br />
Apr 30- May 2- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">Annapolis NOOD Regatta- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
Apr 30- May 2- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">J/111 North American Championship- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
May 9-15- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/event_scratch_sheet.cfm?eID=13209" target="_blank">J/70 North American Championship- Annapolis, MD</a> <br />
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For additional <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j-sailing-calendar/sailing-regattas" target="_blank">J/Regatta and Event dates in your region, please refer to the on-line J/Sailing Calendar</a>.<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24s sailing off Miami, FL" data-file-id="114542" height="274" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/bfe44d9e-feae-4d74-9d51-f40d91f731b2.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 274px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">JESUS LIZARD Crowned J/24 Midwinter Champion</span></h2>
(Miami, FL)- This past weekend from February 26th to 28th, the USA J/24 class held their J/24 Midwinter Championship in Miami, Florida, with the Shake-A-Leg Foundation as their host at their facility on the Miami waterfront. The twenty-nine J/24 teams from across the country were blessed with simply amazing weather for the entire three days of the regatta. In fact, the regatta PRO managed to run ten races, much to the delight of all sailors.<br />
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After a slow start on the first day, winning the event in convincing fashion was John Mollicone's JESUS LIZARD crew of Paul Abdullah, Mike Marshall, Nick Turney, and Dan Borrer. Here is how it all went down, thanks to reporting from class director Chris Howell. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24 Jesus Lizard- Mollicone- winners" data-file-id="114618" height="350" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/29ee8629-4418-4ee8-8cf8-1d465564f605.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 350px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Day One- Friday- Gorgeous Start! </span> </h3>
The event kicked off with four races completed. Teams reveled in the pristine conditions on Biscayne Bay with winds at 8-10 knots, sunny skies and temperatures in the 80s. Carter White on WIND MONKEY (crew of Marcus Rogers, Chris Lombardo, Kelly Franklin-Colby, & Molly White) shot out to the early advantage with 1-2-1-4 finishes for 8 points. Mollicone's JESUS LIZARD stood in second place with 16 points with a 3-3-9-1 tally. Floridian Robby Brown’s ANGEL OF HARLEM (crew of Richard Shellow, Steve Lowery, Kevin Ratigan, & Beaujeaux Delapouyade) finished third with a 11-1-10-6 tally of 28 points. <br />
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White’s WIND MONKEY earned their first bullet of the day in race one, ahead of James Freedman’s MISS CONDUCT and Mollicone’s JESUS LIZARD. Brown’s ANGEL OF HARLEM grabbed the next win, with White and Mollicone again cracking the top three. Trailing White’s second victory in race three were Nadia Daggett’s MUSTACHE RIDE and Val Shestopalov’s VICTORIA. Mollicone secured his silver position for the day with a victory in Friday’s final battle, followed by Aidan Glackin’s MENTAL FLOSS and Freedman.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24s sailing off Miami, FL" data-file-id="114594" height="338" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/1b53d12a-90f4-487c-8494-62d1a3d8a347.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 338px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Day Two- Saturday- Perfect Weather, Again!</span></h3>
The teams again enjoyed ideal conditions on Biscayne Bay. With breeze between 10-15 knots, blue skies and above-average temperatures, four more races went in the books, bringing the total to eight (now including a discard). <br />
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Able to drop a ninth from Friday, Mollicone’s JESUS LIZARD now counted only top three finishes for 17 net points and the lead, heading into the final two scheduled races Sunday. Day one leader WIND MONKEY continued solid scores, but dropped to second with 23 net points. Travis Odenbach’s HONEYBADGER joined Mollicone in placing among the top three in all of Saturday’s races to move into third overall with 30 net points.<br />
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Gilberto Rivera’s URAYO team (Jaime Balzac, Pablo Mendez, Melvin Gonzalez, & Efrain Logo) from Puerto Rico rocked the day with three bullets. The first came in the opening race in a duel they won with Odenbach and Mollicone. Odenbach and Mollicone moved up to first and second in the next contest, with Kirk Reynold’s TYRUS in third. Rivera’s second victory came in race seven, again with Mollicone and Odenbach staying at the front of the fleet. Mirroring how the day began in the last match, Rivera, Odenbach and Mollicone comprised the top spots.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24 women's sailing team" data-file-id="114586" height="316" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/5924551e-c4d0-4671-bd62-028735c5342d.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 316px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Day Three- Sunday- Yet Another Glam Day!</span></h3>
The final day saw two scheduled races take place in more of the same glam conditions of the previous two. After taking 2nd in the first race, Mollicone's JESUS LIZARD crew sailed home to celebrate their good fortunes! Taking up that opportunity, Odenbach's HONEYBADGER won the last two races to seal the deal for the silver medal. The WIND MONKEY crew experienced a bit of misfortune on their last day, posting a DSQ and 17th to drop to fourth place. Sailing solidly was Rivera's Puerto Rican team on URAYO that posted a 3-4 to excitedly jump onto the bronze step on the podium...their best finish ever in the USA J/24 Midwinters! Rounding out the top five was Brown's ANGEL OF HARLEM in fifth place. <strong>Sailing photo credits- Chris Howell/ JCA</strong>. For <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13200" target="_blank">more J/24 Midwinters sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 sailing doublehanded offshore" data-file-id="110926" height="328" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/fc4243bd-b982-4393-afc9-923c6d7217cb.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 328px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Fun & Frolic for SSS Corinthian Race</span></h2>
(San Francisco, CA)- Last weekend, the Singlehanded Sailing Society of San Francisco Bay held one of their more revered races of the year- the Corinthians Race. Answering that siren's call were 180 intrepid souls that are gleefully showed up in the early morning to take their stab at winning their respective classes. <br />
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Starting and finishing off Golden Gate Yacht Club, the 15.5nm course rounds Blackaller Buoy to starboard, Southampton Shoal red bell to port, Little Harding green buoy to port, Blossom Rock green bell to starboard, then to GGYC finish on the waterfront. Basically, the course is criss-crossing the Bay in a circumnavigation of all the tourist sites! <br />
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The two-plus dozen shorthanded J/Crews made the most of the light to medium, very challenging conditions on San Francisco Bay. In PHRF C Doublehanded J/105s the winners were Bruce Stone and Nicole Breault's ARBITRAGE. Pushing them hard all race was the duo of Charles James & Panda Love's ROXANNE to take the silver. Rounding out the podium was Tom Struttmann & Joerg Esdorn's ARRIVED! <br />
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In Class 6 J/70 Doublehanded, the fleet suffered a trouncing at the hands of the dynamic duo of Justin & Shar Foox on FLOTEK, winning by over a half hour on elapsed time. Second was Peter Cameron & Ben Mercer's KANGAROO JOCKEY and third was Scott & Hannah Sellers' 1FA. <br />
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The thirteen-boat PHRF H Doublehanded Spin class was a tough group. Taking five of the top seven were all J/duos. Third was Ted Rogers & Tim Burks on the J/100 GRACE. They were followed by Barry Lewis & Scott Kozinchik's J/120 CHANCE in 4th, Nesrin Basoz & Reuben Rocci's J/111 SWIFT NESS in 5th, Tracy Rogers & Cris Sena's J/120 HOKULANI in 6th, and Timo Bruck & Elaine Scott's J/120 TWIST in 7th place. <br />
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The seventeen-boat PHRF L Class Doublehanded Non-Spin saw Brian Richards & Ernie Baton's J/109 LA VIAJERA take fourth position.<br />
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Finally, the fourteen-boat PHRF P Class Singlehanded Non-Spin saw John Kalucki's J/109 LINDO take fourth place. <strong>Sailing photo credit- Will Keyworth</strong>. For <a href="https://www.jibeset.net/JACKY000.php?RG=T006050885" target="_blank">more SSS Corinthian Race sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Community</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span></h3>
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j121" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/121 sailing SORC series" data-file-id="113138" height="328" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c8c37e13-292f-4042-80b6-f50d83687c92.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 328px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">J/121 WINGS SORC report</span></h3>
We had a chance to catch up with Bill Wiggins and Ashley Maltempo, co- owners of J/121 WINGS. They sailed the SORC Islands in the Stream Series this past winter and ended up finishing third place overall!<br />
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According to Bill, "my faith in the boat went up significantly after the head banging we got in the heaviest weather race we had in the series- the Miami to Eleuthera Race. It was a tough race for everyone, and the fleet experienced upwards of 20-30 kts once onto the Bahamas Bank. The race was 90% upwind or fetching on starboard tack, then at top of Eleuthera Island, it became a long, brutal slog on port tack down the eastern side of island in huge, confused seas of 6 to 8-footers! The last fifteen miles were in flat water. Wow, what fun! With winds gusting to 25 kts, we flew the A2 asymmetric spinnaker, driving deep as possible and we maintained a steady 15-16 kts over the water! <br />
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When fetching, the windward water ballast tanks were full, and we were using a double-head rig- the #3 jib with the storm jib inside as a genoa staysail. Depending on the breeze, we'd adjust the main for power, putting in a single slab reef and taking it off when we could. <br />
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The first race of the series- the Nassau Race- was transformed into a big loop because of the Bahamas covid-19 restrictions. Basically, we were criss-crossing the Gulf Stream from Miami to the Bahamas Banks buoys and back. We saw everything in that race. I think we used all of our sails in winds from 0 to 20 kts, all in 24 hours! <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j121" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/121 Wings after start" data-file-id="113166" height="318" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/68e29e43-9d74-4dd7-aebe-d8c3daed1473.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 318px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The second race was fun and quick. The Palm Beach Race is simply a sprint and it took us just 12 hours to go from Miami north to Palm Beach, the Gulf Stream giving us a good kick north of several knots- quite the escalator that thing is!<br />
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We were excited about the classic Fort Lauderdale to Key West Race. But, our hopes diminished as we realized we might be swatting flies the whole way down. Here's how bad it was for the 165.0nm race; we started at 11:00am on Thursday and finished at the crack of dawn on Saturday around 6:30am...it was a super light race, and we must've gybed at least 50-times.<br />
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The fourth and final race was important because you had to count it, it was a no throw-out race. In the end, the series was an amazing experience, and we learned a lot about the boat."<br />
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<img align="none" alt="25.9 kts offshore in Gulf Stream on J/121" data-file-id="114606" height="360" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/dc5f7a3a-29ca-4708-bf43-9c9859571b4c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 360px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
When pressed about some of their more memorable experiences in the series, Bill mentioned that their highest speed in any of the races was in the Eleuthera Race, topping out at 16.5 kts in flat water doing dead downwind. But he mentioned that their fastest speed to date was on their delivery from Charleston down to Miami to start the SORC Islands in the Stream Series. Using their Dacron delivery main and Dacron #3 jib, they were flying downwind on a broad reach in the Gulf Stream in a big northeast breeze- gusting up to 35 kts. Top speed? 25.9 knots! <br />
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Bill spoke enthusiastically about his crew that included Greg Fisher (former College of Charleston Sailing Director) and Reed Baldridge. <br />
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Next up for the J/121 WINGS crew is the Annapolis- Newport Race, then Block Island Race Week, and the Storm Trysail Club's Stamford-Vineyard Race.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j80" target="_blank"><img align="right" alt="J/80s sailing off Chennai, India" data-file-id="69889" height="167" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/95cecbe9-b3e5-4731-886a-49e1aa1fa52b.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 167px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 250px;" width="250" /></a><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Greetings from Royal Madras Yacht Club, India!</span></h3>
Capt. Vivek Shanbhag, the Vice Commodore of the Royal Madras YC, and passionate J/80 sailor provided us a quick report of what's happening with the nascent J/80 class in India. Commented Capt. Shanbhag:<br />
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"The Royal Madras YC was established in 1910, is located inside the Chennai Port, and has been popularizing sailing in South India.<br />
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We have a small fleet of five J/80s and I have been actively pushing keelboat sailing for years.<br />
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Our sailors have participated at the J/80 Asian Championship in China in 2018 and 2019 having ranked 5th and 4th, respectively. <br />
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We had 3 RMYC teams participating at the J/80 World's 2019 in Spain and it was a very good exposure with overall ranking around 55th in a fleet of 80 boats.<br />
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In India, we do not have a J/80 Class Association. We have a total of five J/80s in India and plan to have our J/80 Class Association shortly.<br />
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<span class="subTitle"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j80" target="_blank"><img align="right" alt="J/80s sailing off Chennai, India" data-file-id="69893" height="167" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/dfc6e59b-9f57-486d-a1aa-533f2e70f3fc.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 167px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 250px;" width="250" /></a>J/80 Offshore Event</span><br />
Apart from the usual races we conduct, for the first time we are conducting an Offshore event between two cities- Chennai and Puducherry, which are 160 kms apart. The event is from 10th March to 14th March 2021.<br />
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With the prevalent winds, it should take us about 24 hours each way. <br />
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We want to scale it up and I have been working hard with different agencies. An Indian Navy vessel will be escorting us, the Indian Coast Guard is giving Search and Rescue coverage, and we can scramble a helicopter in 30 minutes.<br />
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Satellite tracking for continuous coverage is also being provided. A log-in id and password will be published and the race can be tracked from anywhere in the world. The AIS is a challenge and expensive, but we should be able to have them too. We are looking forward to a fun and challenging event for our J/80 fleet!
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-28352789931090044392021-02-24T11:14:00.001-05:002021-02-27T11:25:14.682-05:00J/Newsletter- February 24th, 2021<img align="none" alt="Jeff Adams- Morning sunrise in Newport, RI" data-file-id="113882" height="304" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f3a76914-0818-4078-b984-16363f3ffb00.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 304px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">The Sun Never Sets on J's Sailing Worldwide</span></h3>
Ever so slowly, the sailing world is starting to heat-up again in both hemispheres. This weekend, the USA J/24 Midwinter Championship is taking place on Biscayne Bay in Miami, Florida! Thirty-plus teams are thrilled they have the opportunity to hop back aboard their stallions and ride them across the aquamarine waters of the Bay. Similarly, 3,000 miles across the continental USA, the Singlehanded Sailing Society of San Francisco Bay will be hosting 180 single and doublehanded boats in their popular Corinthian Race. <br />
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This past week saw the epic conclusion to the increasingly popular SORC Islands in the Stream Series. The final event was the Miami to Eleuthera Race, a 443.0nm jaunt across the Gulf Stream, through the Bahamas, and down to the southern tip of Eleuthera. Wow, did they ever enjoy an epic beach party with a bonfire of the vanities, to boot!<br />
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Then, we get a report of the latest sailing from the San Francisco J/105 Fleet. They held a doublehanded race called the Valentine's Day Invitational. A fun around-the-cans event, with start and finish just off Golden Gate Yacht Club!<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24s sailing Midwinters" data-file-id="114446" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/493db484-2b3d-48fe-819a-81413a5309f8.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/24 Midwinter Championship Preview</span></h2>
(Miami, FL)- This coming weekend, sailing from February 26th to 28th, the USA J/24 class has organized their J/24 Midwinter Championship in Miami, Florida, with the Shake-A-Leg Foundation being their host at their amazing facility on the Miami waterfront. J/24 sailors from across the country are certainly excited about heading down to one of their favorite "watering holes" in all of Florida- Coconut Grove and its super chill downtown collection of restaurants and bars (abiding by pandemic guidelines, of course). The sailors can't wait to chuck the boat in, pop open a few "tinnies", lather up in sunscreen, put on the shades, and take a cruise around the lovely aquamarine waters of Biscayne Bay with friends.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24s sailing downwind" data-file-id="113238" height="285" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/16642f70-78c7-4bb8-9c92-4cc153ff7c60.jpg" style="border: 0px initial; height: 285px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Nearly thirty J/24 teams are registered and the depth of talent is remarkable. Sailing the regatta are several past National, North American, and World Champions; such as the John Mollicone & Mike Marshall duo on AMERICAN GARAGE, Robby Brown's ANGEL OF HARLEM, the Long Island Sound brother duo of Al & Dave Constants on BLITZ, the scary smart crew on HONEYBADGER (Travis Odenbach, Patrick Wilson, Chris Stocke, and Monica Morgan), Eammon Delisser's MAIN SQUEEZE with Luke Lawrence on cockpit/ tactics, the famous Aidan Glackin on MENTAL FLOSS, Mark Pincus steering SCOUTS HONOR, Kirk Reynolds driving TYRUS, and Marcus Rogers on WIND MONKEY with Carter and Molly White providing traffic directions. No "spring chickens" amongst those boats, a lot of bragging rights in the J/24 class amongst them! For <strong>more J/24 Midwinters event and registration information</strong>, <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13200" target="_blank">click here to go to Yachtscoring.com and sign up!</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 sailing San Francisco Bay- photo by Pressure-drop.us" data-file-id="114010" height="342" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/136ea453-f2e5-43ad-b304-1ba30bdefc44.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 342px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
SSS Corinthians Race Preview</span></h2>
(San Francisco, CA)- The Singlehanded Sailing Society of San Francisco Bay is back at it again. After hosting their eponymous Three Bridge Fiasco (won overall by a J/70, if you recall), they will now be hosting one of their more revered races of the year- the Corinthians Race. Answering that siren's call are 180 intrepid souls who are gleefully looking forward to more wind on SF Bay! It will be the first event of the season that includes the huge doublehanded contingent on the Bay.<br />
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Starting and finishing off Golden Gate Yacht Club, the 15.5nm course rounds Blackaller Buoy to starboard, Southampton Shoal red bell to port, Little Harding green buoy to port, Blossom Rock green bell to starboard, then to GGYC finish on the waterfront. Basically, the course is criss-crossing the Bay in a circumnavigation of all the tourist sites! <br />
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So far, the weather forecast is for a sunny day starting out with a light 5-8 kts NNW breeze, swinging into the classic westerly seabreeze by noon, and increasing to 8-15 kts by late afternoon! Sounds amazing!<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 doublehanded offshore" data-file-id="112922" height="348" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/906c6263-8cfb-430a-92f1-bacddf47c62c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 348px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Looking forward to that challenge are a raft of shorthanded J/Crews. In PHRF C class are the doublehanded J/105s; including Adam Spiegel's JAM SESSION, Eric Patterson's KESTREL, Tom Struttmann's ARRIVED, Bruce Stone's ARBITRAGE, Phil Laby's GODOT, Charles James' ROXANNE, and Chris Kim's VUJA STAR-- wow, quite the all-star cast from the local SF J/105 fleet!<br />
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Sailing in PHRF 5 Class for singlehanded J/70s is John Brigden's COOL STORY BRO. He'll be taking on the PHRF 6 Class doublehanded J/70s that include David Fried's SON OF A SON, Scott Sellers 1FA, Pete Cameron's KANGAROO JOCKEY, Justin Foox's FLOTEK, and Tom Thayer's RAMPAGE. <br />
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The thirteen-boat PHRF H Doublehanded Spin class looks pretty formidable. Rated at the top is Nesrin Basoz's J/111 SWITF NESS. He'll be challenging a gaggle of tough J/120 honchos, like Timo Bruck's TWIST, Barry Lewis' CHANCE, Tracy Rogers' HOKULANI, and Jeff Phillips ALCHERA. Wishing they were sailing in a different class is Ted Rogers' pretty J/100 GRACE!<br />
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PHRF 13 Class is Doublehanded Powered Winches boats, which includes Richard Leute's J/44 ACEY DEUCY. <br />
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PHRF I Class Doublehanded Spin has thirteen boats and just one J/Crew- Tim Roche's J/92 ZAFF. Then PHRF K Doublehanded Spin of 11 boats also has a sole J/30 sailing- Jenny Thompson's FRICTION LOSS. <br />
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The seventeen-boats PHRF L Class Doublehanded Non-Spin is also seeing a solo performance by Brian Richards' J/109 LA VIAJERA. <br />
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The eleven-boat PHRF N Class Singlehanded Spin has Ralph Morganstem's J/30 GEODESIC up against another classic J, Chad Peddy's J/24 IRISH BLESSING.<br />
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Finally, the fourteen-boat PHRF P Class Singlehanded Non-Spin includes yet another solo performance by John Kalucki's J/109 LINDO. Fair winds and God Speed to all, hoping for a gorgeous day of sailing on the Bay! For <a href="https://www.jibeset.net/JACKY000.php?RG=T006050885" target="_blank">more SSS Corinthian Race sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="https://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=3_16&products_id=218" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/Gear Marmot Jacket" data-file-id="113906" height="312" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/fc6ca238-d1c7-4fff-a39a-a846c998ca8b.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 312px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
February Special- Marmot Jacket!</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)- The J/Thermo Jacket is by Marmot and is a stuffed lightweight, highly compressible and enviably warm Primaloft ® Black insulation — a synthetic insulation made with 60 percent recycled fibers that boasts warmth without bulk and a soft feel — the outer is from a durable nylon ripstop fabric. Elastic hem and cuffs keep the jacket in place and Angel-Wing Movement™ allows you to move without the jacket riding up. Zippered pockets offer a warm place for your hands to rest. Wear under a shell or on its own. Perfect for packing and stylish for cool weather. <a href="https://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=3_16&products_id=218" target="_blank">Click here to enjoy a 20% discount on this gorgeous Marmot jacket</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span></h2>
Feb 26- Mar 1- <a href=" https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eid=13200" target="_blank">J/24 Midwinter Championship- Miami, FL</a><br />
Mar 4-7- <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/primo-cup-trophee-credit-suisse/" target="_blank">J/70 Primo Cup- Trophee Credit Suisse- Monte Carlo, Monaco</a><br />
Mar 5-7- <a href="https://thesailinginc.com/thekeywestwinterseries" target="_blank">J/111 Key West Winter Series- Key West, FL</a><br />
Mar 5-6-<a href=" https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13258" target="_blank"> Islands Race- San Diego, CA</a><br />
Mar 10-13- <a href="https://bacardiinvitational.com/" target="_blank">J/70 Bacardi Cup- Miami, FL</a><br />
Mar 11-14- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14324" target="_blank">J/105 Midwinters- Seabrook, TX</a><br />
Mar 18-21- <a href="http://www.j22mw.com" target="_blank">J/22 Midwinter Championship- New Orleans, LA</a><br />
Mar 19-21- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-in-san-diego/" target="_blank">San Diego NOOD Regatta- San Diego, CA</a><br />
Mar 19- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14334" target="_blank">NHYC Cabo Race- Newport Beach, CA</a><br />
Mar 25-28- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=14317" target="_blank">SAIL 22 J/70 Invitational- Coconut Grove, FL</a><br />
Mar 26-28- <a href="https://stthomasinternationalregatta.com/" target="_blank">St. Thomas International Regatta- St. Thomas, USVI</a><br />
Mar 29- Apr 4- <a href="https://bvispringregatta.org/" target="_blank">BVI Spring Regatta- Road Town, Tortola, BVI</a><br />
Apr 2-4- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-st-petersburg/" target="_blank">St Petersburg NOOD Regatta- St Petersburg, FL</a><br />
Apr 8-11- <a href="https://www.charlestonraceweek.com/" target="_blank">Charleston Race Week- Charleston, SC</a><br />
Apr 30- May 2- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">Annapolis NOOD Regatta- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
Apr 30- May 2- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13226" target="_blank">J/111 North American Championship- Annapolis, MD</a><br />
May 9-15- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/event_scratch_sheet.cfm?eID=13209" target="_blank">J/70 North American Championship- Annapolis, MD</a> <br />
<br />
For additional <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j-sailing-calendar/sailing-regattas" target="_blank">J/Regatta and Event dates in your region, please refer to the on-line J/Sailing Calendar</a>.<br />
<hr /><span class="title"><img align="none" alt="Eleuthera Island harbor" data-file-id="114194" height="238" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/95451554-272d-4495-8d85-6e847129dc9f.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 238px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
J/Teams Sweep SORC Islands in Stream Series!</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">J/44, J/109, & J/121 Go 1-2-3!</span></h3>
(Miami, FL)- The final event for the SORC's Islands in the Stream Series took place last weekend- the Miami to Eleuthera Race. The course took competitors through the heart of the Bahamas and led them to a tropical oasis- Eleuthera Island on the eastern banks.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j44" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/44 KENAI sailing off Miami, FL" data-file-id="114450" height="282" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/21c2c197-92f0-4c8f-b7f1-56670824f50a.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 282px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The 443.0nm race started February 17, 2021 in moderate winds with great expectations the "Weather Gods" would prove right and provide a fresh breeze nearly all the way down the course. The Eleuthera race started off of South Beach, Miami, crossed the Gulf Stream, left Great Isaac (67.5nm), Great Stirrup (75.5nm) and Eleuthera (82.0nm) to starboard, rounded the southern tip of Eleuthera (130.0nm), past the southern tip (18.0nm), and up to the finish near Powell Point (70.0nm). Thereafter, drop sails and head into the gorgeous Cape Eleuthera Resort and Marina. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j121" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/121 Wings sailing offshore" data-file-id="114470" height="342" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/446c69d6-24f1-4172-889f-db149f28bcfa.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 342px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
At the start of the final race, the overall outcome could not have been predicted by anyone. The top five contenders for the series were quite close on points between a TP 52, a 40 ft custom, and three J/Teams (J/44, J/109, and J/121).<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j109" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/109 Harm's Way sailing off Miami, FL" data-file-id="114434" height="276" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a9fe9431-5ed9-4dcc-b3dd-0a93388a32ff.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 276px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
In the end, tremendous perseverance paid off for all three J's. Winning was Chris and Karen Lewis' J/44 KENAI, followed by Andy Wescoat's J/109 HARMS's WAY in second, and Bill Wiggins' J/121 WINGS in third position. <br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/44 KENAI winning crew" data-file-id="114526" height="456" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e51dd2da-a084-4515-915b-d8d280b6207d.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 456px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<em><strong>Here is the report from Chris & Karen Lewis (pictured above with crew) from their perspective on the gorgeous J/44 KENAI:</strong></em><br />
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"We were thrilled to win the SORC 2020-21 Islands in the Stream Series with a 1-1-2 score line. The races were varied with light conditions for Races 2 and 3 and then a real blow for most of the Eleuthera Race that challenged all yachts. <br />
<br />
We won the series through sheer determination and, at times, some good decision making. For example, to get to Key West we tacked the 145% genoa 114 times and gybed the 0.5oz VMG kite 28 times. I guess that was good for the sailmakers! Although, I am amazed at how today's carbon sails stand up to offshore conditions if properly handled. <br />
<br />
The first leg to Eleuthera was a tight reach in moderate conditions across the Florida Straights (e.g., the fast-flowing Gulf Stream) allowing for a Code Zero to be flown off KENAI's 2.0m sprit. We sagged below the rhumb-line with the Stream on our stern quarter. By reefing the main and reducing drag in the puffs, the boat was noticeably faster. Then, we changed to a Heavy #1 sheeted to the rail and we were able to foot up to Little Isaac over the last 20 nm with less north set current. <br />
<br />
From there, we were on the wind with a 200nm starboard-biased beat changing down to a #3 jib and finally the #4 jib! In both cases we had a reefed main. The seas got to be 6 to 8 ft and confused going out into the Atlantic Ocean past the northern tip of Eleuthera (Ed. note- the ocean floor goes from 10,000 ft to 50 ft. in less than 4.0nm, creating the "washing machine effect" on the eastern shore). <br />
<br />
We moved the #4 jib sheeting to the outboard track and saw boat speeds of up to 8.7 knots. Great for the race, but not appreciated by the off-watch crew as KENAI launched off and through the seas. Finally, we turned to a fetch down to the southern tip of the island and set the A4 spinnaker for the finish line. We knew it was tight with the TP52 on rating, but the old girl hit 13 knots with 25 knot gusts on the VMG run to the finish. We corrected out by 22 minutes in the race, with the RC selecting the ORC Predominantly Upwind Rating. <br />
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<img align="none" alt="Eleuthera Island awards" data-file-id="108346" height="254" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4117d9e1-46d7-4550-9b60-8cd54477f295.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 254px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
It's truly amazing that a 23,500 lb. 30-year-old design with 175 sq. m kites and an overlapping genoa has been able to be competitive with a variety of race boats in SORC under a wide range of conditions during the series. The key is knowing your boat and staying near 100% of your speed throughout the race. We do a lot of sail changes. We were also fortunate the J/121 WINGS never got to fly downwind for very long!"<br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/44 KENAI and J/109 HARM's WAY at awards" data-file-id="114522" height="314" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f3129785-7b3b-4191-b76f-118616f18f48.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 314px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
The red-carpet treatment laid down by the Cape Eleuthera Resort & Marina was enthusiastically welcomed by all teams. It is truly a little paradise in the middle of the ocean. Their staff did go above and beyond to make sure the sailor's needs were all met, and then some! That included a fantastic bonfire <img align="right" alt="Eleuthera Race bonfire" data-file-id="114506" height="273" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e55f612b-6ae0-4a13-8cd4-86cb2adea1be.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 273px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" />after the awards ceremonies and dinner to celebrate the end of the event (no worries, the wind was blowing hard offshore!)!<br />
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The resort looks west over Exuma Sound, which provides good access to the Marina. The channel into the marina is straightforward East/ West, and well lit. A summer dredging project removed the few remaining high spots and left a 12-foot controlling depth, as well as adding jetties extending from the shore.<br />
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Follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sorcsailing" target="_blank">the SORC Sailing on Facebook here</a> For <a href="http://www.sorcsailing.org/" target="_blank">more SORC Islands in the Stream series sailing information</a> For <a href="https://www.eleutherarace.org" target="_blank">the SORC Miami to Eleuthera Race results and information</a><br />
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<img align="none" alt="Stone & Breault race winners" data-file-id="90021" height="431" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/2a6b3674-bf48-4bf3-811a-ec5d3d0e9abe.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 431px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">ARBITRAGE Triumphs @ J/105 Valentine's Rally</span></h2>
(San Francisco, CA)- As part of their on-going San Francisco J/105 Doublehanded Winter Series, the fleet got together for their first-ever J/105 Valentine's Rally on Sunday, February 14th. San Francisco Bay served up its usual challenges to the sailors, having to make decisions between wind and current on literally every leg of the course. Here's the report from Bruce Stone from aboard ARBITRAGE:<br />
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"With the typically modest mid-winter breeze out of the northeast, and our starting area in front of Golden Gate YC, the RC announced a course to the East with port roundings. So, we re-ran our spin gear to account for that, but just ten minutes before the warning we had a shift to the WSW! So, the RC announced a last-minute call for the new course to Blackaller- just before the Golden Gate Bridge! OMG! So, us and the other crews scrambled to re-run the spin gear for the starboard rounding that would take everyone out into the flood tide! <br />
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Given the adverse current, teams were challenged right from the start to exploit the relief along the shore and were ping-ponging off the breakwater in front of the St. Francis; normally quite easy with a full crew but a workout for double-handers! <br />
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ARBITRAGE had a great start and, after making some gains toward the shore, decided to stretch out on port tack for the better wind just 100 yards out; it was the typical arbitrage of wind and tide...hence the name of Bruce's boat. <br />
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ARBITRAGE won that battle and rounded clear ahead, setting the kite and reaching out to the favorable flood in the light breeze. A long downwind to channel mark 4, passing Alcatraz to port, created passing opportunities for the trailing boats. Some went low toward Treasure Island, staying in the dying flood, while ARBITRAGE and JAM SESSION looked for better wind toward the north and took a gamble in cutting behind Alcatraz. That approach backfired, as they were both swept up in the reverse eddy of the famous cone!<br />
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After apparently losing its lead, ARBITRAGE jibed back into fresh air and extricated themselves from the ebb in a clean spinnaker reach to the downwind mark, converging with the other boats that had stayed away from Alcatraz. <br />
<br />
Stone and Breault executed a Mexican drop just past the mark with the jib preset for the upwind leg and were able to round tightly and head right toward the finish at Golden Gate YC. However, our competitors were a little less fortunate, as the other teams dropped too early and struggled to round the mark in the light winds and early ebb tide. <br />
<br />
Everyone headed toward the city front as the flood had ended and ebb was established there. But, once again, wind pressure trumped tide and it was better to stay in the deeper water. Tom Struttmann and Joerg Esdorn on ARRIVED went too far, ran out of wind and retired!"<br />
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In the end, the J/105 Valentine's Rally was won by Bruce Stone and Nicole Breault in ARBITRAGE, followed by Justin Oberbauer in STRANGELOVE, Adam Spiegel in JAM SESSION and Bill Woodruff in RUSSIAN ROULETTE.<br />
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Next up for the J/105 doublehanders is the Singlehanded Sailing Society's Corinthian Regatta on February 27, with 150 boats competing, 7 of which are J/105s - see www.jibeset.net - and then the Pi Regatta on March 14th.<br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Community</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span></h3>
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<strong>J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">J/Boats from around the world here</a>. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j46" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/46 offshore cruising yacht" data-file-id="114482" height="252" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/042bf6e0-76d2-4bae-bd4f-eb54f6f75574.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 252px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<strong>Gorgeous J/46 for sale!</strong> The J/46 is a timeless performance yacht! The 46 is a joy to cruise, sail & race... the original owner of this 46 has kept her in excellent condition, with full cherry interior and recent Awlgrip. Learn <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/The-J46-is-a-timeless-performance-yacht!-ncCGX4sU" target="_blank">more here from the McMichaels Yacht Brokerage listing</a>.<br />
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<span class="subTitle"><img align="right" alt="Bll Taylor sailing J/105" data-file-id="114478" height="357" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/d6d582a3-8f50-4c7d-b3e2-c87cf15fba35.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 357px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Paying it Forward to Youth Sailing- the J/105 WHISTLER story</span> </h2><div> Recently, SAILING Inc in Cleveland, OH had a chance to catch up with some of their good friends, The Taylor Boys from North Cape Yacht Club in La Salle, MI. Father Bill and sons Will and Ethan have been sailing mainstays on Western Lake Erie for years, and recently purchased the J/105 WHISTLER. Here is their fun interview with the Taylors.<br />
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<strong>SAILING</strong>: Describe a little of your sailing background.<br />
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I’ve had no formal sail training and youth sailing was limited to the SportYak and Katyak of Boy Scout Camp and the family summer vacations to Northern Michigan. I’ve been a power boater since my early teens. I was introduced to keelboats around 2000 on a Pearson 30 by a lifelong friend, where I moved from rail meat to the pit. <br />
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My two sons and youth sailing formally introduced my family to competitive sailing where they excelled in the Thistle. Today, our sailing is their sailing. I’m easily the worst sailor on our boat!<br />
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We overpaid for a ragged-out boat (Thistle) and Will and Ethan began a complete refit, chiseling-out stanchions, thwart, cap, 45s all replaced by them. Senior members of the Thistle fleet, like Doug Labor, motivated and encouraged their sailing and skill development. The Thistle played a huge roll in their early development and they're still active in the Thistle fleet today.<br />
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Meanwhile, their passion for the sport grew exponentially and invitations to crew on various keel boats began flowing in. We made the family decision to purchase our first keel boat in 2014, J/24 #4240 named “Juice Box Hero”. The J/24 was an excellent learning platform for our young teenagers to earn the trust of the western basin fleets. Juice Box, sailed with an exclusively junior crew, in various ILYA (Inland Lake Yachting Association) Regattas and helped inspire the creation of the PCYC (Port Credit Yacht Club) J/24 fleet. My passion for the sport took off helping youth sailors find opportunities to sail quality equipment and seriously compete at adult levels. The support and encouragement we received from fellow club members was invaluable. <br />
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My sailing background is directly tied to youth sailing, working on refits and restorations. The passion has been passed down from generation to generation. Those junior sailors have now grown up to be collegiate or former colligate sailors. They live, eat and breath sailing. They run our J/105 WHISTLER program!<br />
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<strong>SAILING</strong>: What kind of sailing do you do?<br />
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While we attempt to run a competitive race program, the 105 is used for everything. A sunset cruise or swim on a hot afternoon is a great way to spend the day. We race Wednesday night series, weekend local regattas and intend to jump into one-design and travel this year as well. If you asked Will, it’s PHRF, OD and ORC. If you asked Ethan, we race but I love a sunset cruise.<br />
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<strong>SAILING</strong>: What were you looking for in your next boat?<br />
<br />
We wanted a larger race platform that was more accommodating for offshore, night and/or heavier conditions. We found ourselves in longer/larger regattas and had a great experience with the J/24. The bigger J/105 was an obvious choice. My sons researched listings, travelled to inspect, arranged surveys, purchase and transportation. WHISTLER is their program. I take pictures, pay some bills and most of the time they let me tag along (hahaha!). They launch, step, tune, paint, epoxy and repair.<br />
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<strong>SAILING</strong>: Why did you choose this boat and what do you like most about it?<br />
<br />
We sail as often as possible and sailing with a younger crew, it's sometimes difficult to sail once or twice during the week and every weekend. The 105s asymmetrical configuration is friendlier to short-handed sailing than a symmetrical boat. The deck layout and system configurations on all J/Boats are well thought out. The boys have sailed J/24s, 29s, 30s, 70s, 88s, 92s, the 105, 109 and J/122- a lot of experience on J's! The J/105 shares some of its classic DNA with the 109 and even 122. They commonly sail on a very strong 122 program called BLITZKRIEG. In addition to shorthanded sailing, the asym configuration is a good platform for training and preparation for larger national regattas aboard the larger J/Boats while also allowing them a platform for more common doublehanded competitions.<br />
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<strong>SAILING</strong>: What particular sailing features do you like?<br />
<br />
The boat is an absolute blast in 20 knots. The confidence and stability the boat provides is fantastic. When Lake Erie gets choppy, WHISTLER loves it. The competitive nature of the boat’s design is evident when we pushed the boat hard. We seem to find an extra half knot, but you have to push the boat hard and have the boat in great condition and a good tune to get it. Last, the deck layout is friendlier to more mature sailors like myself. Trying to keep up with these youngsters is hard enough and I’m glad the deck and cockpit configuration doesn’t beat you up.<br />
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<strong>SAILING</strong>: What is the story behind your boat name?<br />
<br />
The boat name WHISTLER comes from the previous owner who lives in Barbados. The boat bounced back and forth annually between Barbados and Newport. Rumor has it he was directly affiliated with the famous “Whistler” ski resort. He bought a new J/121 and we got a boat that had been raced by a knowledgeable owner.<br />
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<strong>SAILING</strong>: What do you most look forward to each season on the boat?<br />
<br />
Every off-season is busy for us. We attempt to improve our boats every off-season. It affords us a season to work on the boat and a season to race, making spring launch an event with the testing new gear, rigging and sails. The Mills Race is the biggest regatta in our area so it’s the one we look forward to it each spring. This year we are going to attempt a regatta or two in the southeast.<br />
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<strong>SAILING</strong>: What is your proudest achievement on the boat?<br />
<br />
Will and Ethan won their first doublehanded regatta. First in PHRF-A at O’Connell Fall Bay was a blast, but the proudest achievement was winning the Club Championship at North Cape Yacht Club. Members have mentoring my boys for years and the competition is strong. Earning a club championship with a young crew and a skipper that should be competing in the junior circuit … it’s pretty rewarding.<br />
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<strong>SAILING</strong>: What is your biggest goal for the boat? Do you have any upcoming plans for this season or next?<br />
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The goal is to get the boat into top-flight competition condition. We’re looking forward to the Mill’s Race, a Bayview Mackinac Race, Cleveland Race Week, and possibly Bayview One Design Regatta. I want to keep the WHISTLER crew busy; they get better every time they leave the dock. It’s a young crew and they dream. I’d like to see if we can make a couple of those come true, whether it’s Florida, Charleston, Cleveland, Chicago, or a J/105 North Americans. We probably have some travelling in our future!!<br />
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<strong>Editor's Note: WHISTLER won the PHRF Fleet at the 2021 Ft. Lauderdale to Key West Race! Congrats team Taylor! </strong>For <a href="https://thesailinginc.com/news/" target="_blank">more news from Sailing Inc Cleveland, OH</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24 sailing Midwinters" data-file-id="114446" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/493db484-2b3d-48fe-819a-81413a5309f8.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Mark Pincus Chats About J/24 Midwinters</span></h2>
David Schmidt from Sail-World.com (<a href="https://www.sail-world.com/news/234871" target="_blank">https://www.sail-world.com/news/234871</a> ) newsletter recently had time to catch up with a stalwart of the J/24 class in Miami, Florida- Marc Pincus. Here is that interview.<br />
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"The J/24 might be venerable design, but the now 44-year-old design still draws some of sailing's best talents to its ranks. Better still, the boats are affordable, relatively easy to maintain, and transportable enough to be taken to destination venues or warm-weather locales during the cold months. One great example of this type of destination fun is this year's J/24 Midwinter Championship (February 26-28), which is being hosted by Shake-A-Leg Miami and which will be sailed on the waters of Florida's Biscayne Bay.<br />
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While J/24s may be portable-and their small crew numbers conducive to (relatively) easily creating coronavirus bubbles-the simple fact that the pandemic is still raging has forced many regattas to cancel. Fortunately for J/24 sailors, this year's Midwinters is still happening; better still, the event organizers are taking COVID precautions very seriously and have worked hard to create a safe event for all involved.<br />
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Which brings us back to the earlier point that, while now an older design, J/24s have long earned their well-deserved reputation for delivering great racing, and this year's Midwinters promises to be no exception.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24s sailing Midwinters" data-file-id="114466" height="276" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/d8755892-f0b0-43c0-963f-8781aae902ea.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 276px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
I checked in with Mark Pincus, regatta chair for the 2021 J/24 Midwinters (and fleet captain for J/24 Fleet 10 in Miami, Florida), via email, to learn more about this competitive regatta.<br />
<br />
<strong>SW</strong>: What kind of entry numbers are you seeing this year? Also, how do these stack up to previous editions of the regatta?<br />
<br />
<strong>MP</strong>: We are about on track from other years at 23 entries...there are several entries I know are pending, so we should see 25-30 entries on the starting line.<br />
<br />
For this COVID environment, we're very happy to be in the normal range! There is a cap of 35 boats, and we were hoping to have to make a wait list but that's probably not going to be necessary.<br />
<br />
<strong>SW</strong>: Weather-wise, what kind conditions can sailors expect to encounter on Biscayne Bay in late February? Also, what are the best-case and worst-case weather scenarios?<br />
<br />
<strong>MP</strong>: Our winter season is great sailing weather typically with balmy mid-70-degree Fahrenheit temps and nice breezes.<br />
<br />
We normally see easterly winds from NE-SE and mid-teens in velocity. If a front is coming through, then anything is possible. It's very rare to have temperatures below the 50's but in February they can happen.<br />
<br />
With the cold fronts it depends on how strong they are and if they make it all the way south past Miami. When the fronts stall it can leave us without much wind but hopefully the doldrums we have seen this season are past and the breeze will be on for this year's J/24 Midwinters.<br />
<br />
<strong>SW</strong>: How important do you think local knowledge will be? Also, do you expect most visiting teams to arrive early and acclimatize to conditions?<br />
<br />
<strong>MP</strong>: Biscayne Bay is not a hard place to sail and all but maybe one of the current entries has raced here more than once before. The tides are pretty easy to understand, and there are many options for getting current real time info on conditions.<br />
<br />
Where we will be racing, a little south in Biscayne Bay, we are removed from the few local knowledge spots near shores.<br />
<br />
And yes, I already know of several boats that are coming early to get some practice sailing done!<br />
<br />
<strong>SW</strong>: If you could offer one piece of advice to visiting (and local) teams, what would it be?<br />
<br />
<strong>MP</strong>: It's different this year: BE SAFE!<br />
<br />
Respect all the preventatives put in place to keep both sailors and hosts safe and COVID-free. The last thing we want is to have any regatta become a spreader event.<br />
<br />
Other than that, bring plenty of water and suntan lotion!<br />
<br />
<strong>SW</strong>: In the ideal world, how many races do you and the other organizers hope to score? Also, how many races will you run per day?<br />
<br />
<strong>MP</strong>: We have ten races are scheduled. Hopefully, with good breezes we can run four races each on Friday and Saturday so that only two are needed on the last day.<br />
<br />
<strong>SW</strong>: What kinds of safe-play pandemic tactics are you expecting from the racers on the water? Also, what kind of shoreside Covid precautions will the event employ?<br />
<br />
<strong>MP</strong>: Looking at our NOR (yachtscoring.com/event_documents/13200/2021%20J24%20MWs%20NOR%20.pdf) will give an idea of all the precautions we have put in place.<br />
<br />
Starting with requiring all participants— whether they are racing, supporting, or race committee— to provide negative rapid Covid tests that are less than 72 hours old to be at the event.<br />
<br />
We will have temperature takers stopping all persons entering the property and issuing color-coded wrist bands after being allowed entry.<br />
<br />
We have suspended all social functions and will prohibit gathering at the venue. If the previous regatta we ran in December is a model, then we expect the sailors to be respectful of the world we are dealing with and not be ultra-aggressive, both on the water and in the jury room!<br />
<br />
<strong>SW</strong>: Can you tell us about any efforts that you and the other regatta organizers have made to try to lower the regatta's environmental footprint or otherwise green-up the regatta?<br />
<br />
<strong>MP</strong>: The biggest environmental effort this year, other than the fact we are sailors who by description do not pollute the atmosphere and are usually very cognizant of keeping our waters clean, is the addition of MarkSetBot to the race course!<br />
<br />
Although interest in these GPS battery-operated robotic race marks was already building, the onset of COVID hastened their acceptance in the sailboat racing world. They make staffing the Race Committee much less demanding, controlling the race circle super-fast and easy and require less motorized equipment on the racecourse.<br />
<br />
<strong>SW</strong>: Anything else that you'd like to add, for the record?<br />
<br />
<strong>MP</strong>: We look forward to seeing all of our J/24 friends here in beautiful Coconut Grove playing on our Biscayne Bay waters again in February!
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-52604060628245368772021-02-17T09:00:00.003-05:002021-02-21T13:49:40.703-05:00J/Newsletter- February 17th, 2021<img align="none" alt="sunset on San Francisco Bay" data-file-id="101781" height="287" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/d78349b5-f379-4c70-b642-9ad863eb3ac7.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 287px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">The Sun Never Sets on J's Sailing Worldwide</span></h3>
The spring and summer sailing schedules for 2021 are beginning to take shape, various events are anticipating that pent-up demand will lead to greater than average participation rates. The European J/70 sailing leagues in over thirteen countries are announcing their events and some, notably, are coming up with clever options to sail in "open vs. lockdown" pandemic scenarios. Already, the Norwegians, the Russians, and the Germans are well on their way to accommodate ever more sailing clubs that are hoping to participate in their events. <br />
<br />
In the USA, events such as Edgartown Race Week and the J/22 and J/80 classes are noticing strong upticks of interest in this year's regattas. The J/22s, in particular, are seeing an enthusiastic response to sailing their J/22 Midwinters in New Orleans, LA in March. <br />
<br />
Then, our friends Down Under in Argentina held their J/70 Southern Atlantic Circuit in Buenos Aires, hosted by Yacht Club Argentino. <br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j45" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/45 cockpit perspective" data-file-id="114126" height="291" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4f9acfe1-9cd8-49de-9b03-b8c0ac4cef16.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 291px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">What's the DNA of the NEW J/45 Offshore Cruising Yacht?</span></h3>
(Newport, RI)- Hitting the sweet spot for an ultimate offshore cruiser racer is not easily achieved. To design and build the optimum combination of performance and comfort, requires the highest level of experience and technical ability. The J/45 is part of the Elegance range built by J/Composites, France and is the result of three years collaboration with J/Boats Inc. in Rhode Island USA.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j45" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/45 hull "hatched" from molds" data-file-id="113814" height="403" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/94a1979d-6147-421d-aecb-4639d7d9aa30.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 403px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
The J/45 is designed for high performance sailing at any wind angle. However, where it differs from most of the J/Boat range, is the interior is designed and built for living aboard in comfort. J/Composites’ Fred Bouvier explains more about the new J/45, just as Hull #1 came out of the mold at their facility in Les Sables-d’Olonne, France.<br />
<br />
“The first J/45 owner will be from France and the plan is to launch in June this year. We will have some sea trials in the Atlantic,” commented Mr. Bouvier. “The J/45 is the perfect size to combine the interior volume required of an ocean-going cruising yacht, with the advanced composite construction and hull shape of a performance race boat.”<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j45" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/45 offshore cruising yacht profile" data-file-id="114414" height="287" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/d2222f48-ecbf-4351-88ce-93c2f179e717.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 287px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
For all J/Boats there is a desire to keep the DNA of the brand in every model: sleek lines and a practical purpose for sailing. There is a wish to design J/Boats with moderate freeboard and not too much height in the coach roof. All of this needs to be combined with an interior that has good headroom, so every centimeter counts.<br />
<br />
One example of J-Composites collaboration with J/Boats for the J/45 design and engineering, was to provide a shower in the second head of the aft cabin. Together, the design/ engineering team made as many as 15 tiny changes to the design of the coach roof to allow this feature to be possible.<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j45" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/45 interior options" data-file-id="114390" height="479" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/2404f533-f32c-414b-8cc2-6a33eba2c624.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 479px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
"Working in partnership with J/Boats, we embraced both the DNA of J/Boats and famous French designer- Isabelle Racoupeaux- to create an interior that is really exceptional. The accommodation is like no other J/Boat before it, both in terms of the facilities and the beautiful finishing. It is a cruiser-racer, but the J/45 is not a compromise, it’s a combination,” commented Mr. Bouvier. <br />
<br />
Click <a href="https://youtu.be/8qBI4xbNGTI" target="_blank">here to watch the video of the J/45 virtual tour today!</a> <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j45" target="_blank">Visit J/Boats website for more details on the J/45</a>.<br />
<hr /><img align="none" alt="Eleuthera, Bahamas harbor" data-file-id="114194" height="238" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/95451554-272d-4495-8d85-6e847129dc9f.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 238px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">SORC Miami to Eleuthera Race Preview</span></h3>
(Miami, FL)- The final event for the SORC's Islands in the Stream Series takes place this weekend- the Miami to Eleuthera Race. The course takes competitors through the heart of the Bahamas and leads them to a tropical oasis in a part of the Bahamas that is not as well traveled as the typical destinations. Less traveled does not mean uncharted, and it is certainly within reach for SORC competitors.<br />
<br />
<img align="none" alt="SORC Miami to Eleuthera Race" data-file-id="114178" height="200" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/ba37c491-fbb7-420e-8a30-6b5b4dc735dd.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 200px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
The 295-mile race starts on February 17, 2021. The Eleuthera race will start off of South Beach, Miami, proceeding across the Gulf Stream, leaving Great Isaac, Great Stirrup and Eleuthera to starboard, rounding the southern tip of Eleuthera, and proceeding up the west side of the island to the finish near Powell Point. The Cape Eleuthera Resort and Marina is on the west side of the island of Eleuthera, at the finish line. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j44" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/44 sailing SORC races" data-file-id="113442" height="384" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7feaf8d4-4641-465b-926e-48d845a6e0d7.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 384px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Several enthusiastic J/Teams are participating in the race and some are vying for overall fleet honors. In the ORC 1 Division is Chris Lewis's KENIA from Austin, TX; Andy Wescoat's J/109 HARM'S WAY from Spring, TX; and Bill Wiggins's J/121 WINGS from Johns Island, SC. <br />
<br />
As competitors discovered after the inaugural Eleuthera Race in 2020, the Cape Eleuthera Resort and Marina is the perfect spot to wrap up the SORC Islands in the Stream Series. General Manager Chris Morris and his staff at the resort are as excited to have you there as the SORC is to send you there. They go above and beyond to make sure that no need goes unmet. It truly is the perfect spot to wrap up the series.<br />
<br />
The resort looks out to the west over Exuma Sound, which provides good access to the Marina. The channel into the marina is straightforward East/West, and well lit. A summer dredging project removed the few remaining high spots and leaves a 12-foot controlling depth, as well as adding jetties extending from the shore. Follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sorcsailing" target="_blank">the SORC Sailing on Facebook here</a> For <a href="http://www.sorcsailing.org/" target="_blank">more SORC Islands in the Stream series sailing information</a> For the <a href="https://www.eleutherarace.org" target="_blank">SORC Miami to Eleuthera Race results and information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="https://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 sailing off Stockholm, Sweden" data-file-id="114310" height="252" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e9d69f08-4030-49a6-b4c3-d31953749e8e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 252px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">European J/70 Sailing League Updates</span></h3>
(Hamburg, Germany)- The 2021 pandemic versions of the thirteen-plus J/70 sailing leagues across Europe are coming up with a variety of clever programs to ensure there is racing, lockdowns or not. Perhaps the most clever and aggressive plan comes from the Norwegians.<br />
<br />
Starting their fifth season of racing J/70s on their idyllic settings of fjords and villages by the sea, the league plans to have both "open" and "lockdown" scenarios as part of their strategy for the 2021 season. <br />
<br />
Viggo Holm, leader of Sandefjord Sailing Association explained, "we in Sandefjord Sailing Association are excited to once again host and manage the first sailing league event for Norway's best sailors! We promise a good atmosphere, and here in Norway's sunny county we are betting on the weather providing us good winds and lots of sun. With beautiful Seilerholmen as an arena, we will offer sailors food and drink between battles and a place to relax. Sailing in Norway needs a real sailing party now after the corona, and we will achieve that!"<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off Norway" data-file-id="114358" height="328" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/8d276b0b-b24a-49a8-bf04-a2e4fd8247e3.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 328px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
From May 29-30 the opening event will be held with 15 teams in each of the two divisions. Åsgårdstrand Seilforening are still defending champions from the 2019 season, since the 2020 season was wiped out by the covid-19 pandemic. <br />
<br />
During this year's sailing league season, there will also be a fight for places in the Sailing Champions League. After the end of the season, the four best in the elite series will have the opportunity to try their hand internationally, sailing the emerald waters off Porto Cervo, Italy at YC Costa Smeralda.<br />
<br />
A novelty for this year is that any event, if the corona situation requires it, can be held as a mixed doublehanded regatta, instead of the boats being fully manned by four sailors.<br />
<br />
"That we have made the opening to be able to sail mixed doublehanded in the league rounds, means that it must be a very impossible corona situation for the sailing league not to be able to be completed this year," says Magnus Hedemark from SailLogic, the firm responsible for the implementation of the sailing league.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off Oslo, Norway" data-file-id="114350" height="328" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/d2c8f2b0-34d0-4e94-97c9-8565e0f312ba.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 328px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<strong>Anniversary party in Larvik</strong><br />
After Sandefjord, the journey continues to Larvik, where the teams will meet again for the competition from June 19-20. The city of Larvik is celebrating its 350th anniversary this year, and the sailing league competition will be part of the celebration. <br />
<br />
Bjarte Løchen, who is the regatta manager in Larvik Sailing Association, commented that, "we aim to use the same sailing arena in Larvik's inner harbor. But, we will take into account extra space on land due to infection control regulations, and therefore plan to lay the sailing base on Sanden Pier in front of Kulturhuset Bølgen. We hope for a lot of life and fun and extra attention around the event."<br />
<br />
<strong>Exciting finale in the west</strong><br />
The big finale will take place on September 11-12, and for the first time the sailing league will visit Florø. Florø Sailing Association has been in the league from the very beginning and is in the elite series. The team has sailed there for three of four seasons. Follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/seilsportsliga/" target="_blank">Norwegian J/70 Sailing League on Facebook here</a>. For <a href="http://www.seilsportsliga.no/index.php/nb-no/" target="_blank">more J/70 Sailing League information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="https://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 Germany sailing league" data-file-id="112210" height="350" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/cf147d7a-9e3d-4243-a15e-85f03d129b31.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 350px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">German J/70 Sailing League Schedule Update</span></h3>
(Hamburg, Germany)- The season schedule for the Deutsche Segel-Bundesliga and the German Junior Sailing League is in place. Six regatta weekends are planned for the 1st Sailing Bundesliga, five for the 2nd Sailing Bundesliga and four for the juniors.<br />
<br />
With events from southern Germany to Berlin to Schleswig-Holstein, sailors will be challenged again in 2021 in a wide variety of sailing conditions. In addition to the Chiemsee, there is also sailing on Lake Constance, on the Wannsee, on the Kiel Fjord and on the Baltic Sea in Warnemünde. <br />
<br />
“The year 2020 has shown that sailing is also possible in pandemic times with the appropriate safety measures. We are therefore starting the 2021 season with a clean hygiene concept, flexibility and great optimism,” says Ole Studnitz, Chairman of the German Sailing League.<br />
<br />
The teams are already preparing; with online racing and race analysis. Plus, the sailors are now getting fit for the start of training on the water. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing German Sailing League" data-file-id="112102" height="324" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9c27d4cf-1014-456c-9be8-3407f2b9db1e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 324px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Markus Ostermair, team manager of the Chiemsee Yacht Club, wants to get started right from the start. “Of course, we want to attack and position ourselves for the season at our home game.” All eyes should also be on last year's champions; Norddeutscher Regatta Verein, runner-up ONEKiel, and third place Seglerhaus am Wannsee club.<br />
<br />
The season schedule for the <strong>1st and 2nd sailing Bundesliga</strong>:
<ul>
<li>Apr 30- May 2- ACT I- Prien (Chiemsee)</li>
<li>May 14-16- ACT II- Überlingen (Lake Constance)</li>
<li>Jul 16-18- ACT III- Kiel-Schilksee (Baltic Sea)</li>
<li>Aug 6-8- ACT IV- Berlin (Wannsee, only 1st sailing Bundesliga)</li>
<li>Sep 17-19- ACT V- Warnemünde (Baltic Sea)</li>
<li>Oct 21-23- DSBL FINALE- Berlin (Wannsee)</li>
<li>Jul 6 to Nov 7- DSL CUP- Berlin (Wannsee)</li>
</ul>
The dates of the <strong>German Junior Sailing League</strong>:
<ul>
<li>Jun 4-6- ACT I- Constance (Lake Constance- Konstanzer Yacht Club))</li>
<li>Jul 23-25- ACT II- Kiel (Baltic Sea- Kieler Yacht-Club)</li>
<li>Aug 27-29- ACT III- Essen (Baldeneysee- Essener Turn-und Fechtclub)</li>
<li>Oct 8-10- FINALE- Berlin (Tegeler See- Joersfelder Segel-Club)</li>
</ul>
Follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SegelBundesliga" target="_blank">the Deutsche Segel-Bundesliga on Facebook here</a> For <a href="http://segelbundesliga.de/" target="_blank">more Deutsche Segel-Bundesliga information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="https://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="Russian J/70s sailing off Sevastopol" data-file-id="114338" height="346" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e6a06dd8-c8a2-48bc-af65-a2b678806f9e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 346px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Russia J/70 Winter Series Announcement</span></h3>
(Moscow, Russia)- The 2021 J/70 National Sailing League in Russia has announced their NSL Winter Series has started in Sevastopol, Crimea and will run for five total events from mid-January to the end of March. The fleet of twelve matched one-design J/70s are available to teams from across Russia, from St. Petersburg to Vladivostok, and Moscow down to Sochi on the Black Sea. <br />
<br />
<img align="none" alt="Russian J/70 sailors in winter weather at Sevastopol, Crimea" data-file-id="114382" height="370" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4ce88ae9-8f76-4d45-8fc0-66c0bbdd8256.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 370px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
There was real winter weather at the 1st Stage in Sevastopol. Everything including the kitchen sink was thrown at the fleet by the weather Gods...light airs, squalls, planing mode, drifting mode, sunny skies, snow, sleet. No matter what hit the fleet, the sailors were undeterred. Air temperatures ranging from 28 F to 45 F didn't seem to affect any of the sailors who were determined to get on the water, having missed sailing so much because of covid pandemic canceled events. <br />
<br />
Enjoy some of these very cool photos taken over the course of three days of competition.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off Sevastopol, Crimea" data-file-id="114222" height="338" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/8fbf17c4-e27f-47e3-ad47-ac764c2f1e87.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 338px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<a href="https://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 sailing off Sevastopol, Crimea" data-file-id="114322" height="346" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7295fec0-dcbf-404e-9c8c-12bd57cb4030.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 346px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The next stages will all be sailed in Sevastopol, easily the "warmest" southern port on the Black Sea for the Russian sailing teams. Here is the remaining schedule:
<ul>
<li>Stage 2-January 29-31</li>
<li>Stage 3-February 12-14</li>
<li>Stage 4-February 26-28</li>
<li>Final - March 12-14</li>
</ul>
⠀Follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/russiansailingleague/" target="_blank">Russian J/70 Sailing League on Facebook here</a> For <a href="http://nationalsailingleague.com/" target="_blank">more Russian J/70 Sailing League information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j22" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22s sailing offshore" data-file-id="98873" height="243" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/26b84437-3a28-4d3a-887b-29aab961e8f0.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 243px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/22 Midwinters Update- Come One, Come All!</span></h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Experience the Best Cajun, Gumbo & Creole Food Anywhere!</span></h4>
(New Orleans, LA)- Wondering what to do in March? Wanna have an incredibly fun time just sailing on the water? Why not beg, borrow, or steal a J/22 that floats, clean off the cobwebs, and start driving south to that famous home of the Mardi Gras Festival this past week- Naw'leens! A gastronomic delight, a visual feast of historic homes with wrought iron balconies, and the infamous "French Quarter", you cannot possibly go wrong experiencing everything that New Orleans has to offer. <br />
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From March 18th to 21st, the gorgeous new Southern Yacht Club will be hosting the J/22 Midwinter Championship on the challenging, choppy waters of Lake Ponchartrain. So far, there are twenty-one entries and more joining in the fun all the time.<br />
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The entry list has many class leaders participating; all eager to get on the water and enjoy the fresh air on the water, the wind in your hair, and the sun on your face. Some of the notable teams include Tommy Meric Jr, Glenn Darden's BABY DOLL, Mark Foster's PRESSURE DROP, Chip Carpenter's WIZARD, Bill Draheim, and Casey Lambert's BLACKBURN MARINE RACING.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="Southern Yacht Club- New Orleans, LA" data-file-id="114174" height="204" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/8c0acccf-4c27-478a-87c2-c5296ea64a93.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 204px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
Don't see your name on the entry list? Time to dust-off that war horse, saddle it up, and ride it down to New Orleans. What's not to love about the best that Southern hospitality has to offer; the new club house rebuilt after Hurricane Katrina burnt down the original is simply out-of-this-world. Come One, Come All, the Southern YC welcomes you with open arms and their famous red-carpet treatment for their guests. <br />
For <a href="http://www.j22mw.com" target="_blank">more J/22 Midwinter Championship registration & sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111 in Key West" data-file-id="113750" height="390" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/d98372fb-c238-4131-9209-9b7410e2c7df.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 390px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Save the date for Key West 2022!</span></h3>
(Key West, FL)- After enjoying the 30th anniversary of Key West Race Week in 2017, the annual migration to the southernmost point in the continental United States had been on hiatus. But, through the motivation of J/111 Class owners and the support of Sailing Inc., The Key West Winter Series was launched in 2021. Key West racing was back!<br />
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Kept purposely small this year, The Key West Winter Series powered by Sailing Inc. will be continued and expanded in 2022. The plan is to open the event to more fleets and offer five consecutive days of grand-prix racing in the champagne sailing conditions provided by Key West, FL. Thanks for contribution from Sailing Inc/ Scuttlebutt Sailing Newsletter. To learn more about this year’s event and sign up to r<a href="http://www.thekeywestwinterseries.com" target="_blank">eceive updates for the Key West Winter Series 2022 click here</a><br />
<hr /><img align="right" alt="ORC Doublehanded Europeans" data-file-id="114186" height="290" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4111616a-b7d1-41a4-9dd8-102c57c27eeb.jpg" style="border: 0px initial; height: 290px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 225px;" width="225" /><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Inaugural ORC Doublehanded European Championship Announcement </span></h3>
(Sounio, Greece)– The Hellenic Offshore Racing Club (HORC) and the Offshore Racing Congress (ORC) are pleased to announce entry is now open for the inaugural ORC Doublehanded European Championship to be held from July 2nd to 10th, 2021. The event is being held concurrently with the AEGEAN 600, a non-stop 600-mile full-crew race tour of the Aegean Sea that also starts and ends in Sounio.<br />
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The ORC DH Europeans is a new event in the portfolio of annual ORC World and European championships, one that harnesses the growing enthusiasm for Doublehanded sailing following the proposal by World Sailing for this to be included as a mixed gender two-person offshore keelboat event in the Olympic program for the 2024 Games in Paris.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 sailing doublehanded" data-file-id="113662" height="356" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/204a5911-d2f7-4ac1-8f7b-5fcfcd4ae2e1.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 356px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The regatta will be based at the Olympic Marina, gateway to the Aegean Sea, 70 km southeast from central Athens and just north of Cape Sounion. The format consists of a short Coastal Race and a Long Offshore Race worth 1.0 and 1.5 points, respectively, with registrations and inspections starting on Friday, July 2nd and concluding on Sunday, July 4th before the Coastal Race start on Monday, July 5th. The intended length of this race is 10-12 hours on a course set in the Saronikos Gulf and the Cyclades islands. <br />
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After a recovery day on Tuesday, racing will resume on Wednesday, July 7th with the Long Offshore Race of 60-72 hours duration in the same course area in the Aegean. Awards will be given in a Closing Ceremony held on Saturday, July 10th.<br />
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Entries are open to all boats with a valid ORCi DH certificate with a GPH rating from 500 to 700 seconds per mile. Class divisions will be determined at the closing date for entries on June 4th, with no more than three classes defined with expected GPH ranges of 80-120 s/mi per class.<br />
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All entries are expected to have their boats and crew suitably prepared for Doublehanded racing and are expected to have experience in participation in offshore racing of extended duration. Trophies will be awarded to the top three winners in each class, and additional prizes may be awarded to the top three male/female and mixed gender crews in each class. <br />
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“The Aegean Sea is considered the cradle of western civilization,” said Ioannis Maragkoudakis, Commodore of HORC. “And it’s due to these deep roots of life on the sea that we have a rich maritime heritage, in general, and a robust sailboat racing culture, in particular. Xenios Zeus, the ancient Greek god of hospitality, promises to provide to all participating crews exceptional hospitality and exciting racing!”<br />
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<a href="https://youtu.be/9jkqfBh4sok" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="ORC Doublehanded Europeans" data-file-id="114198" height="324" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f950f6e2-f92f-4e73-b7ef-50c42ff642fd.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 324px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<a href="https://youtu.be/9jkqfBh4sok" target="_blank">Watch promo video of "In the Sea of Myths & Legends" here</a><br />
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“We are very excited that our friends at HORC have organized this important new ORC championship,” said Bruno Finzi, Chairman of ORC. “There is a long history of competitive offshore racing in Greece, and the Aegean Sea is both beautiful and challenging, so we encourage all offshore sailors to considering joining us in Sounio for this significant new event that for some may be on a pathway to the Olympics.”<br />
For <a href="https://2021orcdheuropeans.org/" target="_blank">more ORC Doublehanded European Championship sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><img align="none" alt="J/Boats sailing Edgartown Race Week" data-file-id="109222" height="374" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/dcb6cc48-7fb9-4331-8f91-5e30211f867c.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 374px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Edgartown Race Week- Calling all J/Teams!</span></h3>
(Edgartown, Martha's Vineyard, MA)- Edgartown Race Weekend team is hard at work getting ready for ERW 2021 and is looking forward to seeing everyone on the water for our mid-summer’s top event. We are excited to see a number of early entries from the Northeast and mid-Atlantic regions. The team has been adding new sponsors and activities, as well as enhancing the logistical elements of ERW to make our event a more seamless event for visiting teams.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j160" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/160 sailing Edgartown Regatta" data-file-id="109190" height="342" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/cd701330-8478-434e-b54c-ff6cd4a2fc5b.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 342px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
We would like to note that we encourage One-design classes to come in force! We can easily set up specific starting lines for one-design groups (5 or more boats). We're excited that out of 30 entries for the 2021 'Round-the-Island Race, there are 8 J/Crew already registered! Some of those teams include Andrew Clark's J/122 ZIG ZAG, Stephen Besse's J/120 APRES, Ed Dailey's J/109 RAPTOR, Mike Hersey's J/35 RESILIENCE, Ira Perry's J/29 SEEFEST, Rob Littleton's J/121 SHE's NO LADY, Doug Curtiss's J/111 WICKED 2.0, and Alan Fougere's J/160 AVATAR. That is a fun-loving, talented group of J/Teams so far!<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j122" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/122 sailing Edgartown Regatta" data-file-id="109254" height="410" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7d613bef-422d-48eb-af89-5b0627fdb21a.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 410px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
We encourage sailors to register early to take advantage of free moorings for the first 50 entrants, as well as to lock in accommodations, as space fills up fast during Martha’s Vineyard summers. <br />
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Please take note that we have separate events on Yacht Scoring for our buoy racing and Round-the-Island segments – <a href="https://www.edgartownyc.org/club/scripts/library/view_document.asp?NS=PR&GRP=40011&DN=RACE" target="_blank">make sure to register on both ERW sites</a>! <em><strong>Sailing photo credits- Stephen Cloutier</strong></em><br />
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<a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13249" target="_blank">Registration and regatta information can be found here</a>. For any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to the EYC Race Administrator- Margaret Passafiume at r<a href="mailto:aceadministrator@edgartownyc.org?subject=Edgartown%20Race%20Week%20info" target="_blank">aceadministrator@edgartownyc.org</a>.<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j80" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/80 sailing offshore" data-file-id="111310" height="294" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/6786345d-fe1e-41f1-94cd-1c08b4620365.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 294px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/80 Class 2021 Regatta Plans</span> </h3>
(Annapolis, MD)- Ramzi Bannura, President of the J/80 North American Class provided an update on plans for their 2021 class schedule and events:<br />
<br />
"Regattas and other boating events were limited throughout last year, but some of us were able to get out and have some fun together on the boats and also compete in a few small events. <br />
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The J/80 NA Class remains strong as ever with a solid, active representation of 100 members since 2019 and we have traced over 250 J/80s throughout North America that we are actively engaging to ensure these owners reap the benefits of our J/80 knowledge base and nearby boat owner camaraderie. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j80" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/80 sailboats" data-file-id="109494" height="298" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/102036ad-a243-45e7-a931-8bf7ecad600e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 298px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
We maintain a strong representation of J/80 fleets in Annapolis, Austin, NH, Maine, Seattle, Ontario Canada, Hawaii and MA with growing pockets of activity in between. 2021 is expected to begin at a slow pace, but we are nonetheless planning a J/80 North American Championship in Annapolis the first weekend on October 1st to the 3rd, hosted by Eastport Yacht Club. <br />
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We are looking to also support the J-Jamboree on Lake Winnipesaukee, NH in mid-September and we also hope to have a boat or two represent North America at the J/80 Worlds in Copenhagen, Denmark in July, if global travel regulations and logistics allow. We will be using 2021 to build up the momentum for our march toward the J/80 Worlds on October 1-7, 2022 hosted by Sail Newport in Newport, RI.<br />
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We will also be hosting the 2022 J/80 North American championships at Sail Newport a week or more before (September 23-25). We also expect a few other one-design events throughout New England the months before the Worlds event to get everyone warmed up for the big event.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/80 World Championship- Denmark" data-file-id="113526" height="342" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a699c3db-ae3c-42cf-9cf3-284bfde6f9ac.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 342px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
The class is excited about the next 18 months and the opportunities to get back on the water and compete together. Updates will continue to be available on <a href="http://www.j80na.com" target="_blank">www.j80na.com</a> and <a href="http://www.j80worlds2022.com" target="_blank">www.j80worlds2022.com</a> for Worlds specific details, which is expected to be on line shorty." <br />
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For any class event information, please contact Ramzi Bannura- email- <a href="mailto:Rbannura@yahoo.com?subject=J%2F80%20class%20schedule" target="_blank">Rbannura@yahoo.com</a>. For <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j80" target="_blank">more J/80 one-design class sailboat information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="https://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=3_16&products_id=218" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/Gear Marmot Jacket" data-file-id="113906" height="312" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/fc6ca238-d1c7-4fff-a39a-a846c998ca8b.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 312px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
February Special- Marmot Jacket!</span></h3>
(Newport, RI)- The J/Thermo Jacket is by Marmot and is a stuffed lightweight, highly compressible and enviably warm Primaloft ® Black insulation — a synthetic insulation made with 60 percent recycled fibers that boasts warmth without bulk and a soft feel — the outer is from a durable nylon ripstop fabric. Elastic hem and cuffs keep the jacket in place and Angel-Wing Movement™ allows you to move without the jacket riding up. Zippered pockets offer a warm place for your hands to rest. Wear under a shell or on its own. Perfect for packing and stylish for cool weather. <a href="https://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=3_16&products_id=218" target="_blank">Click here to enjoy a 20% discount on this gorgeous Marmot jacket</a><br />
<hr /><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span></h3>
Feb 17- <a href="http://www.sorcsailing.org/" target="_blank">SORC Miami to Eleuthera Race- Miami, FL</a><br />
Mar 4-7- <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/primo-cup-trophee-credit-suisse/" target="_blank">J/70 Primo Cup- Trophee Credit Suisse- Monte Carlo, Monaco</a><br />
Mar 5-7- <a href="https://thesailinginc.com/thekeywestwinterseries" target="_blank">J/111 Key West Winter Series- Key West, FL</a><br />
Mar 5-8- <a href="https://heinekenregatta.com/" target="_blank">St Maarten Heineken Regatta- Simpson Bay, Saint Maarten</a><br />
Mar 10-13- <a href="https://bacardiinvitational.com/" target="_blank">J/70 Bacardi Cup- Miami, FL</a><br />
Mar 18-21- <a href="http://www.j22mw.com" target="_blank">J/22 Midwinter Championship- New Orleans, LA</a><br />
Mar 19-21- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eid=13122" target="_blank">J/70 Davis Island Winter Series III- Tampa, FL</a><br />
Mar 19-21- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-in-san-diego/" target="_blank">San Diego NOOD Regatta- San Diego, CA</a><br />
Mar 26-28- <a href="https://stthomasinternationalregatta.com/" target="_blank">St. Thomas International Regatta- St. Thomas, USVI</a><br />
Mar 29- Apr 4- <a href="https://bvispringregatta.org/" target="_blank">BVI Spring Regatta- Road Town, Tortola, BVI</a><br />
Apr 2-4- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-st-petersburg/" target="_blank">St Petersburg NOOD Regatta- St Petersburg, FL</a><br />
Apr 11-17- <a href="https://lesvoilesdestbarthrichardmille.com/us/" target="_blank">Les Voiles de St Barth Regatta- Gustavia, St Barthelemy</a> <br />
Apr 8-11- <a href="https://www.charlestonraceweek.com/" target="_blank">Charleston Race Week- Charleston, SC</a><br />
Apr 24-30- <a href="https://www.sailingweek.com/" target="_blank">Antigua Sailing Week- English Harbour, Antigua, West Indies</a><br />
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For additional <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j-sailing-calendar/sailing-regattas" target="_blank">J/Regatta and Event dates in your region, please refer to the on-line J/Sailing Calendar</a>.<br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="https://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off Buenos Aires, Argentina" data-file-id="114258" height="268" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7c257feb-dbee-49d2-895d-c34b0dea5bb2.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 268px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
Despontin Wins J/70 South Atlantic Circuit!</span></h3>
(Buenos Aires, Argentina)- Eighteen teams participated in the 2021 South Atlantic Circuit Championship, sponsored by GALICIA EMINENT, from January 15th to 31st, spread out over three weekends. Host for the event was the famous Yacht Club Argentino, with racing taking place on the muddy waters of the Rio de La Plata.<br />
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<a href="https://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off Buenos Aires, Argentina on Rio de la Plata" data-file-id="114302" height="354" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4c56c0f9-1b22-4a5f-abb9-6b99e6dce896.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 354px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Despite best efforts by the YC Argentino's very experienced Race Committee and PRO team, the scheduled 15 races could not be completed. Nevertheless, the crews enjoyed the sunny warm weather and the 10 races that were completed. <br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/70 winners- Despontin and crew" data-file-id="114342" height="404" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e6b415cd-2dcd-47b5-bb60-6c1f22ae8152.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 404px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
In the end, winning was Ezekiel Despontin's team on ARG 707; his crew was composed Torkel Borgstrom, Pablo Despontin, and Mariano Caputo. His team managed to compile 7 top 5 finishes to win with 20 pts. net. <br />
<br />
Taking the balance of the podium were two new crews. Taking the silver was Javier Conte's BACHAJO also with 7 top five races, but was unable to overcome Despontin's speed and smarts around the track. In the end, they finished with 24 pts. net. Finally, the bronze medal was awarded to Gonzalo Ramos-Vertiz's ARG 806, winning two races, and finishing with 27 pts. net. <br />
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<a href="https://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing in Argentina" data-file-id="114190" height="238" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/0043c111-3bae-4b53-9ecb-32f019e97a77.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 238px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Winning the Corinthians Division was Francisco Van Avermaete's SI QUERIDA team, manned by Carlos Lacchini, Geronimo Galvan, and Eduardo Rasilla. They sailed well and managed to win two races, easily winning the Corinthians with 29 pts net; notably just two points from the podium!<br />
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<a href="https://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 sailing in Buenos Aires, Argentina" data-file-id="114278" height="308" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/07289c97-b80a-40ec-a456-b7ddf110274e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 308px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The balance of the Corinthians was Jose Arrondo's BEBETO in second and Paulo Cosentino's NEGRONI in third position. Follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/j70argentina/" target="_blank">the Argentinean J/70 Class on Facebook here</a> For<a href="https://yca.org.ar/2021/01/22/j70-resultados-circuito-atlantico-sur-2021/" target="_blank"> the J/70 South Atlantic Circuit series information</a><br />
<hr /><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Community</span></h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span></h4>
-----------<br />
<strong>J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">J/Boats from around the world here</a>. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j122" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/122 brokerage for sale" data-file-id="114234" height="344" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/6146fb74-70e3-4e36-94ee-f7985e87e0a9.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 344px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The 2010 J/122 Moonstruck Too (ex Joopster) has been raced and cruised on the east and west coast of Scotland since January 2015 when she was purchased by the current owner. The boat has been regularly maintained and is in very good condition with an excellent specification. There has been a rolling maintenance program in place, ensuring the deck gear has been serviced and replaced as required. She benefits from a new forestay and Harken MK4 furler. Moonstruck Too has a generous sail wardrobe, including a 2018 North Sails cruising main and jib and a range of North 3DL Carbon racing sails. Although currently set up for asymmetric spinnaker, the symmetric pole and rigging, used by the previous owner, are included in the sale. With a carbon mast and extensive modifications to the rigging, deck gear and sail setup she is a brilliant race boat and is well suited to racing double-handed, fully crewed or for family cruising. She's available to view ashore in Hamble, by arrangement with Key Yachting.<br />
For <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2010-J122-N1awbpKw" target="_blank">more J/122 used sailboat information</a><br />
<a data-flip-widget="flipit" href="https://flipboard.com">Add to Flipboard Magazine.</a><script src="https://cdn.flipboard.com/web/buttons/js/flbuttons.min.js" type="text/javascript"></script>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-45293914522198707912021-02-10T12:59:00.005-05:002021-02-13T13:22:12.333-05:00J/Newsletter- February 10th, 2021<img align="none" alt="sunset on San Francisco Bay" data-file-id="101781" height="287" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/d78349b5-f379-4c70-b642-9ad863eb3ac7.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 287px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">The Sun Never Sets on J's Sailing Worldwide</span></h3>
This coming weekend is an unusual "triple-witching hour" of celebrations for various constituencies around the world. First, Happy St. Valentine's Day to all that love to enjoy the day with loved ones and family. Second, the USA marks the weekend as well with President's Day and it's a national holiday on Monday. Then, the Chinese New Year is celebrated on Friday, 12th February, 2021. The festival sees the Chinese community across the world welcome the 2021 "Year of the Ox", decorating their homes in the lucky color red and attending parades as they wish for a happy and prosperous year ahead.<br />
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From a sailing standpoint, the Yacht Club Monaco held their second event in the YCM J/70 Winter Series off Monte Carlo, Monaco. The two-dozen teams enjoyed a total of nine races on Hercules Bay. There was a surprising outcome given the talent of the fleet.<br />
<hr /><a href="https://youtu.be/8qBI4xbNGTI" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/45 virtual tour" data-file-id="113482" height="342" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/6fc2847a-e4fc-471a-8a1c-a6e3e18bbb4d.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 342px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/45 Virtual Tour</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Discover the new J/45 offshore cruising yacht as if you were there!</span></h3>
(Newport, RI)- You were waiting for it impatiently, the virtual tour is now here! From the cockpit deck plan to the owner's cabin, visit in detail the new flagship J/Boats, dedicated to offshore sailing. With leading edge design, combined with a modern and refined interior design, discover in total immersion the perfect alliance between performance and cruising comfort, like no J before it. Click here to<a href="https://youtu.be/8qBI4xbNGTI" target="_blank"> watch the video of the J/45 virtual tour today!</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24s sailing regatta" data-file-id="107962" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/91d5a07b-5759-4cc2-8fbd-c92e236a7c1f.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/24 Midwinters Update</span></h2>
(Miami, FL)- Following in the same footsteps as their J/70 friends and colleagues, the USA J/24 class has organized their J/24 Midwinter Championship in Miami, Florida, with the Shake-A-Leg Foundation being their host at their amazing facility on the Miami waterfront. <br />
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Responding enthusiastically has been J/24 sailors from across the country. Clearly, there is an enormous pent-up demand to get back out on the water and enjoy the camaraderie of seeing long lost friends from living the pandemic life.<br />
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So far, thirty J/24 teams are registered on YachtScoring to participate in what may be the first regatta for nearly all the teams since the March "lockdown" last year. The depth and talent of the fleet is remarkable, with many boats getting their covers dusted off, boats polished, bottoms sanded, and shaking out the mice family living in the sail bags! Sailing the regatta are several past National, North American, and World Champions; such as the John Mollicone & Mike Marshall duo on AMERICAN GARAGE, Robby Brown's ANGEL OF HARLEM, the Long Island Sound brother duo of Al & Dave Constants on BLITZ, the scary smart crew on HONEYBADGER (Travis Odenbach, Patrick Wilson, Chris Stocke, and Monica Morgan), Eammon Delisser's MAIN SQUEEZE with Luke Lawrence on cockpit/ tactics, the famous Aidan Glackin on MENTAL FLOSS, Mark Pincus steering SCOUTS HONOR, Kirk Reynolds driving TYRUS, and Marcus Rogers on WIND MONKEY with Carter and Molly White providing traffic directions. Should be fun!<br />
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If YOU are not on a J/24 sailing in this regatta, you better be asking yourself, "why not"!? Go for it, it's an easy drive down I-95 to Miami! Just chuck the boat in, pop open a few "tinnies", lather-up with sunscreen, put on the shades, and take a cruise around the lovely aquamarine waters of Biscayne Bay with friends! Sign me up! For more J/24 Midwinters event and registration information, <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13200" target="_blank">click here to go to Yachtscoring.com </a>and sign up!<br />
<hr /><img align="right" alt="J/122 Rolex Fastnet Race" data-file-id="114094" height="367" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a1d1f21e-cff2-4e4c-afaf-853ee42837cc.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 367px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Boats Armada for Rolex Fastnet Race</span></h2>
(Cowes, Isle of Wight, England)- Forty-Seven J Boats teams have entered the 2021 Rolex Fastnet Race, the largest number of entries by a single boat brand by far in the world’s largest offshore race! A record entry of over 500 yachts is expected to start the race in Cowes, on 8th August 2021. <br />
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Notably the first entry was a J/Boat! Eva Herman’s J/122 JULIET ROMEO. She is clearly excited to get out on her boat and have "a star to steer her by". <br />
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For the last four decades, J/Boats have featured in every edition of the race. For the 49th edition, 12 different designs of the J/Boats range will be racing. #jboats #jcomposites #RolexFastnetRace #rorc #sailboat #sailing Learn <a href="http://www.rolexfastnetrace.com" target="_blank">more about the Rolex Fastnet Race here</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="https://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=3_16&products_id=218" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/Gear Marmot Jacket" data-file-id="113906" height="312" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/fc6ca238-d1c7-4fff-a39a-a846c998ca8b.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 312px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
February Special- Marmot Jacket!</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)- The J/Thermo Jacket is by Marmot and is a stuffed lightweight, highly compressible and enviably warm Primaloft ® Black insulation — a synthetic insulation made with 60 percent recycled fibers that boasts warmth without bulk and a soft feel — the outer is from a durable nylon ripstop fabric. Elastic hem and cuffs keep the jacket in place and Angel-Wing Movement™ allows you to move without the jacket riding up. Zippered pockets offer a warm place for your hands to rest. Wear under a shell or on its own. Perfect for packing and stylish for cool weather. <a href="https://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=3_16&products_id=218" target="_blank">Click here to enjoy a 20% discount on this gorgeous Marmot jacket</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span></h2>
Feb 17- <a href="http://www.sorcsailing.org/" target="_blank">SORC Miami to Eleuthera Race- Miami, FL</a><br />
Mar 4-7- <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/primo-cup-trophee-credit-suisse/" target="_blank">J/70 Primo Cup- Trophee Credit Suisse- Monte Carlo, Monaco</a><br />
Mar 5-7- <a href="https://thesailinginc.com/thekeywestwinterseries" target="_blank">J/111 Key West Winter Series- Key West, FL</a><br />
Mar 5-8- <a href="https://heinekenregatta.com/" target="_blank">St Maarten Heineken Regatta- Simpson Bay, Saint Maarten</a><br />
Mar 10-13- <a href="https://bacardiinvitational.com/" target="_blank">J/70 Bacardi Cup- Miami, FL</a><br />
Mar 19-21- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eid=13122" target="_blank">J/70 Davis Island Winter Series III- Tampa, FL</a><br />
Mar 19-21- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-in-san-diego/" target="_blank">San Diego NOOD Regatta- San Diego, CA</a><br />
Mar 26-28- <a href="https://stthomasinternationalregatta.com/" target="_blank">St. Thomas International Regatta- St. Thomas, USVI</a><br />
Mar 29- Apr 4- <a href="https://bvispringregatta.org/" target="_blank">BVI Spring Regatta- Road Town, Tortola, BVI</a><br />
Apr 2-4- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-st-petersburg/" target="_blank">St Petersburg NOOD Regatta- St Petersburg, FL</a><br />
Apr 11-17- <a href="https://lesvoilesdestbarthrichardmille.com/us/" target="_blank">Les Voiles de St Barth Regatta- Gustavia, St Barthelemy</a> <br />
Apr 8-11- <a href="https://www.charlestonraceweek.com/" target="_blank">Charleston Race Week- Charleston, SC</a><br />
Apr 24-30- <a href="https://www.sailingweek.com/" target="_blank">Antigua Sailing Week- English Harbour, Antigua, West Indies</a><br />
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For additional <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j-sailing-calendar/sailing-regattas" target="_blank">J/Regatta and Event dates in your region, please refer to the on-line J/Sailing Calendar</a>.<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 sailboat" data-file-id="114122" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/738d7cb7-ab27-495e-b156-6507427c396f.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">G-SPOT Tops Monaco J/70 Winter Series Act II</span></h2>
(Monte Carlo, Monaco)- The Monaco J/70 Winter Series continued this past weekend, hosted by the Yacht Club de Monaco in Monte Carlo. Twenty-three teams sailed the event with most participating from Monaco, but including enthusiastic teams from Italy, France, Switzerland, Russia, Sweden, and Netherlands. The fleet was greeted by rather mundane conditions for the famous Hercules Bay. For the most part it was grey and overcast with moderate conditions for the weekend. <br />
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Over the three-day series, the YC Monaco PRO managed to run a total of nine races. In the end, it was Giangiacomo Serena di Lapigio's G-SPOT that sailed a solid, very consistent series. Other than a black flag blemish on their record in the 7th race, they had four podium finishes including two race wins to take the event with 31 pts. net. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 one-design sailboat" data-file-id="114102" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e4a0b377-d477-4c5c-baf4-30cb0412b0f1.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Ludovic Fassitelli's JUNDA- BANCO DEL SEMPIONE started off the series with a black flag, and after a 2-2-1 in the next three races was looking good for the top of the podium. Thereafter, their team faltered a bit but hung on to take the silver medal with 34 pts. net. Rounding out the podium and taking the bronze medal was Claudia Rossi's PETITE TERRIBLE- ADRIA FERRIES. Starting off with a black flag as well, she amassed a regatta-winning tally of three bullets and 2-3-5, but that was not enough to overcome a second BFD in her 7th race. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 sailing off Monaco" data-file-id="114114" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9a9c2f4c-1072-4e85-ac88-6f2f80334486.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Rounding out the top five was Gianrocco's Catalano's ALICE in 4th place and taking 5th position was Loic Pompee's SAILING RACING TEAM.<br />
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In the Corinthians Division, it was Lorenz Kausche's RHUBARBE team from Switzerland that took gold. Second was Cesare Gabasio's TINN J70 from Monaco and third was Thomas Studer's Swiss crew on JERRY. <br />
For <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/monaco-sportsboat-winter-series/" target="_blank">more Monaco J/70 Winter Series sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Community</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span></h3>
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<strong>J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">J/Boats from around the world here</a>. <br />
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<a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2013-J100-Y0mKRyol" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/100 for brokerage sale" data-file-id="113998" height="356" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c764b4e6-5a2c-468c-b279-e4d0c9ee2081.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 356px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Gorgeous J/100 For Sale</span></h2>
This J/100 is an elegant daysailer and is a modern classic with teak decks and navy hull. With a carbon Hall spars mast, North sails and Raymarine electronics, she has proven to be a very competitive boat. Having achieved first in her class (ISC Group 5) in the 2019 Round the Island Race, as well as 3rd in Cruiser div B in 2019 Cowes Week with an all-family crew.<br />
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<a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2013-J100-Y0mKRyol" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/100 brokerage for sale" data-file-id="114030" height="316" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/dd4f7c7f-d579-4d24-954f-262db1a7ee5a.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 316px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
TIDERACE has had 2 owners from new and has been very well-maintained. Specified with optional stanchions and double lifelines she is prepared for crewed racing. The J/100 is a versatile model that can also be day-sailed easily shorthanded. <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2013-J100-Y0mKRyol" target="_blank">Please contact Key Yachting for a full video tour</a>!<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j45" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/45 cockpit" data-file-id="114126" height="291" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4f9acfe1-9cd8-49de-9b03-b8c0ac4cef16.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 291px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Ever wonder how a boat is created from an idea to reality? </span></h2>
Here are some progress photos of the new J/9 daysailer and the evolution of the process.<br />
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The quick lesson is that once the designer has created the hull and deck lines for the boat, it's sent to our Symmetrix tool maker in Bristol, RI to make the male "plugs". <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/9 deck rough cut" data-file-id="114138" height="268" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/_compresseds/74d688ee-b4f1-4ec3-8c63-7a8dee5d73ab.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 268px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
Step 1- make the frames and spray coat with what looks like wedding cake white icing (a foam). <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/9 deck mold CNC milling" data-file-id="114146" height="312" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/_compresseds/97e3d874-b38d-40b0-a502-05dd357b35bf.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 312px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 5px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
Step 2- the 5-axis CNC milling machine "carves" out the shape of the plug. <br />
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<img align="none" data-file-id="114130" height="325" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/ddf8163f-03fe-4818-8d0f-29dd61b1137b.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 325px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /><br />
Step 3- coat the mold with an epoxy/ fiber mix (the gray stuff). <br />
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Step 4- the 5-axis milling process carves the mold to within 1mm of the designed shape. <br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/9 hull longboarding" data-file-id="114158" height="374" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/_compresseds/edf5bbac-6344-4773-bac7-f5339da817c2.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 374px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /><br />
Step 5- mold is "long-boarded" manually for smoothness. <br />
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Step 6- final thin coating (black) of mold release epoxy is sprayed and hand-sanded and buffed to a brilliant, smooth shine! <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/9 hull plug finish" data-file-id="114150" height="411" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/_compresseds/3fd45db9-04ef-4b58-8413-9f5dec10b007.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 411px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
Step 7- apply mold release, then cover the plug in multiple layers of glass to create the female "mold". Add several cross frames and longitudinal supports (mostly steel tubing). Flip it all over, pull the plug out of the mold! Now, we're ready to make boats!<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/9 master hull plug" data-file-id="114142" height="296" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/_compresseds/7471f2e6-96fd-479b-b27f-31eaeb630f2f.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 296px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
Sounds easy, right? Not! But, it's much faster and more accurate today than it was back in "the old days" of wooden frames and strip-planking and hand-sanding everything! <br />
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<a href="https://jboatnews.blogspot.com/2021/02/how-is-j9-daysailer-created-from-idea.html" target="_blank">https://jboatnews.blogspot.com/2021/02/how-is-j9-daysailer-created-from-idea.html</a>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-16444787061036062672021-02-03T10:30:00.002-05:002021-02-06T15:50:20.137-05:00J/Newsletter- February 3rd, 2021<img align="none" alt="sunset on San Francisco Bay" data-file-id="101781" height="287" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/d78349b5-f379-4c70-b642-9ad863eb3ac7.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 287px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">The Sun Never Sets on J's Sailing Worldwide</span></h3>
This past week saw several significant events taking place around nearly opposite sides of the world. Down Under, our friends in Australia are continuing to enjoy sailing their J/122s off both east and west coasts- Sydney and Perth. Their offshore racing exploits continue as they keep garnering more and more silverware for their trophy dens! Meanwhile, on the west coast of the USA, the Singlehanded Sailing Society held their version of the pandemic-influenced Three Bridge Fiasco. While not the usual 300-plus boats selecting which way to round the three bridges (clockwise or counter-clockwise), this year's version was singlehanded only. The big winner was...drum roll please....a J/70! <br />
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In the J/Community section, we had a chance to catch up with Ryan and Maggie McKillen and interview them about their experiences sailing and racing the J/70 at the Bacardi Winter Series a fortnight ago. If you recall, skippering their own boats- SURGE and MAGATRON- they went 1-2 overall! Then, your editor pays tribute to a long-time supporter of J/Boats and sailing in general- Bob Fisher. Read on!<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off Monte Carlo, Monaco" data-file-id="106649" height="306" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/d2ae0837-f751-4c82-ae65-909928eb4e47.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 306px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Monaco J/70 Winter Series Act II Preview</span></h2>
(Monte Carlo, Monaco)- The Monaco J/70 Winter Series continues this weekend, hosted by the Yacht Club de Monaco in Monte Carlo. Thirty teams are registered for the event with most participating from Monaco, but including enthusiastic teams from Italy, France, Switzerland, Russia, Sweden, and Netherlands. <br />
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Look for the following teams to be in the hunt at the top of the leaderboard; Claudia Rossi's PETITE TERRIBLE- ADRIA FERRIES, Giangiacomo Serena di Lapigio's G-SPOT, Roberti Stefano's PICCININA, Cesare Gabasio's TINN J70, Ludovic Fassitelli's JUNDA- BANCO DEL SEMPIONE, and Tom Studer's JERRY. The event is a schedule for three days, starting Friday and ending Sunday in Neptune's Bay. <br />
For <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/primo-cup-trophee-credit-suisse/" target="_blank">more Monaco J/70 Winter Series sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><img align="none" alt="Ida Lewis Distance Race" data-file-id="114042" height="412" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/979c80bd-3b0d-4473-baa1-284823697fd7.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 412px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">2021 Ida Lewis Distance Race Announcement</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)– The 17th edition of the Ida Lewis Distance Race starts Thursday, August 19, 2021 and will keep its expanded format from last year to give competitors more options while the country continues to deal with changes brought about by the COVID 19 Pandemic. The schedule consists of:<br />
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• REGISTRATION and SKIPPERS MEETING conducted by host Ida Lewis Yacht Club on Thursday, August 19.<br />
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• TRADITIONAL OFFSHORE DISTANCE RACES (Between 112 and 169 NM) for ORC, PHRF (Aloha and Coronet divisions), ORC Double-handed and PHRF Cruising Spinnaker classes starting on Friday, August 20.<br />
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• IN BAY DISTANCE RACE (33 NM) for PHRF (Aloha and Coronet divisions), PHRF DoubleHanded and PHRF Cruising Spinnaker classes starting on Saturday, August 21.<br />
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The start for the OFFSHORE RACES will be in the East Passage of Narragansett Bay on Friday, August 20th with the first Warning Signal scheduled for 1100. The start for the IN BAY Race will be in the East Passage of Narragansett Bay on Saturday, August 21st with the first Warning Signal scheduled for 1000.<br />
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Race headquarters will be located at the Ida Lewis Yacht Club, Wellington Avenue, Newport, R.I., and manned throughout the time of the races.<br />
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The offshore portion of the Ida Lewis Distance Race has become a popular late-summer racing tradition, enjoyed by veteran offshore sailors as well as those trying the “overnight sprint” for the first time. It begins off Fort Adams and ends just inside Newport Harbor where Ida Lewis volunteers can site the finish line from their clubhouse on Lime Rock before greeting each team on the water with a congratulatory bottle of Prosecco.<br />
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Unique to the Ida Lewis Distance Race, the Race Committee considers weather forecasts to decide from among four courses that range from 112 to 169 nautical miles. The goal is to get all teams back to the dock within 18-24 hours. The courses – incorporating some of the most iconic cruising grounds in New England – are named “The Montauk”, “The Block Island”, “The Point Judith”, and “The Buzzards Bay Tower”.<br />
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Classes are for boats 28 feet or longer and include IRC, PHRF, One Design, Multihull, Double-Handed, and, new for this year, Mixed Double-Handed (to debut at the 2024 Olympics). The race also Includes Youth and Collegiate Challenge categories.<br />
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The Notice of Race has been published at https://bit.ly/3sz0ccb. For questions, contact Race Chairman Pat Kennedy, Distancerace@ilyc.org. Sailing photo credits- Stephen R. Cloutier. For <a href="http://www.ilyc.org/long-race" target="_blank">more Ida Lewis Distance Race sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="https://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=3_16&products_id=218" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/Gear Marmot Jacket" data-file-id="113906" height="312" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/fc6ca238-d1c7-4fff-a39a-a846c998ca8b.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 312px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
February Special- Marmot Jacket!</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)- The J/Thermo Jacket is by Marmot and is a stuffed lightweight, highly compressible and enviably warm Primaloft ® Black insulation — a synthetic insulation made with 60 percent recycled fibers that boasts warmth without bulk and a soft feel — the outer is from a durable nylon ripstop fabric. Elastic hem and cuffs keep the jacket in place and Angel-Wing Movement™ allows you to move without the jacket riding up. Zippered pockets offer a warm place for your hands to rest. Wear under a shell or on its own. Perfect for packing and stylish for cool weather. <a href="https://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=3_16&products_id=218" target="_blank">Click here to enjoy a 20% discount on this gorgeous Marmot jacket</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span></h2>
Feb 4-7- <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/primo-cup-trophee-credit-suisse/" target="_blank">Monaco J/70 Winter Series- Monte Carlo, Monaco</a><br />
Feb 17- <a href="http://www.sorcsailing.org/" target="_blank">SORC Miami to Eleuthera Race- Miami, FL</a><br />
Mar 4-7- <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/primo-cup-trophee-credit-suisse/" target="_blank">J/70 Primo Cup- Trophee Credit Suisse- Monte Carlo, Monaco</a><br />
Mar 5-7- <a href="https://thesailinginc.com/thekeywestwinterseries" target="_blank">J/111 Key West Winter Series- Key West, FL</a><br />
Mar 5-8- <a href="https://heinekenregatta.com/" target="_blank">St Maarten Heineken Regatta- Simpson Bay, Saint Maarten</a><br />
Mar 10-13- <a href="https://bacardiinvitational.com/" target="_blank">J/70 Bacardi Cup- Miami, FL</a><br />
Mar 19-21- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eid=13122" target="_blank">J/70 Davis Island Winter Series III- Tampa, FL</a><br />
Mar 19-21- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-in-san-diego/" target="_blank">San Diego NOOD Regatta- San Diego, CA</a><br />
Mar 26-28- <a href="https://stthomasinternationalregatta.com/" target="_blank">St. Thomas International Regatta- St. Thomas, USVI</a><br />
Mar 29- Apr 4- <a href="https://bvispringregatta.org/" target="_blank">BVI Spring Regatta- Road Town, Tortola, BVI</a><br />
Apr 2-4- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-st-petersburg/" target="_blank">St Petersburg NOOD Regatta- St Petersburg, FL</a><br />
Apr 11-17- <a href="https://lesvoilesdestbarthrichardmille.com/us/" target="_blank">Les Voiles de St Barth Regatta- Gustavia, St Barthelemy</a> <br />
Apr 8-11- <a href="https://www.charlestonraceweek.com/" target="_blank">Charleston Race Week- Charleston, SC</a><br />
Apr 24-30- <a href="https://www.sailingweek.com/" target="_blank">Antigua Sailing Week- English Harbour, Antigua, West Indies</a><br />
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For additional <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j-sailing-calendar/sailing-regattas" target="_blank">J/Regatta and Event dates in your region, please refer to the on-line J/Sailing Calendar</a>.<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j122" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/122s sailing off Australia" data-file-id="114006" height="362" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/434ec366-8dae-4a44-b040-295645f9c78e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 362px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/122’s Continue Offshore Domination in Australia</span></h2>
(Sydney, Australia)- Our friends "Down Under" have been enjoying sailing their J/122s for the past few seasons. For the 2020/ 2021 summer season from October to April, the J/122s are, yet again, throwing down the gauntlet against their fellow offshore competitors both on the eastern and western coastlines of Australia. Here's the latest report from Ray Entwistle, the J/Australia distributor.<br />
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"In Queensland on the east coast of Australia, J/122 JAVELIN skippered by Sally Crowley, won the Kingfisher Bay Night race, sailed on Moreton Bay off Brisbane.<br />
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There were 21 entries overall for the approximately six-hour race, with JAVELIN 1st in IRC class and 1st in AMS class.<br />
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Sally commented on her performance, “JAVELIN enjoyed a magnificent afternoon and evening of sailing in Race 3 of the Kingfisher Bay night series. The forecast for 10-15 kt easterlies was mostly accurate and made for a comfortable race.<br />
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Following a bit if excitement at the start, we set off on a work around the bottom of Mud Island and across to the Moreton Island Sandhills yellow buoy. We rounded in the leading group, then settled in for the 14.0 nm run to North Reef, off Scarborough. Without the favored kite for the conditions (blown during the last race) we couldn’t run the angles we would have liked and gave away some time to the symmetrical boats, but "ciest'la'vie".<br />
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A lovely sunset accompanied us heading south to Brisbane Rhodes and a spectacular moonrise welcomed us around the Coffee Pots and back to the start/finish.<br />
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Thanks as always to the race control volunteers for allowing us to compete in this wonderful series.“<br />
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The series consists of four afternoon/evening passage races, designed to be reasonably challenging and are a lead up to the Brisbane to Gladstone race. They are held each month from October through to February and sponsored by Kingfisher Bay Resort, Fraser Island, Queensland (Qld). Organized by Wynnum Manly Sailing Club with support of Royal Qld Yacht Club, Qld Cruising Yacht Club and Moreton Bay Boat Club. <br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/122 JOSS winners" data-file-id="114014" height="464" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/35e0e179-7f95-45d1-8ba0-383740cc8a7a.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 464px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
Meanwhile, over on the west coast in Perth, the J/122 JOSS is continuing her impeccable race record.<br />
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Saturday was Ocean Racing WA’s (ORWA) first race in the New Year, organized by Hillarys Yacht Club, the 41.0 nm “Pot of Gold” from Fremantle around Rottnest Island and finish at Hillarys. <br />
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After 5.5 hours of racing JOSS was 1st Division 1 IRC against a great fleet of 40 footers; the King 40 “Checkmate” was 2nd, Farr 395 “Giddy Up” 3rd, and the J/122 LITHIUM was 4th (LITHIUM also won on PHS Handicap).<br />
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The sail back to Fremantle on Sunday was a Hillarys Yacht Club event. While a smaller fleet, JOSS was 1st IRC combined fleet & took line honours after a great duel with “Alfresco” (a Bakewell 39 pure racing boat) and “Surfer Rosa” (a Pogo 12.50). For <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j122" target="_blank">more J/122 offshore cruiser racer sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 Scott Sellers winning Three Bridge Fiasco" data-file-id="114022" height="400" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7ec3c47a-c8a2-4fa4-a35f-1df2ec56ef8d.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 400px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/70 Crushes Three Bridge Fiasco!</span></h2>
(San Francisco, CA)- The annual Singlehanded Sailing Society Three Bridge Fiasco Race- Pandemic Edition, returned to its roots over the weekend. Because of California Covid-19 guidelines, this year's edition was open only to singlehanded competitors. The reason being, the SSS board members decided a smaller regatta would be better than no regatta. If you have been paying attention over the years, the races usually draw well north of 300 entries, with the vast majority as doublehanded entries.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 sailing Three Bridge Fiasco" data-file-id="114074" height="394" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e2b98898-8171-4cc3-a610-0dcf59faf94c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 394px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Originally conceived for singlehanded sailors, the numbers of those percentage wise has been dwindling over the years and the SSS thought 125 entries would be more than enough. Boy were they wrong! After the announcement of open entries, the regatta sold out in a big hurry and had a lengthy standby list!<br />
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With a series of storms hitting San Francisco Bay in the week prior, the forecast for Saturday improved. Ultimately, sunrise dawned on Saturday, the conditions were glorious, with a sun cloud mix, a nice flood and gentle south westerly to get things going! <br />
<br />
<img align="right" alt="Three Bridge race course" data-file-id="90793" height="211" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/ee9e3a4d-2adc-46f4-a82b-aa0c1609a581.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 211px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 250px;" width="250" />Ultimately, the fleet split, as they are likened to do, and optimism ran high. Things would get warmer and sunnier and, well a little less windy and ghosting was an understatement for a while! But as you will see, good things come to those who wait, and indeed they did!<br />
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In the end, several J/singlehanders had an amazing day. Winning the whole enchilada was Scott Sellers, sailing his J/70 IFA to a 1st to finish monohull victory, as well as Class 10 Sportboat Division win with a 15:37:21 elapsed time! In Class 1 Non-Spin PHRF, Tom Struttmann's J/105 ARRIVED took 5th place. In Class 5 Spin, Adam Spiegel's J/105 JAM SESSION took 6th, Tim Roche's J/92 ZAFF was 8th, Jim Hopp's J/88 WHITE SHADOW finished 10th, and Eric Patterson's J/105 KESTREL crossed 12th. In Class 9 Spin, we find Alex Alderkamp's J/24 BLUE JAY take 3rd on the podium! Finally, in the novel Class 16 "Power-assisted" fleet, it was Ben Mercer's J/100 EIGHT BALL winning class!<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j88" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/88 sailing Three Bridge Fiasco" data-file-id="114034" height="324" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/6a6efd41-52ad-4cf4-ba11-364c1f2d14bd.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 324px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
We asked Scott Sellers, the winning skipper on his J/70 1FA, to provide some color commentary on how he managed to pull off his most excellent performance. Here is his report:<br />
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"The Three Bridge Fiasco held in late January is the largest sailboat race on San Francisco Bay every year with over 300 doublehanded and singlehanded entries. The 21.0 nm pursuit race allows competitors the choice to round the 3 bridges in any order they want. First boat to finish wins.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70"><img align="right" alt="J/70 1FA sailing San Francisco Bay" data-file-id="114046" height="269" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/1a62033b-cd00-4681-a8e4-c4dd8da74fce.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 269px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></a>Due to COVID restrictions in California, entries were limited to singlehanded this year and capped at 125 boats. I have done the race numerous times doublehanded on my J/70 1FA, but this would be my first time attempting to race the J/70 singlehanded. I rigged up some bungee cords to the tiller that I could control while launching the spinnaker up front that worked pretty well.<br />
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Based on the wind and tide conditions, I chose a counterclockwise course of Bay Bridge, Richmond Bridge and then Golden Gate Bridge. By the time I got to the Richmond Bridge, I had passed all the smaller boats that started earlier including a gaggle of Moore 24s and Express 27s. I was briefly passed by a Wylie 39 on the beat to the Golden Gate but passed them back on the run to the finish to win the 100-boat monohull division. In the light to moderate conditions that we had, the J/70 was an easy boat to singlehand upwind and downwind!"<br />
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Thanks to Presure-drop.us and Scott for the sailing photos and stories. Pressuredrop.us Sailing</b> <a href="http://www.pressure-drop.us/forums/content.php?10421-A-Bridge-Too-Far" target="_blank">photo & story contributions</a> <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/26669101@N02/with/50897250046/" target="_blank">Sailing photo credits- "Slackwater" on Flickr</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Community</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span></h3>
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<strong>J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">J/Boats from around the world here</a>. <br />
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<a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2013-J100-Y0mKRyol" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/100 for brokerage sale" data-file-id="113998" height="356" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c764b4e6-5a2c-468c-b279-e4d0c9ee2081.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 356px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Gorgeous J/100 For Sale</span></h2>
This J/100 is an elegant daysailer and is a modern classic with teak decks and navy hull. With a carbon Hall spars mast, North sails and Raymarine electronics, she has proven to be a very competitive boat. Having achieved first in her class (ISC Group 5) in the 2019 Round the Island Race, as well as 3rd in Cruiser div B in 2019 Cowes Week with an all-family crew.<br />
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<a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2013-J100-Y0mKRyol" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/100 brokerage for sale" data-file-id="114030" height="316" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/dd4f7c7f-d579-4d24-954f-262db1a7ee5a.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 316px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
TIDERACE has had 2 owners from new and has been very well-maintained. Specified with optional stanchions and double lifelines she is prepared for crewed racing. The J/100 is a versatile model that can also be day-sailed easily shorthanded. <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2013-J100-Y0mKRyol" target="_blank">Please contact Key Yachting for a full video tour</a>!<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 McKillen family sailing off Miami, FL" data-file-id="113902" height="326" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e8220a19-8118-4ca2-ae83-c229734c7034.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 326px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">McKillen Family J/70 Interview</span></h3>
We had an opportunity to speak with the Bacardi J/70 Winter Series II regatta winners- Ryan and Maggie McKillen. Here is their interview with Stu Johnstone, J/Newsletter publisher/ editor.<br />
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STU: For starters, congratulations on your 1-2 finish last weekend in the J/70 Bacardi Winter Series! I believe that's the first time in the history of yachting that a husband/wife took the top two spots, steering their own boats, in a major one-design class international event! That's cool! Ryan, your SURGE team had a 1-5-4 and, Maggie, your MAGATRON had an 8-2-1. Please tell us how that took place? <br />
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RYAN: Well, that was not an easy regatta for anyone, including us. My team of John Wallace, Lucas Calabrese, and Sam Loughborough did a great job! They got me off the line and into good lanes. For the most part, the left paid off for the one and only day we sailed on Saturday. We won the first race, so we sailed the next two smart and conservative, covered boats when we needed to and didn’t seek too much leverage. <br />
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The last race was hard for us. The start saw us lose our Vakaros GPS unit, lost our pings, lost the start clock. It just so happened Maggie's MAGATRON team was next to us near the boat end. We yelled over to give us the time...no such luck, right? For too long they said nothing, then we got chirpy and they gave us a 20 count. We managed a great start, closed the lane on Maggie (sorry, honey), and took off. I'll let Maggie explain what she did (he says laughing)!<br />
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MAGGIE: Well, we had a fun regatta. Amazing fleet, great sailors, lots of depth and talent. Wow, still amazed we accomplished what we did. My crew of Orrin Starr, Brian Kamilar, and Jareese Finch are awesome! I owe everything to them! We were thrilled to get a second in our second race! But, the last race was sooo exciting; winning a race in that fleet with all those World Champions?! Never thought that would happen! <br />
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So, thanks to my husband, we had no lane at the start of the last race! We hung in there seeking height on starboard as long as we could, then tacked away and cross a few boats. After a minute, we tacked back onto starboard. Then, we saw more wind coming in right. We were so excited. Brian was trying to keep me calm and focused. The wind kept going further right, we rounded the first weather with a big lead! We kept our composure, thank goodness, and stretched our lead. What an amazing way to end the regatta.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="Ryan McKillen J/70 SURGE" data-file-id="113934" height="340" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c477d2d1-338c-43ce-b3c7-8a5769158b9f.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 340px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
STU: Where did you first learn how to sail?<br />
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RYAN: I guess it all began when I was living and working in San Francisco and could see lots of little white triangles sailing all over the Bay. As a software engineer cooped up inside an office building with a window on the Bay, it makes you dream wistfully of doing it yourself. The Bay is such a beautiful place to sail. <br />
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So, back in 2015 I did some research and decided to take the ASA (American Sailing Association) basic keelboat course. I then took the cruising course and got certified to charter boats. I was so excited I could do that. I chartered a Catalina 37 and brought along several friends. Needless to say, that didn't go so well. As an inexperienced Bay sailor, on a windy day, things can get crazy quickly. We made it to Alcatraz and turned around as quickly as possible to get back. I think my friends were so terrified, they'll never set foot on a boat again.<br />
<br />
<img align="right" alt="Ryan and Maggie McKillen sailing J/70s" data-file-id="113878" height="300" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e4d536b5-3a1e-4a31-a16f-fd9e1053387d.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 300px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 300px;" width="300" />MAGGIE: (giggling) oohh, that's easy. I was not a sailor when I met Ryan. When we started dating in 2018, I loved going to the places where he was racing his J/70. Biscayne Bay is gorgeous in the winter, pretty water, nice weather, it’s nice to be outside. So, I jumped on the chase boat and watched the racing, intrigued to listen to the play-by-play from the coach- Tony Rey. <br />
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Every bone in my body is competitive, so competitive racing fascinated me. I love playing tennis and love to run. As an adult, I could see sailing is for anyone, any age, any experience. So, poor Tony was getting peppered with a million questions as we watched Ryan sail around the course. <br />
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Then, when Ryan and I were in Charleston in summer 2020 for a wedding, a friend asked, "what's she doing on the chase boat?" A couple of guys, friends, persuaded me to try it. But, I had to learn how to sail first! Ryan and Tony got a hold of Brian Kamilar, a great college sailor, local pro, who also coaches high school sailing in Miami. I took 6 or 7 lessons with Brian, he treated me like his high school students, starting from scratch and teaching all the basics.<br />
<br />
<img align="right" alt="Maggie and Ryan McKillen sailing J/70s" data-file-id="113926" height="249" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9cffd91f-a728-4684-a500-88b0caca28d1.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 249px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" />STU: How did you get into racing J/70's?<br />
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RYAN: After moving back east, I ended up in Miami, FL and Newport, RI. In 2017, I started to do research on a daysailer to have in Miami and bring it to Newport in the summers. I decided to get an E-33, designed by Robbie Doyle, and built by Lyman-Morse in Maine. I called Robbie and spoke to him about the boat and my relative lack of experience in sailing.<br />
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Robbie then exclaimed to me, "if you wanna learn how to sail, you gotta race!" I laughed and wondered if he was really being serious. Robbie then said, "why don't you come sail with us on PROTEUS, a Maxi 72. Next month we are going to Antigua to do the RORC Caribbean 600 Race". Not knowing what a maxi boat or the 600 was, how could I not take up the opportunity? Off I went, eyes wide-open, not knowing what to expect next. The 600nm tour around thirteen Caribbean islands was amazing, well before it was time to turn up around Saba and having blown up most of the sails and fried the electronics in a storm, we decided to retire. I’ll never forget how calm the pros on the boat were in the midst of so much chaos. That's what led to meeting Mark Mendelblatt, tactician on PROTEUS. We hit it off as friends and spoke about how to sail better. He suggested I get into the J/70 class, citing it was an easy boat to learn, get up to speed, had great talent, and was a fun fleet to sail in. So, I bought Jud Smith's World Champion boat called AFRICA- USA 179. <br />
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My first regatta was three years ago- Sail Newport 2018. Mark sailed with me and he recruited John Wallace as our trimmer- another All-American college sailor. After a year of sailing, John suggested we get a coach to help improve our game; Tony Rey from Newport got involved and our learning curve remained steep. Then, my buddy Sam Loughborough, who I first got to know at the Proteus crew house, asked to join the boat. We are now sailing with Lucas Calabrese as tactician, an Argentinean Olympic Silver Medalist in the 470 class. <br />
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Last year I got a Laser to better learn "balance" and the dynamics of sailing a dinghy, learning how to steer with feel, trim my own main and keep the boat fast downwind. The reasoning was simple, top dinghy and Laser sailors are fast helmsman on keelboats, because you become more sensitive to how a boat moves in waves.<br />
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Well, I am learning how to handle a boat better and better! With the Laser, I've been swimming a lot in Biscayne Bay (he says laughing)! I specialize in "death rolls". But, I am improving, thank God the water's warm! <br />
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MAGGIE: As I was saying earlier, a few friends, Ryan, and others persuaded me to try racing J/70s. For the same reasons explained to Ryan...easy and simple to sail. We convinced Brian to sail with me because Ryan was always impressed with his results on the race course. He's been great, he had been sailing with Henry Brauer on his J/70 RASCAL.<br />
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So far, I've had about 35 days on the water sailing J/70s! I love it. I love to be competitive with my husband and new friends we've found in the class. I've been waiting for something like this to come into my life!<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 Magatron chilling" data-file-id="113942" height="352" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/51b3dd58-68bb-48f1-9cdb-4a096844ebec.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 352px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
STU: Do you sail for fun? Daysailing or cruising? Favorite places?<br />
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RYAN: Yes, that's how I started. After the ASA learn to sail and charter courses, I got the bug. Notwithstanding my charter experience on San Francisco Bay (haha), I wanted to have a boat to go daysailing. That's why I bought an E-33. It’s been a fun couple of years. First launched in San Francisco, then in Miami last season. She’s having a few upgrades performed now in Maine, but next spring Maggie and I will sail her to a new home in Newport! We’re excited to see the amazing coastline of Maine!<br />
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STU: What are your future plans for sailing? <br />
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RYAN: We are having fun sailing the J/70 class. Good people, great competition, and you can race them all over America and Europe. We look forward to those experiences. Now, we are campaigning for this year's J/70 Worlds in L.A. I also just got an M32 catamaran, my next experience sailing in Newport this summer!<br />
<br />
MAGGIE: I'm looking forward to as much racing as I can get in, daysailing and local events in Newport! As for J/70s, we're currently planning on sailing at Davis Island, Charleston, and Annapolis this spring. As for the future, it will be about a balance between family and sailing and kids. We're looking forward to exploring more experiences in sailing for sure!<br />
<br />
<br />
<img align="none" alt="Bob Fisher sailing J/105" data-file-id="113954" height="298" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/943d7735-5fac-4ab1-9eb9-beb219137019.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 298px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">A Tribute for dear friend Bob "the Fish" Fisher</span></h3>
Your publisher/ editor of J/News has known "Fish" since 1981, sailing together in the SORC that year on a J/36 called BLUE BAYOU. Decades later, we sailed again on J/105s in the Master's Regatta in both San Francisco and San Diego, CA. Since the inception of the J/24 in the United Kingdom, Fish was always a big fan and supporter of J/Boats; having raced one himself out of Royal Lymington YC. Here are some funny, happy memories of his lasting legacy in yachting.<br />
<br />
Like many others in the sailing world that have been touched by "Fish's" passion and enthusiasm for the sport of sailing, I'm sad to see him go. So many fun, happy memories of sailing with him and enjoying a beverage or two at famous watering holes around the world. Perhaps, the most hilarious one being the "Silver Cloud" karaoke bar on Lombard St. in San Francisco (http://silvercloudsf.com/)! It was Fish's self-declared favorite bar ever! No question, mutual friend Phil Lawrence can attest to those fun times!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j36" target="_blank"><img align="right" alt="J/36 Blue Bayou" data-file-id="114066" height="387" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/24fc64dd-082e-4948-a674-0066bedcfb22.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 387px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></a>I first met Fish in 1981. The owner of the J/36 BLUE BAYOU (Dick Johnson from the US Virgin Islands) wanted to race his boat in the 1981 SORC (Southern Ocean Racing Circuit). The ring leader was another character- Mark Ploch from Clearwater, FL. Mark helped organize the team and managed to convince both Bob Fisher and Tim Jeffery (cub reporter at the time and much later Chief Communications Director for Larry Ellison's ORACLE USA America's Cup program) to not only crew but provide race-by-race updates of our exploits as well as the other famous offshore racing yachts of the time (all IOR boats). Both Fish and Tim had never sailed the famous SORC offshore series before, so it took them little convincing to make the trip!<br />
<br />
There were several memorable moments in that 1981 SORC series. <br />
<br />
The first was having Bob and Tim as roommates at the local seedy hotel in St. Petersburg, Florida. Imagine this picture for a moment, waking up at 5:00am in the morning, both Bob and Tim would get up with t-shirts and underwear on (yes, true story), get onto their Radio Shack TRS-80 pocket computers (see below), hook up the modem to the telephone line, and send their stories back to Yachts & Yachting editors and various British newspapers. Hilarious! Young Stu J. (23 yrs old) at the time gave them endless grief for the whole process. It may have helped that we all had few too many at the famous St Petersburg YC bar the night before; that was when I first learned about Fish's penchant for regaling all within earshot of all kinds of crazy stories that had most everyone dying with laughter!<br />
<br />
<img align="none" alt="Radio Shack TRS-80 pocket computer" data-file-id="113922" height="288" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f0a43fce-4a56-4698-9508-5754374608a3.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 288px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
The second and third most epic events took place as the result of one race- the epic St Petersburg to Fort Lauderdale Race. Just 465.0 nm down around the bottom of the Florida Keys, leaving the Rebecca Shoals buoy to port, then head north with the fast-flowing Gulf Stream to the finish off the Ft. Lauderdale sea buoy. <br />
<br />
So, the day dawned with a gorgeous bright sunny day with the Southwest wind blowing a solid 15-20 kts for the start. The wave pattern was truly bizarre, as it can be on Tampa Bay; it was a very steep 2-3 foot "chop" that made our 36-footer bounce around like a cork...a bad thing for weak stomachs or hungover sailors. The first casualty, amazingly enough, was Mark Ploch...running back to the stern rail to leeward and losing his breakfast. Not long after it was Fish's turn. Then Tim, and the rest of the crew; except me, the lone survivor of the entire crew. That would work against me later. <br />
<br />
After a bit of clean-up, off to starting line. Mark was on the helm, we took off on port tack at the start, fetching the Egmont Key sea buoy, our first left turn on the race track. By the time we got there, the strong Southwester was starting to die off, as predicted by NOAA at the time. The forecast was for a very strong, classic cold front to drop across the Gulf of Mexico with northwesterly breezes starting at 15 to 25 kts, then building! Ouch! Sure enough, while fetching Rebecca Shoals buoy about 40.0nm out, it's pitch black, the wind swung around quickly before the front.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j36" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/36 Blue Bayou" data-file-id="114058" height="406" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e832fb84-a1b7-41bd-a871-4be65685dc35.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 406px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
We dropped the headsail, quickly put up the 1.5 oz heavy spinnaker, and took off on starboard gybe, hitting 10-13 kts constantly. Just before we got to Rebecca Shoals buoy, lightning bolts blazing across the skies behind us, we could see (even at night) another line of breeze headed towards us from the northwest (thanks to all that lightning). Mark and I looked at each other wondering what would happen next. We decided to gybe earlier than we expected, pulling it off without too much trouble in 25 kts of breeze (remember, these were end-to-end pole gybes using lazy guys, flying the spinnaker off the sheets). Then, the s**t hit the fan. The first puff hit around 30 kts, taking us flying past Rebecca around 15-16 kts boatspeed. Halfway down the 12.0 nm leg before we turned left for Lauderdale, the next puff hit around 40 kts. The J/36 just about lifted out of the water-- I think we topped 21.6 kts. At that point, Mark and I felt that was enough stress on everyone. Using the lazy guy to leeward, we did a simultaneous blow the guy to port, winch in the lazy guy to pull the spinnaker behind the main and blow the first 20 feet of the halyard. Thankfully, it worked. <br />
<br />
Next up was putting up a #4 jib. That took place without too much trouble. Though it took a few minutes, it probably didn't matter since we were planing under main alone. Then, it was up the Keys on a port tack reach, slowly edging out into the northerly-flowing Gulf Stream. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j36" target="_blank"><img align="right" alt="J/36 sailing offshore" data-file-id="114070" height="366" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/2e5d8a8b-3d60-49d1-8be4-739c9e5720b9.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 366px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></a>By early morning, as the sun rose off to the East over the Bahamas, the conditions were horrific. With such a fast-moving front, the breeze was due north by the time we got into the heart of the Gulf Stream. Waves were steep and breaking, often up to 12 ft high, with no backs behind them, just a cliff. So, steering proved to be quite a challenge to avoid launching the boat going upwind in 25-35 kts, gusting 40, reefed main and #4 jib flying. <br />
<br />
Around 10:00 am, our electronics and Loran GPS went out. Not good! We had to start the engine to charge the batteries. Click, click, click. Nothing happened. Mark and I spoke and we realized we had an air lock in the fuel flow. Ouch. That was no easy fix. In short, Mark "volunteered" me to help bleed the system in the bowels of the boat to get fuel flow (everyone else was still battling fatigue from early sea sickness). So, unhooking the hose from the engine, and sucking diesel into the hose to ensure we had fuel flow, spitting it out into a bucket. Then, flipping the valves on the diesel, and thankfully firing that damn diesel engine to work. Needless to say, we made it to Lauderdale in one piece. And, the party that ensued in Lauderdale, later in Miami, and later again in Nassau, Bahamas was even better. We all survived to tell the story. Trust me, Fish and Tim never forgot that experience.<br />
<br />
Later in life, I didn't run into Fish again until I went over to the UK and Europe to start J/Boats Europe in 1990. The first person I called for advice was Fish, of course. Because of him, I ended up in Lymington, Hampshire. For those "in the know", Lymington is a sleepy little town on the western end of the Solent that is home to many of the UK's leading sailors. The most amusing part of that experience was having Fish sail with me on my J/44 J/HAWK on evening "beer-can races" off the Royal Lymington Yacht Club. As he often reminded me, our near-shore mark roundings were often an exercise in "plowing" through the mud/silt in order to continue the race...or, sometimes not!<br />
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A decade+plus later, I saw Fish and friends in Valencia for the America's Cup. I was there for three weeks. Fun and games as always, after "work" (if you could call it that), going to their favorite pub just off the traffic circle near the bases with characters like Peter Montgomery (New Zealand), Tim Jeffery (then ORACLE Communications Director), and Angus Phillips from the Washington Post. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105s sailing off San Diego, CA" data-file-id="113966" height="312" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4d37cac9-d549-4ee6-83aa-4e6c788f1bf5.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 312px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
After getting back to the USA, it wasn't until the summer of 2007 when I get an email from Fish asking if I'd participate with him and friend Phil Lawrence, sailing the International Masters Regatta on J/105s, hosted by St. Francis Yacht Club. That was a no brainer, the answer was "yes", of course. To make a long-story short, we had a fantastic time. Perhaps the most entertaining part was a nightly swing by what became our favorite watering-hole, the famous karaoke bar called "Silver Cloud" on Lombard St. We sailed together again in 2008. Thereafter, the world economy tanked in 2009-2010, so the Master's regatta was canceled.<br />
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Working with its founder, Don Trask, the San Diego YC offered to restart the event in the sunny, warm, friendly waters of southern California. After all, San Diego is the favorite retirement community for the "old guard" of the US Navy- plenty of Admiral-level types in the neighborhood. The idea was enthusiastically received with the support of St. Francis YC themselves. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 skippered by Bob Fisher" data-file-id="113982" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9fca5f6f-544c-4fcd-86fc-d8a49fdc1709.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Sure enough, I got another invitation from Fish in 2013 to sail and rub elbows with some of the world's sailing glitterati. Fish was in his element, of course, relishing the chance to see dozens of his friends he'd written about for years- like Dennis Conner, Don Trask, Vince Brun, etc. <br />
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We sailed together for three straight years from 2013 to 2015, each regatta presenting its unique challenges and chances to catch up with sailing friends from around the world. <br />
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<img align="none" alt="Bob Fisher's J/105 crew" data-file-id="113974" height="332" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b8b66550-5469-4a6e-a0b3-23feb2f5010c.jpg" style="border: 0px initial; height: 332px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<strong>Bob's crew- L-R: Brent Draney, Stu Johnstone, Julia Johnstone, Fish, Phil Lawrence</strong><br />
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Again, sitting on the wide-open decks of San Diego YC in the evening, Fish reflected for a moment, "you know, I've sailed a lot of regattas. But, this one has to be the most fun I've ever had. Great people, great club, great crew!" We toast and clink glasses to yet another day of fun with the Fish doing what he loved best, sailing with friends and enjoying the moment. That's what he loved to do most.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/105 Masters Regatta skippers" data-file-id="113990" height="360" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/5117f72c-7d90-42cb-b88b-068d36747e4b.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 360px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<strong>2014 participants- L-R: Chuck Nichols, Augie Diaz, Jon Andron, Dennis Durgan, Jon Wright, Tom Ehman, Gary Jobson, Bob Fisher, Dick Enersen, Don Martin, Don Trask, Bob Munro.</strong><br />
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When Fish was sailing the Masters, his competitors read like a "who's who" of yacht racing, many of whom were subjects of Fish's columns over time in the British yachting press. Those sailors included Hans Fogh, Don Trask, Ron Holland, Rod Johnstone, David Irish, Stan & Sally Honey, Augie Diaz, Gary Jobson, Tom Ehman, Dick Enersen, Malin Burnham, John Kilroy, Bill Menninger, Doug Rastello, Dick Tillman, Robert Mosbacher, and John Jennings, just to name a few.<br />
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We will miss Fish, to be sure. But, his infectious, enthusiastic fun-loving spirit is imbued in all of us. That was his special gift to all that enjoyed his friendship. Sail on my friend, see you someday soon.<br />
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<strong>Sailing photo credits Bronny Daniels/ Cynthia Sinclair </strong>Donations in <a href="http://www.sirthomasliptonfoundation.org/" target="_blank">Bob Fisher’s memory are welcomed to the Sir Thomas Lipton Foundation</a>. Messages are <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bob.fisher.167527" target="_blank">welcome on Bob Fisher’s Facebook page</a><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-56679612216734060112021-01-27T09:00:00.001-05:002021-02-01T20:38:16.428-05:00J/Newsletter- January 27th, 2021<strong style="color: navy; font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 150%;"><img data-file-id="99173" height="308" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/670b63c8-e28a-4255-9123-f188c20e8129.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 308px; margin: 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /><br /></strong><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">The Sun Never Sets on J's Sailing Worldwide</span></h4>
What a difference a year makes in our collective lives across our little blue planet Earth. Who knew, right? This past week marks the anniversary of the bizarre scenario that was unleashed on the world from the little-known city of Wuhan, China. It marks the discovery of an alien virus in Seattle, Washington and La Rochelle, New York, as well as other parts of Europe (like Italy) and was soon to be described as covid-19 coronavirus. Sadly, some of our sailing friends passed. But, hope is now on the way with numerous vaccines to help overcome the pandemic... the faster that happens, the better.<br />
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Sailing events suffered, as did countries, islands, and events when the prescription was to "lockdown" all human activity and just sit at home. In the end, as we learn to overcome the 21st century version of the infamous Black Plague of the 1920s, there is no question that human ingenuity will tackle such problems with open-minded, serendipitous, ingenious solutions. <br />
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This past week saw some amazing performances by J/Teams in various events. For one, the Bacardi J/70 Winter Series held their second event in Miami, Florida sailing on Biscayne Bay. A deeply talented fleet enjoyed a full day of racing on an abbreviated weekend. Then, the SORC's Lauderdale to Key West Race took place with light wind conditions, but J/Teams certainly enjoyed their silverware. Finally, our friends Down Under had some great racing in Australia, with the embryonic J/70 fleet in Victoria enjoying fun, close racing.<br />
<br />
And, in the J/Community section we have a tribute to our dear friend Bob "the Fish" Fisher, we're sad to see him go. As Fish often said to me, "best place ever to lift a cold one and enjoy the sunset"- sitting on a deck chair on the lawn at New York Yacht Club (see photo above). <br />
<hr /><img align="none" alt="J/105s sailing Block Island" data-file-id="113946" height="398" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f7bf93f5-cd53-46c4-ba0b-c3bcf017834c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 398px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Block Island Race Week Announcement</span></h2>
(Block Island, RI)- With 81 boats already registered for Storm Trysail Club’s 29th Block Island Race Week presented by Margaritaville; the 2021 edition is shaping up to be one of the biggest turnouts in recent years. J/Boats teams are clearly enthusiastic about getting back out to Block Island and enjoying a week of sailing and camaraderie! Forty-nine J's signed up, where are you?!<br />
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So far, here are the highlights for J/Teams. In the one-design classes, there are six J/88s, thirteen J/105s, twelve J/109s, and five J/44s. In the ORC Division are two J/121s. In the PHRF Division are three J/111s, two J/122s, a J/35, a J/33, two J/29s, a J/80, and a J/24. In the PHRF Pursuit Race division is a J/125 and a J/133.<br />
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Storm Trysail Club and Margaritaville today announced that for the second time, Margaritaville, the global lifestyle brand known for escapism and fun, will be the presenting sponsor of the 29th edition of Block Island Race Week, one of the largest and most prestigious big boat regattas in the United States. <br />
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“We are elated to be partnering once again with Margaritaville,” says Event Chair, Ray Redniss. “Storm Trysail Club is honored they are continuing to be a part of the iconic tradition that is our 29th Block Island Race Week. Our goals and passions align to create a fun, safe escape for our sailors to kick off their summer.” Redness added, “This event was founded on the idea that it should be more than just a competitive regatta; there has always been an emphasis on fun, camaraderie and an openness to all kinds of boats and crews. The vibe that Margaritaville adds to Race Week is a natural fit.”<br />
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“As we look to lift spirits in 2021, we are thrilled to bring the Margaritaville state-of-mind back to Block Island Race Week,” shared Tamara Baldanza-Dekker, Chief Marketing Officer at Margaritaville. <br />
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Sailors are encouraged to register and learn more at blockislandraceweek.com. Storm Trysail Club and Margaritaville are committed to putting attendee health and safety at the forefront of the event and are continuously monitoring health guidelines as provided by the CDC and local entities. <strong>Sailing photo credits- Steve Cloutier. "Block Island Steve"</strong> To <a href="https://www.margaritaville.com/healthandsanitationcommitment" target="_blank">learn about Margaritaville’s commitment to health, safety and sanitation, please visit us online</a>. For <a href="http://www.blockislandraceweek.com" target="_blank">more Block Island Race Week sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="https://www.shmarinas.com/safe-harbor-race-weekend" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="Safe Harbor Race Weekend" data-file-id="113950" height="336" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/983faa2b-c98e-4f5d-9962-a2dd52adc22f.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 336px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Safe Harbor Race Weekend Announcement</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)- The inaugural Safe Harbor Race Weekend is a three-day sailing regatta geared toward the enjoyment of boat owners, families, and crew members. Scheduled for August 13th to 15th, sailing will take place on Narragansett Bay.<br />
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The goal of the organizers and local marina managers is to provide an event that delivers good sportsmanship, enjoyable competition, and sailing camaraderie over three fun-filled days with racing and exciting shoreside social events at Safe Harbor Marinas in Newport, Portsmouth, and Jamestown, RI. The regatta PRO will be Peter Craig from Boston, MA- yes, the same person that ran so many epic Key West Race Weeks for years.<br />
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Social highlights will include an opening Friday evening Coastal New England Dinner on The Point at Safe Harbor New England Boatworks overlooking Narragansett Bay, and a celebratory Talk of the Town Saturday night Crew Party and dinner featuring live music at Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard in the heart of downtown Newport. <br />
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Come one, come all! Sign-up now at the link below. The Notice of Race is already posted. For<a href="https://www.shmarinas.com/safe-harbor-race-weekend" target="_blank"> more Safe Harbor Race Weekend sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="right" alt="J/105s sailing San Francisco Bay" data-file-id="86281" height="167" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/62c72472-6267-4d82-a7ad-135eb1ca9ba2.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 167px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 250px;" width="250" /></a><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/105 Valentine's Day Doublehander Announcement</span></h2>
(San Francisco, CA)- The San Francisco J/105 fleet is pleased to continue with our monthly gathering of J/105s for a double-handed event, no entry fee. <br />
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We had eight teams racing in the Tandem-Baum Regatta on December 10, won by Ne*Ne, and nine racing in the Bittersweet Regatta on January 10, won by Doug Bailey in Akula, and are now going to meet up on Valentine's Day February 14 in front of Golden Gate YC. <br />
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In each case, we're scheduled for the day after RegattaPro Mid-winters, so you can race fully crewed on Saturday and then leave your boat rigged, making it easy to hop on board and go out double-handed on Sunday. Here's a<a href="https://www.regattanetwork.com/clubmgmt/regatta_uploads/21809/J105Valentine14Feb2021NORv1.1.pdf" target="_blank"> link to the Notice of Race</a>.<br />
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Next double-handed event after this will be on 14 March 2021 - Pi Day. We'll then launch the regular fully-crewed season on March 20-21 with the J/Go Regatta, a more upbeat name than J/Stop...<br />
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Feel free to reach out to me with any questions: Bruce Stone- email- bruce@brucestone.com or phone- 917-822-4060. For <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank">more information about J/105s</a>.<br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="https://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=3_16&products_id=218" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/Gear Marmot Jacket" data-file-id="113906" height="312" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/fc6ca238-d1c7-4fff-a39a-a846c998ca8b.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 312px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
February Special- Marmot Jacket!</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)- The J/Thermo Jacket is by Marmot and is a stuffed lightweight, highly compressible and enviably warm Primaloft ® Black insulation — a synthetic insulation made with 60 percent recycled fibers that boasts warmth without bulk and a soft feel — the outer is from a durable nylon ripstop fabric. Elastic hem and cuffs keep the jacket in place and Angel-Wing Movement™ allows you to move without the jacket riding up. Zippered pockets offer a warm place for your hands to rest. Wear under a shell or on its own. Perfect for packing and stylish for cool weather. <a href="https://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=3_16&products_id=218" target="_blank">Click here to enjoy a 20% discount on this gorgeous Marmot jacket</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span></h2>
Feb 4-7- <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/primo-cup-trophee-credit-suisse/" target="_blank">Monaco J/70 Winter Series- Monte Carlo, Monaco</a><br />
Feb 17- <a href="http://www.sorcsailing.org/" target="_blank">SORC Miami to Eleuthera Race- Miami, FL</a><br />
Mar 4-7- <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/primo-cup-trophee-credit-suisse/" target="_blank">J/70 Primo Cup- Trophee Credit Suisse- Monte Carlo, Monaco</a><br />
Mar 5-7- <a href="https://thesailinginc.com/thekeywestwinterseries" target="_blank">J/111 Key West Winter Series- Key West, FL</a><br />
Mar 5-8- <a href="https://heinekenregatta.com/" target="_blank">St Maarten Heineken Regatta- Simpson Bay, Saint Maarten</a><br />
Mar 10-13- <a href="https://bacardiinvitational.com/" target="_blank">J/70 Bacardi Cup- Miami, FL</a><br />
Mar 19-21- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eid=13122" target="_blank">J/70 Davis Island Winter Series III- Tampa, FL</a><br />
Mar 19-21- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-in-san-diego/" target="_blank">San Diego NOOD Regatta- San Diego, CA</a><br />
Mar 26-28- <a href="https://stthomasinternationalregatta.com/" target="_blank">St. Thomas International Regatta- St. Thomas, USVI</a><br />
Mar 29- Apr 4- <a href="https://bvispringregatta.org/" target="_blank">BVI Spring Regatta- Road Town, Tortola, BVI</a><br />
Apr 2-4- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-st-petersburg/" target="_blank">St Petersburg NOOD Regatta- St Petersburg, FL</a><br />
Apr 11-17- <a href="https://lesvoilesdestbarthrichardmille.com/us/" target="_blank">Les Voiles de St Barth Regatta- Gustavia, St Barthelemy</a> <br />
Apr 8-11- <a href="https://www.charlestonraceweek.com/" target="_blank">Charleston Race Week- Charleston, SC</a><br />
Apr 24-30- <a href="https://www.sailingweek.com/" target="_blank">Antigua Sailing Week- English Harbour, Antigua, West Indies</a><br />
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For additional <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j-sailing-calendar/sailing-regattas" target="_blank">J/Regatta and Event dates in your region, please refer to the on-line J/Sailing Calendar</a>.<br />
<hr /><a href="https://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s SURGE and MAGATRON sailing off Miami on Biscayne Bay" data-file-id="113902" height="326" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e8220a19-8118-4ca2-ae83-c229734c7034.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 326px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">McKillen Family Wins J/70 Bacardi Winter Series II!</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Girl Power! Women Skippers 2-3!</span></h3>
(Miami, FL)- It's a story right out of a fairy tale. Man and woman meet three years ago, get married, learn to sail, buy J/70s, and each steer their own boats to victory! Who knew that would ever happen!? Certainly not Ryan and Maggie McKillen, the couple that went 1-2, respectively, in last weekend's J/70 Bacardi Winter Series on Biscayne Bay. While Ryan's crew on SURGE certainly had a head start on Maggie's team on MAGATRON in terms of experience and podium finishes, no one expected her to be at the top of the leaderboard when the smoke cleared on the race track!<br />
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Hosted principally by the Bacardi Event management team and Shake-A-Leg Miami's beautiful facilities in Coconut Grove (Miami), Florida, the second of the three event Bacardi Winter Series took place this past weekend from January 22nd to 24th, 2021. <br />
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While the first regatta in mid-December featured just one race, this past weekend tripled that number. While an improvement over the first event, the three beautiful races on Saturday were welcomed by all competitors. Who's complaining? No one. Just the fact that you can be on Biscayne Bay, enjoying warm temperatures, sailing/ floating on azure blue waters, being around friends was just a victory in itself! The J/70 fleet is a fun-loving, social group of sailors, despite the amazingly talented collection of World Champion sailors on hand. <br />
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<a href="https://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 Power Play sailing Biscayne Bay, Miami, FL" data-file-id="113826" height="276" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7147758f-3852-4bce-b687-96e06653152e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 276px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
By any one-design class standards, the deeply talented fleet counted well over two-dozen World Champions in various classes amongst them. Fast out of the blocks in the first race was Ryan McKillen's SURGE. With Olympic Silver Medallist Lucas Calabrese calling tactics, their solid start and conservative strategy kept them in the hunt, playing the left-hand side of the course to a well-earned win. Second in that race was Pamela Rose's ROSEBUD with Bill Hardesty calling tactics. Third was David Janetti's VERY ODD with Travis Odenbach giving random advice. <br />
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The second race saw more of the same in terms of course strategy, the left predominating as the breeze curved over Key Biscayne Island on the left-hand side of the course. Winning that race was class newcomer Doug Newhouse. No stranger to sailing fast and smart in various J's, like his recent J/88 YONDER, Doug and tactician Jeremy Wilmot got dialed in and never looked back. Second was Maggie McKillen's MAGATRON with Brian Kamilar calling the shots and third was World Champion Joel Ronning's CATAPULT with Morgan Reeser providing traffic directions. <br />
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The third race was a shocker for many veteran J/70 teams. Two women skippers got podium finishes, propelling both of them onto the podium overall. Bounced out of the starboard end start by her husband Ryan on SURGE, Maggie's MAGATRON bailed right to clear and after a few minutes, flipped back onto starboard and carried more pressure and a right shift to lead by a country mile at the first weather mark. In the end, she won the race comfortably, her first race win ever. Third in that race was Pamela Rose's ROSEBUD, sandwiched in between was John Brim's RIMETTE with Zeke Horowitz calling the shots.<br />
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<img align="right" alt="Ryan and Maggie Mckilllen J/70 sailors" data-file-id="113926" height="249" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9cffd91f-a728-4684-a500-88b0caca28d1.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 249px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" />As a result of at least one good day of racing on gorgeous Biscayne Bay, it was the McKillen family (pictured at right) dueling for the top of the podium! Ryan's SURGE team of Lucas Calabrese, John Wallace, and Sam Loughborough took the win by just one point! Yes, over his wife Maggie! The Ladbroke's betting parlours in England were having a field day betting on these horses. While Ryan's team had some pedigree based on previous events, the MAGATRON team was probably a 1,000:1 bet. Nice payoff. <br />
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The SURGE team won with a 1-5-4 tally for 10 pts. One point back was MAGATRON with an 8-2-1 record. Third was Pam Rose's ROSEBUD with crew (pictured below) of Bill Hardesty, Alec Anderson, and Chris Watters, posting 2-9-3 finishes for 14 pts. <br />
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Rounding out the top five was Joel Ronning's CATAPULT team (Patrick Wilson, Chris Stocke, Morgan Reeser, Erik Shampain) in fourth, with Doug Newhouse's YONDER team (Ted Hackney, Jeremy Wilmot, Tomas Dietrich) in fifth position. <br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/70 Rosebud crew" data-file-id="113866" height="360" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3adcad6d-2bc7-4fd4-b4c4-8c6f221a9745.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 360px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
In the Corinthians Division, winning was the Brazilian team on CLOUD NINE, skippered by Toribio Tedin. His crew included Emilio Miguel, Javier Carbi, and Enrique Dillon. Second was USA 1154 skippered by Zachary Segal, with crew of Enrique Quintero, Ashton Hamerlin, and Blake Cabasa. Rounding out the podium was Kelly McGlynn's BEARNARCHY with crew of Luke Adams, Jim Barry, and Megan Grapengeter-Rudnick. For <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13062" target="_blank">more Bacardi Winter Series II sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j46" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/46 sailing Lauderdale Key West Race" data-file-id="113918" height="266" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3f9f5d67-08f0-4666-acf6-336198ad55ed.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 266px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Teams Sweep Lauderdale to Key West Race!</span></h2>
(Fort Lauderdale, FL)- With a time limit of 48 hours, the 29 starters for the 2021 Lauderdale to Key West Race were on the clock as light winds plagued the 155.0 nm course. In the end, it was a matter of perseverance.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j109" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/109 Harms Way sailing Lauderdale Key West Race" data-file-id="113886" height="394" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a1ea6622-bc18-4ad6-8931-0afda17c5e76.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 394px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
In what has to be a "first" ever for any offshore race around the world, J/Teams won every division they entered. In ORC 2, Chris Lewis's J/44 KENAI continued their winning ways in the SORC Island in the Stream series. Second was Ashley Maltempo and Bill Wiggins's J/121 WINGS. In ORC 3, Andy Wescoat's J/109 HARM's WAY won and was the only finisher in their class. In PHRF Division, the Schaedler/ Taylor duo on the J/105 WHISTLER took the gold medal and were also the only finisher in their class. Congratulations to these crews that persevered, job well-done! <a href="http://kws.kattack.com/WPlayer/WPosDisplay.aspx?FeedID=1387" target="_blank">Watch how the race replay unfold here on the Kattack Tracker</a> Check out <a href="https://www.keywestharborwebcam.com/" target="_blank">the Key West Harbor webcam here</a> Follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sorcsailing" target="_blank">the SORC Sailing Facebook page</a> For <a href="https://www.keywestrace.org/" target="_blank">more Key West Race sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="https://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off Victoria, Australia" data-file-id="113834" height="274" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f662f53a-3cb9-4398-b3b1-0c909cc54968.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 274px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/70s Growing in Victoria, Australia</span></h2>
(Victoria, Australia)- The J/70 class continues to make inroads in Australia. The most recent fleet developing has been at the Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron in Victoria. Here is a report from Down Under on their growing fleet from Andrew Little. <br />
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"Heats 1 to 4 of the Juno Trophy were sailed last Sunday 17th January. What a fantastic day! We had 15-20 knots from the south, flat water, a steady breeze, sunshine and six J/70s lining up on a short start line. It was a lovely sight to see the rapidly growing BYS fleet participate in tight and close racing all afternoon.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/70 Victoria fleet and sailors" data-file-id="113858" height="276" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/54e78e3b-e007-4a7d-ba28-0ac9aede95f8.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 276px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
Thank you to Tony Landgren for making his second boat Spike available to a pick-up crew of Alister Danks, Sean O’Brien, Steve Cowell and Fingers Vinck. It was great to welcome new member Rod Warren to the club, who had three solid second placings in his first hit-out at BYS.<br />
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The Youth team of Laura Harding, Ella Grimshaw, Hayden Brown, Hannah Danks and Mitch Harding was very impressive sailing Notte Bianca to three wins, with Jumpin’ Jack Flash (Doc, Marty, Andy Mac and a first-timer J70 crew member Batsey) winning the other heat.<br />
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A big "thank you" to Alex Bolton, Zoe Blochlinger and Gordon Hyde for the race management.<br />
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<a href="https://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off Victoria, Australia" data-file-id="113822" height="220" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4c9f1699-3f06-4d53-998e-ca1eaa2eafa6.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 220px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Australia Day Regatta report:</span></h3>
Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron held their inaugural J/70 Australia Day Regatta on 26th January with six races held on southern shores of Port Philip Bay. Rod Warren on JOUST 70 won overall, closely followed by JUMPIN' JACK FLASH and JAVELIN. Everyone commented on what close fun racing it was. The teams are looking forward to the New South Wales and West Australian crews heading to Blairgowrie over Easter for the J/70 Nationals. <strong>Sailing photo credit- Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron </strong>For <a href="https://www.jboats.com/j70-one-design-sailboat" target="_blank">more J/70 sailboat information</a><br />
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<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Community</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span></h3>
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<strong>J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">J/Boats from around the world here</a>. <br />
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<a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/1997-J120-bouIa9zd" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/120 brokerage boat for sale" data-file-id="113898" height="334" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/8980f6c9-d2cf-429f-aecd-f76870f8665b.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 334px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/1997-J120-bouIa9zd" target="_blank"><img align="right" alt="J/120 Storm brokerage boat for sale" data-file-id="113842" height="204" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7e6a1aaa-0c8b-4b66-8aba-ec7c114aca96.jpeg" style="border: 0px initial; height: 204px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></a><span class="subTitle">Freshwater 1997 J/120 For Sale. Owner wants an offer!</span> Fresh Survey. Hull Wrap Removed! Storm Warning is a very well-kept J/120 that shows pride of ownership. She has a long, successful racing history. Originally sold new by RCR in 1997 and then sold to the current owners in 2015. Always sailed on<br />
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freshwater Lake Erie. She has an original white gelcoat hull with blue double-boot stripe. She has a faired bottom and standing rigging is pulled every fall for winter land storage. She has a custom-made canvas cover with access door to cockpit. Learn more<a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/1997-J120-bouIa9zd" target="_blank"> about the J/120 Storm Warning here</a><br />
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<a href="https://youtu.be/dT-uJ1eYFTs" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22 Warrior Sailing program" data-file-id="113830" height="326" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/bb3b86fd-e3bc-4abb-9d46-9a25fd006933.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 326px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Meet Jim Burge @ Warrior Sailing</span></h2>
Retired US Army 1st Sergeant James Burge explains how his life has changed by participating in Warrior Sailing and how the 2020 Great Lakes tour was a bit different from other years, but still effective. Jim's 26-year career in the Army has led him to many adventures, but chooses Warrior Sailing for its comprehensive and hands-on approach to changing lives. <br />
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The Warrior Sailing Program is dedicated to maritime education for wounded, ill, and injured service members of the US Military. Getting military service members on the water can provide physical, mental, and emotional therapy for a variety of injuries and illnesses. Sailing is an outlet to cope with the long-term effects of PTSD, brain injury, amputation, paralysis, and nerve damage. It’s also an exciting way for our Warrior Sailors to express their most natural abilities: teamwork and competitive drive.<br />
<a href="https://youtu.be/dT-uJ1eYFTs" target="_blank">Watch this story of Jim's experience at Warrior Sailing YouTube channel here</a>. If you’d like to<a href="https://warriorsailing.org" target="_blank"> learn more about Warrior Sailing click here</a>.<br />
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<span class="subTitle"><img align="right" alt="Bob "the Fish" Fisher- RIP" data-file-id="113870" height="300" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4e03165e-5927-423e-934a-3344275bae95.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 300px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Eight Bells: Bob Fisher</span></h2>
Bob Fisher, the larger-than-life yachtsman, journalist, and author, crossed the bar peacefully on January 25 surrounded by family in Lymington, Hampshire UK. He was 85.<br />
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Bob Fisher was born and bred in the coastal town of Brightlingsea, Essex UK and made sailing his life, engaged by stories from the professional Brightlingsea fishermen who crewed the big yachts of their day, including Sir Thomas Lipton's two British J Class America’s Cup challengers Endeavour and Endeavour II in 1934 and ’37.<br />
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He first made a name as a top crew, winning seven national and world titles in the National Hornet and Fireball high performance dinghy classes. He also won the International Yacht Racing Union trials to select a 2-man trapeze catamaran trials with his Brightlingsea friend Reg White, which led to the Tornado being chosen as the first Olympic multihull class.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="Bob Fisher J/105 team at Master's Regatta" data-file-id="113974" height="332" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b8b66550-5469-4a6e-a0b3-23feb2f5010c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 332px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<em><strong>Bob's team at J/105 Master's Regatta- San Diego YC- L-R: Brent Draney, Stu and Julia Johnstone, the Fish himself, and Phil Lawrence</strong></em><br />
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White was Britain’s top multihull sailor, and it was on his recommendation that Bob went on to claim international fame, winning the 1967 Little America’s Cup in C-Class catamarans, racing the British defender Lady Helmsman with Peter Schneidau against the Australian challenger Quest III, winning the series in dominant style 4:1.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 Masters Regatta- Bob Fisher steering" data-file-id="113982" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9fca5f6f-544c-4fcd-86fc-d8a49fdc1709.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Bob’s prize was an all-expenses paid trip to Newport, Rhode Island to watch the American 12m yacht Intrepid beat the Australian challenger Dame Pattie in the real America’s Cup. It led to a life-long obsession with Bob covering all the matches since, bar the current racing off Auckland.<br />
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<img align="right" alt="Bob Fisher speaking at Master's Regatta" data-file-id="113978" height="322" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7542ad0f-bc75-49ab-b89b-ef24416b30d7.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 322px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" />The author of 30 books on all aspects of the sport, they include eight covering The Whitbread/Volvo Round the World Race and 1986 Book of the Sea award winning tome – Greatest Race: Official Story of the Whitbread Round the World Race, 1985-86 – and seven on the America’s Cup.<br />
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In 1992, Bob set about to write the definite history of the America’s Cup, supported by that year’s Cup winner, American philanthropist Bill Koch. The 2-volume An Absorbing Interest took 15 years to research and write and has become the go-to opus to answer any question about the Cup. His latest work, An Absorbing Interest Vol III, covering the past two decades of Cup Races is due to be published in the autumn.<br />
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Bob’s greatest hope had been to see Britain finally win back the famous auld mug first competed for in 1851 in a race around the Isle of Wight. That has not happened in his lifetime, but he did follow the INEOS Team UK come-back from oblivion in preliminary races in Auckland before Christmas to win a place in the finals of the Prada Cup challenge trials and was cheered even more by Sir Ben’s last race dedication to our Mr America’s Cup. The final chapter of Bob’s last book may yet record his greatest wish fulfilled.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 Masters Regatta- Bob Fisher team" data-file-id="113954" height="298" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/943d7735-5fac-4ab1-9eb9-beb219137019.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 298px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Bob's self-avowed "favorite" venue was the International Masters Regatta in San Diego, CA. Started in San Francisco by long-time J/Boats supporter Don Trask, the event started in J/24s and then shifted to J/105s. Bob sailed the last two J/105 events in San Francisco, CA and the next three events in San Diego also sailed on J/105s. Bob loved the camaraderie of the regatta, rubbing elbows with many famous sailors, regaling everyone with one funny or amazing sea-story after another-yes, the Fish was a real character, a larger than life character. He will be missed. The pictures in this tribute are all from the San Diego events. <br />
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<img align="none" alt="Master's Regatta skippers" data-file-id="113990" height="360" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/5117f72c-7d90-42cb-b88b-068d36747e4b.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 360px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
Bob Fisher is survived by his wife Dee, two children Alice and Carolyne, three grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Donations in <a href="http://www.sirthomasliptonfoundation.org/" target="_blank">Bob Fisher’s memory are welcomed to the Sir Thomas Lipton Foundation</a>. Messages are welcome on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bob.fisher.167527 " target="_blank">Bob Fisher’s Facebook page</a><br />
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<strong>Sailing photo credits- San Diego YC/ Cynthia Sinclair/ Bronny Daniels</strong>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-7477777869006740552021-01-20T07:30:00.004-05:002021-01-24T14:23:55.432-05:00J/Newsletter- January 20th, 2021<strong style="color: navy; font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 150%;"><img align="none" alt="sunset sailing on the Solent" data-file-id="101461" height="384" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/46cfed53-e181-4469-a1fc-5853f30b26be.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 384px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></strong><br />
In the past week or so, a lot of progress has been made on J/Boats two latest projects- the introduction of the new J/9 daysailer being made in the USA (Bristol, RI) and the new J/45 offshore cruising yacht being made in France (Les Sables d'Olonne). Below are highlights of that progress for both boats. Interest in them has been very strong and the building teams are looking forward to their inaugural test sails in late spring.<br />
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The past week also saw two very exciting events take place. For starters, the J/111 Class returned to Key West, Florida and they enjoyed a nice weekend of sailing in the tropical paradise. Simultaneously, over in Europe, the Yacht Club de Monaco in Monte Carlo, Monaco hosted the second act of the Monaco J/70 Winter Series.<br />
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Finally, in the J/Community section we got a great report from good friend Hank Stuart about sailing his J/35c BLUE KNIGHT on Lake Ontario this past summer. And, sadly, we got news of another good friend- Ding Schoonmaker- of his recent passing…see the tributes below.<br />
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<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/9 daysailer hull mold" data-file-id="113790" height="342" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/6ecccea9-9547-4960-89fa-d48148b52cca.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 342px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/9 Progress Update</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)- The J/9 hull mold was recently completed at CCF Composites and is now being waxed in preparation for the molding of hull #1 next week. In the picture, the contrasting boot stripe can be seen as well as the insert for the rudder post/bearing. The hull stripe is 100% flush with the hull surface so that the finished molded boot-stripe will also be flush with no marks visible. A separate transom mold fits on the back of the hull mold and is precisely aligned with 6 round keyways.<br />
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<span class="subTitle"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank"><img align="right" alt="J/9 deck plug" data-file-id="113766" height="402" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/723bd719-7f46-4cbc-8cbe-0c8d4c968c0a.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 402px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></a></span><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Deck Plug Update</span></h3>
Symmetrix Composite Tooling recently applied a custom-mixed nonskid to all the horizontal surfaces of the J/9 deck and cockpit. Four different nonskid samples were tooled up, with molds taken from each and subsequent parts molded and tested, before the winner was selected. Symmetrix is now adding the final finishing touches to the deck plug before it is transported to CCF later this week. <br />
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<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">J/9 Specification Update</span></h3>
With the North American sailboat market recently importing more new sailboats than building domestically, we set out to reverse that trend with the J/9. Most of the content and key J/9 components are being supplied and supported by North American companies with extensive J/Boats experience.<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Composite Materials</span></h3>
Quality composite construction starts with high-quality composite materials. The J/9 composites are sourced through Composites One, the largest North American distributor, whose regional office/warehouse is nearby in Bristol, Rhode Island. The fiberglass used in molding the J/9 is manufactured by Vectorply in Phenix City, Alabama. The Corecell core is produced by Gurit in Quebec, and the resins are made by AOC Resins from their facilities in Tennessee and Ontario.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/9 keel profile" data-file-id="113722" height="326" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/519d3ee0-7f5b-477c-aabd-5880de1b9546.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 326px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">J/9 Keel</span></h3>
A key contributor to J/9’s exceptional stability is the all-lead, L-shaped, low VCG (vertical center-of-gravity) keel featuring a foil-shaped, wedge bulb that increases stability (vs. conventional keels) without increasing draft. The modest 4.9’ draft allows the J/9 to sail in most areas, and an optional 3.9’ shoal keel is available for even skinnier water access. The J/9 keels are being produced at Broomfield & Son in Rhode Island.<br />
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<span class="subTitle"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank"><img align="right" alt="J/9 sailplan" data-file-id="113714" height="317" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/fdb1dbb0-7f20-44cc-8818-a1be7ee2edc8.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 317px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></a></span><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Jib Furling System</span></h3>
The J/9 design philosophy of keeping things simple is carried through to the sailing hardware and systems. In-deck jib furlers might look great, but for less weight, less cost, easier maintenance and much less friction, nothing beats a high quality above-deck furler like the Mark IV Unit 0 from Harken, Inc. of Pewaukee, WI.<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">J/9 Spar Package</span></h3>
After carefully considering several spar options, Sparcraft USA (Charlotte, NC) was chosen to supply the J/9’s spar package. The Sparcraft extrusions (mast and boom sections) match the J/9’s performance profile, and the company’s ability to anodize and powder coat the spars provides the most durable painted finish available. For <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank">more J/9 Daysailer information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j45" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/45 hull demolding" data-file-id="113814" height="403" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/94a1979d-6147-421d-aecb-4639d7d9aa30.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 403px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/45 Cruising Yacht Just Hatched!</span></h2>
(Les Sables d'Olonne, France)- This past week, the team at J/Composites in Les Sables d'Olonne, France is proud to present the first hull "out-of-the-box" of the brand-new J/45 offshore cruising yacht. <br />
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Designed to be a comfortable offshore greyhound, the J/45 design is reminiscent of the remarkable heritage of J/Boats offshore cruising yachts of the past, such as the J/145, J/160, and J/65. Clean, crisp lines, fine entry, forgiving hull shape, and flat exit off the stern quarters all point to a cruising yacht that will reel-off the miles offshore, wherever the heart desires. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j45" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/45 offshore cruising yacht transom" data-file-id="113818" height="271" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4e085615-a922-4f2f-a6f4-d4cdabf3c2a3.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 271px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
Fulfill that dream, escape to world's unknown. As Sarah Frances Brown once said, "twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So, throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover!" Learn more about <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j45" target="_blank">the new J/45 offshore cruising yacht here</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing Biscayne Bay off Miami, FL" data-file-id="113406" height="252" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a8b4d708-672c-4610-82a0-5643b4f43978.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 252px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/70 Bacardi Winter Series II Preview</span></h2>
Miami, FL- Hosted principally by the Bacardi Event management team and Shake-A-Leg Miami's beautiful facilities in Coconut Grove (Miami), Florida, the second of the three event Bacardi Winter Series will be taking place this weekend from January 22nd to 24th, 2021. <br />
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The forecast continues to improve for the weekend for the twenty J/70 teams that are entered from around the world. There are teams from Germany, Brazil, Cayman Islands, and USA. <br />
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The first regatta in mid-December was nearly washed out due to no wind...a single, very marginal, race was held for the highly competitive fleet. No question, everyone is looking forward to the classic breezes from the southeast that Biscayne Bay is famous for this coming weekend. <br />
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By J/70 standards, the small fleet is deeply laden with talent across the board, counting well over two-dozen World Champions in various classes amongst them. Some teams that may be at the top of the leaderboard include Joel Ronning's CATAPULT (with Erik Shampain & Morgan Reeser on speed/tactics), Germany's Mike Illbruck on PINTA (including famous tactician John Kostecki), Peter Cunningham's POWERPLAY from the Cayman Islands, John Brim's RIMETTE (with Zeke Horowitz on tactics), Pam Rose's ROSEBUD (with Bill Hardesty on tactics), Steve Benjamin's SAINT (with 2 World Champion tacticians aboard- Al Terhune & Chris Larson), Ryan McKillen's SURGE (with Lucas Calabrese & John Wallace on speed/ tactics), Dave Janetti's VERY ODD (with Travis Odenbach on tactics), Buddy Cribb's VICTORY (with Greiner Hobbs & Malcolm Lamphere on speed/tactics), and Doug Newhouse's YONDER (with Jeremy Wilmot & Tomas Dietrich on speed/ tactics). That is a breath-taking collection of smart, fast sailors on those teams. For<a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13062" target="_blank"> more Bacardi Winter Series II sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j92" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/92 sailing Key West Race" data-file-id="106681" height="334" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/09eaf334-1fbd-45b9-8c54-84b4b12a8cb4.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 334px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Fort Lauderdale to Key West Race Started!</span></h2>
(Fort Lauderdale, FL)- The third event of the 2020-21 SORC Islands in the Stream Series, the 2021 Lauderdale to Key West Race, got underway today with a slow, light winds forecast for the 155 nm course. The 31 entrants are competing in four ORC divisions, PHRF, and Multihull. The four J/Crews are making tracks down the Florida Keys, right-turn signal blinking the entire way! <br />
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You can <a href="http://kws.kattack.com/WPlayer/WPosDisplay.aspx?FeedID=1387" target="_blank">watch their progress with the Kattack Tracker, click here and cheer on your buddies</a><br />
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Want to watch the weather in Key West and wish you were there? Check out t<a href="https://www.keywestharborwebcam.com/" target="_blank">he Key West Harbor webcam here</a> Follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sorcsailing" target="_blank">the race here on the SORC Sailing Facebook page</a> For <a href="https://www.keywestrace.org/" target="_blank">more Key West Race sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><img align="right" alt="J/Duffels for sale" data-file-id="113518" height="195" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b2787258-3f93-493b-bc18-0ee693c2c6b7.jpg" style="border: 0px initial; height: 195px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">January Special for a J/Duffel!</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)- Ronstan has been in the performance sailing business for years and they have designed a quality duffel that is perfect for racing or cruising. Ample space in the 24"x12"x12" dimension with wide grip carry strap. Inside wet pouch keeps the dry clothes separate. Rugged stitching and large top loading flap. Embroider with your class logo, boat name, and sail number. We are <a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=4&products_id=10" target="_blank">offering a 21% discount for the month of January! Click here to order now!</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span></h2>
Jan 21- <a href="https://www.keywestrace.org/" target="_blank">STC Lauderdale to Key West Race- Fort Lauderdale, FL</a><br />
Jan 22-24- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13062" target="_blank">J/70 Bacardi Winter Series II- Miami, FL</a><br />
Feb 4-7- <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/primo-cup-trophee-credit-suisse/" target="_blank">Monaco J/70 Winter Series- Monte Carlo, Monaco</a><br />
Feb 17- <a href="http://www.sorcsailing.org/" target="_blank">SORC Miami to Eleuthera Race- Miami, FL</a><br />
Mar 4-7- <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/primo-cup-trophee-credit-suisse/" target="_blank">J/70 Primo Cup- Trophee Credit Suisse- Monte Carlo, Monaco</a><br />
Mar 5-7- <a href="https://thesailinginc.com/thekeywestwinterseries" target="_blank">J/111 Key West Winter Series- Key West, FL</a><br />
Mar 5-8- <a href="https://heinekenregatta.com/" target="_blank">St Maarten Heineken Regatta- Simpson Bay, Saint Maarten</a><br />
Mar 10-13- <a href="https://bacardiinvitational.com/" target="_blank">J/70 Bacardi Cup- Miami, FL</a><br />
Mar 19-21- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eid=13122" target="_blank">J/70 Davis Island Winter Series III- Tampa, FL</a><br />
Mar 19-21- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-in-san-diego/" target="_blank">San Diego NOOD Regatta- San Diego, CA</a><br />
Mar 26-28- <a href="https://stthomasinternationalregatta.com/" target="_blank">St. Thomas International Regatta- St. Thomas, USVI</a><br />
Mar 29- Apr 4- <a href="https://bvispringregatta.org/" target="_blank">BVI Spring Regatta- Road Town, Tortola, BVI</a><br />
Apr 2-4- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-st-petersburg/" target="_blank">St Petersburg NOOD Regatta- St Petersburg, FL</a><br />
Apr 11-17- <a href="https://lesvoilesdestbarthrichardmille.com/us/" target="_blank">Les Voiles de St Barth Regatta- Gustavia, St Barthelemy</a> <br />
Apr 8-11- <a href="https://www.charlestonraceweek.com/" target="_blank">Charleston Race Week- Charleston, SC</a><br />
Apr 24-30- <a href="https://www.sailingweek.com/" target="_blank">Antigua Sailing Week- English Harbour, Antigua, West Indies</a><br />
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For additional <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j-sailing-calendar/sailing-regattas" target="_blank">J/Regatta and Event dates in your region, please refer to the on-line J/Sailing Calendar</a>.<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111s sailing off Key West, FL" data-file-id="113750" height="390" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/d98372fb-c238-4131-9209-9b7410e2c7df.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 390px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">RAMROD Takes J/111 Key West Winter Series I</span></h2>
(Key West, Florida)- The inaugural 2021 Key West Winter Series took place January 16-18 off Key West, Florida. Thanks to the efforts of Ryan and Rob Ruhlman and the entire team at SAILING INC (with J/Dealerships in Ohio and South Carolina) for pulling this together. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111 winter series off Key West, FL" data-file-id="113734" height="272" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/6d45640c-8407-4162-91c2-cb9f1562a993.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 272px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The five-boat fleet were chomping on their bits and could not wait to get back down to Key West and do some sailing in the gorgeous aquamarine waters and mild 70's temperatures with plenty of sun! They were not disappointed, as Key West delivered on some great sailing in the race course area just 2.0 miles southwest of Key West Harbor. <br />
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After a thrilling, fun-filled three days of racing offshore, the regatta PRO Mark Foster managed to run a tight series of races, completing eight races by Sunday afternoon. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111 Ramrod sailing Key West Winter Series" data-file-id="113774" height="346" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/aea97145-f307-4a99-9673-5288bee842a5.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 346px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
A well-known Chesapeake Bay sailor who has several offshore and World Championship titles to his name managed to win in his inaugural debut in the J/111 class. Rod Jabin's crew on RAMROD took the first J/111 Key West Winter Series event with the stunning record of three 1sts, four 2nds, and a 4th for total of 15 pts. While the RAMROD crew mastered their boat and the conditions, showing their transom to the fleet most of the time, behind them it was anything but clear which teams would make the podium. Sailing perhaps one of their best regattas in recent years was Andy and Sedge Ward's BRAVO posting five races in the top three and winning the last race to cement their hold on the silver. Finishing just four points behind them was another Chesapeake Bay team on Marty Roesch's VELOCITY, posting six races in the top three to take the bronze. <br />
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The next regatta in Key West will be sailed on March 5th to 7th, 2021. <br />
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Follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/j111class" target="_blank">the J/111 class on Facebook here</a> For <a href="https://thesailinginc.com/thekeywestwinterseries" target="_blank">more information regards Key West Winter J/111 Series, presented by SAILING INC</a> <br />
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<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off Monte Carlo, Monaco" data-file-id="113702" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/2165ab6f-bf31-4328-b8fa-5ad5825a157c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">PETITE TERRIBLE- ADRIA FERRIES Wins J/70 Monaco Winter Series Act I</span></h2>
(Monte Carlo, Monaco)- For the start of its eighth season, the Monaco J/70 Winter Series had twenty-one teams participating from Monaco, Switzerland, Italy, and France! As usual, the Yacht Club de Monaco rolled out the red carpet for the happy and enthusiastic J/70 teams, hosting a wonderful event despite all of the precautions put in place for Covid virus mitigation. <br />
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Like their compatriots in the USA, the Mediterranean Sea also delivered relatively light weather for the duration of the three-day series. In the end, the YC Monaco PRO managed complete a five-race series.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off Monte Carlo, Monaco" data-file-id="113706" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/cc1583d5-d536-4251-b781-c2e53ce8f2cc.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The fleet was deeply talented, including the past three-time European J/70 Champion- Italian Claudia Rossi's famous PETITE TERRIBLE- ADRIA FERRIES. Hopping aboard her boat with her familiar crew must have sent chills down the spines of the other top tacticians and skippers. Not surprisingly, it was pretty clear after the first day that Claudia had not lost her form, taking a 1-2 to easily lead the fleet. Thereafter, she posted a 1-7-5 to win the regatta with just 9 pts. <br />
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Swiss sailor, Thomas Studer, started off slowly on the first day, then quickly made the necessary adjustments with his crew to sail smarter and faster the rest of the regatta. Studer's JERRY posted a 6-8-2-2-1 tally for a total of 11 net pts, nearly catching Rossi's PETITE TERRIBLE in the end. Sailing consistently from start to finish with all top 6 finishes was Giangiacomo Serena Di Lapigio's G-SPOT, posting a 4-6-4-5-3 tally for 16 pts net. <br />
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Winning the Corinthians Division was Thomas Studer's JERRY. The balance of the podium was determined by a tie-breaker at 23 pts each. Taking the silver based on the countback was Ludovico Fassitelli's JUNDA- BANCO DEL SEMPIONE from Monaco. As a result, Cesare Gabasio's TINN J70 took the bronze medal. <br />
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The next regatta will take place in Monte Carlo on February 4th to 7th, 2021. For <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/monaco-sportsboat-winter-series/" target="_blank">more YC Monaco J/70 Winter Series sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Community</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span></h3>
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<strong>* J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">J/Boats from around the world here</a>. <br />
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<a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2000-J-Boats-J160-L6HbVTTa" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/160 for sale on J/Net Brokerage" data-file-id="113678" height="346" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/ac063ad7-e29f-42ad-835c-238a2bb85735.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 346px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a>
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Dream Cruiser For Sale!</span></h2>
Here is one of those beauties, a newly listed J/160 cruiser down on Long Island Sound. A rare opportunity to own this beautiful and lovingly maintained J/160 built in 2000. <br />
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The J/160 is a perfect "world cruiser"; they have truly sailed all Seven Seas since inception. Many J/160s have won famous offshore sailboat races worldwide, too. <br />
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The J/160 combines excellent offshore performance with extremely comfortable accommodations in a four-cabin layout. This boat has an extensive inventory and is ready to cruise the Caribbean now! She's available for viewing in the water today and the owner is asking just $349,000 USD! Learn <a href="http://www.jboats.com" target="_blank">more about J/160's here</a>. Learn <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2000-J-Boats-J160-L6HbVTTa" target="_blank">more about this newly listed J/160 here and contact the broker</a><br />
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<img align="right" alt="J/35c Blue Knight offshore" data-file-id="113798" height="367" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/dda9d8d6-a6c3-46d5-85ae-b84debb4baa0.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 367px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 350px;" width="350" /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">* Awesome Family Sailing on J/35c BLUE KNIGHT</span></h2>
The summer of 2020 was challenging for sailors on Lake Ontario. The Canada/ USA boarder closure prevented cross-lake travel. Many friends were left stranded on their side of the lake.<br />
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The area’s Regional Sailing Association (RSA) is Lake Yacht Racing Association that holds an annual regatta. Clubs from Canada and the USA make up the LYRA. Due to Covid restrictions, the usual regatta was cancelled. LYRA organizers instead created a handful of one race events all held on August 1st, both in the US and Canada.<br />
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LYRA organized a race from Rochester to Pultneyville and return, approximately 38.0nm. Eighteen boats from Rochester Yacht Club and Genesee Yacht Club participated in the race. BLUE KNIGHT, a 1992 J/35c from Sodus Bay Yacht Club also competed.<br />
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BLUE KNIGHT was built for Peter Pape of the Rochester Yacht Club. In 1994, Peter met Hank Stuart and the two began a lifelong friendship centered on racing BLUE KNIGHT on Lake Ontario. They also traveled with their team to events outside of the US, including Antigua Race Week in 1995.<br />
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The pinnacle of their efforts was Lake Ontario Boat of the Year honor in 2002, which offered them a chance to represent US Sailing Area E at the 2003 US Sailing Offshore National Championships (the Lloyd Phoenix Trophy) at the US Naval Academy. They won! The first and only time so far that Area E has won the national title.<br />
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<img align="right" alt="Hank Stuart sailing his J/35c offshore" data-file-id="113802" height="340" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/28edff95-4c45-4f76-97dd-27bb8305f68d.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 340px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 350px;" width="350" />The team was mixed, four men and four women. Hank Stuart (skipper), Mary Stuart, Mark Sertl, Annemarie Cook, Michael and Kristin Carbone, Michele Villani and Peter Pape. US Naval Academy Midshipman Evan Scott completed the crew.<br />
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The following summer 2004, BLUE KNIGHT was again named Lake Ontario Boat of the Year. In the years since she has continued to have a fun and successful cruising/racing career on Lake Ontario.<br />
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While not having raced as much in the past three or four years, the team dusted off their sunglasses and made their way to Rochester for the LYRA race on August 1, 2020.<br />
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The race started in a light southeasterly breeze, which persistently clocked to the right. By afternoon the northeast thermal had filled in and the fleet was hard on the wind for the leg to Pultneyville.<br />
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Once around the turning mark it was a reach, then run back to the bar at Rochester YC. BLUE KNIGHT had not lost her stride, she won her class and was best in fleet. The crew during COVID times was small, including Hank Stuart (skipper, now owner), Annemarie Cook, Michael and Kristin Carbone, their daughter Makyala, and Peter Pape.<br />
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The J/35c is an easily-sailed cruiser-racer. Both Hank and Peter commented on the balance between comfortable shorthanded sailing and a hull design that is easy to feel and make necessary adjustments for maximum efficiency while racing.<br />
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For most of the 2020 summer, Hank sailed BLUE KNIGHT singlehanded. But, don’t think that means he did not fly the spinnaker, because he did! <br />
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Thanks for this story from Hank Stuart. Hank is a member at Sodus Bay Yacht Club, New York Yacht Club, St Francis Yacht Club, Bayview Yacht Club, Storm Trysail Club, Oswego Yacht Club and is Commodore of the Rochester Corinthian Yacht Club. When not sailing he provides race management services to sailors around the world. He is an International Race Officer. J/Boats sailors would have seen Hank most recently as PRO for the J/70 World Championship.<br />
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We wish BLUE KNIGHT continued success on the race course and fair winds wherever she goes cruising with family and friends. For <a href="https://www.jboats.com/j35c-performance" target="_blank">more J/35c sailboat information</a><br />
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<span class="subTitle"><img align="right" alt="Ding Schoonmaker sailor" data-file-id="113718" height="300" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e6d189a6-314b-4d92-ba89-b124e0e64f3d.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 300px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 232px;" width="232" /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">* Eight Bells: Ding Schoonmaker</span></h2>
Bob Johnstone provided us some perspective on Ding's recent passing down in Naples, Florida:<br />
<br />
"Ding and I raced against each other as teenagers in Lightnings on Little Narragansett Bay back in the 50s. Ding in Watch Hill and me in Stonington. Twenty-two years later in 1973, when Ding was NAYRU’s Director of Junior Sailing, he was able to persuade a fairly reactionary NAYRU Board of Directors to approve placing the “United States” label on an unproven invitational youth regatta to be called- U.S. Youth Championship! His friend (me!) was proposing the first regatta take place out in the boonies of the Midwest - Wilmette, IL. That wasn’t an easy process to get "approval".<br />
<br />
Back then, NAYRU (North American Yacht Racing Union) was mostly an Eastern establishment. Ding thus played a major role in the birth of that first United States Youth Championship at the Sheridan Shore YC in Lasers and 470s, bringing youth under 19 years of age together from all over the country. For this and his many other contributions, the sport and about 5,000 Youth Champs alumni owe Ding a huge debt of gratitude. Mary’s and my prayers go out to his wife Treecie and Ding’s many sailing friends worldwide."<br />
<br />
How influential was the nascent US Youth Champs? Over the past 47+ years, it has helped create multiple World, North American, National, and European Champions, along with a number of Olympic Medallists. You may notice a number of America's leading sailors in this list:<br />
<br />
Ed Adams, Tom Barrows, Steve Benjamin, JB Braun, Carl Buchan, Bruce & Glenn Burton, Andy Campbell, Amanda Clark, Peter Commette, Augie Diaz, Mark Foster, Neal Fowler, Kelly Gough, Bill Hardesty, Stan Honey, Peter Isler, Stu, Drake & Peter Johnstone, Brian Keane, Gary Knapp, Mark Laura, Pete Levesque, Tom Lihan, Andy & John Lovell, Chris Maas, Jonathan & Charlie McKee, Stu McNay, Pete Melvin, Andy Menkart, Stew & Terry Neff, Bruce Nelson, Dave Perry, Nat Philbrick, Chris Raab, Buzz Reynolds, Nevin Sayre, Russ Silvestri, Bob & Tom Whitehurst, Scott Young. An impressive list of sailors (if I missed anyone, please don't shoot the messenger). <br />
<br />
Yet another long-time friend of both J/Boats and Ding- Gary Jobson- wrote a nice tribute to him that appeared in Scuttlebutt Sailing News:<br />
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"One of America’s sailing heroes, James “Ding” Schoonmaker II, 87, passed away January 19 in Naples, Florida. His wife, Treecie, noted he had been feeling well until just two days ago, ultimately succumbing to lung cancer.<br />
<br />
Ding, as his friends referred to him, was a Star Class World Champion and served as a Vice President of World Sailing, the international governing body of the sport.<br />
<br />
He was a long-time steward of the sport of sailing and a generous supporter of the US Sailing Foundation, the National Sailing Hall of Fame, the United States Olympic Sailing Team, and the US Sailing Training Center in Miami, Florida.<br />
<br />
At the 1975 Star World Championship, President Gerald Ford was invited by Chicago’s Mayor Richard Daley to welcome the 73 crews and guests to the Windy City. Said President Ford to the gathering, “One skipper and crew in particular has caught my eye, and I would like them to stand up and take a bow– the skipper of Star 5607, Ding Schoonmaker and his very talented and capable crew – Jerry Ford!”<br />
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Everyone got a good laugh, and Ding and Jerry Ford (the sailor) must have been inspired because they went on to win the 1975 Star World Championship.<br />
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Two years later, Ding returned to the Star Worlds with a new crew who wanted to get acquainted with the class, and learn from the master. The 47-year-old crew was named, Buddy Melges! Buddy must have learned a lot from Ding, because he went on to win the Star Worlds in 1978 and 1979.<br />
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Born June 10, 1933 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, his name comes from his Grandfather, of the same name, who was a Medal of Honor recipient in the Civil War. Ding’s first race was in 1944 at the age of eleven off Watch Hill, RI. He spent his summers in Watch Hill and winters in Florida over the past 87 years.<br />
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Ding started out in the Star Class as a crew for Olympian Jack Price in 1946. He remarked during an interview for the National Maritime Historical Society in 2019, “I immediately fell in love with the boat. From the beginning I liked the class organization, the accomplished sailors who raced the boat, and the challenge to win.”<br />
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At the age of 19, he placed second in the Olympic Trials in the Star Class and was named the team’s alternate in Helsinki. He earned that honor again in 1964 at the Games in Tokyo. Along the way, Ding won World, North American, South American, Western Hemisphere, and European Championships in the Star Class. In 1962, following the Cuban revolution, he worked with Tito Bacardi and Frank Zagarino to move the Bacardi Cup Star Class Regatta to Biscayne Bay off Miami, where it is still raced today.<br />
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In 1971, he raced with another Star World Champion, Joe Duplin, as his crew at an Olympic Classes regatta in Kiel, Germany. Ding noted, “It blew very hard the entire week. Thanks to Joe, we won every race.”<br />
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Ding was named US Yachtsman of the Year in 1971 for that accomplishment and a long list of other victories that year. In addition to racing a Star at a high level, he also raced Thistles, Flying Dutchman, Herreshoff 12 1/2s, X Dinghies, Finns, Lasers, and Soling’s (he placed third in the first World Championship in 1969).<br />
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In 1968, he was asked to join a committee working on class measurement and development issues for the International Yacht Racing Union (now World Sailing). Ding learned the value of service and how it translated into improving his beloved sport. He was a Board member on the US Yacht Racing Union (now US Sailing) and would serve on several international committees. He was elected to serve on the Board of IRYU for 14 years (1986-1994 and 1998-2004).<br />
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Ding observed that sailing has changed a lot over his lifetime. “One of the best changes is modern technology, but one of the worst is the high costs associated with Grand Prix racing. Unfortunately, the Olympics has become an arms race for some of the affluent nations.”<br />
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He added, “Talent and ability win medals. Sailing is a sport you can compete in for many years.” Looking toward the future he suggested, “I would like to see the sport like it was 25 years ago. Promote the fleet, club, recreational sailing, and racing. We need to keep grass roots (sailing) and club racing active. Also, we need to encourage young sailors to remain in the sport.”<br />
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For his distinguished career, he was awarded the Nathanael Greene Herreshoff Award, US Sailing’s highest honor, in 1988 and the Beppe Croce Award, World Sailing’s highest honor in 2011. In 2018 he was inducted into the National Sailing Hall of Fame and in 2019 he was presented the Distinguished Service Award by the National Maritime Historical Society.<br />
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Notable among all of his philanthropic work was creating the US Sailing Center in Miami in 1987, establishing the World Youth Sailing Trust to help aspiring sailors in emerging countries and creating the US Sailing Foundation in 1990.<br />
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Ding Schoonmaker has been an important counselor to the leaders of the sport both in the United States, and throughout the world for decades. He will be missed, while his lifelong work will serve as enduring legacy for sailors in the USA and around the world." Again, thanks to Gary Jobson from Annapolis, Maryland for this tribute. <br />
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</table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-38287834925373007482021-01-13T11:06:00.002-05:002021-01-16T11:31:04.982-05:00J/Newsletter- January 13th, 2020<strong style="color: navy; font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 150%;"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s at sunset north of Moscow" data-file-id="112542" height="312" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/2259420b-4984-41a2-acc1-92abda3be02e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 312px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a></strong><br />
<br />
Now that we are approaching the midpoint of January, it is hard to believe that next week would have marked the start of the famous international "Woodstock" of sailing- Key West Race Week sailed off Key West, Florida. For sailors around the world, it marked the beginning of the sailing season sailing on the sunny, warm waters off the Florida Keys, and enjoying the warm breezes, heavily influenced by the 85 F degree Gulf Stream flowing north at 4 to 6 kts just a mile or two offshore.<br />
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However, all is not lost in this pandemic mayhem we have all been living with for nearly one year now. Perseverance combined with safe practices has resulted in two events that will be taking place in Key West this year! For starters, the next event in the SORC Islands in the Stream Series is the famous Fort Lauderdale to Key West Race! Thereafter, the passionate J/111 class organized the first full set of regattas to take place in Key West in three years- the J/111 Key West Series will be starting up this weekend! Then, across the Atlantic, the famous Yacht Club de Monaco will be hosting their first Act in the eighth annual J/70 Winter Series held off Monte Carlo, Monaco on the Mediterranean Sea.<br />
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Meanwhile, the J/99 fleet is growing in South America and the latest boat has landed in Chile, read the report below from Juan Reid in Algarrobo, Chile. Also, the San Francisco J/105 Fleet continues to innovate and run their own winter series, safely sailing as doublehanded teams on San Francisco Bay. The fleet rendezvous at a specific mark, and off they go around government marks! Simple, sweet, and easy to administrate. This past week a big fleet of doublehanded J/105s enjoyed the inaugural "Bittersweet Chocolate Race", honoring "bittersweet chocolate day" last weekend! Guess what the awards were? Read on and find out!<br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111s sailing offshore" data-file-id="101049" height="354" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/8aa236d8-f1c2-44e2-8954-74f15dc6f6ae.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 354px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
J/111 Key West Winter Series Preview</span></h2>
(Key West, Florida)- The inaugural 2021 Key West Winter Series will take place January 16-18 and then March 5-7, 2021. And, if you want to go, you need a J/111! Our hats off to Ryan and Rob Ruhlman and the entire team at SAILING INC (with J/Dealerships in Ohio and South Carolina) for pulling this together. <br />
<br />
When the difficult decision was made not to hold Key West Race Week in January 2018, it was a harsh blow to passionate, enthusiastic sailors from across the USA and the rest of the world that loved the amazing Caribbean-like tropical weather. It is hard to forget the roosters running amuck, the raucous night life, the amazing restaurants, and key limes in everything you eat or drink. Determined to overcome the lack of any sailing event in Key West, the Ruhlman family and SAILING INC. from Cleveland, OH decided to do something about it. <strong>Here's an interview from <a href="https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com" target="_blank">Scuttlebutt Sailing Newsletter</a> to give you a perspective. </strong><br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111's sailing at Key West" data-file-id="111658" height="326" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/961f8c51-10fc-46dc-b1d5-8abe768248a2.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 326px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<strong>Where did the idea come from?</strong><br />
Rob Ruhlman: Key West Race Week had an epic 30 year run and being part of nearly every one of those years made it more than an annual event but a way of life. It was what January was dedicated to every year. The opportunity to reignite that flame, albeit on a much smaller scale, is worth pursuing in the hope that when properly fanned and fed the fire will once again burn brightly. The J/111 class has gotten together to organize an event this year and with the support we have and a little bit of luck, we can use this as a starting point for bigger and better events going forward.<br />
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<strong>Why Key West and not somewhere else?</strong><br />
Ryan Ruhlman: Key West is a signature destination in the United States, an honest-to-God tropical paradise. The opportunity to race on blue water, experience the island culture, and reconnect with our friends during the cold winter months is just too good to pass up.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="right" alt="J/111 sailing Key West" data-file-id="47181" height="162" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/eeb8a275-1971-436a-a559-10125e617ac4.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 162px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 250px;" width="250" /></a><strong>Key West had become less accommodating when KWRW ended. Has that changed?</strong><br />
Karl Felger: The City of Key West has graciously signed off on the event, and we’re going to have a lot of help from our friends and sponsors. The majority of the organized activity will be on-the-water, with our social gatherings leveraging some of the best spots in Key West. We appreciate the City of Key West’s cooperation and are happy to help support the local community and economy.<br />
<br />
<strong>There is no infrastructure in Key West... how do you pull this off?</strong><br />
Karl Felger: Our goal is to provide a grand prix racing experience, while planting the seeds for the future. Our focus is on offering multiple great races each day over the two-weekend format, leveraging resources provided by the J/111 owners, and with the help of a world class PRO. We have secured the services of a full-service marina, allowing the fleet a venue to launch, haul-out, and store their boat between two events. Boat owners then have an option for dockage at any marina of their choosing.<br />
<br />
Answering that siren song to participate across the J/111 world are the following teams; Andrew & Sedge Ward's BRAVO from Shelter Island, NY; Rod Jabin's RAMROD from Annapolis, MD; Ian Hill's SITELLA from Hampton, VA; Rob Ruhlman's SPACEMAN SPIFF from Cleveland, OH; and Marty Roesch's VELOCITY from Annapolis, MD. Follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/j111class" target="_blank">the J/111 class on Facebook here</a> For more information regards <a href="https://thesailinginc.com/thekeywestwinterseries" target="_blank">Key West Winter J/111 Series, presented by SAILING INC</a>. <br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="https://j70europeans2021.com" target="_blank"><img align="right" alt="J/70 Europeans logo" data-file-id="113582" height="335" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7f596ab7-3f7b-40bc-89b3-35b751b947e6.png" style="border: 0px initial; height: 335px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></a></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/70 European Championship 2021 UPDATE!</span></h2>
(Skovshoved, Copenhagen, Denmark)- The Royal Danish Yacht Club is looking forward to hosting the <strong>J/70 European Championship in 2021 from June 4th to 12th, 2021. Please note the updated dates!</strong><br />
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The event will take place at Rungsted Harbour approximately 15 km north of downtown Copenhagen. This harbour is one of three stations that Royal Danish YC manages. <br />
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The RDYC has been a strong supporter of the growth of the Danish J/70 Sailing League and their efforts have led the way for well over eighteen sailing clubs to participate. As a result, the level of competitiveness for Danish sailors has improved considerably in the J/70 class. The KDY/ RDYC have been able to achieve strong success in the SAILING Champions League in the past few years (finishing in the top 10 every year out of 36 teams); an event that has been held at the YC Costa Smeralda in Porto Cervo, Sardinia, Italy and St. Moritz Sailing Club in St. Moritz, Switzerland.<br />
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As in years past, the KDY/ RDYC are anticipating over 100 J/70 teams will be participating in the J/70 European Championships on the Baltic Sea in early June. For <a href="https://j70europeans2021.com" target="_blank">more J/70 European Championship sailing and registration information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j121" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/121 sailing Key West Race" data-file-id="106569" height="384" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e40b07e8-7d37-4ffb-92b5-64530d67d8ec.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 384px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
Fort Lauderdale to Key West Race Preview </span></h2>
(Fort Lauderdale, FL)- While nowhere near the record fleets of 100+ boats of the past, the remarkably strong turnout of twenty-seven keelboats for the 2021 pandemic edition of the SORC Fort Lauderdale to Key West Race is sure to be a fun time! The weather forecast looks promising, with a frontal passage promising 15-20 kts winds from the N/NW. That could mean an amazing starboard tack sleighride down around the Florida Keys reefs, right-turn signal blinking the entire way!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="right" alt="J/111 sailing Key West Race" data-file-id="47189" height="141" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b6f72c46-fc02-40dc-bb9c-d6a9c75d006f.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 141px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 250px;" width="250" /></a>A fleet of twenty-seven keelboats will be starting on Friday afternoon hoping to pop their Code Zeros or spinnakers as they head south down the Florida coastline. The largest class is the nineteen-boat ORC Class. Participating will be the J/121 WINGS sailed by Ashley Maltempo & Bill Wiggins from Johns Island, SC; Chris Lewis's J/44 KENAI from Seabrook, TX; the J/109 HARM'S WAY skippered by Andy Wescoat from Galveston Bay, TX; and the J/92 HILLBILLY sailed by Brad Stowers from Melbourne, FL. Have fun! Thousands of J/Sailors will be dreaming of their virtual sleigh ride, too! For <a href="https://www.keywestrace.org/" target="_blank">more SORC Key West Race sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="Monaco J/70's sailing off Monte Carlo" data-file-id="113698" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/99ffe769-615f-4a0d-98b7-ceaf3ea87b24.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
J/70 Monaco Winter Series Act I Preview</span></h2>
(Monte Carlo, Monaco)- For the start of its eighth season, the Monaco J/70 Winter Series will have around 20 boats on the water this coming weekend. Due to the current pandemic health situation, the teams present at this first official meeting of the race season will mainly comprise local teams. Virtually all the teams will be focused on preparation for the 37th Primo Cup – Trophée Credit Suisse organized by the Yacht Club de Monaco from March 4th to 7th, 2021. <br />
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Among the favorites for Act I of the winter series will be the leaders that started their winter season with the Christmas Regatta in December 2020. Winning that event was Ludovic Fassitelli's JUNDA- BANCA DEL SEMPIONE. Challengers should include teams like Stefano Roberti's PICCININA, Herve Maino's SOPWITH CAMEL, Jeremy Moutot's LOKOMOTIV, and the French team on Guillaume Charon's KISS & FLY. For <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/monaco-sportsboat-winter-series/" target="_blank">more YC Monaco J/70 Winter Series sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><img align="right" alt="J/Duffels for sale" data-file-id="113518" height="195" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b2787258-3f93-493b-bc18-0ee693c2c6b7.jpg" style="border: 0px initial; height: 195px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">January Special for a J/Duffel!</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)- Ronstan has been in the performance sailing business for years and they have designed a quality duffel that is perfect for racing or cruising. Ample space in the 24"x12"x12" dimension with wide grip carry strap. Inside wet pouch keeps the dry clothes separate. Rugged stitching and large top loading flap. Embroider with your class logo, boat name, and sail number. We are <a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=4&products_id=10" target="_blank">offering a 21% discount for the month of January! Click here to order now!</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span></h2>
Jan 14-17- <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/primo-cup-trophee-credit-suisse/" target="_blank">Monaco J/70 Winter Series- Monte Carlo, Monaco</a><br />
Jan 16-18- <a href="https://thesailinginc.com/thekeywestwinterseries" target="_blank">J/111 Key West Winter Series- Key West, FL</a><br />
Jan 21- <a href="https://www.keywestrace.org/" target="_blank">STC Lauderdale to Key West Race- Fort Lauderdale, FL</a><br />
Jan 22-24- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13062" target="_blank">J/70 Bacardi Winter Series II- Miami, FL</a><br />
Feb 4-7- <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/primo-cup-trophee-credit-suisse/" target="_blank">Monaco J/70 Winter Series- Monte Carlo, Monaco</a><br />
Feb 17- <a href="http://www.sorcsailing.org/" target="_blank">SORC Miami to Eleuthera Race- Miami, FL</a><br />
Mar 4-7- <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/primo-cup-trophee-credit-suisse/" target="_blank">J/70 Primo Cup- Trophee Credit Suisse- Monte Carlo, Monaco</a><br />
Mar 5-7- <a href="https://thesailinginc.com/thekeywestwinterseries" target="_blank">J/111 Key West Winter Series- Key West, FL</a><br />
Mar 5-8- <a href="https://heinekenregatta.com/" target="_blank">St Maarten Heineken Regatta- Simpson Bay, Saint Maarten</a><br />
Mar 10-13- <a href="https://bacardiinvitational.com/" target="_blank">J/70 Bacardi Cup- Miami, FL</a><br />
Mar 19-21- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eid=13122" target="_blank">J/70 Davis Island Winter Series III- Tampa, FL</a><br />
Mar 19-21- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-in-san-diego/" target="_blank">San Diego NOOD Regatta- San Diego, CA</a><br />
Mar 26-28- <a href="https://stthomasinternationalregatta.com/" target="_blank">St. Thomas International Regatta- St. Thomas, USVI</a><br />
Mar 29- Apr 4- <a href="https://bvispringregatta.org/" target="_blank">BVI Spring Regatta- Road Town, Tortola, BVI</a><br />
Apr 2-4- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-st-petersburg/" target="_blank">St Petersburg NOOD Regatta- St Petersburg, FL</a><br />
Apr 11-17- <a href="https://lesvoilesdestbarthrichardmille.com/us/" target="_blank">Les Voiles de St Barth Regatta- Gustavia, St Barthelemy</a> <br />
Apr 8-11- <a href="https://www.charlestonraceweek.com/" target="_blank">Charleston Race Week- Charleston, SC</a><br />
Apr 24-30- <a href="https://www.sailingweek.com/" target="_blank">Antigua Sailing Week- English Harbour, Antigua, West Indies</a><br />
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For additional <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j-sailing-calendar/sailing-regattas" target="_blank">J/Regatta and Event dates in your region, please refer to the on-line J/Sailing Calendar</a>.<br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 sailing off Chile" data-file-id="113662" height="356" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/204a5911-d2f7-4ac1-8f7b-5fcfcd4ae2e1.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 356px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
J/99 Chile Update</span></h2>
(Algarrobo, Chile)- In July 2019 Eduardo Capdeville was very interested in the new J/99 when it was first introduced. He was looking for a boat that his family could enjoy, one that he could race with them, and have the ability to do some doublehanded coastal sailing.<br />
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As a result, Eduardo decided to visit the J/Composites factory in Les Sables d'Olonne, France. He wanted to see how the boat was built and to take a test sail. Thanks to the efforts of Fred Bouvier, a day of sailing and taking a J/Composites factory tour was organized for Eduardo and friends.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 family sailing off Chile" data-file-id="113630" height="392" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3fd6e02b-7ff7-45bf-855b-bd61fd04fb56.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 392px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
One year later, in June 2020, Mr. Capdeville placed an order for J/99 hull #60 (pictured skippering with family crew).<br />
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After the confirmation of the order, the J/Boats dealer in Chile- Juan Eduardo Reid- started the process of organizing all the details and logistics for Mr. Capdeville to complete the boat in France, ship the boat from France to Chile via the Panama Canal; and commission the boat in Algarrobo, Chile.<br />
<br />
The optional equipment was finalized, including the big wheel J/111 pedestal option. ONE SAILS were selected for the entire set of sail, the first J/99 worldwide to have them. Additional items included a 12" chart plotter for the wheel pedestal, a long list of West Marine safety equipment, covers, cradle, mooring, proper anti-fouling bottom paint and so forth. As Juan exclaimed, "I soon realized I was configuring this boat like it was for me, but keeping the customer's desire in mind for all things onboard.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 sailing offshore of Algarrobo, Chile" data-file-id="113642" height="452" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/ca31e8bc-0f6e-4101-9cce-3c72c76b45e0.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 452px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The boat arrived safely on November 22nd, 2020 and, amazingly, we were ready to go sailing on the 9th of December with very light winds!"<br />
<br />
As Juan described the occasion, "I wanted to make it a real sea trail for our owner. So, I got together with a famous and very experienced South American sailor- José Muñoz- and we did some test sailing on January 10th, 2021 as the weather would be the right ones.<br />
<br />
The conditions were perfect- 12-14 kts, sun, and gentle rolling swells from the southeast (e.g., storm swells from the Roaring Forties down by the Antarctic Ocean).<br />
<br />
"During the current pandemic, with the daily cases going up again, going to sail a brand-new J/99 with a great sail inventory and my friend José with the perfect sunny and windy day, was kind of a miracle", commented Juan. "Also, we got Yanko to film with his DJI Drone and Choncho to rent his nice FE 580 RIB. Sailing was perfect! The IFS A4 asymmetric spinnaker fit and performed perfectly, as well as the rest of the ONE Sail inventory. Flavio Formosa from design and Slovenian Loft <br />
did a great job."<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 sailing with doublehead rig" data-file-id="113598" height="320" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/828dea90-3b21-4310-b74d-8442d46ea090.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 320px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Juan continues describing their experience, "the J/99 is amazing. The wheel is sensitive and transmits the sensation from the rudder perfectly. With 14 kts of breeze, the boat was going 6.8 to 7.1 kts with no crew on the rail. Very stable, similar to the J/105. And, the hull going through the waves was smooth and strong... hard to describe, but easy to understand for a J/Boats owner. The V shape section and the good hull, sail plan, foils and ballast make the whole combination perfect and the boat just flies through the water."<br />
<br />
He added, "downwind, we were making 8 to 9 kts, with a breeze of just 12 to 14 kts. There was no planing condition, but you can see that the boat will go planing very easily with winds over 15 to 16 kts. Very stable, very easy. Nice, nice, nice.<br />
<br />
Other aspects that surprised us was the nicely appointed interior, nice headroom (almost 1.8 meters) and simple, but good distribution. This is a big step ahead of the J/105, a boat that we are very used to in Chile, with a fleet of thirty boats.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 sailing upwind offshore- Algarrobo, Chile" data-file-id="113614" height="330" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f99cd31d-73c8-43b3-ac7a-9b920c2c9998.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 330px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
For the J/99, another really nice aspect is the nice aluminum mast with an integral mainsail luff track (for sliders), that makes mainsail handling very easy. Also, the trimming system for the jib (with up- down and in-out) makes it very easy to tune the jib shape to any wind/wave condition. This gives you the opportunity of having only one all-purpose jib, as we did for "Lady Chopper II", with Harken furler and vertical battens.<br />
<br />
Congratulations to Al Johnstone for the nice design, J/Composite for the good construction, and the entire J/Boats team to achieve more than 60 J/99's built to date. We are happy to have two already in South America; one in Chile and one in Perú.<br />
<br />
Now, we look forward to racing doublehanded regattas in IRC, a TCC of 1.005 is very promising.<br />
<br />
And, we are also looking forward to sailing the bigger brother of this boat, the new J/45. We see in both models the same design considerations; we believe the J/45 will be a rocket in the water; an easy to sail, soft, stable, well-built, comfortable rocket offshore." To <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank">learn more about the J/99 shorthanded offshore speedster</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 sailing upwind offshore doublehanded" data-file-id="112922" height="348" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/906c6263-8cfb-430a-92f1-bacddf47c62c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 348px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
"Bittersweet Chocolate" J/105 Doublehanded Race Report</span></h2>
(San Francisco, CA)- On Sunday, January 10th, nine J/105s gathered informally near Golden Gate YC’s X buoy for some fresh air and double-handed sailing in what has become a monthly event for the fleet. The occasion for this past weekend was the National Bittersweet Chocolate Day; therefore, the inspirational name for the race (the kicker, of course, was the awards were Bruce & Nicole's bittersweet chocolate brownies!). <br />
<br />
With a 4-7 kt northeasterly and a few knots of ebb, expected to build significantly, several skippers wondered whether we could even make it around the course. The current was strongly flooding INSIDE SF Marina’s West Harbor and drove Bruce Stone’s J/105 Arbitrage sideways into the corner of the guest dock, earning a severe scrape of the hull. After Co-owner (and spouse) Nicole Breault applied a healthy amount of duct tape, the team headed out to the starting area.<br />
<br />
With the wind starting to clock north just before the start, and the windward mark being YRA 8 (channel marker R “4”), most boats started at the wind-favored X buoy, while Akula, skippered by Doug Bailey, started on port at the Wave Organ, the shoreside end of the line, in less adverse current. Akula heading along the shore all the way to Pier 39, and looked way behind, especially when the wind shifted further north and both Ne*Ne and Arbitrage were able to set their spinnakers while still on the first leg. With most of the fleet gaining current relief by passing Alcatraz to the north, Akula seemed to be a mile behind. The northerly then ramped up to 12 kts and the “leaders” were sailing on a tight spinnaker reach, barely under control since they were missing 800 pounds of crew! All of a sudden, Akula poked out into the ebb exiting from South Bay and achieved a massive VMG as he headed north toward the mark, arriving there a half-mile ahead of Ne*Ne, Russian Roulette, Arrived! and Arbitrage rounding together in that order. Akula then headed southwest (with the westward flowing ebb) in a fast close jib reach to Blackaller, and the next four boats traded places behind her. It was quite tactical as Ne*Ne and Russian Roulette sailed high so they could reset their spinnakers, while Arbitrage sailed low with the jib barber-hauled to the rail and Arrived split the difference. Approaching Blackaller for the final rounding to finish at Golden Gate YC, Arbitrage moved up to third by passing Roulette and Arrived!, while Ne*Ne held on for second behind Akula in first. <br />
<br />Race winner Doug Bailey on AKULA describes their experience:<div><br />"Racing on The Bay in winter is always a crap-shoot with respect to the wind. Sometimes it shows up, and sometimes it doesn’t. The forecast for Sunday did not look promising, with a high-level Northerly flow in relatively stable air, leading to predictions of just 5kts max across the race course. Couple that with a vicious ebb, and I was in half a mind to stay home, cook brownies for myself, settle down on the couch and watch the wildcard games in comfort. There’s nothing worse than hanging out at the Wave Organ for 2 hours in just enough wind to get to it, but not enough to poke your nose out into the current and pass it. Been there, done that. As this was an informal race, Bruce communicated the course – X (start) to Red 4 to Blackaller to X (finish); my crew Roberto Giramonti and I discussed our options.<br />
<br />
As luck would have it, we were blessed with 4 kts wind at 11:00 AM and what looked like better air out in the central part of the bay. However, I was not sure that there was enough breeze to overcome the central bay ebb and I was particularly concerned about the wind shadow of Angel Island because of the northerly component. I wanted to try to get our nose out into the long fetch down the bay quickly to avoid parking or worse, getting washed backwards to Harding and beyond. We decided to take the long way around and hide from the ebb along the city front, before making the call to cross the (stronger, but shorter distance) ebb flow to relief at the back of TI.<br />
<br />
Surprisingly, no-one came with us, and by the time we figured that out, there was no way to get to the boats that were already well out into the wind line – we were stuck with our plan. It did not look good for a while as we made 0.1 kts SOG past Ft. Mason. The breeze in there was very light – I speculate that it was coming undisturbed at 4kts or less down the bay and the laminar flow was lifting up over the land leaving us with just zephyrs to use to make progress in the more or less slack water behind Aquatic Park. What kept us motivated was the flags flying strongly on Pier 39 – we were pretty sure that if we could make it past the ebb on the marina wall and into the next section of relief, we would be in good shape.<br />
<br />
The money decision was when to head out into the current and go for the mark. It was already easily “fetchable” in the absence of current and so the decision rested on the relative strengths of the wind and current on the run up to Red 4. In the end, it was clear that we stayed on the city-front too long – we never had to go above 40 degrees apparent on what turned into a fast white sail reach past Blossom and Red 2. We saw the central bay fleet coming fast carrying kites (and staysails in some cases) at fine angles, but we were pretty sure that we would get to Red 4 with plenty of gap, which is what happened. At that point it was simply a matter of covering the fleet on the way back out to Blackaller and home to X. We had a kite ready to go and we were watching to see if anyone took a flyer south of Alcatraz, but no-one did, and we felt that the guys that did launch would not be able to catch us. We elected to keep it simple and reduce the risk of a mistake by holding our kite in its bag. We won with a few minutes to spare, followed by Ne*Ne, Arbitrage and Arrived!<br />
<br />
Bruce handed over our prize – the eponymous Bittersweet Brownies, much better than I would have made if I’d stayed home. A delicious, but nerve-wracking and somewhat lonely, day on the Bay.”<br />
<br />
Next up will be the Valentine’s Day Race on February 14th.<br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Community</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span></h3>
-----------<br />
<strong>* J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">J/Boats from around the world here</a>. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2000-J-Boats-J160-L6HbVTTa" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/160 for sale on J/Net Brokerage" data-file-id="113678" height="346" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/ac063ad7-e29f-42ad-835c-238a2bb85735.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 346px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a>
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Dream Cruiser For Sale!</span></h2>
Here is one of those beauties, a newly listed J/160 cruiser down on Long Island Sound. A rare opportunity to own this beautiful and lovingly maintained J/160 built in 2000. <br />
<br />
The J/160 is a perfect "world cruiser"; they have truly sailed all Seven Seas since inception. Many J/160s have won famous offshore sailboat races worldwide, too. <br />
<br />
The J/160 combines excellent offshore performance with extremely comfortable accommodations in a four-cabin layout. This boat has an extensive inventory and is ready to cruise the Caribbean now! She's available for viewing in the water today and the owner is asking just $349,000 USD! Learn <a href="http://www.jboats.com" target="_blank">more about J/160's here</a>. Learn <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2000-J-Boats-J160-L6HbVTTa" target="_blank">more about this newly listed J/160 here and contact the broker</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="subTitle"><a href="https://www.cyclopsmarine.com/load-data-key-when-margins-are-tight/" target="_blank"><img align="right" alt="SmartTune readout" data-file-id="113590" height="170" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7f2d2a87-7fc9-4564-8319-b085f61c8f63.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 170px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></a></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">* Load Data is Key When Margins Are Tight Racing One-Design</span></h2>
One-design racing is all about those tiny margins when gaining and losing positions in a race. A skipper that knows this better than most is<strong> Tony Mack who retained the J/111 National Championship and was awarded the J-Cup</strong> at the helm of McFly back in September last year. Cyclops Marine proudly sponsored the event and gifted the winner of the J-Cup a SmartTune load sensor.<br />
<br />
Cyclops were excited that Tony should be the recipient of the device, not just as a worthy winner after his crew’s performance, but because they knew that he was a competitor who would get the most out of it. The owner of McFly is well respected not just for being fast on the water, but for the effort and diligence put in in preparation and fine tuning.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.cyclopsmarine.com/load-data-key-when-margins-are-tight/" target="_blank"><img align="right" alt="Tony Mack- owner of J/111 McFly" data-file-id="113594" height="266" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3c5ff1e0-1fda-4410-9480-acbd63b296e9.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 266px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></a>“As with our J/111 one-design class the margins are very close, technology that can help us go a little faster can be invaluable”.<br />
<br />
McFly leaves nothing to chance, because their skipper knows what all the best do: that you can always get faster, tighten those margins and know more about your boat – that resting on your laurels is the first step toward letting your upper-hand slip.<br />
<br />
“Last year we lost a Cowes Week race by just 12 seconds after almost 5 hours sailing. Having been able to test SmartTune we can already see that it is an essential product that will provide us with the next competitive edge”. <br />
<br />
Easily swapping in for existing turnbuckle (forestay/backstay/shrouds/diagonals), the device sends live l<a href="https://www.cyclopsmarine.com/load-data-key-when-margins-are-tight/" target="_blank"><img align="right" alt="SmartTune on J/111 headstay" data-file-id="113626" height="271" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/639ac5d5-5f14-4892-bdc0-42061e5779b3.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 271px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></a>oad data to your phone via the SmartFittings manager app, and to existing on-board displays, allowing you to learn your fastest settings, set up to match them, make real time adjustments to conditions, and see immediate results in the numbers – finding that winning gear time and time again.<br />
<br />
The app also logs data integrated with GPS, ready for export to sailing analytics software – maximizing the value of time spent in training and taking post-race analysis to new levels of detail. (Unsurprisingly) this excited McFly’s owner: <br />
<br />
“During the winter we are looking forward to developing our base setting numbers and continual improvement through the 2021 race season to hit our fast numbers quicker and more reliably.” Learn <a href="https://www.cyclopsmarine.com/load-data-key-when-margins-are-tight/" target="_blank">more about the SmartTune Load sensor here</a>.
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</table></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-44042033584567290012021-01-06T07:30:00.002-05:002021-01-11T14:58:57.854-05:00J/Newsletter- January 6th, 2021<strong style="color: navy; font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 150%;"><img align="right" alt="Sunset off Malta" data-file-id="111734" height="153" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/423d4096-5525-42e4-82b1-419924efffc1.jpg" style="border: 0px initial; height: 153px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></strong>
Happy New Year and Best Wishes and Success in 2021 to J/Crews all over the world. May fair winds carry you swiftly to wherever you wish to go; be that cruising, daysailing, or racing offshore. <br />
<br />
Retrospectively, we wish to thank all “front line” first responders that have helped all of us over the course of the past year to survive the pandemic. Many J/Sailors we know of are nurses, doctors, police, fire, and EMT’s…thank goodness for them and their dedication. Our love and God Speed for them…may they persevere, endure, stay healthy, and help us eclipse this scourge that has afflicted us. May we, together, overcome it in 2021!<br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/9 daysailer hull plug" data-file-id="113534" height="266" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/d76dc400-011e-4d36-8912-ac0b8ea1001c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 266px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a></span><div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/9 Daysailer Update!</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)- If the huge buzz of J/9 activity is any indication, the demand for modern, comfortable daysailers is back! Not since the daysailer boom of 2003-2008 have we seen such strong interest. The J/9 announcement has generated more inquiries in three weeks than even the J/70 in 2011!<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">J/9 Tooling Update</span></h3>
The beautifully faired and finished J/9 hull plug was recently completed at Symmetrix Composite Tooling, and the hull mold is well underway and on target to complete at CCF Composites. Hull #1 is on schedule to mold in January. The deck plug is in the final fairing and finishing stage at Symmetrix and is due for final nonskid application in early January.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/9 deck tooling plug" data-file-id="113550" height="292" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/809cb4a5-0c85-4f16-960c-f9c1b587fb94.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 292px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Both Al and Jeff Johnstone of J/Boats and members of the Symmetrix Team (ranging in height from 5’4” – 6’2”) tested out the cockpit seating and walk-through transom. The forward corner seats offer J/122E-like protection behind the cabin. With the tiller extension, you can steer the boat from the front of the cockpit, under the dodger, and reach all the controls – perfect if having to sail in adverse weather. The aft corner seats are equally as comfy, and the cockpit coamings are the perfect height for arm rests. The addition of dedicated cockpit drains enables the main cockpit floor to be lower to provide more comfortable, deeper seating and better bracing while standing and steering.<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Fun J/9 FAQs</span></h3>
Following are some follow-up questions that have come in since the J/9 announcement.<br />
<br />
<strong>Can I add an auto-pilot to the J/9? </strong><br />
Yes, either an above deck or below decks auto pilot can be installed aftermarket.<br />
<br />
<strong>Why are the jib tracks on the cabin top and not the side deck? </strong><br />
We learned from the J/99 that the optimal upwind jib lead sheeting angles are generally between 8 and 9 degrees depending on the wind strength and sea state. But to do that on the J/99 (and most other boats) one must rig in-haulers. The J/9 gets rid of all that clutter with jib tracks installed on an 8.5 degree sheeting angle with easy trimming right to the cabin top winches. Tacking between cabin top winches is much easier than primary winches (no scrambling across the cockpit needed). This one, small change significantly cleans up the side decks.<br />
<br />
<strong>How does the mainsheet system work? </strong><br />
This is the first J with the primary mainsheet purchase at the end of the boom and the sheet tail coming out mid-boom into the cockpit near the tiller. Instead of a bulky traveler with cars, blocks, purchase, control lines, etc. the J/9 will have a mainsheet purchase that floats on a double Dyneema strop. For 90% of one’s daysailing needs, the double strop attaches to a centerline pad-eye aft of the tiller (much like leaving a traditional traveler centered). Then for the occasional times one wants to optimize centerline boom sheeting, each strop can be quickly moved outboard to a pad-eye (P&S) to create a triangle bridle – similar to the set-up seen on the Olympic 470 and 49er. This is another solution that visually reduces clutter, simplifies sailing, and doesn’t give away performance.<br />
<br />
<strong>What size outboard do you recommend? </strong><br />
The ideal outboard for the J/9 will be a 6HP. A 5HP could be sufficient in protected waters without strong tides. The final design for the outboard bracket is in process and will include a tilt-up position so the outboard can remain on the transom while sailing.<br />
<br />
<strong>Can you tell us more about the electric inboard option? </strong><br />
We’re reviewing several electric options including a new product coming online in 2021 from our long-time diesel engine supplier Mack-Boring. We’re not able to share specifics yet, but are planning to test out a system on hull #1, before signing off on the final option.<br />
<br />
<strong>Will there be a bow sprit option? </strong><br />
The J/9 is designed for main-only or main & jib-only sailing, but we will be offering a sprit option for those wanting to fly an overlapping A-Sail. We are finalizing the design for a 2-3’ fixed carbon sprit option that matches the bow profile of the boat (similar to the J/99) and that will be packaged with all the necessary rigging and blocks. This option will be available to add aftermarket. For <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank">more J/9 daysailer sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j45" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/45 offshore cruising yacht" data-file-id="113490" height="240" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/18f499f2-8924-4af3-b3b5-ad087afb2152.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 240px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
J/45 Offshore Cruising Yacht Update!</span></h2>
(Les Sables d'Olonne, France)- Dreaming of expanding your cruising horizons across the Seven Seas? Why not in the NEW J/45 offshore sailing yacht! Work is proceeding swiftly on this exciting new world cruiser in France.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/JBoats/videos/419528465960407/" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/45 resin infusion hull video" data-file-id="113570" height="322" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9e415d59-2ad3-48ed-8b09-2257360feefe.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 322px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Watch this amazin<a href="https://www.facebook.com/JBoats/videos/419528465960407/" target="_blank">g time-lapse video of the first J/45 hull </a>being resin-infused under vacuum pressure at J/Composites in Les Sables d'Olonne, France. <br />
<br />
Learn more about <a href="https://youtu.be/nB7s2QtZCQY" target="_blank">the revolutionary vacuum resin-infusion system</a> and watch J/Composite’s Fred Bouvier explain (in French with English subtitles) how it all works.<br />
<a href="https://youtu.be/nB7s2QtZCQY" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/45 resin infusion system" data-file-id="113538" height="322" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/63204be5-c20a-4109-8d74-98c59f9de1c7.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 322px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<br />
Learn <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j45" target="_blank">more about the new J/45 offshore sailing yacht here</a>.<br />
<hr /><span class="title"><img align="none" alt="J/80 World Championship" data-file-id="113526" height="342" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a699c3db-ae3c-42cf-9cf3-284bfde6f9ac.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 342px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
J/80 Worlds Announcement!</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)- The Royal Danish Yacht Club is looking forward to hosting the J/80 World Championship in 2021 from July 3rd to 9th, 2021. J/80 sailing is a very fundamental part of the Club.<br />
<br />
The event will take place at Rungsted Harbour approximately 15 km north of downtown Copenhagen. This harbour is one of 3 stations that RDYC runs and it is the station where the club have its J/80 fleet. So, J/80 sailing in this part of the Öresund is huge.<br />
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The event will be run as a "sustainability regatta"; meaning among other activities, that we will work hard to minimize paper and try to make as much run electronically off solar and wind power.<br />
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And, when you are not on the water, there will be a lot of social activities near the harbour. Copenhagen is fantastic in July – just to mention Tivoli, Canal Touring, Elsinore Castle, Nyhavn and Bakken. And, for those not sailing, Copenhagen shopping is world famous. Please come join us and rejoice in sailing again on the gorgeous Baltic Sea! This regatta is an "open" event, so please come one, come all! Danish hospitality is world-famous! Register <a href="http://www.manage2sail.com" target="_blank">your team here on Manage2Sail.com</a> For<a href="http://www.j80worlds2021.com" target="_blank"> more 2021 J/80 World Championship sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><img align="right" alt="J/70 Europeans" data-file-id="113582" height="335" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7f596ab7-3f7b-40bc-89b3-35b751b947e6.png" style="border: 0px initial; height: 335px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/70 European Championship Announcement</span></h2>
(Skovshoved, Copenhagen, Denmark)- The Royal Danish Yacht Club is looking forward to hosting the J/70 European Championship from June 4th to 12th, 2021. <br />
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The event will take place at Rungsted Harbour approximately 15 km north of downtown Copenhagen. This harbour is one of 3 stations that Royal Danish YC runs. <br />
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The RDYC has been a strong support of the growth of the Danish J/70 Sailing League and their efforts have led the way for well over eighteen sailing clubs in their small nation to participate and elevate the level of competitiveness for Danish sailors on a world-class level. The KDY/ RDYC have been able to achieve tremendous success in the SAILING Champions League in the past few years; an event that has been held at the YC Costa Smeralda in Porto Cervo, Sardinia, Italy for the past few years.<br />
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As in years past, the KDY/ RDYC are anticipating up to 100 J/70 teams will be participating in the J/70 European Championships on the Baltic Sea. For <a href="https://j70europeans2021.com" target="_blank">more J/70 European Championship sailing and registration information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing regatta" data-file-id="112386" height="392" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/0dde5097-aa94-47b3-89c8-a2fb2c1b7ca7.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 392px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></span></div><div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/70 North American Championship Announcement</span></h2>
(Annapolis, MD)- The 2021 J/70 North American Championship, hosted by the Annapolis Yacht Club (AYC), will be held May 10-15, 2021 in Annapolis, Maryland. Registration is now open. The event will be limited to the first 60 registered boats that are 100% paid in full. All boats registered after the first 60 will be put on a waiting list. The hope is that we will be able to expand the entries if pandemic-related restrictions are eased. For <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eid=13209" target="_blank">more J/70 North American Championship sailing and registration information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24s sailing St Petersburg, FL" data-file-id="107085" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7e890b8d-f670-486f-b943-7bac8cccb1ff.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
St Petersburg NOOD Regatta Announcement</span></h2>
(St. Petersburg, FL)- Sailing World magazine and the St. Petersburg Yacht Club are delighted to announce the 2021 edition of the HELLY HANSEN St Petersburg NOOD Regatta will be taking place later in the spring this year- from April 2nd to 4th, 2021 in St. Petersburg, FL. <br />
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The usual classes are invited to participate, including J/22s, J/24s, J/70s, J/88s, and PHFR handicap classes. <strong>Sailing photo credits- Paul Todd/ Outsideimages.com </strong>For <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eid=13224" target="_blank">St Petersburg NOOD Regatta registration information</a> For <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-st-petersburg/" target="_blank">more St Petersburg NOOD Regatta sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><img align="right" alt="J/160 Annapolis Newport" data-file-id="33737" height="166" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/135b493d-6ce3-4da3-a88f-486b24ff7361.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 166px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 250px;" width="250" /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Annapolis to Newport Race Announcement</span></h2>
(Annapolis, MD)- The Annapolis Yacht Club is pleased to announce the Notice of Race for the 2021 Annapolis to Newport Race has been posted and online entry is now open. This will be 38th biennial edition of the Race, which originated in 1947. Starts will take place on Friday, June 4th and Saturday, June 5th.<br />
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In order to deal with the complications of Covid-19 we have made a few adjustments to the format:<br />
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Given current the current public health climate in Maryland and Rhode Island, we are unable to commit to the social components of the event at this time, including the pre-start All Hands Competitors’ Party at Annapolis Yacht Club, and the Hospitality Tent and Awards Party in Newport. The resulting good news is that gives us the opportunity to significantly reduce the entry fee to a flat $700 per boat, if paid by March 15th. By comparison, a 40’ boat paid a $1,400 entry fee in 2019. The popular social events of the race are still on our radar and if the public health situation improves, we may be able to add some or all to the schedule. Social events will be charged on a per person basis, separately from the entry fee. <br />
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Entry fees are fully refundable if the race is cancelled, or a boat withdraws before May 21st.<br />
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The registration process has been streamlined so that all entry requirements or paperwork can be completed online, by email or fax, so that only a quick, socially distanced visit to Annapolis Yacht Club to pick up the YB tracker will be required. <br />
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Trophies will be awarded via a virtual Awards Presentation if we are unable to host an in-person event.<br />
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Our very popular seminar series on boat and crew preparation will be presented virtually via Zoom Webinar. The first "What to Expect Seminar on Sails, Rigging and Electronics" is scheduled for Saturday, February 20th at 1000 EST. <br />
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The official event site https://www.annapolisnewportrace.com/ will continue to be populated with information including event partners. At this time, we’d like to thank Spinsheet, Helly Hansen and Team One Newport for joining us again and supporting the 2021 Annapolis to Newport Race. <br />
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In 2021, we will be offering starts for boats rated under the ORC and PHRF rules, including an ORC Double Handed division and a Classic Yacht division rated under PHRF.<br />
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Some good things remain the same:
<ul>
<li>As in the past several races, there will be two starts, with the slower ORC and PHRF boats and the Double Handed division starting on Friday, June 4th and the faster boats on Saturday, June 5th.</li>
<li>All boats will sail the offshore course, leaving the Chesapeake and rounding Chesapeake Light Tower.</li>
<li>We will provide a truck to transport your gear to and from Newport.</li>
<li>Arrangements have been made for discounted dockage at Newport Yachting Center.</li>
</ul>
For <a href="https://www.annapolisnewportrace.com/" target="_blank">more Annapolis to Newport Race sailing information</a><br />
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<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 doublehanded" data-file-id="110946" height="376" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/5943577d-ed64-4dc1-aae2-4ae85de5e6fd.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 376px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
Bittersweet Chocolate Doublehanded Regatta Announcement</span></h2>
(San Francisco, CA)- The Bittersweet Chocolate Doublehanded J/105 Regatta will be on Sunday, January 10th, starting and finishing near Buoy X in front of Golden Gate Yacht Club. Come one, come all! Borrow a boat! Already, four boats have signed up. Here's the link to register: https://www.regattanetwork.com/event/21659#_docs<br />
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No entry fee, and the top three boats win some of Bruce's freshly baked bittersweet chocolate brownies, delivered on the water right after racing. Note- that for all regattas going forward, both the NOTICE OF RACE and SAILING INSTRUCTIONS are important to download!!<br />
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Especially note the following in the NOR. This is a "B" level event with the following exceptions:
<ul>
<li>doublehanding- either of the crew can helm</li>
<li>anyone can borrow/ charter a J/105</li>
<li>the driver can move anywhere on the boat</li>
<li>a spinnaker retrieval tack line is allowed. </li>
</ul>
These exceptions <a href="https://www.sfj105.org/j105-fleet-1-rules-articles-of-association/" target="_blank">change Fleet One Rule 3.1</a> and <a href="http://j105.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Class-Rules-2020-final.pdf" target="_blank">J/105 Class rule 7.5</a>.<br />
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By allowing anyone to borrow/ charter a J/105 and come out racing, this is intended to promote the wonderful experience of sailing J/105s on the Bay, and possibly inspire purchase. It also rewards your experienced crew to try their hand (if you'll lend them the boat). Plus, doublehanding a J/105 is fun and a great challenge!<br />
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In terms of additional doublehanded racing, we anticipate a good turn-out of J/105s for the SSS's Three Bridge Fiasco on January 30th. Thereafter, the San Francisco J/105 fleet will host another doublehanded regatta on Valentine's Day, February 14th! <br />
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Entry is free, and you may <a href="https://www.regattanetwork.com/event/21659#_docs" target="_blank">review the NOR and SI's and sign-up </a>here.<br />
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When you register, we suggest you list your crew as an additional owner so we can know who is racing. Alternatively, you can register as a team of two under the crew section and then add the crew there.<br />
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Our PRO Don Wieneke will once again send us off at the start, this time either from a boat or from the shore, while we'll take our own times at the finish. The top three finishers will receive my famous bittersweet chocolate brownies. Feel free to contact Don or myself if you have any questions. Looking forward to seeing you on the water in January.<br />
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Feel free to contact Bruce Stone for more J/105 sailing information- email- bruce@brucestone.com or call- 917-822-4060. <strong>Sailing photo credit- Will Keyworth.</strong> For <a href="https://www.regattanetwork.com/event/21659#_docs" target="_blank">more Bittersweet Chocolate Doublehanded Regatta sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><img align="right" alt="J/24 arizona" data-file-id="86401" height="141" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f98f2bc7-ecb8-4b5b-9f2e-ead7cef1b602.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 141px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 250px;" width="250" /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">"Watership Down Series" Announcement</span></h2>
(Phoenix, Arizona)- This year long regatta has been designed to provide sailors of all skill levels a different approach to utilizing their skills and competition on the water. Though not a normal part of a Notice of Race, and before diving into the Sailing Instructions, this is meant to give an overview of the event and explain the “why” behind many of its aspects.
<ul>
<li>The races will be distance races, therefore, one race per day.</li>
<li>Registrants will enter as Co-Skipper teams and must share the helm pro-rata.</li>
<li>Throw-outs, if any, must follow the pro-rata skipper ratio.</li>
<li>Rating bonuses and penalties will be done on a percentage basis, not a fixed amount, in order to maintain a level playing field across all boats.</li>
<li>The short-handed aspect goes for competitors and Race Committee, thus the Rabbit Start.</li>
<li>The short-handed idea goes for both skill and our social distancing guidelines.</li>
<li>Regarding social distancing, we have noticed, through conversations and social media, that most folks have started hanging out in small, contained groups again, and from what we can tell, most groups resemble their crews. - The entire crew may not be there, but a partial crew is, thus, the short-handed structure.</li>
<li>Pay attention to the allowed number of crew per LOA of the boat being sailed as there are both penalties and bonuses related to this.</li>
<li>Pay attention to the Rabbit changing every race and the rules surrounding the Rabbit.</li>
<li>Throw-outs come at the very end, so this series will not be decided until the very end.</li>
<li>Building on this, pay attention to DNCs being registrants plus one, not competitors plus one.</li>
<li>Understand the age bonuses, both young and old!</li>
<li>Please note that the team registers, not a boat. </li>
<li>The team may race different boats every race per skipper availability, crew availability, etc. </li>
<li>If you want to participate but do not have a boat, let us know. We have quite a few!</li>
</ul>
<img align="right" alt="J/24 arizona" data-file-id="51261" height="141" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/477a6e32-dbff-4f1a-81e7-fa099e1e6aca.jpg" style="border: 0px initial; height: 141px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 250px;" width="250" />The underlying idea is simple – come race, different boat, different crew, different helmsman, different approach on any given day.<br />
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Victor and his friends at TILLER & KITES have a number of beautifully restored J/24s to sail- all pretty bright pink! <br />
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For <a href="https://www.arizonayachtracing.com/watership-down-series/" target="_blank">more Watership Down Series sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><img align="right" alt="J/Duffels for sale" data-file-id="113518" height="195" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b2787258-3f93-493b-bc18-0ee693c2c6b7.jpg" style="border: 0px initial; height: 195px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">January Special for a J/Duffel!</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)- Ronstan has been in the performance sailing business for years and they have designed a quality duffel that is perfect for racing or cruising. Ample space in the 24"x12"x12" dimension with wide grip carry strap. Inside wet pouch keeps the dry clothes separate. Rugged stitching and large top loading flap. Embroider with your class logo, boat name, and sail number. We are <a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=4&products_id=10" target="_blank">offering a 21% discount for the month of January! Click here to order now!</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span></h2>
Jan 14-17- <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/primo-cup-trophee-credit-suisse/" target="_blank">Monaco J/70 Winter Series- Monte Carlo, Monaco</a><br />
Jan 16-18- <a href="https://thesailinginc.com/thekeywestwinterseries" target="_blank">J/111 Key West Winter Series- Key West, FL</a><br />
Jan 21- <a href="https://www.keywestrace.org/" target="_blank">STC Lauderdale to Key West Race- Fort Lauderdale, FL</a><br />
Jan 22-24- <a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13062" target="_blank">J/70 Bacardi Winter Series II- Miami, FL</a><br />
Feb 4-7- <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/primo-cup-trophee-credit-suisse/" target="_blank">Monaco J/70 Winter Series- Monte Carlo, Monaco</a><br />
Feb 17- <a href="http://www.sorcsailing.org/" target="_blank">SORC Miami to Eleuthera Race- Miami, FL</a><br />
Mar 4-7- <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/primo-cup-trophee-credit-suisse/" target="_blank">J/70 Primo Cup- Trophee Credit Suisse- Monte Carlo, Monaco</a><br />
Mar 5-7- <a href="https://thesailinginc.com/thekeywestwinterseries" target="_blank">J/111 Key West Winter Series- Key West, FL</a><br />
Mar 5-8- <a href="https://heinekenregatta.com/" target="_blank">St Maarten Heineken Regatta- Simpson Bay, Saint Maarten</a><br />
Mar 10-13- <a href="https://bacardiinvitational.com/" target="_blank">J/70 Bacardi Cup- Miami, FL</a><br />
Mar 19-21- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eid=13122" target="_blank">J/70 Davis Island Winter Series III- Tampa, FL</a><br />
Mar 19-21- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-in-san-diego/" target="_blank">San Diego NOOD Regatta- San Diego, CA</a><br />
Mar 26-28- <a href="https://stthomasinternationalregatta.com/" target="_blank">St. Thomas International Regatta- St. Thomas, USVI</a><br />
Mar 29- Apr 4- <a href="https://bvispringregatta.org/" target="_blank">BVI Spring Regatta- Road Town, Tortola, BVI</a><br />
Apr 2-4- <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/helly-hansen-nood-regatta-st-petersburg/" target="_blank">St Petersburg NOOD Regatta- St Petersburg, FL</a><br />
Apr 11-17- <a href="https://lesvoilesdestbarthrichardmille.com/us/" target="_blank">Les Voiles de St Barth Regatta- Gustavia, St Barthelemy</a> <br />
Apr 8-11- <a href="https://www.charlestonraceweek.com/" target="_blank">Charleston Race Week- Charleston, SC</a><br />
Apr 24-30- <a href="https://www.sailingweek.com/" target="_blank">Antigua Sailing Week- English Harbour, Antigua, West Indies</a><br />
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For additional <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j-sailing-calendar/sailing-regattas" target="_blank">J/Regatta and Event dates in your region, please refer to the on-line J/Sailing Calendar</a>.<br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 Monaco" data-file-id="113554" height="352" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/da40ab5f-2f35-4b5e-bbf7-a00ff5e7c527.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 352px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
J/70 Sailors Factor @ Yacht Club Monaco Awards- TROPHÉE CREDIT SUISSE 2020</span></h2>
(Monte Carlo, Monaco)- The traditional Winter Cocktail Party, which welcomes new members before the YCM Awards - Trophée Credit Suisse are presented, went ahead this year albeit remotely in compliance with the current health situation. <br />
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Yacht Club de Monaco President, HSH the Sovereign Prince Albert II, rewarded sailors who proudly fly the Principality’s colors and have made a mark on the world’s race areas. As J/Sailors recall, Prince Albert was a J/24 sailor for two decades in Monaco and actively supports the J/70 fleet today.<br />
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A regular on the J/70 regatta scene, Pierrik Devic received a special prize for his excellent results in the Laser Master. Having embarked on this physically tough Olympic class boat, he won the Euro Master Circuit 2020 in the Laser Radial Master category and clinched 4th place in his category at the Laser Master European Championship. <br />
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The YCM Awards 2020 also recognizes members who have best defended the Club’s burgee during the past year. In the YC Monaco’s flagship J/70 class with 17 boats flying the burgee, Ludovico Fassitelli took the honours as he did last year. He finished 3rd in the 2019/2020 Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series at the end of 20 races, 1st in the Med Cup, 7th in the Malcesine J/70 Cup, 5th in the J/70 Italian Championship and winner in the Corinthian (amateur) category. <br />
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The coveted "YCM Sailor of the Year" 2020 award went to Lord Irving Laidlaw (Highland Fling), nominated three years in a row since 2017, for the sum of his successes in the world’s most prestigious races. He talked of his passion and what motivates him, “I like new challenges, but above all I love getting a project to work and making it a success, which is not easy. It means finding the right boat, a good crew, organizing the training sessions. Everything must dovetail to perfection. What inspires me most is winning. I love competing but I prefer winning races even more”. <br />
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Where did Lord Laidlaw first learn how to compete at a world-class level? He sailed J/24s for nearly two decades in the United Kingdom, Italy, and across Europe.<br />
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Lord Laidlaw is not only passionate about sailing, but he is also a committed philanthropist focused on young people through his Laidlaw Foundation. This revolves around three main principles:
<ul>
<li>fighting inequality and poverty through education</li>
<li>inspiring young people to believe in their potential to be tomorrow’s leaders</li>
<li>supporting young women to achieve top class business degrees and take their place in the business world. </li>
</ul>
With the dawning of a new year, the YCM fully intends to maintain its course when it comes to innovative projects like the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge (6-10 July 2021). This annual event transforms the Club into an incubator supporting R&D in the shipping sector, stimulating the creativity of tomorrow’s engineers and professionals to devise propulsion systems using only clean energy. For <a href="https://yacht-club-monaco.mc" target="_blank">more YC Monaco J/70 Winter Series sailing information</a><br />
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<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Community</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span></h3>
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<a href="https://youtu.be/e-WTZEp8BV8" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/145 racer cruiser" data-file-id="113522" height="338" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/025eb549-7300-4266-89d5-48d2779c20d3.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 338px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">* Love retro reviews of some of the most iconic J/Boats in the sailing world?</span></h2>
We will pass along some more in the next few weeks from SAILING ANARCHY.com. For this first week in January, we have Sailing Anarchy.com founder Scot Tempesta taking you on a tour of the J/145 offshore racer cruiser.<br />
<br />
As a quick backgrounder, the J/145 was a "follow-on" design to the famous offshore silver-winning speedster- the J/125. It was created as a request by J/Boats owners (most of whom started with the world-famous J/24) to have a "more comfortable" version of the J/125 for their family, while still having "cruise-ability". <br />
<br />
Well, the specification for the J/145 was a bit O.T.T. (yes, over the top). Like the J/125, it was constructed of a combination of foam core and balsa core with a combination of carbon fiber layers, vacuum-infused in triple layers (outer skin, core, inner skin). That construction specification made for a robust, strong, lightweight, amazingly quick offshore racer/cruiser.<br />
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For those who have sailed J/145s, it's an "eye-opening" experience. No one expects what looks like a family cockpit, wheel-steered, cabin with opening ports, sailboat to have a PHRF rating of -15! Seriously?<br />
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Another shocker is the interior... a REAL navigation station, a REAL J-shaped galley (offshore friendly), and enough room to sail an offshore crew in seriously comfortable Ritz-Carlton/ Peninsula Hotel comfort fashion (at least by most offshore racer standards!).<br />
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Enjoy this <a href="https://youtu.be/e-WTZEp8BV8" target="_blank">YouTube video tour of a nicely appointed J/145 here by Scot Tempesta from Sailing Anarchy</a>.<br />
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<span class="subTitle"><img align="right" alt="J/35 sailing class" data-file-id="113546" height="326" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7c92d149-9285-49be-8733-ecbc1a5bcc76.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 326px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">* J/35 Learn to Sail Classes</span></h2>
Hey! Have you ever wanted to learn to sail a big sailboat? On January 24th at 1:00 we are starting a Zoom class on how to sail. There will be five lessons out of a book (provided by our instructor) and starting in late April there will be five on the boat lessons. The cost is $750.00, but you will get your money back if you race on any sailboat between June and September. We have put over 30 new people on the water racing in the last two years. This is open to all, and it just might be an opportunity to get the teenagers involved. Ian Pouliot is our class instructor. Ian has over 35 years of racing sailboats. He is the current instructor at North Star Sail Club for Junior sailors. Ian is also a sail maker and has just a wealth of knowledge about sailing.<br />
<br />
The sailboat for you to get involved with is called a J/35. It is 35 feet long, weighs 10,500 lbs, and is the most iconic sailboat ever designed. It was the first sailboat to be inducted into the United States Sailboat Hall of Fame. It was designed by Rod & Bob Johnstone in the early 80s. We have enough boats to race ONE DESIGN (very important) all summer out of North Star SC. You will have a chance to learn the lines (ropes?) and positions on a J/35. Sign up with a friend and take this experience with you for the rest of your life.<br />
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You can call me- Mike Fitzgerald- at (248) 790-0666 or call Ian (586) 295-9344 and get registered. This is a great chance to get involved with a new sport that you will take with you even when you're in your 80s. I say that because I am 70!!<br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-36554540428871074962020-12-09T10:00:00.008-05:002020-12-14T16:02:47.134-05:00J/Newsletter- December 9th, 2020<strong style="color: navy; font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 150%;"><img align="right" alt="Sunset off Malta" data-file-id="111734" height="153" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/423d4096-5525-42e4-82b1-419924efffc1.jpg" style="border: 0px initial; height: 153px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></strong>As many parts of the world are approaching the end of "Pandemic 2020" (for better, or for worse), there are still some events taking place that are adhering to government protocols. Down in South America, the debut of a J/99 took place on Puerto Callao Bay off Puerto Callao, Peru. They had a great performance in their inaugural race, coming up against a champion J/111 crew. <br />
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In North America, several events took place across the USA. The famous SORC “Islands in the Stream Series” held their second event- the Palm Beach Race- that was modified to be a round-trip of 80.0nm between Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach sea buoys. Then, in the Midwest, the J/22 Winter Series in Charlevoix, Michigan continued their "arena-style" sailing just off the marina, hosted by Charlevoix Yacht Club. Out west, we report on the finale for the San Diego YC Hot Rum Series with silver-winning performances by J/145s, J/105s, and J/120. Finally, we get a "better late, than never" report on the Northern Century Race that took place on the Salish Sea, hosted by Anacortes Yacht Club in the Pacific Northwest state of Washington. <br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing on Biscayne Bay off Miami, FL" data-file-id="113406" height="252" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a8b4d708-672c-4610-82a0-5643b4f43978.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 252px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
Bacardi J/70 Winter Series Preview</span></h2>
(Miami, FL)- While the Midwest and northeastern regions of the USA are caught in the grips of multiple Lows (depressions) bringing lots of nasty weather; like northeast winds, rain, sleet, snow, ice, slush, and just ugliness, the J/70 class will be hosting its first major event since the March 2020 coronavirus lockdowns shutdown every imaginable regatta in America, and the rest of the world, for that matter.<br />
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Hosted between Shake-a-Leg-Miami, Biscayne Bay Yacht Club and the USSC, the first race weekend for the Bacardi Invitational Winter Series will be December 11-13, 2020 with the next face-off on January 22-24, 2021. Then, the Bacardi Cup Invitational Regatta will complete its final event from March 10-13, 2021.<br />
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A very star-studded sixteen boat fleet of enthusiastic participants are very excited to get back out on the water on the gorgeous aquamarine Biscayne Bay, with sailing taking place off Miami, Florida. Many of the top American teams will be participating, all familiar faces to J/Sailors that have sailed the J/70 circuit.<br />
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Several World Champions are in attendance, including Joel Ronning's CATAPULT (Morgan Reeser and Erik Shampain on speed/ tactics), Germany's Mike Illbruck sailing PINTA (John Kostecki on tactics), Steve Benjamin's SAINT team has THREE World Champions on the team (himself, plus Chris Larson and Al Terhune), Dave Janetti's VERY ODD (Travis Odenbach and Kris Werner on speed/ tactics), and Ryan McKillen's SURGE (Lucas Calabrese on tactics). So much for teams with World Champions on board, just one-third of the fleet! LOFL!<br />
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In addition, there are several hot teams that are no "wallflowers", such as John Evans' AIRPLANE (Martie Kullman on tactics), Trey Sheehan's HOOLIGAN: FLAT STANLEY RACING (Curtis Florence and Brad Boston on speed/ tactics), Ryan Foley's JOHNNY UTAH (Nic Baird- College Sailor of Year- on tactics), John Brim's RIMETTE (Zeke Horowitz on tactics), Pam Rose's ROSEBUD (Tomas Dietrich on tactics), and Peter Vessella's RUNNING WILD (Tracy Usher on tactics). <br />
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WOW!! On a percentage basis, this regatta likely has the "deepest bench" of College All-Americans, National, North American, and World Champions in a sixteen-boat fleet, ever! Chill the beer, fire up the popcorn machine, and pull up a chair...this will be an interesting regatta to follow! <br />
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By the way, there are two Corinthians teams that have hot hands on the tiller and smart sailors in their line-ups that may surprise a lot of the top teams. The BEARNARCHY team from Philadelphia, PA has Kelly McGlynn driving with Luke Adams on speed/ tactics (College All-American and son of the famous Ed Adams). Then, Team LIL from the local Coral Reef Yacht Club have proven to be surprisingly fast and smart; after all, they know Biscayne Bay quite well. The LIL team includes skipper Joey Kolisch and tactician/trim Val Schestopalov; both excellent youth sailors and a product of the Optimist/ 420 wars as kids. Follow the <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13061" target="_blank">Bacardi J/70 Winter Series here for complete results</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j22" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22s sailing off Montego Bay, Jamaica" data-file-id="113338" height="290" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/20528e60-fff2-4c83-99e2-b9422b4ce6b8.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 290px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
Jamin J/22 Jamaic Regatta Preview</span></h2>
<h4 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Interview with Spencer May by Sail-world.com</span></h4>
(Montego Bay, Jamaica)- If you're a J/22 sailor, it's hard to imagine a better regatta than the Jamin' J/22 International Regatta, which is set to unfurl on the waters of Jamaica's beautiful Montego Bay and the nearby vicinity on December 12, 2020. The event, which is being hosted by the Montego Bay Yacht Club, typically supplies boats, sails and equipment, allowing visiting participants to focus on winning races rather than organizing their kit. To facilitate this, local J/22 sailors participate in "qualifiers" that allow the strongest teams to represent Jamaica. The rest of the fleet is then loaned to the visitors in a lottery system.<br />
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While the still-raging pandemic has impacted the Montego Bay Yacht Club's ability to host a full invitational event, including the usual home-stay accommodations and parties, participating sailors can still look forward to plenty of on-the-water competition. In honoring the "international" component of Jamin, local teams will each represent a foreign fleet for the day of racing. Jamaica will be represented by the recent Nationals champion Renegade, which will be skippered by the veteran Jamin competitor Richard Hamilton.<br />
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Once on island, participating sailors can look forward to great racing. Provided that the weather Gods cooperate, the event is planning on running four races. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j22" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22s at Montego Bay Yacht Club" data-file-id="113386" height="322" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4c239f8e-f4e0-460b-870e-eb33f6c2bb8f.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 322px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<strong>David Schmidt from SAIL-WORLD.com checked in with Spencer May, Jamin Chair and Vice Commodore of the Montego Bay Yacht Club,</strong> to learn more about this classic warm-water One-Design regatta.<br />
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<strong>SW:</strong> Can you tell us about the regatta's culture?<br />
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<strong>Spencer:</strong> Jamin' has a longstanding culture of inclusion and hospitality. Offering North American and the rest of the world sailors an opportunity to sail and enjoy pristine conditions (warm prevailing trade winds and the clear, warm water of the Caribbean Sea) in early December, with the U.S. and Canada are usually battling snowstorms.<br />
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During the event's infancy, the late Tony Hart (the original "host") would take visiting sailors on excursions to some special places around the island. Good Hope in the interior and Sea Grapes Villa in Discovery Bay were both incredible day trips for the visiting teams. Home-stays were common and visitors would usually extend their trip to explore Jamaica on either end of the three-day regatta.<br />
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Jamin' has a culture of fun-loving friends gathering to compete and create memories, with laughter and smiles galore (and plenty of cold drinks!).<br />
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<strong>SW:</strong> Can you tell us how the 2020 edition of the regatta will be different than previous years?<br />
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<strong>Spencer:</strong> 2020 will be unlike anything we have seen before. The event has been closed to foreign teams, as travel restrictions and Jamaica's regulations have been a constantly moving target.<br />
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We did not want prospective visitors to have to cancel flights or accommodations due to all the factors currently out of our control.<br />
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We also will not be hosting the usual themed parties that have been such a standard as there are currently Government restrictions on the number of individuals allowed to gather.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j22" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22s sailing off Montego Bay, Jamaica" data-file-id="113370" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/596333ed-ac26-4acd-986a-5c3c2ef7905e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<strong>SW:</strong> Given the pandemic, how many boats are you expecting to attract this year? Also, where will they hail from?<br />
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<strong>Spencer:</strong> We are hoping for eight boats on the starting line. This number represents just over three-quarters of the local fleet with a couple of the teams traveling to the Montego Bay Yacht Club from Kingston's Royal Jamaica Yacht Club.<br />
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<strong>SW:</strong> What kind of competition levels are you expecting this year?<br />
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<strong>Spencer:</strong> With our Nationals behind us, we have a very good idea of the level of competition...HIGH!<br />
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The first and third places finished within three points of one another. Renegade took the win with 12 points and Ayahso and Tsunami scoring 15 points each over the two-day, six-race weekend.<br />
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We are expecting some tight competition from this year's Jamin' Regatta as many of the same teams will be represented (though they will all be flying different colors as we are representing different countries).<br />
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We will be missing the international teams and their ability to mix it up with the fleet, but rest-assured racing will be competitive. The plan for the final race of the series is to do a reverse start. The boat with the fewest point going into the last race will need to cross the start line last and the team with the most points will have a bit of a head start. Call it the handicap race for this series, as we are not doing any throw-out races.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j22" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22s sailing downwind off Montego Bay, Jamaica" data-file-id="113346" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9ae84322-b117-4121-9410-d2cd774f3f94.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<strong>SW:</strong> Do you have your eye on any pre-racing favorites in both classes? What about any dark horses?<br />
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<strong>Spencer:</strong> Using our 705-pounds limit on the boats keeps everyone honest and if the wind is light for any races that will give the three-person teams an advantage over the teams that sail just below the limit.<br />
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In the absence of last year's 30th-anniversary race winner, Mike Farrington, it will once again give local heroes a chance to shine!<br />
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<strong>SW:</strong> Does the event still plan to hold post-racing festivities/parties, given the pandemic? If so, can you tell us what we're missing out on?<br />
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<strong>Spencer</strong>: We are not going to be hosting the traditional booze-soaked parties as alcohol doesn't make it easy to follow local Covid protocols... So, we will have to party double-time in 2021.<br />
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In the '90s there was a tradition of a boating "Parade of Lights" in the past and it was revamped last year for the first time in recent history. Open to motorboats, cruisers, and catamarans, all clad with festive lights and blasting holiday tunes, this event is perfect for respecting Covid protocols.<br />
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On a quiet evening (just after sunset) we will leave the club and do a few laps around the harbor, gleefully singing and drinking on our own boats with friends and family, celebrating together and apart! J/22s are traditionally towed behind one of the larger motorboats.<br />
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<strong>SW:</strong> Can you tell us about any efforts that you and the other regatta organizers have made to try to lower the regatta's environmental footprint or otherwise green-up the regatta?<br />
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<strong>Spencer:</strong> We utilize one five-gallon bucket per boat for the entirety of the event to dish out the ice/food/drinks/welcome packets and t-shirts. These buckets are re-used year after year.<br />
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<strong>SW:</strong> Anything else that you'd like to add, for the record?<br />
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<strong>Spencer:</strong> We have had a 30-plus years of historic events, creating lifelong friendships from all over the world, and it has been incredible to build those relationships and see some familiar faces over the decades.<br />
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Many of the members have connected with us on Facebook and Instagram. Anyone that is interested in seeing future event details should also follow along. Follow <a href="http://www.facebook.com/jaminj22" target="_blank">Jamin J/22 Jamaica Regatta here on Facebook</a> Follow <a href="http://www.instagram.com/mobayjamin" target="_blank">Jamin J/22 Jamaica Regatta on Instagram here</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111 sailing Edgartown Regatta" data-file-id="109226" height="340" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/1fecb26e-e7ef-415a-ba0e-99d9124fb988.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 340px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
Edgartown Race Weekend Announcement!</span></h2>
(Edgartown, Martha's Vineyard, MA)- "We hope everyone is having a great holiday season. Our team at Edgartown YC is hard at work organizing the 2021 Edgartown Race Weekend (“ERW”) and have just gone live with the NOR on Yacht Scoring for both the 'Round-the-buoys racing (“RTB”) and 'Round-the-Island (“RTI”) segments of ERW.<br />
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For decades, the Edgartown Race Weekend has been a favorite of J/sailors on Cape Cod, the Islands, and Vineyard Sound. The event attracts J/teams from as far north as Maine and as far south as the Chesapeake Bay. Dozens of J/Crews have made the event an annual ritual as they look forward to catching up with friends and families from afar that also make it a tradition to participate. Come one, come all! The 2021 edition promises to be a fun one and may we all hope to rejoice such great events yet again on the water next year! For more information follow the links below
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<li>Edgartown Race Weekend Info (<a href="https://www.edgartownyc.org/club/scripts/library/view_document.asp?NS=PR&GRP=40011&DN=RACE" target="_blank">Click Here</a>)</li>
<li>ERW (RTI Segment) YachtScoring Link (<a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13249" target="_blank">Click Here</a>)</li>
<li>ERW (RTB Segment) YachtScoring Link (<a href="https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13248" target="_blank">Click Here</a>)</li>
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We encourage participants to register ASAP to receive information and updates from the Organizing Authority throughout the offseason. Please note the entry fee is not required to complete your registration on Yacht Scoring.<br />
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Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns to the Edgartown Race Weekend Administrator- Margaret Passafiume- email: raceadministrator@edgartownyc.org. <strong>Sailing photo credit- Stepen Cloutier.</strong><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><img alt="J/Gear for sailors" data-file-id="63793" height="163" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/15e41cfe-8d41-4a39-a5c4-da085ee110e4.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 163px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
Not Too Late for J/Gear Holiday Gifts!</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)- The year-end is fast approaching and now is as good a time as any to give some thoughts to your holiday shopping for your crew, family, and friends.<br />
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There is still time to get your whole crew that distinct J/Gear gift with your boat name! Get caps, polo shirts, shells, gear bags, and more! <br />
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NOTE- The J/Class logo of your choice can embroidered on the front. We can also customize with your detail. Perfect for the whole crew! For <a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/" target="_blank">more information and to buy now</a>.<br />
<hr /><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span></h4>
Dec 4- <a href="http://www.sailfishclub.com/web/pages/wirthmunroehistory" target="_blank">Wirth M Munroe Memorial Race- Palm Beach, FL</a><br />
Dec 5- <a href="https://sdyc.org/" target="_blank">Hot Rum Series III- San Diego, CA</a><br />
Dec 11-12- <a href="http://www.mobayyachtclub.com/" target="_blank">J/22 Jammin Jamaica Regatta- Montego Bay, Jamaica</a><br />
Dec 11-12- <a href="https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=13061" target="_blank">J/70 Bacardi Winter Series- Miami, FL</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j145" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/145 sailing off San Diego, CA" data-file-id="113410" height="296" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c281ddb8-25cc-4acc-b62f-e2a728eaa576.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 296px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
J/Crews Celebrate Silverware @ Hot Rum Series</span></h2>
(San Diego, CA)- So, there we were. Hot Rum race 3, watching all the weather and forecasts and guessing how the day was going to unfold. It is "local knowledge" that there is always a nice little "point effect"- light winds accelerating down the east side of Point Loma- that create some artificially significant winds. With that wind in their sails easing them along the first leg of the Hot Rum race course, racers also had the benefit of an outgoing tide (in effect all day) to get them out to Mark 2. The race committee had little confidence the race would even get that far.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111 sailing off San Diego, CA" data-file-id="113382" height="396" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4d28770d-fa9c-4f48-a290-9c9f82086fb3.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 396px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Just as the first boats were rounding Mark 2 to begin their downwind sail into the Roads, those light Point Loma winds started to ripple their way east to the otherwise glassy sea that extended way past Mark 3 and Mark 4 deep in the Roads. Over the next hour and a half, boats reached and gybed their way to the bottom of the course in 3 to 5 kts of wind. From there, a two mile beat back to Mark 5 challenged the fleet. There, the RC Signal boat Corinthian sat looking east over the race course, then north, 3 miles up the bay to the course finish. Decision time.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j120" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/120 sailing off San Diego, CA" data-file-id="113430" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b6daf39e-4f0f-49a3-9c5a-ff0b790b066e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
With no certainty of the wind holding (that wasn’t forecast to be there in the first place), and 50% of a very high 5 foot-plus all-day tide ebb still making the final 3 miles to the finish an uphill effort, the RC hoisted the sierra flag (S) and anchored approx. 330 yds south of Mark 5, laying a ‘shorten course’ finish line perpendicular to the course from the previous mark. Their impression at that moment was that unless they shortened the course, up to a third of the fleet would have no hope of finishing even in the current conditions, and half or more wouldn’t make it to the charted finish if there were any deterioration.<br />
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The first six boats lined up to cross this new finishing line were predictably all ultralight sleds that can muscle their way through light air with apparent winds and boat speeds fractionally higher than the actual wind speed. The RC understands that the finish might have seemed premature. But, to the mortal seaman and mermaids aboard the other 90 boats still racing, we think it was the correct move. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 sailing off San Diego, CA" data-file-id="113354" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b5f1409f-0cd7-4920-97af-3a6253a82822.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Still, no good deed goes unpunished. And, there were two uncomfortable things that the RC still needed to address. First, was to note the boats that missed the “S” finish line. You can reference your Racing Rules of Sailing book inside back cover for the picture of flag “S” (a.k.a. sierra). It identifies RRS 32.2. Reading 32.2 (a) it informs the finishing line “…shall be at a round mark, between the Mark and a staff displaying flag S.“<br />
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A few focused sailors, not seeing the S flag, and likely not hearing the Race Committee announce on the race channel VHF 69, sailed on starboard, south of and past the RC signal boat with flag S displayed. They tacked to port and their course took them completely around the signal boat and the finish line. It is frustrating to see this breakdown of understanding, but we always hope that those that were confused by what a RC does can learn from it and be better informed in the future. Trying to "save a race" for many but losing a few that aren’t familiar with flag S is always the trade-off.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 sailing off San Diego, CA" data-file-id="113418" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9b60e7b2-078c-4df8-832e-aa9ada9424ba.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Then, there is the scoring. Fun fact. A Hot Rum “shorten course” race has happened twice before, in 2008 and 2009. While rare, it is not unprecedented, and the solution is not untried. First, understand a Pursuit Start - basically boats are given a particular start time based on a formula that estimates boat’s speed around the course relative to other boats. Bigger faster boats "owe" smaller slower boats more time as the course gets longer. And the inverse – less time is owed on a shorter course. In virtual terms, everyone but the first boat to start got a late start for HR3. By shortening the race at mark 5, approx. 3.2nm was cut off the race course. We know how long it took for boats to sail around the 8.7nm course, so we refigured new ‘virtual’ start times based on 8.7nm and added the actual elapsed time to that to generate new ‘virtual’ finish times. Those are found on the Hot Rum race 3 finishes page. The boat finish order is different than you actually may have witnessed. That’s because like a regular PHRF handicap race where you adjust times after the finish, we adjusted times both before AND after.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j145" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/145 sailing off San Diego, CA" data-file-id="113334" height="298" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/cc6d695d-4917-4888-90ab-c3bab1a69914.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 298px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Shortening course is not easy to do or understand, especially in a unique format like a Pursuit race with all the handicap incentive given at the start. But, it seemed like a better option than leaving 45 boats floating in the channel. Either way, there was a lot of gratitude from most finishers. The Hot Rum, to quote 1981 its creator- Herb Sinnhoffer- “is a fun race and to be able to meet afterwards and make friends”. Given COVID protocols, the "fun race" intent still holds up. It is great that some will work really hard and compete at a high level, while others will just enjoy a nice social sail around the waters of San Diego-- in December! Either way, remember the Race committee is doing its best to honor the intent race, and balance the efforts of those participating.<br />
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In the third and final race in the San Diego Yacht Club Hot Rum series, two of the J/145s finished with the same point total for Class I. After count-back, it was Rudy Hasl's PALAEMON and Ernie Pennell’s MORE MADNESS taking 3rd and 4th out of fifteen boats in Class I (the BIG boats!). They were barely beaten by a custom carbon fiber Swan 601 and Pat Disney's custom carbon Andrews 68. <br />
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In the PHRF Overall results for 113 boats, Hasl's J/145 PALAEMON and the custom Swan 601 STARK RAVING MAD finished tied for second place at 30 points each, with the countback going to the Mad-men. Notably, taking fifth place was the other J/145 MORE MADNESS. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j120" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/120 sailing off San Diego, CA" data-file-id="113378" height="332" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/5706aa80-6100-42b5-bfba-b3a686dd2bda.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 332px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The sailing conditions for Race 3 were very challenging, with winds ranging from under 5 Kts to 10 kts, with shifty winds at the start and steadier winds later in the race. As a result of the decreasing wind conditions, the race was shortened to enable most boats to finish the race.<br />
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In other classes, J/Crews faired extremely well. In PHRF 2 Class, it was Chuck Nichols' J/120 CC RIDER that won the first two races handily, but suffered in the lighter going in the third race to post a "down the mine shaft" 9th place. As a result, the CC RIDERS had to settle for the silver in this year's series. A similar fate befell the J/111 CREATIVE sailed by Ed Sanford. After the first two races with a 5-3 tally, their finale had to count an 18th....dropping like a rock from the top three down to 9th in class. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j29" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/29 sailing off San Diego, CA" data-file-id="113414" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/da29e696-46c0-45ed-8404-b37e51e0e716.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The twenty-seven boat PHRF 4 Class was crushed, as usual, by a slew of J-mercenaries. In fact, it was a clean sweep of the top six in class. Not surprisingly, leading the charge and sweeping the podium were top J/105 teams. Winning was Jim Dorsey's J-OK, followed by the Vieregg/ Bermann duo on ZUNI BEAR in second and Jeff Brown's SWEET KAREN in third. Following them were Chuck Bowers' J/29 RHUMB RUNNER in fourth, George Scheel's J/105 SUN PUFFIN in fifth, and Nico Lindauer’s J/34 IOR beauty MARLEN in sixth place. Notably Lindauer’s J/34 IOR won the last two races quite handily...they suffered from having to count a 28 pt DNC for not sailing the first race.<em><strong> Sailing photo credits- Mark Albertazzi</strong></em>. For <a href="https://sdyc.org/race" target="_blank">more San Diego YC Hot Rum Series sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111 sailing off Peru" data-file-id="113446" height="356" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/cbe43974-a883-4f02-94bd-648ef9629139.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 356px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
J/111 and J/99 Garner Silver in Peru!</span></h2>
(Puerto Callao, Peru)- This past weekend, the Puerto Callao Yacht Club held the first of its summer series on the Pacific Ocean, with a fleet of ten boats sailing in Puerto Callao Bay.<br />
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There was a lot of excitement amongst J/Boats enthusiasts in Peru with the arrival of the new J/99 TUNCHE. After her launching and a tune-up sail the TUNCHE team sailed in their first regatta of the summer. Anticipation was high amongst many ex-J/24 racers that have gotten a bit older and are racing in offshore ORC handicap events.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 sailing off Peru" data-file-id="113462" height="332" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/525cc0bd-f78f-495a-be5a-0deba22fd29e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 332px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
After the weekend of sailing, it was clear the J/111 CHALLWA was determined to maintain their control over Peru's ORC fleet, winning the regatta with room to spare on points. However, fast out-of-the-box, the J/99 TUNCHE progressed fast up their learning curve and managed to pull off a silver in the regatta, a great start for the inaugural race of the J/99.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 sailing upwind off Peru on Pacific Ocean" data-file-id="113330" height="312" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e34e4b62-0189-4ac6-96b4-ad1f7d511a6e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 312px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
According to J/Peru dealer German Fuchs, "it's expected the new J/99 will continue the winning saga of J/Boats in Peru. After all, Peru has always been one of the largest and oldest fleets of J/24s in South America. Many sailors are looking closely at the new J/99 and, perhaps, there will be a J/99 fleet soon in Perú." For <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank">more J/99 shorthanded offshore speedster information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j44" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/44 sailing SORC Palm Beach Race" data-file-id="113442" height="384" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7feaf8d4-4641-465b-926e-48d845a6e0d7.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 384px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
J/44 Crushes SORC Palm Beach Race</span></h2>
(Fort Lauderdale, FL)- The second event of the 2020-21 SORC Islands in the Stream Series on December 5 was a revised course when it was deemed the traditional Wirth M Munroe Palm Beach Race course could not be held due to COVID-19 regulations. Instead, a round-trip 80.0nm course from Fort Lauderdale to Palm Beach and return to finish off Fort Lauderdale attracted 15 teams in ORC.<br />
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As you can tell from the photos, this was light airs affair for most of the race. Virtually all boats went off the starting line with Code Zeros flying and crew sitting on the leeward rail. Occasional "puffs" (more like big zephyrs) would waft gently across the course and crews would slowly move to the windward side! <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j121" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/121 sailing off Fort Lauderdale, FL" data-file-id="113422" height="332" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/70707113-2df5-4994-b896-aec20be884e2.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 332px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
In the end, J/Crews did quite well. Winning the fleet in ORC Overall was Chris Lewis’ J/44 KENAI, crushing the fleet by literally one hour corrected time. Finishing second behind them in ORC Class 2 was Ashley Maltempo & Bill Wiggins J/121 WINGS. The WINGS team sailed well considering it was their first time on the boat, taking 6th ORC Overall behind a few TP 52's. Taking 5th in ORC Class 2 was Brad Stowers' J/92 HILLBILLY and sixth place went to Andy Wescoat's J/109 HARM'S WAY.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j92" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/92 sailing off Miami, FL" data-file-id="113350" height="332" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/52ddabfe-1c9c-4c55-9811-0c21793eee64.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 332px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The winter plan for the 2020-21 Islands in the Stream Series in south Florida and the Bahamas has evolved due to COVID-19 restrictions. See updates below.<br />
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<strong>2020-21 Islands in the Stream Series</strong><br />
• January 21, 2021: The series then heads south for some island time with the Ft. Lauderdale to Key West Race. The tropics in January provide the perfect spot to unwind with the Conch Grinder Race, and to enjoy the treasures and pleasures of Key West before the awards party at First Flight Island Bar and Restaurant (formerly Kelly’s Caribbean). More <a href="http://www.keywestrace.org" target="_blank">information here</a>. <br />
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• February 17, 2021: It all wraps up with another trip to the Bahamas with the 2nd annual Eleuthera Race, starting off South Beach, Miami and finishing at the Cape Eleuthera Resort and Marina. <a href="http://www.eleutherarace.org" target="_blank">More information here</a>. For <a href="http://www.sorcsailing.org/ " target="_blank">more SORC Islands in the Stream sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j22" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22s sailing on Lake Charlevoix, MI" data-file-id="113466" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/17a398ff-3e85-486e-9855-6f2f28c759f4.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
Arena Football, Sailing J/22 Style</span></h2>
(Charlevoix, MI)- Near the northwest tip of the Michigan peninsula is Charlevoix, with sailors enjoying access to Lake Michigan but also connected with two inland options. In this report by Tom Barnes, he shares how the locals use what they have to great advantage.<br />
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The Charlevoix Yacht Club J/22 Fleet 45 has been holding Arena Racing in Round Lake since 1988 (with a break for about six years). Arena Racing is named after Arena Football which packed a lot of excitement into a much smaller venue.<br />
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Starting on the first Sunday after the 15th of October (because that’s when dockage is free), the J/22 Fleet moves from the commodious Lake Charlevoix to the confines of Round Lake for another season of Arena Racing.<br />
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What’s so cool about racing on this 55-acre lake is this year we have 10 boats! We race main and jib only to keep people off a potentially icy foredeck and out of the 43-degree water. The average race takes about 15 minutes and we get 6 of them in from 1:00PM to 3:00PM, finishing in time to watch the Detroit Lion’s lose.<br />
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The starting line is long enough for 6-7 boats, so there is always a second row…and sometimes a third. Crappy start, caught on the wrong side of 120-degree shift…no worries, the next race is only minutes away. It’s very shifty and this year I’ve blamed “bad luck” on getting caught in knock after knock…but the best skippers have been consistently near the top and so I know the problem is my own.<br />
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We get the cream of the crop for skippers and crew. All other area racing is done for the season so Melges 24, J/70, J/35 skippers and crews jump onto J/22s. Two sailors from our sister fleet across the peninsula in Tawas made the three hour drive each way to crew on a boat.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j22" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22s sailing on Lake Charlevoix" data-file-id="113374" height="320" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a0a6763d-d0af-4cf3-9de4-cdf004d10b14.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 320px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Not just the sailors enjoy Arena Sailing. On November 1st, we had a warm sunny day and there were 50+ people onshore taking pictures and trying to understand the action. My wife was providing color commentary from the docks and verbally abusing me for being mid-pack.<br />
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Our Volunteer Race Committee, John Kunitzer, is a Demi-god. He and his crew set the windward marks (sometimes 2 or 3 to accommodate wind shifts), start line and get us going promptly at 1:00PM. Between races they are a way station for beer and brownies. They host members of the local photography club and volunteer helpers who enjoy the antics.<br />
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Our NOR and Instructions give the RC a lot of leeway as to courses. On a fickle, light air day, John sent us on a downwind start race; a triangle race where you were allowed to go either way around; and a starboard rounding race. It keeps you on your toes to know the rules.<br />
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John also has three different scoring systems running all the time…The Ricky Bobby System – points only if you win (“if you ain’t first, you’re last”); High points scoring based on how many boats you beat; and the daily low point scoring system.<br />
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In the late 90s, Charlevoix boasted 16+ J/22s. Seven years ago we were down to one lone J/22 owned by Bob Grove. Bob is an enthusiast and champion of good causes. He set a goal of building the fleet back to 20 boats by 2024. He bought three good used boats and started loaning them out.<br />
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I borrowed mine for three years and then bought hull #483 from Bob. He promptly bought another. He sold one last fall and in October bought hull 744 from Cleveland. Bob has a likely buyer that will start racing with us next year and he is starting to shop for #11.<br />
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Each year, the Cranberry Cup is the final official race of the season. The Cup is so named as the regatta is held on the Sunday following Thanksgiving (thus the “Cranberry”). It’s a perpetual Trophy and tradition has it that the previous winner is to fill the chalice with dried cranberries to be distributed to participants following the race (this year we had to settle for only the new winner getting the cranberries).<br />
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<img align="none" alt="Lake Charlevoix, Michigan" data-file-id="113306" height="324" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9b6da676-0abd-4ec3-ac44-f1939abeb9dd.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 324px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
The 2020 edition was held November 29, with Charlevoix Yacht Club arranging a cheering section while three drones filmed the action while 100s of pictures were taken and shared. Even the Petoskey News Review came down and interviewed us right after racing.<br />
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With 10 J/22s on the line in WSW winds at 5-15 on a mostly cloudy 45-degree day, we had six races which allowed one throw-out. The RC set two potential weather marks and at race time settled on the more southern of the two.<br />
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Despite the well-intentioned square start line, the 45-degree wind shifts every 30 seconds meant one end was going to be favored. More often than not that ended up being the pin end. Being close to that end and having a crew ready to quickly tack allowed boats to cross the fleet on port just after the start.<br />
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When the wind stayed right, it was a very short starboard tack to the south shore and boats were calling for “sea room” causing a mass of quick tacks by those with the weather gauge.<br />
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The weather mark is only 3 minutes away and while the first-place boat usually got around clean, the middle of the pack was almost always a cluster with lots of calls for “buoy room” and disagreements over when and if an overlap occurred.<br />
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The first downwind leg was an opportunity for passing. The breeze came more from the south side so staying high gave an advantage of getting the new breeze first. This ran against the tactic of going left to ensure you were inside at the mark rounding. I tended toward staying left and unfortunately, that cost me several boats over the six races. Lesson learned!<br />
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That downwind mark rounding saw some of the most interesting events of the day. Our eventual winner and another boat got a late inside overlap and were denied room (by me). They hooked the mark on their rudder and hung there a while getting it clear… this became their throw out race.<br />
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The final score was amazingly close. The top three boats separated by only two points.<br />
The cream always rises to the top and “Sailing Inc” – Bow #8 skippered by Dan Tosch with George “Bear” Peet Jr and Brian Prokuda won the cherished cup with 11 points.<br />
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Dan dedicated the win to George Peet Sr. who passed away last year. George was a huge sailing advocate, supporter of junior sailing and a very tough competitor in J/22s, Lightnings, and Lasers. Bear is an outstanding sailor in all sizes and boat types. Brian is an experience helmsman and worked hard on bow.<br />
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Second Place went to last year’s winners on Pale Face Lite – Owner Bob Grove, skipper Steve Pirie and crew Beverly Cady with 12 points. They received a bottle of Mount Gay, which Beverly eagerly accepted! Steve was also awarded the “Best Damn Skipper” flag (signed by all participants), for most points accumulated during the series (high scoring system).<br />
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This came down to the last day of racing with Kevin Meier holding a 10-point lead going into the day…but Kevin made the bad choice of working for a living and missed the Cranberry Cup, leaving the door wide open for Steve. Considering the fickle conditions of Round Lake, these two dominated the top of the leaderboard almost every week.<br />
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Third Place went to Bow #02 with Bill and Tom Babel on “Eminence Front” (they are big “The Who” fans) and crew Laura Johnson with 13 points. Bill founded Arena Sailing in 1988, stayed with it until 1992 and had a hiatus until he and Tom jumped on a boat again last year. They now are hooked and we’re hoping to see them back for many years to come. The Babel’s are tough enough when they sail separate, together it almost isn’t fair.<br />
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Below are the results for the Cranberry Cup, Arena Sailing Series, and the Ricky Bobby. Steve and Bill tied for the most wins. The tiebreaker was proposed, as in the movie, that they have a footrace and then kiss…at this suggestion Bill promptly conceded the win to Steve. <strong>Sailing photo credits- Dan O’Haver </strong> Thanks for <a href="http://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com" target="_blank">contribution from Scuttlebutt Sailing newsletter</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j120" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/120 sailing off Seattle, WA" data-file-id="113394" height="364" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3261e0c9-05e2-40d3-af4b-018f045d42a7.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 364px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
J/Crews Prevail in Northern Century Race</span></h2>
(Anacortes, WA)- In the "it's never too late to report" department, the Anacortes Yacht Club hosted the Northern Century Race in the beginning of the fall. It is a 100.0 nm offshore triangle that delivers the toughest race you’ll ever love. The course extends through and around (skipper’s choice) the San Juan Islands, and each year competitors are met with a unique set of challenges and some of the most beautiful conditions the Salish Sea has to offer.<br />
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Though a 50-mile option exists (for the sane people), the Northern Century 100 course starts to the north in Fidalgo Bay off Anacortes and heads further north to Point Roberts, then south any way you choose to Hein Bank, followed by a return finish at Anacortes.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 sailing on Puget Sound, Seattle, WA" data-file-id="113366" height="342" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/590a46d4-5e86-4ddc-b6b5-91689bb1db4a.jpg" style="height: 342px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The race starts on Friday evening, and night-time spinnaker runs are the norm on the way up to the first mark of the course. Due to the time of year, meteor showers and phosphorescence that light up the night add to the excitement of the race.<br />
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Bruce's Briefs from Sailish.com had this sobering forecast to offer the sailors this year:<br />
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"We said summer had arrived last week and this weekend it will arrive with some very, very warm temps especially on Sunday. Today’s satellite pic shows just how spectacularly clear conditions are over the Salish Sea.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="NOAA satellite photo" data-file-id="113402" height="266" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/101b4d7e-c4ad-4898-9cf1-56cb440182f1.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 266px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
That’s both the good news and the bad news as the Surface Analysis Charts show our Pacific high weakening and tending to flatten while a thermal trough of low-pressure expands along the coast running from San Francisco inland to southern BC. This will convert our current onshore flow to an offshore flow on Saturday which will bring some downslope winds and compressional heating to the area, hence the high temps. The weather charts also show the distinct lack of any kind of pressure gradient over the area. This will make for, once again, a very challenging Northern Century Race.<br />
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The real challenge for this race is that in this transition period from onshore to offshore flow, the Race course is right in the convergence zone where the flow coming down the Strait of Juan de Fuca (SOJ) meets the flow coming down the Strait of Georgia (SOG). As the flow coming down the SOJ weakens, the flow coming down the SOG will build slightly turning the southerly/southwesterly flow over the San Juan Islands to a north/northwesterly flow. The big question is always, when will this happen? The models are not in agreement which is not surprising considering the lack of a pressure gradient.<br />
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The keys for the race are getting out of the starting area, getting through the lee of Guemes Island, and getting up Lummi Island. From there to the Point Roberts Buoy there will probably be more wind slightly to the east of the rhumb line. The wind will be light and from the south/southwest with it generally going very light after around 0200hrs. You would really like to be around the Pt Roberts mark before 0200 and then be sure to take your time at the shorten course mark.<br />
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One model does have a northerly of 5-8 kts filling down the SOG and down San Juan Island just before dawn. That combined with the big ebb of the day could get you to Hein Bank in time to catch the flood to the finish. If you’re a big boat with a tall rig and really wanted to roll the dice, you could try sailing down the inside of San Juan Island and gamble that you could make it out of Cattle Pass before about 0900 Saturday morning and the start of the big flood of the day. The big boats could finish by mid-afternoon Saturday.<br />
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<img align="right" alt="Century race course" data-file-id="113358" height="448" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/87c8904b-e796-4444-abec-268ac71e6f4d.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 448px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" />For the once this year, expect the lighter air to be in the SOJ while the central Sound will have a delightful northerly of 10-15 knots on Saturday before it becomes light on Sunday. This will be a great weekend to be on the water just be sure to have plenty of sunblock and be sure to reapply throughout the day."<br />
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That was a pretty accurate forecast by the famous "Bruce the weatherman"! It was a light airs race, with beautiful vistas, and lots of flying code zeros to keep things moving. <br />
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In the three divisions that had thirteen J/Crews participating, each had a podium finish by a top J/Boats team. In the Full Crew 100 Division, taking second was Jim Hinz's J/120 HINZITE. The balance of the top eleven included Dougherty & Andrew's J/125 HAMACHI in 4th, Cathy Van Antwerp's J/111 VALKYRIE in 7th, Phil Dean's J/80 RUSH in 8th, Bob Brunius' J/120 TIME BANDIT in 9th, Jason Vannice's J/35 ALTAIR in 10th, and Tolga Cezik's J/109 LODOS in 11th. An amazing performance by these teams in very challenging conditions. <br />
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Similarly, in the Doublehanded 100 Division, J/Crews took 5 of the top 10! Taking the silver was Vincent Townrow's J/105 KINETIC. They were followed by Christina & Justin Wolfe's J/111 RAKU in 4th, Emre Selzer's J/80 RECKLESS in 5th, Mike Powell's J/33 KEET in 9th, and Karl Halfkinger's J/35 SHEARWATER in 10th. <br />
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Finally, in the Full Crew 50 Division, taking 3rd was Walt Meagher's J/35 SUNSHINE GIRL. All in all, kudos to all crews for their perseverance and concentration to get the job done!<br />
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Also, in the recent Scuttlebutt Sailing Newsletter, there was a great article by a participant in the race that gives you a front row seat perspective on the amazing beauty and the trials and tribulations of sailing this tough race. <a href="https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2020/12/09/amazing-memories-to-treasure/" target="_blank">Read more here on Scuttlebutt</a>. <strong>Sailing photo credits- Sean Trew </strong><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Community</span></h2>
<h4 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span></h4>
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<strong>* J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned J/Boats from around the world here: <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">https://jnet.jboats.com/</a><br />
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<a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2006-J133-FKUnEnks" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/133 for sale in Netherlands" data-file-id="113298" height="266" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/009d2281-e7df-4e77-9f29-cd4a354a7661.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 266px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Beautiful 2006 J/133 available in The Netherlands. The ideal mid-40s length racer/cruiser…and a winner of The Sailing World Magazine Overall Boat of the Year, J/133 is a yacht with the stability for short-handed cruising, race winning speed under IRC & PHRF, durability for rough offshore passages. Add in the retractable carbon bowsprit and flying and handling the asymmetrical spinnaker becomes a breeze. Viewing is possible, by appointment. Learn <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2006-J133-FKUnEnks" target="_blank">more about this J/133 here</a><br />
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<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">* Recognizing Sportsmanship in 2020</span></h2>
While the sailing calendar for Cortez Racing Association (San Diego, CA) was hampered for much of 2020 due to strict government regulations for recreational boating, when racing did begin, the organization recognized four teams that put others before themselves. One of them was an amazing rescue of another boat offshore by a J/35 team.<br />
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Don Fulton and the crew of the J/35 BLUE LUNATIC, on September 12, during the “Dennis Conner Around the Coronado Isle Race”, came to the aid of a sinking power boat. Don and his crew assisted the sinking vessel by contacting the Coast Guard and, at the request of the CG, standing by to continue rendering assistance until the CG could arrive, as they were many miles off the coast. Even though stopping to help this boat meant the end of their long anticipated first race after months of quarantine, the Blue Lunatic was happy to help. Congratulations and kudos from all of the J/Family around the world for such a generous and heroic act of seamanship to help other boaters in peril offshore!<br />
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<img align="right" alt="Dave Philipps- Providence Journal" data-file-id="113474" height="200" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/bc3fdfb2-df67-445f-aefc-4423d21762df.png" style="border: 0px; height: 200px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 145px;" width="145" /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">* Eight Bells: Dave Philips</span></h2>
It is with great sadness that J/Boats reports that David M. Philips passed away November 27 at Brightview Commons in South Kingstown, Rhode Island. He was age 94.<br />
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David was a long-time fan of J/Boats since the company first started building J/24s in Warren, RI and setup its world headquarters in Newport, RI. David was THE sailing reporter for the Providence Journal, the principal newspaper for the State of Rhode Island. David became quick friends with Bob and Rod Johnstone, J/Boats' co-founders in the summer of 1977. Dave took great pride in reporting on the success of the J/24 at Block Island Race Week in 1977 and subsequent events later. Dave reported every single day of the first J/24 World Championship in 1979 held in Newport, RI. He interviewed participants, the winner Charlie Scott from Annapolis, MD, and provided great coverage of the event. In later years, David would continue to report on the continued growth of J/Boats and the successes of numerous J/Designs over the next three-plus decades. In fact, Dave was particularly proud of Rhode Islanders that were winning across the USA, Europe, and World Championships- like Ken and Brad Read, Ed "Moose" McClintock, Scott Ferguson, Ed Adams, amongst others too numerous to mention.<br />
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After graduating high school in 1944, Dave enlisted in the U.S. Navy and deployed to the Pacific as a meteorologist on an aircraft carrier. Stationed as part of the 8,000-vessel fleet gathered at Ulithi for the invasion of Japan, he and his fellow sailors were relieved to learn of the bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.<br />
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Following the Japanese surrender he finished his tour of duty in 1946 and returned home to go to college on the GI Bill. After graduating from Wesleyan University in 1951 he began his career as a journalist working for publications in Prescott, AZ, Nampa, ID, Wallingford, CT and New Haven, CT before coming to the Providence Journal, where he worked as a sports journalist for 36 years until his retirement.<br />
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David loved covering sailing and his coverage of the America’s Cup races in Newport, RI, San Diego, CA and Perth, Australia made the Providence Journal the newspaper of record for following the America’s Cup. Even 20 years after his retirement, a trip to the waterfront always included people recognizing him and coming up to reminisce.<br />
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“If you raced sailboats on Narragansett Bay from the 1960s to the 1990s you knew Dave Philips,” recalled Providence Journal colleague Michael Szostak. “If you skippered a 12-meter yacht on Rhode Island Sound during the hey-day of America’s Cup racing in Newport, you knew Dave Philips. If you crewed aboard a boat in the Newport-Bermuda race, you knew Dave Philips.”<br />
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Dave served as Chairman of RI Boating Council, held memberships in US Sailing and Narragansett Bay Yachting Association, and worked as a correspondent for Yachting Magazine for 10 years in the 1970s. The Narragansett Bay Yachting Association awarded him the William E. Tripp trophy for making an outstanding contribution to yachting and yacht racing on Narragansett Bay for 36 years.<br />
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Known to have quipped, “I’ve covered every sport but ladies wrestling,” his interests ranged well beyond his impressive knowledge of sports statistics and facts. He recalled a vast repertoire of college and university fights songs and could add a song lyric or apt quotation to any conversation. He knew all the songs and cheers for his alma mater, Wesleyan, where he served as Secretary of the Class of 1951 from 1971 until 2019.<br />
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His love of singing led him to sing in a cowboy barbershop quartet in Prescott, AZ and later in his church choir at St. Martin’s Church in Providence. Additionally, he possessed an abiding interest in the weather sparked by his naval service as a meteorologist. He faithfully followed The Weather Channel, which may have even preempted ESPN as his favorite. Each year he purchased a Farmer’s Almanac and inserted blank pages to keep track of the actual weather compared to the Almanac’s prediction.<br />
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As much as he loved sports, weather and singing, he also loved dogs, especially a series of Miniature Schnauzers. His idea of contentment was a comfortable chair in front of a roaring fire with a dog in his lap.<br />
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He is survived by two brothers, Daniel Philips of Pompano Beach, Florida and John Philips of Silver Spring, Maryland, a sister, Caroline Norwood of Emeryville, California and his special friend, Constance Hargreaves and her family of Cranston, RI.<br />
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He is also survived by many cousins including, Nancy Burroughs of Peace Dale, RI, Tom Rowe of Middletown, RI, Andy Rowe of Hope, ME, Clark Tyler of McLean, VA, Terry Tyler of Dorset, VT and David Rowe of Northbrook, IL.<br />
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Due to COVID restrictions the graveside service at Swan Point Cemetery in Providence, RI will be private. A memorial to celebrate his life will be held next spring or summer. In lieu of flowers contributions may be sent to St. Martin’s Church, 50 Orchard Avenue Providence, RI 02906. <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-78617777089214031052020-12-02T10:00:00.002-05:002020-12-14T16:19:37.235-05:00J/Newsletter- December 2nd, 2020<img align="right" alt="Sunset off Malta" data-file-id="111734" height="153" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/423d4096-5525-42e4-82b1-419924efffc1.jpg" style="border: 0px initial; height: 153px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" />
This past week was a cause for celebration in some cases and a pause for reflection, sadly, on others.<br />
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On the positive side, the J/9 daysailer project is in full swing and interest is growing exponentially for the new line of daysailing boats by the J/Design team. The extraordinary enthusiasm for the J/9 has already resulted in production slots pushed out into the third quarter of 2021! <br />
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Also, on a positive note, the Spanish J/80 Class managed to host their incredibly popular annual event called the Campeonato J/80 Mundialito in the famous sand spit encircled bay of Santander, Spain. The heavily talented fleet included three former J/80 World Champions! <br />
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On the reflective aspect of our sailing and family lives is that fact that some of our good sailing friends pass along in their lives. Two very well-known members of the J/Community passed recently. Eight Bells to David Irish from Harbor Springs, Michigan and Kevin Burnham from Miami, Florida....both avid J/Sailors, supporters, and enthusiasts over the past 40 years.<br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/9 daysailer hull mold" data-file-id="113286" height="296" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a76ed112-723a-4b49-912a-9ce33e176134.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 296px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
J/9 Daysailer Created with Space-X Precision!</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">Awesome Symmetrix 5-axis CNC Makes Perfect Hull & Deck</span></h3>
(Newport, RI)- Exciting news! J/9 hull and deck plug construction has been completed by Symmetrix Composite Tooling in Bristol, Rhode Island. Symmetrix is the most advanced precision tooling company in New England and carved both the J/9 hull and deck plugs using the state-of-the-art CMS Poseidon 5-axis Machining System.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="Symmetrix 5-axis CNC cutting room" data-file-id="113254" height="334" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/cbc8ca8f-09b7-4fe0-9c10-681c186b001c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 334px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
This machine has an overhead computer-controlled universal robotic cutter head that runs down calibrated tracks on top of the walls from one end to the other and can reach almost anywhere within the space. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/9 hull mold stern view" data-file-id="113282" height="410" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/62766c76-e3dd-4f52-9288-2799e861453c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 410px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Symmetrix engineers analyzed the J/9 3D design models provided by J/Boats using the Siemens NX11 CAD/CAM software and ran a series of simulations to arrive at final machining instructions for the 5-axis milling machine. The Siemens NX11 software is a quantum leap forward in delivering tooling not just quickly, but also accurately.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/9 deck mold rough cut" data-file-id="113246" height="312" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/29401739-4460-499f-bdec-1db8477b3afd.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 312px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<strong>The same machine is used at leading edge, high-tech aerospace companies like Boeing, SpaceX, and McDonnell Douglas</strong>. The NX10 gives Symmetrix complete surface model control and simulation in full 5-axis machining instructions; it can achieve tolerance within 1 millimeter over a 26-meter surface and in a fraction of the time.<br />
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Then, the exciting part starts. First, the steel backbone frame with foam blocking is milled to within an inch or two of the final plug surfaces (all milled foam is recycled, BTW). Then, the plug and foam are encased by fiberglass/epoxy reinforcement. Finally, an epoxy milling paste is applied over the glass. The part returns to the milling machine for a second and final precision machining operation to take it to the final surface. Hand-sanding to 800 grit and buffing to a mirror shine then completes the effort.<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/JBoats/videos/1082535188862529" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/9 hull plug on the move" data-file-id="113290" height="312" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/6d139679-e2ac-47ba-9014-7b74841a8465.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 312px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/JBoats/videos/1082535188862529" target="_blank"><strong>Exciting times! J/9 hull plug on the move!</strong> </a><br />
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From initial steel framing construction, to precision milling operations, to the final polishing, the process to build a complete mirror finish hull/ deck plug took just 7 weeks. Production molds are under construction at CCF Composites and thereafter the J/9 production begins after January 2021. Learn <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank">more about the exciting new J/9 daysailer here</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><img align="none" alt="J/Gear Holiday special 20% off" data-file-id="110782" height="445" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/bfd8faa4-edde-4d88-aeff-499b2c412bde.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 445px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 572px;" width="572" /><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
J/Gear HOLIDAY 20% OFF Specials!</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)- Believe it or not, it is just about time to get into the holiday spirit of things. The year-end is fast approaching and now is as good a time as any to give some thoughts to your holiday shopping for your crew, family, and friends.<br />
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We are offering a 20% discount on all orders excluding the following: J/Models, J/Prints and J/Calendars.<br />
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The discount code is- <span class="subTitle">JB2020XS</span>. It will be effective October 1st through November 28th, 2020.<br />
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Attention J/Boat owners- because of the demand for customization, we encourage "early ordering" in an effort to meet holiday gift dates. <br />
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NOTE- The J/Class logo of your choice can embroidered on the front. We can also customize with your detail. Perfect for the whole crew! For <a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/" target="_blank">more information and to buy now</a>.<br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span></h2>
Nov 28-30- <a href="https://www.rcmsantander.com/" target="_blank">Mundialito J/80 Regatta- Santander, Spain</a><br />
Dec 1-6- <a href="http://www.j70brasil.com/" target="_blank">J/70 South American Championship- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil</a><br />
Dec 4-6- <a href="http://www.mobayyachtclub.com/" target="_blank">J/22 Jammin Jamaica Regatta- Montego Bay, Jamaica</a><br />
Dec 4- <a href="http://www.sailfishclub.com" target="_blank">Wirth M Munroe Memorial Race- Palm Beach, FL</a><br />
Dec 5- <a href="https://sdyc.org/" target="_blank">Hot Rum Series III- San Diego, CA</a> <br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j80" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/80 sailing off Santander, Spain" data-file-id="113242" height="326" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/bd85393c-2296-4f02-a67c-81fcf23196f5.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 326px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
MERCURY Crowned J/80 Mundialito Champion</span></h2>
(Santander, Spain)- Remarkably, the Spanish J/80 Class was able to host their annual J/80 Campeonato Mundialito on the gorgeous bay off Santander, Spain this past weekend. In the end, after four races sailed, it was Jaime Piris Turner's MERCURY that won the regatta counting just podium finishes.<br />
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On Saturday afternoon, two races were sailed in the bay, with a northeast wind of about ten knots. Starting fast out of the box, Piris- Turner's MERCURY team scored two bullets to throw down the gauntlet in front several notable J/80 World Champions. They were followed at day's end by Pablo Colvee's RAITAN in second with two 3rd places and by Daniel de la Pedraja's EDIFICIO CASTELAR in third with a 5-2 tally. <br />
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Things looked good for the MERCURY team as Sunday dawned with less wind, though another beautiful day. The day started off with an hour postponement, and the RCN Santander PRO finally started the last two races in a northeast breeze of 6 to 8 kts. <br />
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In the third race on Sunday, EDIFICIO CASTELAR prevailed, followed by MERCURY and Manuel Vidal de la Peña’s RACANO. By the end of the race, the wind nearly died off. However, within the next half hour rebuilt back to the 6 to 8 kts range. For the final race, J/80 World Champion Ignacio Camino Rodriguez's SOLITAL won, followed by another J/80 World Champion in second- Jose Maria "Pichu" Torcida's FREDO ESTRELLA DEL NORTE. Rounding out the final race podium was Jaime Yllera Secades' COMPESCA. <br />
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As a result of Sunday's outcomes, it was the MERCURY team prevailing with a 1-1-2-11, winning with 4 pts net. Taking the silver on a tie-breaker of 8 pts net was Pedraja's EDIFICIO CASTELAR with a 5-2-1-9 tally. They won the countback over Pichu Torcida's FREDO ESTRELLA DEL NORTE with a 2-9-4-2 record. Rounding out the top five was Jaime Yllera Secades' COMPESCA in fourth and David Madrazo's ZONA FRANCA SANTANDER in fifth position. For <a href="https://www.rcmsantander.com/" target="_blank">more J/80 Mundialito Santander Regatta sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Community</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span></h3>
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<strong>* J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned J/Boats from around the world here: <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">https://jnet.jboats.com/</a><br />
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<a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2006-J133-FKUnEnks" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/133 for sale in Netherlands" data-file-id="113298" height="266" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/009d2281-e7df-4e77-9f29-cd4a354a7661.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 266px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /><b>
Beautiful 2006 J/133 available in The Netherlands.</b> The ideal mid-40s length racer/cruiser…and a winner of The Sailing World Magazine Overall Boat of the Year, J/133 is a yacht with the stability for short-handed cruising, race winning speed under IRC & PHRF, durability for rough offshore passages. Add in the retractable carbon bowsprit and flying and handling the asymmetrical spinnaker becomes a breeze. Viewing is possible, by appointment. Learn <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2006-J133-FKUnEnks" target="_blank">more about this J/133 here</a><br />
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<br />
<img align="right" alt="David Irish sailing his J/111 No Surprise" data-file-id="113294" height="363" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9926b080-ad29-4d82-a119-5d9430bbd085.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 363px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">* Eight Bells- Dave Irish</span></h2>
With both sadness and fond remembrance, we want to share that Dave Irish passed peacefully yesterday morning, at home, with his family.<br />
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As some of you know, Dave founded Irish Boat Shop in 1961 and over the past 60 years built the company into a successful, thriving business with three locations in Northern Michigan and a team of almost 100 employees.<br />
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Dave loved "messing around with boats"; he particularly enjoyed the company of people who owned and played with boats.<br />
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Dave was a competitor. His sailboat racing took him all over the world. He competed in numerous national and world championship events. He was valued and well-liked for his ability to think strategically, to lead, and to do anything, on any boat, in any weather. He loved Michigan's Mackinac Races and achieved Old Goat status in both Bayview and Chicago yacht clubs, signifying completion of over 25 Mackinac races on each lake. <br />
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Although competitive, Dave was always willing to share his knowledge and bring others along. It was rare to see Dave racing without a “junior” on his team, often driving the boat. The list of young adults that grew up under Dave’s wing sailboat racing is long and includes many who have participated at the highest levels of sailboat racing. Of his long list of accomplishments, I think he would say bringing up young sailors was right at the top of that list.<br />
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Dave understood that sailboat racing depends on sailing schools and yacht clubs. A founding member of the Little Traverse Yacht Club, he helped purchase the first clubhouse in 1968. In 2019, he played a similar role helping the Charlevoix Yacht Club construct a new clubhouse on Lake Charlevoix. Both sailing communities benefited from his unflagging support for youth sailing, and Dave personally mentored many young sailors, several of whom became professional sailors. He served the sport's national governing body, US Sailing, for 25 years, then spent 16 years on the Offshore Racing Council which merged into the International Sailing Federation (ISAF), where he served for many years as a Vice President and Executive Committee member.<br />
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Service to community characterized his life ashore, too. Dave served Harbor Springs as a councilman and as mayor. An early environmental activist, Dave was a founding member of the Little Traverse Conservancy. <br />
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Dave was an avid outdoorsman and competitive athlete. He was a snow ski instructor at Boyne Highlands, then Nub’s Nob in the 1960's, and prided himself on owning skis of every description. Throughout his life he enjoyed the ski league at Nub's Nob, Nordic ski racing, heli-skiing, and backcountry skiing. When not skiing or sailing, he was a cyclist, runner, and late-in-life triathlete.<br />
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Dave is survived by his wife Ann; sister Ann Wilderom; daughters Tracy (John) Texter, Susan (Gary) Stewart, Perry (Rich) Hodgson, and son Colin (Carrie Maxson) Irish; 11 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. <br />
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Those who wish to honor Dave Irish's memory may do so by donating to the Little Traverse Conservancy, the Petoskey-Harbor Springs Area Community Foundation, Little Traverse Sailors, or Sail Charlevoix (Lake Charlevoix Mariners).<br />
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<br />
<span class="subTitle"><img align="right" alt="Kevin Burnham winning Olympic Gold Medal" data-file-id="113266" height="234" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e9053ad6-4937-4578-b518-1950c2fd9bef.jpg" style="border: 0px initial; height: 234px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">* Eight Bells- Kevin Burnham</span></h2>
It is with great sadness that World Sailing reports the passing of Kevin Burnham, aged 63, on Friday 27 November 2020 after a long, courageous battle with pulmonary disease.<br />
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Burnham is a three-time Olympic sailor and a two-time Olympic medalist for Team USA. He won Athens 2004 Olympic Gold with Paul Foerster and a Silver medal with Morgan Reeser at the Barcelona 1992 Olympic Games. Burnham and Foerster were named Rolex Yachtsman of the Year for their Gold medal performance and were nominated for Rolex World Sailor of the Year. Burnham also won a Gold medal at the 1986 Goodwill Games.<br />
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"The World Sailing community is deeply saddened to hear of Kevin Burnham's passing and on behalf of World Sailing, I extend our condolences to Kevin's family and friends," commented World Sailing President, Quanhai Li. "Kevin embodied the spirit of sailing with passion for competing and nurturing sailing talent worldwide. His energy and enthusiasm for the sport was unrivalled and he will forever be remembered for his kindness and outstanding achievements in the sport."<br />
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"On behalf of everyone at US Sailing, we are deeply saddened to learn about Kevin Burnham's passing and we send our condolences to the Burnham family during this difficult time," said Cory Sertl, President of US Sailing and Vice-President of World Sailing. "Kevin's accomplishments as a sailor are extraordinary and his Olympic spirit is iconic. We will remember the energy he had for coaching and teaching sailing. Kevin was an inspiration to so many and will be missed by all who had the pleasure to know him."<br />
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Burnham started sailing when he was eight and through to 18, he and his family went cruising every week and in the summer on a Columbia 22 and then a Morgan 30. Commenting in 2004, when he was nominated for Rolex World Sailor of the Year, Burnham said, "Initially, I was not interested in sailing. In fact, when I was 9, I used to sabotage the engine of the Columbia 22, so that we could not get out of the harbour and go sailing! I was more into surfing and tennis."<br />
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His focus and passion for sailing started to materialize in 1975 when he met Steve Benjamin at the Coral Reef Yacht Club in Miami, Florida. Burnham commented, "At this time, I did not even know that sailing was an Olympic sport. Steve indicated to me that my physique was ideal to be a crew in a 470 and asked if I was interested in going out for a sail with him. The next day we went sailing in 15 to 20 knots of breeze in the 470. This was my first day of sailing a dinghy - a lot more exciting than the Sunday sailing days on the Columbia!!"<br />
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From there on, Burnham was hooked and aside from his Olympic journey, he was versatile sailor who competed in various boats and different racing formats over his exciting career. In ocean racing events, he competed at the Sydney-Hobart Race, Rolex Transatlantic Challenge, Newport to Bermuda Race, and won the 1989 Worrell 1000 Mile Race on 18-foot catamarans. Burnham was an 11-time U.S. National Champion.<br />
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Later in his career, Burnham coached sailing athletes in the U.S. and around the world preparing them for the highest levels of international competition. He especially loved coaching youth and Paralympic athletes.<br />
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[Ed. Note-</b> on a personal level, I also met Kevin at Coral Reef YC because he was sailing with mutual friend- Steve Benjamin- in the 470 Midwinters (I was sailing with then Tufts teammate Fran Charles- current M.I.T. University Sailing Director). Later, Kevin expanded his experiences to sailing in J/24s for well over a decade with many top teams. In recent years, Kevin was involved in the evolution of the popular J/70 class, having started coaching top teams in Key West, Florida in the first J/70 Midwinters. His passion and enthusiasm to help and watch people "grow" as sailors was perhaps Kevin's most endearing attribute- with such a big heart, he truly cared and wanted to see people succeed. Plus, it was always fun to enjoy a few "greenies" with "the Burn" (as he was known by close friends) and share a few sea stories along the way. Always an entertaining time. He will be missed.]<br />
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His overall positive presence, incredible optimism, and never give up attitude will always be remembered.<br />
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We all send our condolences to wife Elizabeth Kratzig, son Eddie Burnham, daughter Kyla Burnham, brother Greg Burnham, his father Bruce Burnham and his friends and extended family.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-44848733931209694072020-11-25T10:00:00.001-05:002020-12-14T16:11:35.595-05:00J/Newsletter- November 25th, 2020<img align="right" alt="Sunset off Malta" data-file-id="111734" height="153" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/423d4096-5525-42e4-82b1-419924efffc1.jpg" style="border: 0px initial; height: 153px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" />
This past week marks the fourth Thursday in November and in America, that signifies the national holiday known as "Thanksgiving". The celebration marks the first good harvest by the infamous "Pilgrims", a group of people escaping religious persecution from the Church of England in 1621. The intrepid adventurers and "escapees” sailed an extremely cramped, slow sailing ship, across the treacherous North Atlantic Ocean and landed in what is now known as Plymouth, Massachusetts on the New England coastline. Survival was paramount and, remarkably, the Pilgrims managed to befriend the local Wampanoag native American Indian tribe. With their help, the Pilgrims lived through their first winter and the following fall, they celebrated the traditional Indian fall harvest with a long luncheon--- the first "Thanksgiving" in October 1621. Presiding over the event was also the first known Johnstone family ancestor, the first Governor of the Massachusetts colony- Gov. William Bradford. <br />
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Given that we are all living and "surviving" the current covid-19 pandemic, it's particularly poignant to recognize that our forefathers in America also had to rely on friends, family, and other people to make it through particularly troublesome and difficult times. Giving "thanks" to others in this crazy, bizarre, pandemic year has never been more important...to appreciate and support one another an even more compelling scenario as we all explore another "new world" that no one ever imagined or contemplated in our recent past. <br />
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To that end, sailors are particularly resilient. Being open-minded, thoughtful, innovative, humble, and compassionate, sailors work together as teams to persevere against the best and worst that Mother Nature throws at us. <br />
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We continue to see such examples around the sailing world as this past week saw a few events that permitted more joyous (but safe & healthy) celebrations taking place on the water. <br />
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Down in Mexico, the J/70 class held their 2020 National Championship in Valle de Bravo, that gorgeous mountain lake west of mile-high Mexico City; host was the Club de Vela La Peña Valle de Bravo. Then, out west in southern California, the San Diego YC hosted their second in the three-race Hot Rum Series offshore of the picturesque Point Loma, much to the delight of several silverware-winning J/Crews for the second race in a row! Finally, a dozen-plus adventurous J/24 sailors got together to enjoy the annual King's Day Regatta in Jacksonville, Florida with sailing taking place on the river. <br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 doublehanded offshore" data-file-id="113206" height="270" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/057764c7-3702-4edf-9952-e443332cb53c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 270px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Offshore Doubles Celebrates Rapid Growth in its First Month: 1,600 Members from 66 Countries</span> </h2>
(London, England)- Offshore Doubles is pleased to announce at the end of its first month of operation we have 1,600 members from 66 countries with all six continents well-represented. <br />
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Our Facebook page shows a video series featuring well-known sailors like Dee Caffari (GBR) and Kenny Read (USA), younger sailors like Erica Lush (USA) and Federico Waksman (URU) and the team of Jade Cole and Barney Walker (AUS). Each weekend with the help of World Sailing, we are featuring new stories of Offshore Doubles sailors from many countries and all continents. Next up is Croatia, then China, South Africa and more. Come to the Offshore Doubles Facebook page to see these amazing people and hear their stories.<br />
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The Olympic Event of Mixed Offshore Doubles is a pinnacle event of our discipline and it was proposed and ratified as the Olympic slate by World Sailing at the Annual Conference in Sarasota in 2018 and sent to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in 2019. Over the next month the IOC is expected to make their final decisions on the slates proposed by all sports.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 sailing doublehanded offshore" data-file-id="113130" height="342" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3ccb86c7-226c-4d35-becd-de82b95f151d.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 342px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
There have been some reported questions about security and cost of the Paris 2024 Olympic event. The security question has been solved by the French Navy’s assurance that they will provide security on the course. The operating costs of the event have been reviewed by the World Sailing and will be significantly lower than other sailing events because the Offshore Mixed Doubles Event is one race with a single start and finish. Other than the final short leg, all protests will be heard electronically using the 24/7 media and tracking during the event. Penalties will be assessed and taken before the last short leg to the finish and first boat across the finish line first wins.<br />
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In discussion with many of the teams, even from many smaller countries, the cost of the boat is not the big issue some claim. The boats in the event will be supplied without additional cost to competitors and the boats used for training can be any boat of appropriate size and configuration. These types of racer/cruiser boats represent 70% of sailing and hold their value well for resale. The World Sailing Equipment Committee is planning to produce a tender early in 2021 to solicit proposals for the Olympic event and there are 12 boats already proposed in a prior Request for Information.<br />
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Many countries have already started training for the event and Doubles are now a specific class in the most famous and long-established races like the Sydney Hobart, Fastnet, Round Gotlund, Bermuda and Transpac races. There are also many dedicated Doubles events and series now in Poland, Norway, Sweden, France, Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, South Africa, Italy, USA and many other countries. The events list on the homepage shows 50 events currently and is increasing daily.<br />
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Larry Rosenfeld, President of Offshore Doubles, said, “Thanks to the many people that have helped us successfully launch including Matt Allen, Stan Honey and the rest of our very experienced Board of Advisors and organizations such as SYRF, ORC, RORC, CYCA, Storm Trysail Club, all the country rating offices and federations and many suppliers like North Sails, J/Boats, Quantum, World Sailing, The Magenta Project and many others for helping to spread the word. To our members and partners, we plan to introduce new features and ways of connecting in the coming months. Thank you for your donations, your guidance so far, and your continued input.”<br />
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<strong>About Offshore Doubles</strong><br />
Offshore Doubles is for everyone interested in double-handing offshore from couples and friends doing weekend races to Olympic athletes and serious programs globally. We all have much to learn and teach and it's our mission to bring this community together. There are more than 5,000 boats racing double-handed under rating rules and thousands in many strong one design fleets around the world, so we know the interest is there.<br />
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If you haven’t already done so, please come join us NOW at https://offshoredoubles.org! We need to continue to show the IOC that Doubles has broad global support. Don’t forget to invite your co-skipper and share with your friends!<br />
<hr /><span class="title"><img align="none" alt="J/Gear Holiday special 20% off" data-file-id="110782" height="445" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/bfd8faa4-edde-4d88-aeff-499b2c412bde.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 445px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 572px;" width="572" /><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
J/Gear HOLIDAY 20% OFF Specials!</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)- Believe it or not, it is just about time to get into the holiday spirit of things. The year-end is fast approaching and now is as good a time as any to give some thoughts to your holiday shopping for your crew, family, and friends.<br />
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We are offering a 20% discount on all orders excluding the following: J/Models, J/Prints and J/Calendars.<br />
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The discount code is- <span class="subTitle">JB2020XS</span>. It will be effective October 1st through November 28th, 2020.<br />
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Attention J/Boat owners- because of the demand for customization, we encourage "early ordering" in an effort to meet holiday gift dates. <br />
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NOTE- The J/Class logo of your choice can embroidered on the front. We can also customize with your detail. Perfect for the whole crew! For <a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/" target="_blank">more information and to buy now</a>.<br />
<hr /><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span></h3>
Nov 28-30- <a href="https://www.rcmsantander.com/" target="_blank">Mundialito J/80 Regatta- Santander, Spain</a><br />
Dec 1-6- <a href="http://www.j70brasil.com/" target="_blank">J/70 South American Championship- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil</a><br />
Dec 4-6- <a href="http://www.mobayyachtclub.com/" target="_blank">J/22 Jammin Jamaica Regatta- Montego Bay, Jamaica</a><br />
Dec 4- <a href="http://www.sailfishclub.com" target="_blank">Wirth M Munroe Memorial Race- Palm Beach, FL</a><br />
Dec 5- <a href="https://sdyc.org/" target="_blank">Hot Rum Series III- San Diego, CA</a> <br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 sailing Valle de Bravo, Mexico" data-file-id="113218" height="318" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9e32f5d5-5b3d-4edc-bc84-850735428454.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 318px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Americans Sweep Mexican J/70 Nationals</span></h2>
(Valle de Bravo, Mexico)- As they often say, be careful of what you wish for when you invite World-class American sailors to your gorgeous lake high in the mountains west of Mexico City. Over a four-day regatta last weekend, the Mexican J/70 class held their 2020 National Championship in Valle de Bravo for a fleet of twenty-two teams. Host for the event was the Club de Vela La Peña Valle de Bravo.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s anchored on Valle de Bravo, Mexico" data-file-id="113222" height="306" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/be30c709-7d2b-4d29-ab92-aab5f92cc356.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 306px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
After a nine-race series, the American team on PIED PIPER, led by skipper Gannon Troutman easily won the event. Starting out with three bullets on the first day of racing, they never looked back, and no one could seemingly challenge their supremacy on the race track. It certainly helped that Troutman had a world-class sail trimmer in the form of Venezuelan Victor Diaz de Leon on mainsheet and calling tactics. The balance of their team included Tomas Dietrich and Roberto Escalante. The PIED PIPER's never had a finish out of the top four, such was their dominance over the regatta, finishing with just 16 pts.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/70 Pied Piper- winners" data-file-id="113198" height="368" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/8d08f2fd-0220-47a2-8e58-ff0f21d3296a.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 368px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
Yet another American had a significant impact on silver medal winner- LA BALA. Also trimming mainsheet and calling tactics for skipper Yon Belausteguigoitia was none other than J/70 World Champion Bill Hardesty from San Diego, CA. The LA BALA team sailed consistently in the top ten to finish a distant second with 32 pts net. Their crew consisted of Yon and brother Ander, Hardesty, and Elaine Fierro. Notably, the LA BALA team was declared the "real" Mexican J/70 National Champion as the top Mexican team in the regatta.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J70s sailing Valle de Bravo, Mexico" data-file-id="113190" height="390" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/5891a686-f995-419d-be60-23870cde6d48.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 390px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Taking the bronze medal on the podium and also winning the Mexican Corinthian J/70 National Championship was Jorge Murrieta's FLOJITO Y COOPERANDO, sailing with crew of Jose Alfonso Gutierrez Frusch, Jeronimo Mariscal, and Pablo Rion. <br />
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Behind the Corinthian J/70 Mexican Champions on FLOJITO was Hector Guzman Gonzalez's team on ESCIPION (Gerardo Lozano, Juan Pablo La Pena Guzman, and Mariana Guzman). Third went to Eduardo Oetling's AXOLOTL, with crew of Eduardo Oetling Jr, Ricardo Guzman, and Alfonso Aguilar. Thirteen of the twenty-two teams were Corinthians, over 50% of the fleet. For <a href="https://j70mexico.com.mx/" target="_blank">more Mexican J/70 National Championship sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j145" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J145 sailing San Diego Hot Rum series" data-file-id="113230" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3a568710-1b51-47fd-95f1-1bb1f5c7c05d.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Hot J/Crews @ Hot Rum Series II</span></h2>
(San Diego, CA)- J/Boats continue to perform well in the competitive Hot Rum Series in San Diego, hosted by San Diego Yacht Club. <br />
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Two J/145s are near the top of the overall results from the first two races. PALAEMON (Rudy Hasl) is 3rd and MORE MADNESS (Ernie Pennell) is 4th out of 124 boats registered. <br />
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The competition within Class I is also very strong, with MORE MADNESS taking 1st place with 6 points and PALAEMON taking 2d with 8 points. The J/145s have been very competitive against famous offshore racing competitors such as Pyewacket, Stark Raving Mad, Blue Blazes, Staghound, Fast Exit, Volpe, Pendragon, and Compadres.<br />
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The J/120 CC RIDER (Chuck Nichols) has taken two bullets in Class 2 against some stiff competition. Also, very competitive is the J/125 NEREID (Standish Fleming) and a trio of J/105s- ZUNI BEAR (Vieregg/ Bermann), J-OK (Jim Dorsey), and SWEET KAREN (Jeff Brown).<br />
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The final race in the series will be on December 5. The conditions for the 2d race were very different from the windy in-bay first race. With many boats struggling to get off the starting line and dealing with light shifty winds for the beginning and at the end of the race. Fortunately, the offshore portion of the race saw steady winds in the 10-15 kt range and some fog. For <a href="https://sdyc.org/" target="_blank">more San Diego YC Hot Rum Series information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24 Jacksonville, FL" data-file-id="113238" height="286" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/16642f70-78c7-4bb8-9c92-4cc153ff7c60.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 286px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">MAJIC Crowned J/24 Kings Day Regatta Champion</span></h2>
(Jacksonville, FL)- The Florida Yacht Club and J/24 Fleet 55 hosted twenty-one very enthusiastic J/24 competitors to a wonderful weekend of competitive sailing at the 2020 Kings Day Regatta November 21-22, 2020. <br />
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The racing Saturday and Sunday had a total of six races sailed on the St. Johns River south of Jacksonville in the traditional fall breezes of Northeast Florida. It was a see-saw battle for the podium all weekend long as each time was trying to "dial-in" not just speed-mode in the flat water, but also getting into sequence in the shifty breezes.<br />
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Starting off with a 1-5-1 on the first day, Greg Griffin's MAJIC played their local knowledge to the max, ending the day with a strong lead. The other day's winner was Robby Brown's ANGEL OF HARLEM from Davis Island YC, gliding into second for the day. They were followed by Dan Borrer's JESUS LIZARD just one point behind.<br />
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The die was cast for the battle that would unfold on Sunday morning. The first race of the day saw all three teams struggling to even finish in a podium position as they covered and watched each other like hawks as they rounded the race track. However, it was Borrer's JESUS LIZARD that closed the regatta with an emphatic double-bullets to take the silver. Griffin's MAJIC hung in close and avoided disastrous races to take the win by a mere two points. Brown's ANGEL OF HARLEM crew was fast and consistent, but a Black Flag in the last race dispelled their chances for the overall win. Instead, the HARLEM crew had to settle for the bronze.<br />
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The winning team on MAJIC consisted of skipper Greg Griffin and crew of Will Newton, Skip Allcorn, Mike Reddaway, and Emma Newton. The silver medal crew on JESUS LIZARD was Dan Borrer driving, with team of Kelly Holleran, Steve Lopez, Barbara Gold, and Max Lopez. The bronze medal winners on ANGEL OF HARLEM were Robby Brown on the helm, with crew of Beau Delapouyade, Richard Shellow, Steve Lowery, and Kevin Ratigan. For <a href="https://theclubspot.com/regatta/0I3PWYKOgZ" target="_blank">Kings Day Regatta sailing results and information</a> For <a href="https://www.j24fleet55.com/kingsday" target="_blank">J/24 Fleet 55 information</a><br />
For <a href="http://wwww.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank">more J/24 one-design class information</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Community</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span></h3>
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<strong>* J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned J/Boats from around the world here: <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">https://jnet.jboats.com/</a><br />
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<a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2018-J121-rVMeHksF" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/121 for sale brokerage" data-file-id="113098" height="358" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a7132bc5-ec6b-4d62-a82f-851745ee515a.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 358px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Race-ready <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2018-J121-rVMeHksF" target="_blank">J/121 in pristine condition available in New Orleans, LA.</a> <br />
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</table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-26532695141928061132020-11-18T08:30:00.002-05:002020-11-21T15:58:09.349-05:00J/Newsletter- November 18th, 2020<strong style="color: navy; font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 150%;"><img align="right" alt="Sunset off Malta" data-file-id="111734" height="153" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/423d4096-5525-42e4-82b1-419924efffc1.jpg" style="border: 0px initial; height: 153px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></strong>Last week saw widely disparate activity taking place across the globe. Down Under, a J/99 sailing doublehanded in Sydney, Australia had a very successful conclusion to a three-race offshore series, beating many larger fully-crewed boats in the process.<br />
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Then, over in the Caribbean, a few glimmers of hope are shining brightly on the island of St Maarten. The local St. Maarten YC held their first races of their 2020- 2021 Grant Thornton Winter Series on Simpson Bay. A fast, well-sailed J/70 had a good start to their season.<br />
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Finally, the SORC's first race of the season of the "Islands in the Stream Series" took place last weekend- the famous Miami to Nassau Cup Race. Participating were a J/109 and J/121 in the 178.0nm race criss-crossing the notorious, fast-flowing Gulf Stream. <br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="NEW J/9 daysailer sailboat" data-file-id="113114" height="319" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/dd5dcb60-c301-4161-9e09-90e9d6ec4f5c.jpg" style="border: 0px initial; height: 319px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
<span class="title">NEW J/9 Day Sailer Announcement!</span><br />
<span class="subTitle">J/Boats' Most Comfortable Cockpit Ever??</span><br />
(Newport, RI)- Responding to a growing need amongst sailors for a more comfortable, simpler and easy-to-own daysailer, J/Boats is excited to announce a sleek new 28-footer (the “J/9”) with perhaps the most comfortable cockpit and easiest-to-manage sailplan in this size range. <br />
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“With the J/9, we set out to reimagine how to make sailing easier, more relaxing and more inclusive,” said Jeff Johnstone of J/Boats. “This is a boat you can sail by yourself in just a few minutes, or bring along the whole gang with plenty of room to spare. Escaping to the water and enjoying shared family adventure has never been more important, and the J/9 is the perfect platform.”<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="New J/9 daysailer sailboat" data-file-id="113110" height="319" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/2172b598-76d7-4df5-9de2-5a05fae823bb.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 319px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
The J/9 cockpit has four great corner seats to nestle into and enjoy the day. With friends and family aboard, everyone can find the perfect place to relax. And access aboard has never been easier. A swim platform behind the cockpit allows walk-through boarding, and on those downwind sails home, you can cool off by dragging your feet in the water.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="New J/9 daysailer sailboat" data-file-id="113118" height="319" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4c1acf11-cd72-44e0-9206-a37fde5a8e48.jpg" style="border: 0px initial; height: 319px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
Sailing the J/9 is as easy as hoisting the mainsail and trimming the sheet. Why make it any more complicated? Look around on the water and you’ll notice 80% of the sailboats are sailing with only one sail. The answer is keep it simple! One tiller, one sheet. The big difference with the J/9 is you will be sailing with one sail more comfortably and quicker than most others with two sails or under motor. Ready for the afterburners? Simply unroll the jib and enjoy effortless, stable & smooth sailing from the comforts of the best J/Boats cockpit ever. <br />
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The daysailing community has not benefitted from a dedicated design from J/Boats since the award-winning J/100 (33’), which remains one of the most sought-after J’s created. The NEW J/9 offers the cockpit comfort and sailing features of a larger boat, at a price most will find competitive to the best brokerage offerings. For <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j9" target="_blank">more J/9 daysailer information</a>. Call your local J/Boat dealer for further information. <br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24 sailboats offshore" data-file-id="112138" height="340" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/88420309-6f4f-4f53-8bca-7f5feb167bc3.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 340px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="title">J/24 Kings Day Regatta Preview</span><br />
(Jacksonville, FL)- The Florida Yacht Club and J/24 Fleet 55 have invited all J/24 competitors to a wonderful weekend of competitive sailing with great friends at the 2020 Kings Day Regatta November 21-22, 2020. <br />
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Racing Saturday and Sunday will include top-notch racing on the St. Johns River south of Jacksonville in the traditional fall breezes of Northeast Florida. <br />
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In addition to scheduled racing, Friday afternoon will include a North Sails Clinic hosted by Paul Abdullah, which will include tuning tips, practice races, and on the water coaching.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24 sailboat crew" data-file-id="111726" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3208282a-ea03-4a04-b15b-c5dca177660c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Friday evening will conclude with the famous Florida Yacht Club Low Country Boil (pandemic-compliant outside!) overlooking the beautiful St. Johns River featuring steamed oysters, shrimp and grits and more. After racing finishes Saturday, we will host a banquet in the ballroom featuring seafood, meat and vegetable pasta dishes, salad, and dessert. Both evening events are included in the registration fee and complimentary beer from one of our sponsors Bold City Brewery will be provided all weekend.<br />
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Needless to say, after months of living as couch potatoes, working or watching TV, J/24 sailors didn't need much coaxing to fire-up the old Suburban or pickup, toss all the stuff inside, and head down to JAX for some fun in the November sun! Twenty-five J/24 teams have answered the "call of duty" to "live and obey" that Siren's Song attraction of getting together on any puddle of water and have some good'ole J/24 sailing fun and camaraderie with friends from across the Southeast.<br />
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Who are some of the "who's who" showing up from the ranks of veteran J/24 sailors? Quite a few, to say the least. Notable teams include TEAM TARHEEL/ NEW ENGLAND ROPES headed up by Paul Abdullah, Robby Brown's famous team on ANGEL OF HARLEM from Davis Island YC, Nadia Daggett's notorious MUSTACHE RIDE, Amar Patel's ROUGE, Bill Winegrove's PIGS IN HIDING, and Erica Trejo's youth team from Chicago Corinthian YC on the "KELLY HOLMES-MOON Junior Boat Grant". For <a href="https://theclubspot.com/regatta/0I3PWYKOgZ" target="_blank">Kings Day Regatta sailing results and information</a> For <a href="https://www.j24fleet55.com/kingsday" target="_blank">J/24 Fleet 55 information</a> For <a href="http://wwww.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank">more J/24 one-design class information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j88" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/88 and J/105 sailing off Block Island" data-file-id="98197" height="380" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/bf0de3ee-8817-4ea8-99e2-288b5a40c5a3.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 380px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
<span class="title">STC 29th Block Island Race Week presented by Margaritaville Announcement!</span><br />
(Larchmont, NY) – The Notice of Race for the 29th Edition of the biennial Storm Trysail Club Block Island Race Week presented by Margaritaville has just been issued by Storm Trysail Club Rear Commodore and STC-BIRW 2021 Event Chair Ray Redniss. <br />
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<img align="none" alt="Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville" data-file-id="113106" height="88" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c770cc23-6ac0-438b-b36d-730aa351be7e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 88px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
Redniss reports, “obviously, planning for a week-long regatta in the midst of pandemic uncertainty is a challenge. So, we are thrilled Margaritaville is back to add even more fun and spirit to this event. We are also happy to report, based on the results of a survey of past competitors conducted this week, that interest from the fleet appears to be high. Storm Trysail Club is confident that we can stage a safe and exciting event while continuing to monitor health guidelines, listening to our sailors, and adapting contingency plans as needed.”<br />
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On-the-Water Director for BIRW 2021 Dick Neville explains, “In the last edition in 2019, we expanded the number of racing formats to accommodate an even wider array of yachts – from world-class Grand Prix teams on Windward/Leeward courses to families and friends on cruising boats in daily navigator and pursuit style races. As a result, we had quite a number of first-time entrants, and look forward to welcoming more entries by expanding Double-handed and Plus1 opportunities.” <br />
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Storm Trysail Club Block Island Race Week presented by Margaritaville typically offers four to five days of racing and when the weather doesn’t cooperate (which historically happens once per week), we have activities planned to keep even the most competitive sailors entertained onshore. The highlight of the week for many sailors is the Around Block Island Race in which the entire fleet circumnavigates the beautiful island off the coast of Rhode Island.<br />
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The biennial event was first held in 1965 after a number of Storm Trysail members participated in Cowes Week in England and were inspired to create an American version. In 2019, 122 boats competed across 13 divisions with close to one thousand participants, volunteers, and families descending on the island for the third week of June. <br />
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Event Chair Redniss expressed cautious optimism regarding the usual shore side parties and social activities. “As befitting a Club that places a high priority on Safety, we will be very vigilant in ensuring that we adhere to all of the appropriate conditions and recommendations. While the tent parties are generally a centerpiece of the shoreside festivities, we are looking at other creative ways to preserve all of the fun in the event the tent is not feasible.” <strong>Sailing photo credit- Stephen Cloutier.</strong> For <a href="http://www.blockislandraceweek.com" target="_blank">more STC Block Island Race Week sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><img align="none" alt="J/Gear Holiday special 20% off" data-file-id="110782" height="445" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/bfd8faa4-edde-4d88-aeff-499b2c412bde.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 445px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 572px;" width="572" /><br />
J/Gear HOLIDAY 20% OFF Specials!</span><br />
(Newport, RI)- Believe it or not, it is just about time to get into the holiday spirit of things. The year-end is fast approaching and now is as good a time as any to give some thoughts to your holiday shopping for your crew, family, and friends.<br />
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We are offering a 20% discount on all orders excluding the following: J/Models, J/Prints and J/Calendars.<br />
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The discount code is- <span class="subTitle">JB2020XS</span>. It will be effective October 1st through November 28th, 2020.<br />
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Attention J/Boat owners- because of the demand for customization, we encourage "early ordering" in an effort to meet holiday gift dates. <br />
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NOTE- The J/Class logo of your choice can embroidered on the front. We can also customize with your detail. Perfect for the whole crew! For <a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/" target="_blank">more information and to buy now</a>.<br />
<hr /><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span><br />
Nov. 21- <a href="https://sdyc.org/" target="_blank">Hot Rum Series II- San Diego, CA</a><br />
Nov 28-30- <a href="https://www.rcmsantander.com/" target="_blank">Mundialito J/80 Regatta- Santander, Spain</a><br />
Dec 1-6- <a href="http://www.j70brasil.com/" target="_blank">J/70 South American Championship- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil</a><br />
Dec 4-6- <a href="http://www.mobayyachtclub.com/" target="_blank">J/22 Jammin Jamaica Regatta- Montego Bay, Jamaica</a><br />
Dec 4- <a href="http://www.sailfishclub.com" target="_blank">Wirth M Munroe Memorial Race- Palm Beach, FL</a><br />
Dec 5- <a href="https://sdyc.org/" target="_blank">Hot Rum Series III- San Diego, CA</a> <br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 Jedi sailing off Sydney, Australia" data-file-id="113126" height="324" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c41bab5d-21d0-4a3a-82fb-1f43f6cf2da0.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 324px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="title">J/99 Scores More Stunning Victories in Australia</span><br />
(Sydney, Australia)- The J/99 JEDI scored another stunning trifecta win racing offshore out of Royal Prince Alfred YC in Pittwater, near Sydney. The top mark was 8nm offshore, conditions were light 5-10 knots ESE. JEDI was one of two boats sailing doublehanded in the combined 18-boat fleet. JEDI finished 1st overall combined Div 1 and 2 fleets in ORC, and 1st ORC and IRC in Div 2. Remarkably, the J/99 was the smallest boat by far and still beating fully crewed 40+ footers on the water.<br />
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Delighted with their performance, skipper Ray Entwistle said, ”we've been lucky enough to experience the J/99 in many different wind and sea states and the results have been just as impressive. The first race in 8-15 knots and lumpy seaway, second race in 15-25 knots and very rough seaway, third race in light conditions and fairly flat seas. The J/99 has performed outstandingly well in this wide range of conditions, is incredibly easy to manage, and a real joy to sail.” Learn <a href="http://www.jboats.com.com/j99" target="_blank">more about the J/99 shorthanded offshore speedster here</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j121" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/121 sailing Miami to Nassau Cup Race" data-file-id="113138" height="328" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c8c37e13-292f-4042-80b6-f50d83687c92.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 328px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="title">J/109 Wins Miami to Nassau Cup Race</span><br />
(Miami, FL)- The 79th edition of the Nassau Cup Ocean Race, a 180 nm course from Miami to Nassau, leaving Great Isaac and Great Stirrup to starboard, is no longer possible due to current protocols in the Bahamas. Instead, an ocean race of approximately 178 nm was held starting in and returning to Miami.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="Nassau Cup course 2020" data-file-id="113170" height="346" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7c9b8b57-47a3-48b3-8976-13853503744b.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 346px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
Since 1934, some of the best offshore sailors in the world have battled for the prestigious Miami to Nassau Cup, including Ted Turner, Dennis Conner, Dick Bertram, and Ted Hood, aboard legendary boats like Running Tide, Windward Passage, Tenacious, and Boomerang. Half a generation after World War II forced a short intermission, the race became part of the fabled Southern Ocean Racing Conference in the 1980s until the series’ dissolution in the 1980s. Building on the race’s welcome rebirth in 2003, the new SORC, a group of race-veteran race managers, announced its management of the Nassau Cup Race in 2010. <br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j121" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/121 Wings crew on Nassau Cup Race" data-file-id="113166" height="318" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/68e29e43-9d74-4dd7-aebe-d8c3daed1473.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 318px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Starting in very light airs under Code Zeros, the fleet wandered their way across the Gulf Stream to the first mark, with the breeze steadily building all day. In the end, the J/109 HARM'S WAY sailed by Andy Westcoast won their ORC 3 class handily by over four hours corrected time. Meanwhile, Ashley Maltempo & Bill Wiggins sailed the new J/121 WINGS to fourth place in ORC 2 Class, narrowly missing the podium by just minutes on corrected time. For<a href="http://www.nassaucuprace.org/" target="_blank"> more Miami to Nassau Cup Race sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 IGY Marinas sailing off St Maarten island" data-file-id="113154" height="360" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/596ed529-ef03-4322-b663-5748df91e2be.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 360px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="title">J/70 St Maarten Sailing Again!</span><br />
(Simpson Bay, St Maarten)- The first Grant Thornton Keelboat Race of the new winter Caribbean 2020/2021 winter season saw an excellent turnout and sailing under idyllic conditions in Simpson Bay, St Maarten. Two classes were sailed with the faster racing boats in one and the smaller in a second. The final results saw Frits Bus and Team Island Water World taking the win. Second was Kick'em Jenny with Ryan Hope Ross at the helm with a team of younger sailors. FRANNY, the J/70 sailed by Garth Steyn, took third place and Caraibes Diesel sailed by Erwan le Normand the fourth place. The crews of all boats had to work hard to achieve success in the four short-course races that were sailed.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 IGY Marinas sailing on Simpson Bay, St Maarten island" data-file-id="113142" height="384" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9a8e1205-572f-444d-9e3f-9e2ee72c56a5.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 384px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Garth Steyn's J/70 FRANNY is sponsored by IGY MARINAS and by coming in third overall beat the boat that won overall at the St Maarten Heineken Regatta this past March 2020 (remember that pre-pandemic event?)!<br />
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According to Garth, "this was good news for the J/70 versus our competitors. I believe we had good upwind and downwind boat speed, as well as a great crew. Our team was comprised of Rien Korteknie doing main and tactics, Iain Mobbs doing jib and spinnaker and our bow goddess Kippy Guilders doing the spinnaker hoists and drops, as well as keeping us men in check!" For <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank">more J/70 one-design sailboat information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title">J/Community</span><br />
<span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span><br />
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<strong>* J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned J/Boats from around the world here: <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">https://jnet.jboats.com/</a><br />
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<a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2018-J121-rVMeHksF" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/121 for sale brokerage" data-file-id="113098" height="358" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a7132bc5-ec6b-4d62-a82f-851745ee515a.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 358px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Race-ready <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2018-J121-rVMeHksF" target="_blank">J/121 in pristine condition available in New Orleans, LA.</a> <br />
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<br />
<span class="subTitle"><img align="right" alt="Stephanie Roble- J/22, J/80, J/70 sailor" data-file-id="113158" height="236" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e7a27897-10ec-437c-853d-9c20058a62ad.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 236px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 300px;" width="300" />* Roble earns NYYC’s top sailor honor</span><br />
Since 2008, the New York Yacht Club has annually presented the Mosbacher Trophy to the Club’s sailor of the year. The award, which is named for former Commodore and two-time America’s Cup champion Emil “Bus” Mosbacher, is the most coveted of the Club’s annual trophies and traditionally the last award at the Club’s Annual Awards ceremony in the Model Room at 44th Street.<br />
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Due to social distancing restrictions in New York City, the 2020 Annual Awards ceremony was held virtually last week.<br />
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This year’s winner of the Mosbacher Trophy is 49erFX sailor Stephanie Roble (East Troy, WI). While the COVID-19 pandemic canceled a large portion of the Olympic-class sailing schedule—and postponed the Tokyo 2020 Olympics by a year—Roble and sailing partner Maggie Shea (Wilmette, IL) were still able to achieve significant success in the women’s skiff class. <strong>Roble and Shea have also been active sailors in the J/22 and J/80 class, match-racing around the USA and Europe. Furthermore, Roble has also been active in the J/70 class as coach and crew sailing with various teams on the J/70 winter circuit.</strong><br />
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“I am extremely proud to award the 2020 Mosbacher Trophy to Stephanie Roble,” says <strong>Bill Ketcham, Commodore of the New York Yacht Club (himself owner of the famous J/44 MAXINE</strong>). “Since graduating from Old Dominion University nearly a decade ago, Stephanie has thrown herself into elite sailing, succeeding in keelboats, match racing, and now the 49erFX Olympic class.<br />
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“Stephanie and Maggie made the most of their limited opportunities to compete in 2020, and we look forward to following them on the road to an Olympic medal this coming summer. Stephanie is the youngest person and the first woman to win the Mosbacher.”<br />
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Roble and Shea started 2020 by winning the bronze medal in the 2020 49erFX World Championship in Geelong, Australia. It was first American medal in a 49erFX World Championship. That result also secured, by the narrowest of margins, Roble and Shea’s selection as the American representative in the class for the Tokyo Games.<br />
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Heading into the 2020 Worlds, which was the second of two international regattas used to select the American representative in the 49erFX class, Roble and Shea needed to finish four spots ahead of fellow Americans Paris Henken and Anna Tobias.<br />
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The regatta hinged on the final medal race, which Roble and Shea won to move into third in the overall standings. Henken and Tobias finished seventh in the medal race and seventh in the regatta. With the two teams tied on points for the Olympic berth, the tiebreaker went to whomever finished higher in the final regatta, awarding the berth to Roble and Shea.<br />
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The duo’s other result this year was a second at Kiel Week in Germany, which was postponed to September. A second place in that regatta confirmed Roble and Shea’s status as a serious podium contender for the Tokyo Olympics, which are scheduled for this coming summer.<br />
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“This is an incredible honor,” says Roble, who joined the New York Yacht Club in 2015. “It’s been quite the year, and we’re really excited about the results that we’ve had. It’s an absolute honor to represent the New York Yacht Club around the world. To be the first female to win this award is extra special.<br />
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“This award is a reflection of my team’s commitment and dedication to our goal of bringing home a Gold medal for Team USA. I would like to thank my teammate Maggie Shea and coach Giulia Conti for all of their hard work on and off the water.<br />
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“It’s exciting to think about the Olympics, about our dream of winning a medal, but we have to focus on how we can get better every day and hope that will be good enough for a medal come August.”<br />
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Previous Mosbacher Trophy winners include world champion one-design skippers such as J/70 World Champion Peter Duncan. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j120"><img align="none" alt="J/120 Facebook group- new!" data-file-id="109330" height="366" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3dbe2406-bcc7-47e1-b947-2a1d9ba9d421.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 366px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="subTitle">* A J/120 Facebook group was recently started by Gareth Thomas, a passionate J/120 sailor.</span> The name of the group is called- "J120 Sailboat". For those of you who love the J/120 or are interested in sailing on J/120s, please do not hesitate to join and contribute to the discussion on the group. Everyone and anyone is welcome! Come join us...see why so many sailors have loved their experience sailing on J/120s offshore and around-the-buoys. Be that Detroit's Lake Huron, Annapolis to Newport, Newport to Bermuda, or Marblehead to Halifax! <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/495077394344891" target="_blank">Please join our J/120 Facebook group here</a>.<br />
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<span class="subTitle">* All Squalls Must Pass</span><br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j125" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/125 sailing on Irish Sea off Wales, U.K." data-file-id="113122" height="310" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/dbe7c6bb-2382-4845-884f-25eddc367140.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 310px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Andy Green's entry in the 2019 Mirabaud Yacht Racing photo contest was a stunning one- a J/125 beating into a squall off Wales on the often-tempestuous Irish Sea.<br />
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About the image he wrote, "This was a cool shot of the J/125 JACK KNIFE from the IRC Regatta in Pwlhrli (Wales). It had been champagne sailing with blue skies and 20 knots of breeze. I could see a squall moving toward us, and within minutes, we were in 40+ knots of wind, heavy rain, and near-zero visibility. The fleet was being battered by the conditions. But, as soon as it came the squall lifted, we returned to blue skies and 20 knot winds!” <br />
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[Ed. Note- Andy and his wife Nell Green and their children live in Newport, RI and have been fans of J/Boats for years. This photo is one of his most memorable images.]<br />
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<span class="subTitle"><img align="right" alt="Frank Butler- founder/ President Catalina Yachts" data-file-id="113150" height="220" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c41a2581-5a69-45f6-a632-bbe47b79d2cc.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 220px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 300px;" width="300" />* Eight Bells: Frank Butler</span><br />
The world of sailing recently lost an iconic figure in the boat-building world. J/Boats family and sailors wish to honor the passing of Frank Butler, founder and CEO of Catalina Yachts in southern California.<br />
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Many members of the J/Boats family had their chance to meet and discuss with Frank the various attractions and love for the sport we all shared. For decades at the Annapolis Sailboat Show, Bob, Rod, Jeff, Al, Drake, Stu often ran into Frank, shared some beers with each other, gave each other good-natured ribbings for our respective roles and brands in the sailing world. As Stu J. often reminded Frank, we were his biggest cheerleader, as his Catalina sailboats were often the first sailboat many current J/Boat owners started with....the "Henry Ford of the sailing world to the BMW/ Mercedes of offshore one-design/ racing/ cruising aficionados." It truly was a symbiotic relationship between Frank and the Johnstone family. We are sad to see him go.<br />
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<strong>Catalina Yachts tribute to him:</strong><br />
A sailing icon and industry “king spoke”, Frank has introduced hundreds of thousands of people to sailing during his lifetime. Frank leaves behind a company that only he could have built, and his spirit will forever be the foundation of Catalina Yachts.<br />
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Born in California in 1928, Frank’s line of popular sailboats put more than 85,000 Catalinas on the water throughout the yachting world. His boatbuilding career began in 1962, when he contracted with a Southern California builder for a 21-foot daysailer. The builder was unable to finish the boat and gave Butler the tooling. He completed building the boat himself, found he enjoyed the process, and agreed to take over the company.<br />
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A few years later he founded Catalina Yachts, which has grown to become the largest builder of fiberglass production sailboats in the United States, a position it holds to this day.<br />
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A key to Butler’s success in the sailboat industry was his attention to Catalina customers. Handling warranty issues himself, owners were nearly always surprised and reassured to get a personal call from Frank to discuss their concerns.<br />
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In recognition of his support of the Congressional Cup, a premier-level Grade 1 match racing event in which Frank designed, built, and donated a fleet of 11 Catalina 37s especially for the event, Long Beach Yacht Club awarded him the Crimson Blazer.<br />
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A founder and lifelong member of the Westlake Yacht Club (Westlake, CA), Frank was inducted into the National Sailing Hall of Fame in 2013.<br />
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Following his graduation from Glendale High School, he served in the US Navy. He met his wife, Jean, at a school dance; they recently celebrated their 71st anniversary.<br />
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Frank is survived by Jean, their four daughters Deborah Reese, Mary Linn, Nancy Bear, and Karen Butler; three sons, David, Robert, and Steve; 20 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren.<br />
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Awakening the joy of sailing for so many people in past generations, Frank Butler’s sailing legacy will certainly continue well into in future generations.
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-55029093216788571812020-11-11T08:03:00.002-05:002020-11-20T08:12:58.560-05:00J/Newsletter- November 11th, 2020<strong style="color: navy; font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 150%;"><img align="right" alt="Sunset off Malta" data-file-id="111734" height="153" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/423d4096-5525-42e4-82b1-419924efffc1.jpg" style="border: 0px initial; height: 153px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></strong>It was a fascinating combination of events that were sailed this past week around the world. While several notable events were again canceled, like the French J/80 National Championship, the ones that did take place featured fun, challenging sailing.<br />
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Perhaps the most breathtaking turnout happened to be in China. The Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club's annual 26.0nm Hong Kong Round Island Race had an impressive entry list of 227 boats from 14 classes including 7 one-design classes. The fleet included a J/70, J/80 one-design class, and handicap racing for a J/105, J/111, J/122E, J/111, and J/145. Lots of silver won by these J/Teams!<br />
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Off to their west, Russia's J/70 class had their TENZOR CUP by PROYachting finale at the Black Sea resort of Sochi, Russia for the best J/70 teams in their vast country. It was the fourth and final regatta of that series that started in Moscow and went to the Konakovo River Club, Pirogovo, and closed in Sochi.<br />
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Headed still further west, the Spanish J/80 class started their first of three weekends racing in the Trofeo MRS Seguros de Cruceros series off Santander, Spain and hosted by the Real Club Maritimo de Santander. The dozen boat fleet has four J/80 World Championship titles amongst them...yikes!<br />
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Finally, going way, way west to the USA west coast, we find San Diego YC's infamous Hot Rum Series take place for an enthusiastic group of J/Sailors. Needless to say, not only did J/105 win the first race overall, it seemed like the whole J/105 class dominated overall in a fleet that also included a J/111, J/125, and three J/145s!<br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="https://www.nbc.com/today/video/how-sail-academy-teaches-kids-science-and-math-on-the-open-water/4263915" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="Hudson River Community Sailing on NBC-TV" data-file-id="113006" height="394" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/6d2b29d4-c0b9-41aa-ac40-21f6f1a6e495.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 394px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>
Hudson River Community Sailing J/80s Featured on NBC-TV 3rd Hour Show!</b></span></span></h2>
(New York, NY)- The NBC Today Show 3rd Hour ran a piece on Sadia Zaman- a 4th year student at the Hudson River Community Sailing (HRCS) program, located at Chelsea Piers (near Hudson Yards) on the west side of New York city. <br />
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<a href="https://www.nbc.com/today/video/how-sail-academy-teaches-kids-science-and-math-on-the-open-water/4263915" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/80 sailboat on NBC-TV for Hudson River Community Sailing" data-file-id="112986" height="322" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/15cb43d6-dd46-4c0b-9061-8440ab2eb61c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 322px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
See how this after school program in New York City teaches S.T.E.M. principles of science, technology, engineering, math and life skills through the sport of sailing! An enjoyable and insightful video of the HRCS program and how it has had life-changing impacts on kids lives in the greater NYC area. For <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j80" target="_blank">more J/80 one-design class sailboat information</a>. Watch <a href="https://www.nbc.com/today/video/how-sail-academy-teaches-kids-science-and-math-on-the-open-water/4263915" target="_blank">NBC's Today Show 3rd Hour feature here</a>.<br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j40" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/40 sailing off Marblehead, MA" data-file-id="113074" height="460" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f53f07a2-d611-44c1-b326-37cfb6168917.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 460px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
Marblehead to Halifax Race 2021 Announcement</span></h2>
(Marblehead, MA)- Skipper John “Drew” Plominski is hoping that lightning doesn’t strike twice. Plominski, whose boat was destroyed by lightning two years ago, was first in line to register for the 39th biennial Marblehead-to-Halifax Ocean race to take place this coming summer.<br />
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"We’re thrilled to see Drew back for another try,” said Richard Hinterhoeller, Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron co-race director. Registration is now open for 2021, and we are expecting a robust fleet to compete."<br />
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Plominski’s 30-foot vessel, named Perseverance, was just about ready for the 2019 edition. Along with his wife and three friends, he planned to compete in the 363-mile biennial race to Nova Scotia in 2019.<br />
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The South Boston resident left his boat moored at the Columbia Yacht Club the night before the big race and was at his house, just a couple of blocks away, when he heard the loud noise that sounded like a boom and a crack, he said. <br />
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“It was nuts,” Plominski remarked at the time, as he went down to inspect his boat. “All the electronics were completely fried,” he said. As a result, it forced him to withdraw from the 2019 race.<br />
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His new boat is a J/40 named ARTEMISIA. He competed in the 2020 Beringer Cup race from Marblehead to Provincetown, MA. A good tune-up for the 363-mile race to Halifax, Nova Scotia.<br />
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The Marblehead-to-Halifax started in 1905 and has been held every other year, except during wartime. Called the “Grand Daddy of ocean races,” it's the premier New England coast sailing event.<br />
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The 2021 Notice of Race has been posted on the Marblehead to Halifax website at http://www.marbleheadtohalifax.com. According to BYC co-race director Karen Tenenbaum, “we think there is a lot of pent-up demand and sailors are anxious to get back on the water.”<br />
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The race is co-sponsored by the Boston Yacht Club in Marblehead and the Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron of Halifax. <strong>For more information, please contact Ed Bell at Boston YC- email: Edbell40@gmail.com</strong> For <a href="http://www.marbleheadtohalifax.com" target="_blank">more Marblehead to Halifax Race sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j44" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/44 sailing SORC Islands in Stream series" data-file-id="108350" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e1010ded-a172-44d4-9236-2782219cc9cd.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
Changes for SORC "Islands in the Stream Series"</span></h2>
(Miami, FL)- The SORC (Southern Ocean Racing Circuit) winter plan for the 2020-21 Islands in the Stream Series in south Florida and the Bahamas has evolved due to COVID-19 restrictions. The event has seen growing popularity amongst enthusiastic offshore sailors in the J/Family. Over the past few seasons, a J/121, J/122, J/109, J/92, J/105, J/30, J/44, J/111, J/120, and J/130 have participated in some or all of the series. Please see updates below.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="SORC Islands in Stream series locations" data-file-id="112978" height="328" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c2f6ab02-69dc-4e17-a508-0767c68d1184.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 328px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">2020-21 Islands in the Stream Series</span></h3>
• <strong>November 12, 2020</strong>: (REVISED) The 79th edition of the Nassau Cup Ocean Race, a 180 nm course from Miami to Nassau, leaving Great Isaac and Great Stirrup to starboard, is no longer possible due to current protocols in the Bahamas. Instead, an ocean race of approximately 178 nm will be held starting in and returning to Miami. <a href="http://www.nassaucuprace.org" target="_blank">www.nassaucuprace.org</a><br />
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• <strong>December 5, 2020</strong>: (REVISED) The Wirth M Munroe Palm Beach Race, known as the “Race to the Buffett” to Sailfish Club of Florida’s legendary party, feast and awards presentation, is now a course from Lauderdale to Palm Beach and back. <a href="http://www.sailfishclub.com/munroe" target="_blank">www.sailfishclub.com/munroe</a><br />
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• <strong>January 21, 2021</strong>: The series then heads south for some "island time" with the Ft. Lauderdale to Key West Race. The tropics in January provide the perfect spot to unwind with the Conch Grinder Race, and to enjoy the treasures and pleasures of Key West before the awards party at First Flight Island Bar and Restaurant (formerly Kelly’s Caribbean). <a href="http://www.keywestrace.org" target="_blank">www.keywestrace.org</a><br />
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• <strong>February 17, 2021:</strong> It all wraps up with another trip to the Bahamas with the 2nd annual Eleuthera Race, starting off South Beach, Miami and finishing at the Cape Eleuthera Resort and Marina. <a href="http://www.eleutherarace.org" target="_blank">www.eleutherarace.org</a> For <a href="http://www.sorcsailing.org/ " target="_blank">more SORC Island in the Stream Series sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 sailing mixed doublehanded offshore" data-file-id="111206" height="270" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/57884bc4-73c6-4ed3-b4b4-80166f975a60.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 270px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
Transforming Interest in Offshore Sailing</span></h2>
(London, England)- J/Boats has long supported shorthanded sailing in its various forms since 1977, starting with the introduction of the J/24. Designer Rod Johnstone's most favorite form of sailing and racing has been doublehanded, either with his wife- Lucia- or nephew Clay Burkhalter. Rod has done numerous events offshore on Long Island and Block Island Sounds or doing the Bermuda One-Two event multiple times. To that end, virtually all designs at J/Boats have taken into account the desire to make J's easily sailed singlehanded or doublehanded by young and old alike and by men or women. With the advent of the Olympics 2024 Mixed Doublehanded Offshore event, J/Boats has been supporting the efforts by World Sailing to promote shorthanded offshore sailing. <br />
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<img align="right" alt="World Sailing Mark Allen" data-file-id="112974" height="300" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a05fb3c8-9f4f-434e-9ec2-332b977c4001.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 300px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 224px;" width="224" />Here's a recent interview with Matt Allen; currently the Vice-Chair of World Sailing’s Oceanic and Offshore Committee and a respected person in offshore sailing.<br />
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The Australian, who has raced in the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 30 times, winning on three occasions, provides insight on how Offshore Doubles is growing and why offshore sailing is thriving:<br />
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WS: Give some insight on the scope of your committee’s work?<br />
MA: The Oceanic and Offshore Committee at World Sailing brings together many of stake holders in the world of offshore sailing. The Committee assists in coordinating the calendar of events of all the major oceanic races such as the Vendée Globe and The Ocean Race.<br />
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We are the final approval body for safety regulations for offshore sailing. This is an extremely important role, especially as we review major incidents and as technology allows improvements to safety outcomes.<br />
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Bringing standardization of measurement of a yacht for rating has been an important development. Much of our work in the last year has been focused on bringing mixed double handed sailing into the Olympic Games in 2024 and beyond.<br />
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WS: What evidence is there to suggest that Double Handed offshore sailing is growing so fast?<br />
MA: Both global rating systems, namely ORC and IRC, have seen enormous interest and growth in their double handed certifications. Many of our races, including the Rolex Sydney Hobart Race here in Australia, have included double handed divisions into their races.<br />
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New boats are being designed and built and I see some very good yachts coming into this area over the next two years.<br />
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WS: What can we expect from the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race this year with regards to double handed participation?<br />
MA: At this stage I understand that 25% of the entries are double handed. I think this percentage for the first year is underlying how popular this form of sailing might be in years to come.<br />
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WS: Mixed Offshore will feature at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. What can we expect from that event?<br />
MA: To bring offshore sailing into the Olympics will be a sensational event for showcasing sailing as it will be the only event to go through the night-time over three days and two nights. It will be a live event in the natural environment, pushing people to the limit of sleep deprivation.<br />
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To bring an offshore race with a female and male onboard into the viewing public will transform interest in offshore sailing and create strong growth in our sport. <a href="https://www.sailing.org/news/90526.php#.X6QgD1B7mM8" target="_blank">Thanks for contribution from World Sailing</a>.<br />
<hr /><span class="title"><img align="none" alt="J/Gear Holiday special 20% off" data-file-id="110782" height="445" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/bfd8faa4-edde-4d88-aeff-499b2c412bde.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 445px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 572px;" width="572" /><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
J/Gear HOLIDAY 20% OFF Specials!</span></h2>
(Newport, RI)- Believe it or not, it is just about time to get into the holiday spirit of things. The year-end is fast approaching and now is as good a time as any to give some thoughts to your holiday shopping for your crew, family, and friends.<br />
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We are offering a 20% discount on all orders excluding the following: J/Models, J/Prints and J/Calendars.<br />
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The discount code is- <span class="subTitle">JB2020XS</span>. It will be effective October 1st through November 28th, 2020.<br />
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Attention J/Boat owners- because of the demand for customization, we encourage "early ordering" in an effort to meet holiday gift dates. <br />
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NOTE- The J/Class logo of your choice can embroidered on the front. We can also customize with your detail. Perfect for the whole crew! For <a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/" target="_blank">more information and to buy now</a>.<br />
<hr /><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span></h4>
Nov. 21- <a href="https://sdyc.org/" target="_blank">Hot Rum Series II- San Diego, CA</a><br />
Nov 28-30- <a href="https://www.rcmsantander.com/" target="_blank">Mundialito J/80 Regatta- Santander, Spain</a><br />
Dec 1-6- <a href="http://www.j70brasil.com/" target="_blank">J/70 South American Championship- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil</a><br />
Dec 4-6- <a href="http://www.mobayyachtclub.com/" target="_blank">J/22 Jammin Jamaica Regatta- Montego Bay, Jamaica</a><br />
Dec 4- <a href="http://www.sailfishclub.com" target="_blank">Wirth M Munroe Memorial Race- Palm Beach, FL</a><br />
Dec 5- <a href="https://sdyc.org/" target="_blank">Hot Rum Series III- San Diego, CA</a> <br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j80" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/80s sailing off Santander, Spain" data-file-id="113018" height="322" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b11bd9da-dfc8-4de5-90ee-15e099e3604f.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 322px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/80 Trofeo MRS Seguros de Cruceros Series Starts</span></h2>
(Santander, Spain)- The Real Club Maritimo de Santander (RCMS) is hosting the 2020 edition of the Trofeo MRS Seguros for the Spanish J/80 class off Santander, Spain. Long a hotbed of J/80 talent, it's not surprising to see some of that local talent atop the series lead after the first weekend of sailing in the three-weekend series.<br />
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The fleet sailed in westerlies ranging from 275 to 295 all weekend long. Sailing the most consistent regatta so far is multi-J/80 World Champion Jose Maria "Pichu" Torcida with a 2-1-3-2 tally for 5 pts net. Fellow club members of RCMS are currently filling up the podium. Sitting in second is David Madrazo with a 6-4-5-3 record for 12 pts net. And, rounding out the podium is Jaime Yllera Secades with a 3-7-6-5 scoreline for 14 pts net. <br />
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More racing will take place for the extremely competitive fleet of a dozen boats from the greater Cantabrian region. For <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j80" target="_blank">more J/80 one-design class sailboat informatio</a>n. For <a href="https://www.rcmsantander.com/" target="_blank">more J/80 Trofeo MRS Seguros de Cruceros Series sailing information</a>.<br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="Russian J/70 sailing championship off Sochi, Russia" data-file-id="113058" height="306" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e9f39acc-262c-4c3a-9de8-062e7650389b.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 306px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
ARTTUBE RUS-1 Wins TENZOR Cup by PROYachting J/70 Champion Series</span></h2>
(Sochi, Russia)- For the 2020 sailing season, PROYachting partnered with TENZOR Consulting Group to launch a new series that gathered together the best Russian sailing teams in the J/70 class. The regatta was run along the lines of the notable sailing leagues in Russia and across Europe. The event was composed of matched J/70 one-designs with new sails, professional refereeing, convenient locations, and of course the best sailors in all of Russia dueling for top honors. The series started in Moscow at the Royal Yacht Club, thereafter to the Konakovo River Club, then to Pirogovo, and then the finale in the famous Black Sea resort of Sochi.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="Russian J/70s sailing off Sochi, Russia" data-file-id="113082" height="298" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/ec926d46-25e1-4d4d-abf9-e7b76c484837.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 298px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
After five races, winning the finale in Sochi was the DC Team, followed by Team ARMORED in second and Valeriya Kovalenko's familiar ARTTUBE RUS-1 Team in third. <br />
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As a result, the ARTTUBE RUS-1 team of Ms. Kovalenko and crew of Sergey Avdonin, Igor Lisovenko, and Denis Rozhkov were declared the overall winners for the TENZOR CUP by PROYachting series! The team performed great at all four stages and deservedly took the overall championship. Congratulations! <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="PROYachting Russian J/70s sailing off Sochi, Russia" data-file-id="113042" height="322" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/cc5bccb7-1be8-40e8-8c24-43c353b1036e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 322px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
For the balance of the podium, taking the Silver was the DC Team skippered by the ever-competitive Denis Cherevatenko. And, taking the bronze was Team BARS skippered by yet another top Russian woman- Karen Stepanyan. For <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank">more J/70 one-design class sailing information</a>. For <a href="https://www.facebook.com/j70rus/" target="_blank">more Russian J/70 Class sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j145" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/145s dueling at San Diego YC Hot Rum Series" data-file-id="113034" height="326" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/8b9b545b-6ca1-4e4c-9521-25b2cac49541.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 326px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
J/Crews Sweep Classes in Hot Rum Series I</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">J/105s Eclipse Top Seven Overall!</span></h3>
(San Diego, CA)- The first weekend of San Diego Yacht Club's famous Hot Rum Series took place last weekend for a remarkably large fleet of boats, with 114 boats registered for the event. All across the board in a number of divisions, J/Teams had remarkable outcomes, with many dominating the podium.<br />
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Rudy Hasl, skipper and owner of the J/145 PALAEMON, had this to say, "it was an amazing day for the J/Family in San Diego. J/Boats finished 1st, 2d, and 3rd place in Division I of the first race of the Hot Rum Series in San Diego. We were thrilled!"<br />
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In fact, Rudy's J/145 PALAEMON won their Division I in the spectacular sailing conditions, with winds ranging from 12 to 25 knots inside of San Diego Bay! Flat water, with reaching, running and beating home to the finish. Taking second was Standish Fleming's J/125 NEREID and third went to another J/145- Ernie Pennell's MORE MADNESS. <br />
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In Division 2, it was perennial winner Chuck Nichols' J/120 CC RIDER taking the honors, with Ed Sanford's J/111 CREATIVE finishing in 5th place. <br />
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The so-called "J/105 class" sailing in Division 4 saw them leading a sweep of the top seven! Winning was Jim Dorsey's J-OK, followed by Jeff Brown's SWEET KAREN in second, and George Scheel's SUN PUFFIN in third to round out the podium. In addition, Steve & Lucy Howell's BLINK! took 4th, the duo of Vieregg/ Bermann was 5th, and Bill Quealy's J-RABBIT SLIM was 6th. Next in 7th place was Chuck Bowers' J/29 RHUMB RUNNER. That was quite a tour'de'force for J/sailors in a fleet of 21 boats.<br />
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In the overall results, the J/105s nearly swept the top five spots. Winning the J/105 fleet parade was Dorsey's J-OK, with Brown's SWEET KAREN in 3rd, Scheel's SUN PUFFIN in 5th, the Howell's BLINK in 6th place, and the Vieregg/ Bermann duo's ZUNI BEAR in 7th position. <strong>Sailing photo credit- Mark Albertazzi</strong> For<a href="http://www.sdyc.org" target="_blank"> more SDYC Hot Rum Series sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j35" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/35 wins Hong Kong Round Island Race" data-file-id="113094" height="374" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/47c5b1f3-2cb0-40a1-8df9-5c7d2983412e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 374px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">
J/35 Dominates Hong Kong Round Island Race!</span></h2>
(Hong Kong, China)- Hong Kong’s biggest annual celebration of sail, Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club’s annual Around the Island Race, a 26.0nm circumnavigation of Hong Kong Island, took place last weekend with an impressive entry list of 227 boats from 14 classes including 7 one-design classes, Sportsboats, HKPN, IRC, dinghies and beach catamarans.<br />
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Principal Race Officer David Norton set two start lines off of Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club's Kellett Island Clubhouse with the line closest to Kellett Island used to start the one design boats and the outside line for HKPN, IRC and beach catamarans divisions. The race course took the fleet sailing around Hong Kong Island to starboard (clockwise).<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j80" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/80s starting off Royal Hong Kong starting line" data-file-id="113086" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/241c1da0-977b-4be4-8eb0-4f000421c22c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The first start was at 0830 hrs with the Pandoras and HKPN Monohulls which set off in an easterly breeze varying 4 to 11 kts and there was a race start every five minutes until 1100hrs.<br />
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Before a majority of boats could get out of the harbour, a weak northerly breeze was blocked by Kowloon Peninsula leading to a huge fleet of yachts parking up at Lei Yue Mun gap due to the incoming tide. But, later the fleet was greeted with a northeasterly breeze of 8 kts near Shek O. As the fleet made their way around Stanley Head, it was a colorful sight to behold with hundreds of kites on the horizon and the breeze had built to 10 kts at the southern side of Hong Kong Island. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j80" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/80 sailing Hong Kong Round Island Race" data-file-id="113046" height="338" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/0322833b-13b7-4987-aca9-58664ad7e641.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 338px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
As the day progressed, the wind softened by noon and the breeze was again blocked by Hong Kong Island and another wind hole developed around Ape Lei Chau. PRO David Norton noted that two HKPN boats were well ahead of the main fleet and it was a tough decision then as to whether or not to shorten the course. Norton said, "two fast boats started relatively early and were well ahead, so that limited our choices. By noon, we recorded good wind at Green Island so we made a risky decision to finish at Kellett Island so sailors could do a full circumnavigation.” <br />
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The J/145 REDEYE, sailed by David Mitchell Paul Leese, took the silver in IRC 1.040-1.119 Class. They were followed by the J/122E JINN sailed by Nico Cohen-Addad in fourth place. Then, Steve Devlin's J/111 JUGGERKNOT finished 9th place. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j35" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/35 wins Hong Kong Round Island Race" data-file-id="113030" height="334" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c40783bb-f018-419b-a5c0-6d32b527b6b0.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 334px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
HKPN Overall winner and HKPN 1151-1220 Class winner was J/35 NO ONE ELSE sailed by Wing Hung Ng; they won by a considerable corrected time margin on the entire fleet.<br />
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In the Sportboats class, the J/70 DAZIBAO sailed by Andrew Ellis took the bronze.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="Hong Kong Round Island race sunset" data-file-id="113054" height="280" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/418622f1-f460-4542-8f82-783f64e27242.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 280px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
Trouncing the sixteen-boat J/80 Class, by far the largest one-design keelboat class in the race, was the trio on JAMMIN- A. Segaud M. Dubreuil/ J. Ten Berge. Their round-island time was nearly an hour faster over the second place team- Alain Choi's POIEMA. However, it was a battle behind the JAMMIN team for the top five; all separated by less than seven minutes after 26.0 nm of racing. Third went to Henry Wong's FOOTLOOSE, fourth to Claude Wong's JELIGNITE, and fifth to the duo of Fraser Boyd & Pete Lake on JOSS. A good showing was had by all. <strong>Sailing photo credits- Guy Nowell/ Sailworld.com and Vivian Ngang.</strong> For more<a href="https://www.rhkyc.org.hk/AroundtheIslandRace.aspx" target="_blank"> Royal Hong Kong YC Round Island Race sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="title">J/Community</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span></h3>
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<strong>* J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned J/Boats from around the world here: <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">https://jnet.jboats.com/</a><br />
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<a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2018-J121-rVMeHksF" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/121 for sale brokerage" data-file-id="113098" height="358" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a7132bc5-ec6b-4d62-a82f-851745ee515a.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 358px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Race-ready <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/2018-J121-rVMeHksF" target="_blank">J/121 in pristine condition available in New Orleans, LA.</a> <br />
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<img align="none" alt="Ched and Judy Proctor" data-file-id="113038" height="430" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a2856dfe-d38f-4196-8d59-2ad86cee9375.jpg" style="border: 0px initial; height: 430px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><strong>* Ched Proctor Interview- by Dave Powlison at Sailing World</strong></h2>
[Ed. Note: Ched has known the Johnstone family for nearly four decades. First meeting was in Pewaukee, WI when Bob & Mary J. and Stu & Drake J. started sailing 470s in 1973 in Chicago, IL. At that time, Ched had just gotten a job working with the famous Finn Olympic Medallist, Peter Barret, at the North Sails loft in Pewaukee. Things were small back then, as the North Sails loft was actually part of the Harken Yacht Equipment building, as well as Harken's boat-building operation. Ched spent a lot of time with Peter and Olaf Harken. And, the Johnstone's spent a lot of time with Ched (and fellow Hingham, MA friend Chuck Millican) tinkering on 470s, learning how to make them go faster at various venues across the Midwest and Northeast, the most popular regions for 470s back in the day. In due course, once Bob and brother Rod J. co-founded J/Boats in 1977 with the J/24, Ched had also moved back to the northeast working for North Sails. In the first year of its existence, Ched was tasked with being the one-design guru for the J/24 class, as well as Vince Brun out West, and later five-time J/24 World Champion Kenny Read. Ched continued to work closely with the Johnstone clan with every new one-design product introduction since, including the J/22, J/70, and J/80- four of the world's largest one-design offshore keelboat classes.]<br />
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Herewith, Powlison's interview with our dear friend Ched:<br />
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With nearly a half-century of small-boat one-design racing and sailmaking in his wake, Ched Proctor is set in his ways, and his ways are fast.<br />
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In 1964, Ched Proctor had a serious case of the slows. He was 14 and competing in Turnabouts in Scituate, Massachusetts, just southeast of Boston. “I remember coming in to the dock and being very frustrated,” he says. There was Bill Mattern, high school teacher, part-time garage sailmaker and unofficial mentor for the junior racing crowd. Proctor asked him what he thought of his sail. Mattern studied it and quickly confirmed the young sailor’s suspicion.<br />
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Seventy-five dollars later, with a new sail in hand, Proctor headed for Quincy Bay Race Week. Though he hadn’t been that competitive in his local fleet, he mustered the courage to sign up for the championship division—and won it. With that victory came an epiphany—at least for a 14-year-old—that would determine the trajectory of his life: “I learned then that a sail with the right shape makes the boat go faster.”<br />
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Professionally, Proctor would go on to work almost 50 years with North Sails, taking him to lofts in Wisconsin, Australia, Germany and Connecticut. Competitively, he would roll up an unparalleled list of one-design North American and National titles, notching 17 major victories in the Lightning class alone, including that class’s 2018 and 2019 North American Championships. A lot of the one-design sails North Sails sells today were designed by Proctor.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="Ched and Judy Proctor and kids" data-file-id="113062" height="430" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/ed97f1f5-042b-4a38-b91d-e5d27fcf5dd6.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 430px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
The family sailing unit has always been tight with the Proctor clan, Ched and Judy Proctor and their sons Thomas and Charlie.<br />
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Proctor is a waterman who grew up on a bay in Weymouth, just south of Boston. He remembers, around age 5, spending time in an old, derelict rowboat in the backyard. “I pretended to row it using a couple of brooms,” he says. “It got to the point where I wore out the ground under the brooms and wore the bristles right off them. About that same time, my father tried to teach me how to sail and steer a boat upwind. I just couldn’t do it.” There’s a subtle shrug and hint of disappointment in his voice as he tells that story, and then concedes, “It seems that 7 is more the right age to learn that sort of thing.” Read <a href="https://www.sailingworld.com/story/racing/the-ways-of-ched-proctor/" target="_blank">the rest of the article here at Sailing World:</a><br />
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<img align="none" alt="Greg Fisher at Evolution Sails" data-file-id="112994" height="322" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/edbdfdae-ffc4-47db-b1d2-866e9e2d5c76.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 322px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><strong>* Greg Fisher joins Sailing Inc. / Evolution Sails</strong></h2>
Another long-time J/Sailor and has gone full circle in the sailing world. First having sailed Lightnings and working for Bill Shore at Shore Sails. Later, helping develop J/24 sails for Shore Sails, Greg Fisher notably took over College of Charleston's sailing program and turned it into a college sailing powerhouse. Now, he's back to sailmaking again!<br />
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Universally liked in the sport, Greg Fisher helps people enjoy sailing, and now will be taking his talents to the Sailing Inc. / Evolution Sails team (Sailing Inc is a J/Boats dealer in Ohio). Here’s their announcement:<br />
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Sailing Inc., a trusted provider of premium sailing and marine products, services and support, welcomes Greg Fisher as the Evolution Sails Loft Manager for the Sailing Inc. Charleston (SC) location.<br />
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Fisher, a Collegiate All-American, has won 25 National, North American or World Championships in 7 different one design classes and is an acclaimed expert in the sailing community for over 40 years. Fisher will head up our Sailing Inc. / Evolution Sails team in Charleston (SC) while working closely with locations in Cleveland (OH), Sandusky (OH), and St. Petersburg (FL).<br />
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Fisher will lead the administrative and business development functions of Sailing Inc. and Evolution Sails in Charleston, and help support the further development of the research, design and production of the Evolution Sails product lines. His extensive knowledge as a sailor, sailmaker and coach will grow Sailing Inc.’s capacity to provide expert level service and professional support across the United States.<br />
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Fisher will focus on building a stronger relationship between the sailor and the sailmaker, leveraging Evolution Sails championship-caliber sail design and production teams to deliver high-performance, long-lasting cruising and racing sails built by one of the world’s most innovative sailmakers.<br />
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“I am enthused to return to my sailing career ‘roots’ with my new position at Sailing Inc. / Evolution Sails,” said Fisher. “Sailmaking is where I started almost 45 years ago! To be able to pursue this new chapter with such a talented and passionate team at Sailing Inc., who share a strong customer focus is exciting.”<br />
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Fisher continues, “I’ve sailed with new sails from Evolution and am impressed with the high-performance design and superb quality of construction. I look forward to helping sell and promote this exceptional brand right here in Charleston and across the US. I am fired up to join the Sailing Inc. / Evolution Sails team effort to support all of Charleston’s sailing community!”<br />
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Fisher has been active in the sailing industry for over 40 years, starting with his own brand, Fisher Sails, in the late 1980s, and using that early success as a springboard to an accomplished 20-year career with North Sails One-Design.<br />
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Fisher spent 8 years as the Director of Sailing at the College of Charleston, where his teams collected Four Fowle Trophies for the “Best all-around sailing team in the Country”. He also presided over 39 All-Americans and Honorable Mentions and 10 Academic All-Americans.<br />
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He has long been supportive in the development of One-Design sailing within the United States and served on the Board of US Sailing and was chair of the One Design Class Council. Fisher was the former Chief Operating Officer of Olympic Sailing for US Sailing.<br />
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“We are, of course, very excited to have Greg joining the team,” said <strong>Rob Ruhlman (owner of the J/111 and J/88 SPACEMAN SPIFF)</strong>. “Having literally grown up with Greg on and off the race course, I know his competitive spirit, work ethic, and knowledge of the industry. That experience combined with Sailing Inc/ Evolution Sails commitment to excellence will be a great benefit to the sailing community.”<br />
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Please reach out to Greg and welcome him to our team! Contact Greg here- email: greg.fisher@thesailinginc.com / cell: (410) 212-4916.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="Dick Tillman J/24 President" data-file-id="112998" height="356" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/0e2df4aa-2a9b-467a-9575-21cba08b9394.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 356px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><strong>* Eight Bells – Dick Tillman</strong></h2>
The entire J/Boats family was saddened by the news of Dick Tillman crossing the bar on October 15th, 2020.<br />
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Friend, colleague, competitor, and consummate gentleman Dick gave so much more to the sailing world than he ever took from it. Always quick with a kind word and generous with his time helping others, he was the “glue” that kept everyone and everything together.<br />
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In 1981, when the J/24 achieved International Status with 3,000+ boats in 25+ countries, the class leaders knew it was time to establish a professionally-managed class office. The key was finding an Executive Director who not only knew one-design, but who would also have the respect of the international sailing community. Even better if it were someone with the temperament to handle a multitude of strong personalities.<br />
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The J/24 Class had a lot in common with the Laser Class at the time. One of the first J/24 magazine reviews in 1977 (by Jack Knights) was titled “J/24– is this the Laser with a Lid?” The J/24 Class rules were inspired in part by the Laser Class– in particular the ultimate one-design rule- “unless these rules explicitly allow it, then it’s not allowed.” <br />
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Nearly every other J/24 sailor at the time was an active Laser sailor – and enjoying the newly found luxury of sleeping in a comfortable berth at traveling regattas instead of a tent.<br />
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So, in September of 1981, the J/24 Class went big and hired Dick Tillman, the world’s most prolific Laser champion and author. Together with his partner-for-life and wife Linda (who predeceased Dick in 2017), Dick and Linda became the face of the International J/24 Class for 10 years through the J/24’s most prolific decade. <br />
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While Dick handled the class business, Linda published the 100-page glossy J/24 Magazine twice per year. They were an unbeatable combination, a true sailing ‘power couple.’<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="Dick Tillman and Rod Johnstone racing" data-file-id="113002" height="314" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/85c35509-33fd-455a-8ece-f10c3223fe71.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 314px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /><b>
Dick Tillman covering Rod Johnstone during the J/24 Legends Race in the Silver Anniversary Regatta in Newport, RI, sailed on Narragansett Bay.</b><br />
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Jeff Johnstone exclaimed, "I had read Dick’s first Laser book a dozen times and built his Laser hiking bench well before first meeting him in 1981. Then in 1984, we had a chance to sail together crewing for my father Rodney in the 1984 J/24 North Americans in Kingston, Ontario, followed by the 1984 Worlds in Poole, England. As only sailing can do, those two shared regatta experiences made friends-for- life and produced more stories that we’d repeat for the next 30+ years. But, my most memorable times with Dick and Linda were during the several long road trips from Rhode Island to Florida in the 80’s when we often stopped into Merritt Island, Florida. Dick and Linda would welcome us in for a meal and some much-needed rest and then send us on our way the next morning. They made you feel like part of the family, and we were, and they were part of ours."<br />
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The J/Boats community is forever richer by having had Dick and Linda Tillman such an integral part of its fabric. Fair winds and following seas to Dick and Linda, now sailing together again. <a href="https://www.owenfamilyfuneralhome.com/obituary/RichardLloydDick-Tillman" target="_blank">Dick’s tribute wall</a>.
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-57969620327669635992020-11-04T05:00:00.002-05:002020-11-09T20:47:28.746-05:00J/Newsletter- November 4th. 2020<strong style="color: navy; font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 150%;"><img align="right" alt="Sunset off Malta" data-file-id="111734" height="153" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/423d4096-5525-42e4-82b1-419924efffc1.jpg" style="border: 0px initial; height: 153px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></strong>The past week saw a winding down of a variety of sailing events across the northern hemisphere, but we see our colleagues Down Under now winding things up for their amazingly long 9+ month summer sailing season.<br />
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Starting with our friends in Australia, the venerable J/24 class held their almost always hotly contested J/24 NSW Championship hosted by Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club in Pittwater, with racing taking place on Sydney Harbour. The weather made for a rather tempestuous event. <br />
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Then, across to Europe, yet another devoted group of J/24 sailors made the most of their pandemic-restricted event to hold the Coppa Italia J/24 Championship off Nettuno, Italy...a southern "suburb" of Rome along the Mediterranean seacoast. <br />
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Finally, our enthusiastic sailors in the United Kingdom continued their much-coveted fall classic, the Hamble Winter Series on that infamous "river" called the Solent between the Isle of Wight and the greater Southampton region. Crazy weather confronted the fleet, a notorious fall weather pattern that included with "remnant depressions" of Atlantic hurricanes!<br />
<hr /><span class="title"><img align="none" alt="J/Gear Holiday special 20% off" data-file-id="110782" height="445" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/bfd8faa4-edde-4d88-aeff-499b2c412bde.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 445px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 572px;" width="572" /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">
J/Gear HOLIDAY 20% OFF Specials!</span></b></span><br />
(Newport, RI)- Believe it or not, it is just about time to get into the holiday spirit of things. The year-end is fast approaching and now is as good a time as any to give some thoughts to your holiday shopping for your crew, family, and friends.<br />
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We are offering a 20% discount on all orders excluding the following: J/Models, J/Prints and J/Calendars.<br />
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The discount code is- <span class="subTitle">JB2020XS</span>. It will be effective October 1st through November 28th, 2020.<br />
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Attention J/Boat owners- because of the demand for customization, we encourage "early ordering" in an effort to meet holiday gift dates. <br />
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NOTE- The J/Class logo of your choice can embroidered on the front. We can also customize with your detail. Perfect for the whole crew! For <a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/" target="_blank">more information and to buy now</a>.<br />
<hr /><span class="title" style="font-size: large;"><b>Sailing Calendar</b></span><br />
Nov. 7- <a href="https://sdyc.org/" target="_blank">Hot Rum Series I- San Diego, CA</a><br />
Nov. 14- <a href="http://www.rolexchinasearace.com/" target="_blank">Around the Island Race- Hong Kong, China</a><br />
Nov. 21- <a href="https://sdyc.org/" target="_blank">Hot Rum Series II- San Diego, CA</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24s off Sydney Harbor, Australia" data-file-id="112954" height="384" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/14ef8890-115c-4cf0-819b-5c2a377f4589.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 384px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="title" style="font-size: large;"><b>CONVICTS REVENGE Wins J/24 NSW Champs</b></span><br />
(Pittwater, Sydney, Australia)- The Australian J/24 NSW Championships was hosted by Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, Pittwater from October 31st to November 1st on the gorgeous Sydney Harbour. Ten entries participated, but Paul Donnelly's CALYPSO suffered a trailer-related incident and did not compete (it’s a long story but a good one…. ask Paul about it when you’ve got a few minutes to spare).<br />
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Those regular boats who chose not to compete missed out on a great event, notwithstanding the weather which threw everything at us from warm and sunny to thunder and lightning and at times LOTS of rain! The venue and facilities were excellent, lots of hardstand space, cranes, a very professional race crew and helpful, welcoming staff. COVID Rules were obviously in place and restricted social activities a little, but it all ran very well.<br />
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The RPYC PRO Stephen Merrington managed to get all 6 heats run on a difficult stormy weekend when a lot of other club racing around Sydney was cancelled.<br />
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Saturday started with a Northeasterly breeze around 10 kts, but later shifted southerly. Two races had to be abandoned halfway through which was unfortunate (especially for Steve Wright's TINTO, leading both times), but that’s sailing!<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24s off Sydney Harbor, Australia" data-file-id="106225" height="376" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/929e6151-c072-4bb5-aa21-b72b3fc510b4.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 376px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Steve Quigley's CONVICTS REVENGE won Race 1, followed by TINTO and Clinton Hood's EL FIDELDO. Then, Race 2 was won by Dave West's ACE from John Crawford's INNAMINCKA and David McKay's STAMPED URGENT. Another race was started, but then the storm closed in and competitors were sent home in the pouring rain.<br />
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With the forecast for an early southerly expected to get up to 30 kts, hopes were not high for much sailing on Sunday. But, we were fortunate to get all four races run, in a wind moving from SW to S and increasing from 8-10 kt to well over 20 kts.<br />
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Wright's TINTO won Race 3 after a poor first leg, coming from 4th at the last mark to the final margin of 24 seconds from Quigley's CONVICTS REVENGE and West's ACE. Race 4 went to Crawford's INNAMINCKA from CONVICTS REVENGE and ACE. <br />
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With the strengthening wind, all boats we were on jibs for Race 5. This race had the closest finish of the series, with the first five finishing in 6 seconds!! ACE taking first from INNAMINCKA, then TINTO. <br />
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The final race was getting tough with the strong and gusty Southerly really testing everyone. CONVICTS REVENGE got the better of ACE in a tight tactical battle up the second work to win, with TINTO taking third.<br />
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Racing overall was very tight and competitive, with most finishing within 2 or 3 minutes each race. However, there were no protests and no (bad) collisions, so a good weekend all round. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24s off Sydney Harbor, Australia" data-file-id="106181" height="322" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/df52444c-3e7d-45ea-b0ce-4332f1a00de7.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 322px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Congratulations to Quigley's CONVICTS REVENGE team that won the series on a tiebreaker/ countback from West's ACE team on 10 points. Wright's TINTO rounded out the podium with the bronze medal. The balance of the top five included Crawford's INNAMINCKA in fourth and McKay's STAMPED URGENT in fifth position. <br />
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<span class="subTitle">OVANGA DELTA Wins PHS</span><br />
The handicap-based PHS sub-division results gave the win to woman skipper Janette Syme's OKAVANGO DELTA crew. Second was Marc Tromp's WATERBORNE AGAIN and third went to Clinton Hood's EL FIDELDO. <br />
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A "Resilience Prize" was awarded to Steve Arnold's SAILMATES. Competing in their first State Champs, they finished every race and flew a kite on every run. Well done!<br />
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Finally, special “Thanks” to Bryce at Infinity Rigging, and Shane at Doyle Sails who donated prizes for the event. Please support these locally owned businesses where you can. Thanks for this contribution from Stephen Wright. For <a href="http://www.j24.com.au" target="_blank">more Australian J/24 Class sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="right" alt="J/24s sailing off Italy" data-file-id="85313" height="167" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/24dc5837-2651-4628-9766-2889403e8d12.jpg" style="border: 0px initial; height: 167px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 250px;" width="250" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LA SUPERBA Five-peats J/24 COPPA ITALIA!</b></span> </span><br />
(Nettuno, Rome, Italy)- With a trio of victories and a second place for the series, the Italian Navy's Ignazio Bonnano sailed their famous ITA 416 LA SUPERBA to victory in the COPPA ITALIA J/24 off Nettuno, south of Rome along the Mediterranean coastline. Bonanno’s crew included Simone Scontrino, Francesco Linares and Vincenzo Vano. Hosting the event was the Nettuno Yacht Club and the Circolo of Vela Anzio Tirrena, with the technical and logistic collaboration of the Marina di Nettuno, the Circolo Canottieri Nettuno and the Italian Class J/24 and the sponsor support of Margutta Che Frutta!, Life Soup, Bontà Verde Agroama and Mille Gomme.<br />
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Taking the silver medal was Luca Silvestri and his ITA 458 team on ENJOY TWO. Then, sitting in third, just one point from the second, was Massimo Mariotti's ITA 502 AVOLTORE.<br />
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After the first four National Regattas (Marina di Carrara, Mandello del Lario, Cervia, & Nettuno), Bonanno’s LA SUPERBA is leading with Pietro Diamanti's JAMAICA team in second. Eleven J/24s have competed so far in the four-event series. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24s sailing off Italy" data-file-id="112970" height="376" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3b41a4e5-72aa-4627-9d08-bb652d670178.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 376px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
"Maximum attention was paid to the provisions on containing the spread of Covid-19, thanks also to the active collaboration of the Port Authority and the naval sector of the Guardia di Finanza, who were present and available for every need," explained Valerio Taveri of Nettuno Yacht Club. The President of the Marina di Nettuno- Ugo Lori, the NYC President- Mariano Manenti, and the CVAT President- Andrea Sanzone, strongly wanted to host this edition of the Coppa Italia. The Race Committee was composed of Costanzo Villa, Livia Serafini, Emanuela Proietti, Enrico Ragno, very willing to participate in the event, despite the period we are going through. We also wish to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Anzio Maritime District Office and the brilliant assistance of the Maritime Finance."<br />
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The final regatta of the Italian National J/24 series will be held on November 14th and 15th. Thanks for this contribution from Italian J/24 Class secretary Paola Zanoni. For <a href="https://www.j24.it/coppa-italia-la-superba-della-marina-militare-si-aggiudica-il-trofeo/" target="_blank">more Italian J/24 Class sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111s sailing on Solent" data-file-id="112958" height="384" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/96ae73cb-2f0f-43b0-a73a-7b7ae1e65f94.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 384px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>
Hamble Winter Series Week IV Report</b></span></span><br />
(Hamble, England)- The Hamble River Sailing Club worked with local and national authorities in the United Kingdom to ensure that sailing events could take place on the Southampton Water and the infamous Solent while adhering to the covid-19 pandemic guidelines. As a result, they were able to start up their annual Hamble Winter Series, albeit with a bit of a delay. Here is the latest report from Trevor Pountain and thanks to Paul Wyeth for sailing photos.<br />
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"This week should have seen the culmination of the Hamble One-Design Championships, with racing on both Saturday and Sunday. However, the Weather Gods, or Storm Barbara as they were called last week, had other ideas. It was clear for several days in advance, that Saturday would be a complete non-starter. So, competitors were given an early cancellation on Friday lunchtime. With a well-known and respected online weather predictor giving 17-23 knots average, but gusts of 28-33 knots for the Sunday, the Race Team gave another early cancellation on the Saturday to prevent teams travelling and boats being launched.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111s sailing on Solent" data-file-id="112966" height="384" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/0ed466f5-998e-474a-9dde-69102061f2b0.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 384px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The Forecast was not bad enough to trouble the IRC Classes, so Peter Bateson took the fleet to the vicinity of "Hamblewinterseries.com buoy" for a probable start area. The wind was moving between WSW and W, but was otherwise as expected. By 1000 hours it had gone south and dropped to 2-4 knots. There was much head scratching on the committee boat, and the competitors who had braved thunder and hail stones on the way to the start area, began to frantically adjust their rig settings and look for lighter headsails. With Windycator v2 showing 25 knots from the SW everywhere but the Bramble plateau the PRO decided to wait.<br />
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After half an hour, the wind was still light and from the south, so Peter Bateson decide it was better for the fleet to do something rather than sit around waiting. New courses were quickly designed to deal with the southerly starting breeze, but with the later legs ready for the expected southwesterly. <br />
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IRC 1 Class and IRC 2 Class got away at 1110 hrs and 1120 hrs, still in shifty, very light airs from the south. IRC 3 Class departed at 1130 hrs, with a building breeze of 10 knots. <br />
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IRC 1 Class were near the third mark at West Knoll when the "proper" breeze returned (10-15 knots) from the SW. IRC 2 yachts were half way from the first mark (East Knoll) to the second, with spinnakers up, when the wind switched from very little from the S (coming from Cowes) to 15+ knots from the NW (direct from Southampton) and several boats had a minute or two bearing off in the direction of Portsmouth before they could drop their kites and get onto the beat, which the leg had become. IRC 3 started on a beat which turned into a fetch, but at least the second leg became another beat! The rest of the race was more-or-less beats and spinnaker runs, as intended!<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111s sailing on Solent" data-file-id="112962" height="384" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/649aa766-ac93-4b07-a64c-fa055a05e4aa.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 384px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Big wind shifts nearly always have a snakes and ladders effect on the positions, and so it was in IRC 2 Class. Simon Perry's J/019 JIRAFFE got caught up in the pin end melee, leaving Mike & Susie Yates J/109 JAGO in clear air mid-line, alongside Gavin Howe's J/88 TIGRIS and Rob Cotterill J/109 MOJO RISIN. <br />
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In the end, it was the Yates' JAGO taking line honors and extending their lead for the series with a cumulative 2-1-1 tally for 4 pts and a near-unassailable lead on the fleet. However, "no one is counting their chickens before they hatch", so to speak. Perry's JIRAFFE team got smoked and ended up taking a 6th place to drop off their "death match" with the JAGO team...now posting 11 pts. Sailing the most consistently is Gavin Howe's J/88 TIGRIS, hanging onto third overall with the series with a 4th place, for a total of 11 pts. Yet another J/crew sits on fourth for the series, Mark Stevens' J/105 JACANA with a 4-2-7 tally for 13 pts. <br />
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In IRC 3, the amazing Greenhalgh family continues to hang in there. Though they had a disappointing 6th place this past weekend, their series tally of 6-1-6 for 13 pts keeps them in the hunt at the top of the leaderboard. While currently sitting in third place, no one doubts they have the talent and the desire to jump to the top of the class. <br />
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The Key Yachting Prosecco and Chocolates were enjoyed by all the winners, not just Susie Yates.<br />
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Next week is the mid series break, and when the fleet returns on November 8th for the real winter bit of the series. <a href="http://www.pwpictures.com " target="_blank">Sailing photo credits- Paul Wyeth</a> For <a href="https://www.hamblewinterseries.com/article/141963" target="_blank">more Hamble Winter Series sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title" style="font-size: large;"><b>J/Community</b></span><br />
<span class="subTitle"><b>What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</b></span><br />
-----------<br />
<strong>* J/Net Brokerage Specials!</strong> Check out our exciting new site for lovingly-owned J/Boats from around the world here: <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/" target="_blank">https://jnet.jboats.com/</a><br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/100 for sale brokerage" data-file-id="111274" height="284" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b587fbbf-d860-4e45-bfba-4c13a304abd7.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 284px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
The elegant "Amazing Grace" is the most recently re-fitted and upgraded J/100 on the market. The J/100 is proven both as a daysailer and for inshore racing. Now based in Falmouth, Maine, Amazing Grace was originally a freshwater boat until purchased and re-fitted as a dual-purpose sailboat in 2017. Her current owner is a highly experienced and successful cruising and racing sailor who knows how to keep a boat in top condition. However, due to a change in family circumstances, she has been used very little since being re-fitted and raced only once (a short club race that she won handily even without her new race sails). Here is a chance to own a true "gold-plater", a gorgeous example of the coveted J/100 daysailer.<br />
Learn <a href="https://jnet.jboats.com/listings/J100-tyG1ABPb" target="_blank">more here on J/NET BROKERAGE</a>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828513.179868563821152 -106.4690785 69.80033623617885 -36.156578499999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6330661950916582070.post-34825770774606107592020-10-28T07:00:00.001-04:002020-11-09T21:23:10.067-05:00J/Newsletter- October 28th, 2020<strong style="color: navy; font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 150%;"><img align="right" alt="sunet off Malta" data-file-id="111734" height="153" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/423d4096-5525-42e4-82b1-419924efffc1.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 153px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 300px;" width="300" /></strong>This past week saw a lot of season-ending sailing activity taking place in Europe and eastern Europe. Lots of J/70 sailing league events from Russia in the east to the United Kingdom in the west, northern Germany down to Italy/ Spain. <br />
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Starting in the north, the originators of the sailing league concept held their final event in Hamburg, Germany on the gorgeous, downtown, Alster Lake. It was the occasion for the J/70 DSL Cup for eighteen teams across Germany. <br />
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Down to the south, the Spanish held their Villalia J/70 Open de Espana in Vigo, Spain. The Real Club Nautico de Vigo hosted eighteen teams for an amazing four-day event off western Spain on the Atlantic Ocean. Off to the east of them in northern Italy, the Italian J/70 Cup- Act 2 was held on the famous Lago di Garda, hosted by Fraglia Vela Malcesine on the eastern shoreline of Malcesine, Italy. A simply fabulous place to sail!<br />
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To the west, the Hamble Sailing Club in Hamble, United Kingdom hosted the J/70 One-design Championship on the Solent for an incredibly competitive fleet of boats. Off to the east, the Russian J/70 Class hosted their National Championship on the Klyazma River immediately north of Moscow. The eighteen-boat fleet was hosted by the Pirogovo Yacht Club in Pirogovo, Russia. <br />
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Finally, in the middle of Europe, the EFG Swiss Sailing League Women’s Cup was hosted in Ascona-Locarno, Switzerland for the top Swiss women's sailing teams. The sailing conditions on the northern part of spectacular Lago Maggiore could not have been better. <br />
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Big boat sailing has been taking place on the Solent as well in the U.K. The Hamble Sailing Club started up their annual HYS Hamble Winter Series two weeks ago, much to the delight of a number of J/sailors! Check out the report below. <br />
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Over in the Americas, sailing is still taking place in the warmer parts of the vast country. On the east coast, it was Severn Sailing Association in Annapolis, Maryland that hosted the combined J/22 and J/24 East Coast Championships on the Chesapeake Bay. A fantastic turn-out honored the passing of a very much beloved Geoff Ewenson [Ed. note- as a young boy, Stu & Drake Johnstone taught Geoff how to sail and race as the sailing instructors for Ida Lewis Yacht Club in Newport, RI. Geoff will be missed by many friends and sailors.]<br />
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Out in the Pacific Northwest, a paradigm-shift occurred amongst the local sailors. With the pandemic restrictions throttling just about any effort by the local sailing clubs to run events, the sailors took matters into their own hands. The very popular Seattle Yacht Club Grand Prix regatta was cancelled, so the sailors created the "Virtual Seattle YC Grand Prix Adventure!"<br />
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Finally, do not miss reading the amazing article and interview by Carol Cronin and SEAHORSE magazine about Rod Johnstone's epic adventure that resulted in the person and company you know today- J/Boats Inc. Fun read, many amusing anecdotes Rod has not shared in recent memory! Even the editor learned a lot about Uncle Rod in this interview!<br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j145" target="_blank"><img alt="J/145 Katara sailing offshore" data-file-id="109138" height="414" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/003d33ab-43e0-4ccd-ac24-1f78d1b8767e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 414px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="title">Hot Rum Series Preview</span><br />
(San Diego, CA)- The San Diego Yacht Club's incredibly popular Hot Rum Series will be starting on time again on November 7th, 2020. With nearly 100 entries, it proves the event is as popular as ever for Southern Californians, despite living in pandemic times. It's one of the most popular "pursuit style" races in America, where slowest boat starts first hours ahead of the biggest and fastest boats, whoever crosses the line first wins! Starting and finishing just off the western end of Shelter Island, the fleet heads out en-masse through the Point Loma passage to two buoys offshore and return to the same start line to finish the race just off Shelter Island.<br />
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Since it is consistently one of the world's largest PHRF "pursuit races", the little boats know they almost always have no chance of winning overall and simply enjoy the parade of beautiful large sailing yachts gliding past them in all their glory. The smallest, slowest boats (J/22s & J/24s) start well over an hour before the biggest boats- the J/145s and J/160s, for example.<br />
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In this year's edition, there will be two J/145s- Rudy Hasl's PALAEMON and Ernie Pennell's MORE MADNESS. In addition, participating will be three J/105s- George Scheel's SUN PUFFIN, Steve & Lucy Howell's BLINK, and Richard Collins' LUCKY DUCK. Joining them will be Seth Hall's J/124 MARISOL, Ed Sanford's J/111 CREATIVE, Chuck Nichols J/120 CC RIDER, Chuck Bowers's J/29 RHUMB RUNNER, and two J/30s (Tim Lynch's RUFFIAN & Bob Noe's MAD HATTER). Good luck to all on this upcoming event. For <a href="https://sdyc.org/" target="_blank">more San Diego YC Hot Rum Series sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://J/99 offshore shorthanded speedster" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 shorthanded offshore speedster" data-file-id="112010" height="205" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/674fc45f-3351-4f95-a0c7-8181a7e72b08.jpg" style="border: px; height: 205px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="title">Fun J/99 DASH video sailing Pacific Northwest!</span><br />
(Orcas Island, WA)- The brand-new J/99 DASH Racing recently went out in 20-35 knots a few days ago on West Sound, Orcas Island, Washington. <br />
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Dash Racing is all about LIVING YOUR DASH! Based on Orcas Island in the San Juan Islands, Stephanie and Ken race their J/99 racing sailboat throughout the Pacific Northwest.<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/DashRacing99/videos/1378941215643915/" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 Dash sailing offshore" data-file-id="112018" height="364" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/8c4f2bed-1999-4fb0-a3c3-b5397fb6645e.jpg" style="border: 0px initial; height: 364px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
As Ken said, "we got DASH out in 20-35 knots today on West Sound. Such a stable boat! Most challenging part of the day? In/out of the slip!". <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DashRacing99/videos/1378941215643915/" target="_blank">Watch their J/99 DASH sailing video here</a> For more<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"> J/99 shorthanded offshore speedster sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/621790984584846/videos/749801102270885" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 Sailing Champions League" data-file-id="111854" height="364" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/78e802c4-ef3f-48bd-89b9-b68be47f8f9e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 364px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Enjoy SAILING Champions League J/70 Video</span><br />
(Porto Cervo, Italy)- Twenty-seven teams from thirteen nations sailed in the finale for the AUDI SAILING Champions League in Port Cervo, Sardinia. The host, Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, and their race committee and media production teams provided the 300+ sailors the red carpet treatment. And the Weather Gods blessed everyone with epic sailing conditions all four days of the competition. Their media team produced a pretty cool video summary of the event. Enjoy this <a href="https://www.facebook.com/621790984584846/videos/749801102270885" target="_blank">J/70 SAILING Champions League sailing highlights video!</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><img align="none" alt="J/Gear Holiday special 20% off" data-file-id="110782" height="445" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/bfd8faa4-edde-4d88-aeff-499b2c412bde.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 445px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 572px;" width="572" /><br />
J/Gear HOLIDAY 20% OFF Specials!</span><br />
(Newport, RI)- Believe it or not, it is just about time to get into the holiday spirit of things. The year-end is fast approaching and now is as good a time as any to give some thoughts to your holiday shopping for your crew, family, and friends.<br />
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We are offering a 20% discount on all orders excluding the following: J/Models, J/Prints and J/Calendars.<br />
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The discount code is- <span class="subTitle">JB2020XS</span>. It will be effective October 1st through November 28th, 2020.<br />
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Attention J/Boat owners- because of the demand for customization, we encourage "early ordering" in an effort to meet holiday gift dates. <br />
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NOTE- The J/Class logo of your choice can embroidered on the front. We can also customize with your detail. Perfect for the whole crew! For <a href="http://jgear.vsport.biz/" target="_blank">more information and to buy now</a>.<br />
<hr /><span class="title">Sailing Calendar</span><br />
Oct 24- <a href="http://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=2997" target="_blank">Witches Brew Race- Charleston, SC</a><br />
Nov. 1- <a href="https://sdyc.org/" target="_blank">Hot Rum Series I- San Diego, CA</a><br />
Nov. 14- <a href="http://www.rolexchinasearace.com/" target="_blank">Around the Island Race- Hong Kong, China</a><br />
Nov. 21- <a href="https://sdyc.org/" target="_blank">Hot Rum Series II- San Diego, CA</a><br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70 women's sailing league" data-file-id="110642" height="338" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c5f498f4-7794-49f6-8a57-2e3d79611867.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 338px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="title">EFG Swiss Sailing League Women’s Cup Fun!</span><br />
(Ascona-Locarno, Switzerland)- Congratulations to Horgen Yacht Club Women's team! Winners of the EFG Swiss Sailing League Women's Cup sailed in Ascona-Locarno, Switzerland on the northern part of spectacular Lago Maggiore.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="Swiss J/70 womens team sailing Lago Maggiore" data-file-id="112626" height="372" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/0f7f2105-eae6-4750-8951-d6d21420a913.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 372px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The Horgen YC teams was comprised of Mara Bezel, Alexa Bezel, Viviane Mouron, Diana Otth, Milena and Leonie Matthys. Finishing second was the Bielersee Yacht Club team with Lea Tschudi, Ester Oggenfuss, Dominique Müller, Barbara Brugger and Florence Schibler. Just one point back, taking the bronze on the podium was the beautiful Zürcher Segel Club with Amrei Keller, Theresa Lagler, Zoé Staub and Franziska Glüer.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="Women's J/70 Swiss teams winners" data-file-id="112666" height="492" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/00842f1d-c088-4ba3-a1ac-fda51332cf66.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 492px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Congratulations to all 3 teams on the podium. The teams of Club Nautique de Versoix, Segelclub Cham and Club de Voile de Lausanne have positioned themselves very well.<br />
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Swiss Sailing League Association is looking forward to the 2021 edition of the Women's Cup, which will take place from August 20 to 22, 2021 in Davos. Learn <a href="https://swiss-sailing-league.ch/" target="_blank">more about the Swiss J/70 Sailing League here</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img alt="J/24 sailboats" data-file-id="111242" height="294" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/d957285a-e5d6-4df0-981f-5ec994882f61.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 294px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
J/24 & J/22 East Coast Champs- Fun on the Bay!</span><br />
<span class="subTitle">HONEY BADGER Tops 24s, HOT TODDY Blitzes 22s</span><br />
(Annapolis, MD)- Over the weekend of October 17-18, Severn Sailing Association held the annual J/24 East Coast Championship in Annapolis, MD. Each year, almost every team on the East Coast looks forward to this long-standing regatta. The event attracts some of the very best in the Class. But, not only that, it usually supports one of the best parties in the J/24 Class as well. Here is the report from Travis Odenbach of the famous HONEY BADGER fame:<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24s sailing off Annapolis, MD on Chesapeake Bay" data-file-id="112138" height="340" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/88420309-6f4f-4f53-8bca-7f5feb167bc3.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 340px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
"Obviously, this year has been a little different to say the least. I was truly happy to see that 22 boats make the trek to participate. It was a breath of fresh air to see the J/24 family out in force. <br />
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Everyone was safe and kept their distance for the most part. What SSA showed us is that we can run regattas safely and hopefully others will follow their lead. <br />
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The racing was challenging as always. Annapolis provided us with a true Annapolis weekend. Light air with lots and lots and lots of power boat chop. The breeze ranged anywhere from 5-10 knots all weekend with 20-degree shifts thrown in there, just to keep it interesting. <br />
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My team of Patrick Wilson, Chris Stocke, Wilson Stout and Collin Kirby did an excellent job at getting the boat around the race track. I truly would not have had success if it weren't for these guys. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24 sailing off Annapolis, MD" data-file-id="111766" height="316" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/7442a149-dd25-48cf-9de9-071481255f3f.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 316px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
So, what did we learn this weekend while sailing in lump and light air? The first lesson to us came quickly on Saturday to focus on our own race. The third race, we port tacked the fleet and saw Tony Parker below us heading out right. We all agreed that with Tony being a local, we might as well keep going this way. Boy were we in for a surprise the further right we went. A massive left shift provided us with our excellent place in the back of the pack, and to make matters worse I decided to hit the mark. What a moron! But after a quick pep talk by Patrick, the team got back on track and decided to worry about our numbers and our speed. This allowed us to salvage a seventh and take away a big lesson going forward. Worry about your race, your gut feelings and stay on the lifted tack and out of trouble. Those are things you can really control in a race, and they seemed to keep us in the top after that race. <br />
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The second lesson was a progression throughout the regatta. The winds were light and sometimes variable, so we had to set the boat up for max power. We ended up making sure we had enough headstay to power the genoa up, and we made sure to sail the boat as flat as possible unless going through a big chop. The key here is constant communication with your driver if you are a trimmer. The trimmer must let you know they are easing or that you have ups at all times so you never detach from the breeze and that you are always sailing as upwind as you can. I truly think we improved on this all weekend, and it was the difference maker in the end. <br />
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At the end of the day, getting to sail with great friends and keeping it light was a joy and no matter the outcome it was nice to be around some great people. Just the mention of great friends and keeping it light and fun makes me reflect on one person in particular: Geoff Ewenson, who sadly and shockingly recently passed. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j22" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22s sailing off Annapolis, MD on Chesapeake Bay" data-file-id="111974" height="162" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/c28d2b0c-2a38-4e68-992a-27b83a40ac59.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 162px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Geoff was the HONEY BADGER's East Coast Championship tactician the last three out of five ECCs. Geoff passed away suddenly last week, and the entire sailing community around the country (and I am sure around the world) felt the loss of a man bigger than life. Finding out the news last week made me buckle at my knees and become overwhelmed with sadness. But, reading his wife's brief post helped me shed some light on the sad and heart wrenching situation. <br />
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Geoff's wonderful wife Mary said that she was lucky to have shared the time she had with him and that hit a nerve with me. I have decided to celebrate his life with the amazing memories he has given me and so many others. <br />
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One of those memories reverts back to the first East Coast Championship Geoff did with the HONEY BADGER team. I believe it was about three minutes to the first start, and Geoff dipped below. All of a sudden, I hear music blasting. I couldn't tell what kind of music it was, but it could have been reggae or The Clash most likely. I said, "Geoff what the hell are you doing? I can't concentrate." Geoff responded with a warm smile, "I noticed you are a little jacked up, so I figured some music will calm you down." <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j22" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/22s sailing on Chesapeake Bay" data-file-id="111818" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f288818a-1342-400a-ac94-6067adafdfd1.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
All of us on the boat kind of chuckled, but I continued to explain that I would not be able to focus. At that, he stood up tall and pointed at me and said, "Look, I am going to play this music, and when you lose a race, I will shut it off." <br />
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I just said "fine". Not willing to argue that point, we went with our starting process. Well, that music never shut-off until the awards. We laughed around the race course, and changed bands to listen to, and I think he even played some Chris Rock stand-up comedy! LOL! <br />
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It was an amazing regatta and our first East Coast victory. Since this is a regatta report, I thought I would share that story with you. Because, not only was Geoff about having fun and keeping people entertained, but that is what the East Coast Championship has been about since I started sailing at the event. <br />
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My heart goes out to Mary and Geoff's family, and to everyone at the East Coast Championships this last weekend...thank you for another amazing event!" Thanks to Travis Odenbach for his report and honoring the loss of a close, heartfelt friend. <br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/24 sailboat winners Honeybadger" data-file-id="112270" height="522" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/cd0572c7-27ad-428d-b261-cacbc1447234.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 522px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
In the end, the HONEYBADGER team crushed the competition...nearly lights out! The Rochester YC team posted a 2-7-1-1-2-1-2 record for a mere 16 pts. Second was, in fact, Tony Parker's BANGOR PACKET crew (Will Bomar, Zeke Horowitz, & Emma Mendenthal) and taking third was Aidan Glackin's MENTAL FLOSS crew (Patrick Fitzgerald, Kelly Fitzgerald, Mike Coe, & Meredith Jacob). <br />
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Like their J/24 colleagues, the J/22s also saw a dominant team govern the top of the leaderboard. After a disastrous first race, Jeff Todd's crew on HOT TODDY posted a 7-2-2-1-2-1-2 tally for 16 pts to win by a country furlong. The balance of the podium was, in fact, a huge battle between three teams, all finishing in the end separated by just 3 pts! Ultimately, the US Navy Academy's Jeff Petersen took the silver by one point over Chris Junge's THE CORNER OF SANITY & MADNESS. In turn, they were just two points clear of JR Maxwell's SCOOBY in fourth. For <a href="http://j24eastcoastchampionship.com" target="_blank">more J/24 and J/24 Eastern Championship sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 DASH sailing Puget Sound off Seattle, WA" data-file-id="112938" height="388" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/54715d05-9623-46b8-a527-947e64024a8c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 388px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Virtual Seattle YC Grand Prix Adventure!</span><br />
(Seattle, Washington)- The Seattle Yacht Club Grand Prix regatta was cancelled due to the Covid restrictions. As a result, a group of passionate, determined sailors put together a virtual race. "Virtual" being defined as not online, but "word of mouth" promotion to go sailing on the water, doing the same race because Seattle YC was not permitted by the State of WA to host it! So, between social media and emails, there was online registration, course information and finish time input. The 17.0nm courses were set up for Saturday and Sunday with a start between a buoy and a painted rock on the Shilshole Breakwater. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 sailing on Puget Sound off Seattle, WA" data-file-id="112922" height="348" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/906c6263-8cfb-430a-92f1-bacddf47c62c.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 348px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
According to J/Northwest dealer Ben Braden, "it was amazing! We had 22 boats signed up for Saturday. But, the weather Gods didn't cooperate. Although a spectacular, beautiful day, it blew 30 knots. It was windy enough that just 5 boats raced; four of which were J/Boats! However, with much milder conditions on Sunday, just as beautiful and blowing 15 knots, TEN J/Teams showed up to get a chance to go for a sail amongst friends. Lots of camaraderie for all!" <strong>Thanks to J/Boats Northwest Ben Braden for this report.</strong> <br />
<hr /><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing Lago di Garda, Italy" data-file-id="112278" height="326" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f38e8b7f-c202-417a-91e0-c389cb34e607.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 326px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="title">NOTARO Team Triumphant @ Italian J/70 Cup</span><br />
(Malcesine, Lago di Garda, Italy)- Like all other events this season, the Italian J/70 Cup series adapted as quickly as possible to the ever evolving covid-19 pandemic. As the epicenter of the initial massive growth of infection rate in northern Italy (and for the rest of Europe) back in March/ April, it was amazing to see the Italian J/70 class have the passion and determination to conduct their 2020 Italian J/70 Cup series. <br />
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The second stage was conducted on the famous Lago di Garda, hosted by the Fraglia Vela Malcesine along its picturesque eastern shoreline...truly a storybook town. Thirty crews participated in this event this past weekend. Many of the hot Italian teams were in attendance, such as reigning J/70 European Champion Claudia Rossi on PETITE TERRIBLE and European Corinthian Champion Gianfranco Noe on WHITE HAWK. Here are the daily reports. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img data-file-id="112246" height="326" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/d7b2b908-ad85-448b-823a-7807d7934af7.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 326px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<strong>Day One</strong><br />
The Peler wind, which remained strong throughout the day, slightly decreased during the afternoon. That traditional southern breeze made it possible to complete four consecutive races, much to the delight of all the sailors. <br />
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The first victory of the day went to Federico Strocchi's CHEYENNE, sailing just his second regatta ever on the Italian J/70 Circuit. And, by winning the last race, closed the day in third overall. The second bullet of the day went to Luca Domenici's NOTARO Team, and the third win went to Mauro Roversi's J-CURVE. <br />
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At the end of the day, NOTARO Team closed the day in first on the leaderboard with solid 2-1-2-6 finishes. Federico Leproux's ALICE was a distant second with a 5-9-7-3 tally. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing on Lake Garda, Italy off Malcesine" data-file-id="112274" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b1834f7a-b844-4c96-ab95-4402380bff1d.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<strong>Day 2</strong><br />
Sunday's weather was windy, cold, intense, with a stronger than normal "peler" breeze from the south. Three more races were held. And, the domination of Domenici's NOTARO team continued unabated. <br />
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"In Malcesine, we had days of strong wind and demanding conditions, which the crew has always been able to cope with well. There have been changes in the crew compared to 2019. So, initially we had to find some synergy on board. But everything went well. In fact, to the point that once again we managed to win. This victory brings great satisfaction to me, especially because it is shared with my family who was here with me. Thanks also to those who support me from home. Because, without their help I would not be able to be here to race," commented Luca Domenici. Luca's crew included Diegro Negri, Giorgio Tortarolo, Michele Mennuti and Francesca Gangi.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="Italy J/70 Cup winners" data-file-id="112234" height="312" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/01bee47a-2dda-4dcf-ab85-aaa47648c075.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 312px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
Second was J-CURVE crew led by Mauro Roversi, with team of Manuel Modena, Federica Salvà, Branko Brcin and Carlo Fracassoli. And third was ALICE, skippered by Alessio Peppu Marinelli and crewed by Vid Jeranko, Enrico Fonda, Nevio Sabadin and Livia Tarabella.<br />
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<img align="none" alt="J/70 day one winners" data-file-id="112238" height="336" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/169d91ca-d232-4b8a-bd8b-057d8a8701ce.jpeg" style="border: 0px; height: 336px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
In the Corinthian category, the victory went to the ANIENE YOUNG team comprised of Luca Tubaro, Filippo Baldassari, Matteo Morellina and Andrea Ruffini. Second was Ludovico Fassitelli's JUNDA- BANCA DEL SEMPIONE (crew of Maximilian Kuester, Francesco Orlando, Davide Vignone, Alessandro Montefiore). Third was WHITE HAWK (Gianfranco Noè, Matija Succi, Giuliano Chiandussi, Barbara Bomben, Alexander Gabriel Harej).<br />
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The Italian J/70 fleet is preparing to leave Lake Garda to head to Sanremo, where the last two events of 2020 will, hopefully, be held for the 2020 season. For <a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank">more J/70 sailboat information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="Russia J/70 Nationals off Pirogovo, Russia" data-file-id="112590" height="328" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/0d8c6094-04f0-4908-bfc1-962a6f90d970.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 328px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
AKHMAT Crowned Russia J/70 National Champions</span><br />
(Pirogovo, Russia)- An eighteen-boat J/70 fleet from across Russia gathered together at the amazing Pirogovo Yacht Club on the Klyazma River immediately north of Moscow for an excellent four-day weekend of racing. With nearly perfect fall weather, the regatta PYC PRO managed to run fifteen races for the happy sailors.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="Russian J/70 women sailors" data-file-id="112514" height="348" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/ece573de-a110-49d0-a70e-391be6c09b88.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 348px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The first day dawned sunny, warm with a 5-10 knots breeze flowing down the river that ultimately built to 1- to 17 kts of breeze. For the next two days, the weather hardly changed, with the same conditions blessing everyone with great racing conditions on flat water.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="Russia J/70 Nationals podium winners" data-file-id="112562" height="326" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/6f55729d-dc0b-4ffe-9d04-e8d5f94989b4.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 326px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
In the end, it was the AKHMAT TEAM that won with a very strong 48 pts in the fifteen races, for an amazing 3.7 average in 13 races counted. A very familiar team took the silver, Valeriya Kovalenko's ARTTUBE RUS1 with a nearly similar scoreline for 52 pts. In fact, she just beat by one point a newcomer to the Russian J/70 circuit, the ELF TEAM. <strong>Sailing Photo Credits- Valeria Isaenko </strong>For <a href="https://www.facebook.com/byPROyachting/" target="_blank">more Russian J/70 Championship sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="Spanish J/70s of Villalia, Vigo, Spain" data-file-id="112622" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/3bc7539d-ef35-4c88-9eb5-a4ba82610a24.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
NOTICIA Dominates Villalia J/70 Open de Espana</span><br />
(Vigo, Spain)- The Real Club Nautico de Vigo hosted this year's edition of the Villalia Open de Espana for an incredibly competitive fleet of eighteen boats, a fleet riddled with numerous Spanish Olympic, World, and European champions of various classes. It was an intense three days of sailing. As they say, the fleet experienced four seasons in one regatta! Rain, no wind, lots of wind, snow flurries, lots of sun, hail! Winds from every quadrant of the compass. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing off Vigo, Spain" data-file-id="112646" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/de1a2075-8e95-4f2d-ae53-29524016a21e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
The teams came from all across Spain; from Valencia, Andalusia, Madrid, Palma in the Canary Islands, the Balearic Islands, Asturias, Catalonia, Cantabria, Barcelona, Santander and from all of Galicia. <br />
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After a fiercely fought nine-race series, it was pretty clear the class act of the regatta was a boat led by two former J/80 World Champions. Needless to say, a seriously hard combination to beat when even Spanish Olympic Gold Medallists acknowledge they are some of Spain's best sailors. Starting out by leading on the first day, the duo of skipper Jose Maria "Pichu" Torcida and tactician Rayco Tabares on Team NOTICIA never looked back and kept extending their lead. With such enormous talent, no one was surprised they were runaway champions. Their eight race counters consisted of all podium finishes, but only winning two races. Such consistency was indicative of their fast, but conservative approach to winning the regatta...no corner shots! Pichu and Rayco's team included Luis Martin Cabiedes, Francisco Palacio, and Pablo Santurde. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="Spanish J/70s sailing off Vigo, Spain" data-file-id="112682" height="382" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/2f1674c2-b1dc-48c7-970f-c57da219c1aa.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 382px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
For the balance of the podium and top five it was like a battle amongst equals. None of them had any particular advantage over the other. And, their scores reflected the "roller coaster" nature of sailing against very strong, equally matched teams. In the end, it was Luis Albert Solana's PATAKIN that grabbed the silver based on their very strong performance in the last two races. Solana's crew included Alfonso Domingos, Karlo Hmeljack, and Andre Kemp. Taking the bronze medal was Alfredo Gonzalez's EUROFRITS-AVIKO TEAM just one point back. His team consisted of Daniel de la Pedraja Yllera, Jon Larrazabal Lallana, Alberto Padron Torrent, and Alejandro Prego. <br />
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Rounding out the top five was Luis Bagallo Arriola's MARNATURA 1. Starting out the regatta with two bullets, they could only manage top 10 finishes to take fourth place. Taking fifth position was Luiz Martinez Doreste's MERCEDES BENZ SAILING TEAM. For <a href="http://www.j70vigo.com/" target="_blank">more Spanish J/70 Championship sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing Solent, England" data-file-id="112834" height="386" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/b029d368-8abc-49e8-8e6c-a24651ff0ab2.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 386px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
EAT SLEEP J REPEAT Wins U.K. J/70 One-Design Championship</span><br />
(Hamble, United Kingdom)- The J/70 Class had a cracking weekend of racing at their U.K. J/70 One-Design Championships, organized by the Hamble River Sailing Club. Beautiful winter conditions with a solid northwesterly breeze produced some electric action for the J/70 UK Class, competing in Round 4 of the J/70 UK Grand Slam Series.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70's sailing off Solent, Hamble, England" data-file-id="112850" height="434" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/ce617b10-2d8a-4045-9f02-c7e96f706bbf.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 434px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Twenty J/70 teams enjoyed six races over two days. J/70 Open World Champion, Paul Ward’s EAT SLEEP J REPEAT, won the regatta. But it was far from easy with seconds deciding every race. The UK National Champion, Graham Clapp’s JEEPSTER, was second. JEEPSTER were in red hot form scoring no lower than fifth. Calascione & Peters racing CALYPSO won the last race to claim third. Martin Dent’s JELVIS won the penultimate race but was just a point off the podium in fourth. Nick Phillips’ CHAOTIC continues to impress as one of the exciting new teams in the class, winning Race 3 on the way to a regatta finish in fifth.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s racing Mod 70s...off Solent, England" data-file-id="112790" height="386" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/1e761169-879f-48c7-b21b-ba48b2287fe7.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 386px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
“The competition in the class is just getting stronger and stronger,” commented Paul Ward (pictured below). “The established teams are very hard to beat, and we have some outstanding sailors coming into the class. The first day of the regatta we had thrilling conditions, fully on the step, planing mode all day! The second day was more shifty and lighter air, so everyone was roughly the same speed and tactics really came into play. Well done to the Hamble River Sailing Club for giving the class a fantastic weekend’s racing.”<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing on Solent, England" data-file-id="112734" height="306" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/44a83349-7bf9-4490-9be2-5c4c1f6b67da.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 306px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
While there was no official Corinthian Class, there was a ding-dong battle for the top Corinthians boat. Doug Struth’s DSP came out on top, just two points ahead of the UK National Corinthian Champion, Charles Thompson’s BRUTUS. Corinthian World Champion Marshall King, on the stick of SOAK RACING, finished just a point behind Brutus.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing around mark on Solent, England" data-file-id="112822" height="364" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/295591b1-9e0f-4fb6-a2f8-cedca221b1af.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 364px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
A warm welcome to two new J/70 teams racing this weekend; Stuart Bethell’s JM7 and James Howells’ LIGHTFOOT. Also, John Greenland’s newly acquired J/70 WOOF!<br />
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The J/70 UK Grand Slam Series continues with Round 5 and the conclusion of the HRSC One-Design Championships, 24-25 October. <a href="http://www.pwpictures.com" target="_blank">Sailing photo credits- Paul Wyeth/ PWPictures.com</a>. For <a href="https://j-70.co.uk" target="_blank">more UK J/70 Class sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="German J/70s sailing Alster Lake, Hamburg, Germany" data-file-id="112122" height="302" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4caedd88-de09-4bd9-bde3-49b57d856b5e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 302px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Norddeutscher Regatta Verein Blitzkriegs German J/70 DSL Cup!</span><br />
(Hamburg, Germany)- Just one week after winning the championship of sailing clubs, the North German Regatta Club (NRV) also won the German Sailing League Cup DSL Cup in its home waters on the gorgeous Alster Lake in downtown Hamburg. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="German J/70s sailing league on Lake Alster, Hamburg, Germany" data-file-id="112210" height="350" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/cf147d7a-9e3d-4243-a15e-85f03d129b31.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 350px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
With a 21-point lead over the second-placed Württemberg Yacht Club and the Flensburger Segel-Club in third place, the North German club achieved a clear victory. Their performance on such a shifty, puffy lake was nothing short of astonishing...obviously, local knowledge plays a huge role on the lake! Winning nine of 12 races outright, their worst finish was a single third place! Yes, one might call that performance a virtual white-out!<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/70s sailing Alster Lake, Hamburg, Germany" data-file-id="112102" height="324" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/9c27d4cf-1014-456c-9be8-3407f2b9db1e.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 324px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
“We are really happy! Last week the Deutsche Segel-Bundesliga championship and this week the DSL Cup - it couldn't be more beautiful,” said Tobias Schadewaldt, helmsman from NRV, happy about the top performance of his team. He attributes the success to the common spirit on board, “we concentrate on the positive things and on the parameters that we can influence. This constructive attitude, which we all share on board, carried us to victory."<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j70" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="German J/70 winning crew NRV, Hamburg, Germany" data-file-id="112198" height="362" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/e93954f7-ffa5-4a8f-bce9-f8f373cfd83a.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 362px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
In addition to the trophy, the regatta was also about staying up in the league and advancing to the 2nd sailing league for many teams. For the Westphalian Yacht Club Delecke and the Sailing Club Ville as the second division at risk of relegation, it was about staying up, which they secure with sixth and ninth places for the coming season. The Salzgitter Sailing Club and the Regatta-Segler-Neuruppin move up to the second sailing league for the first time with places seven and eight. <strong>Sailing Photo credits- DSBL / Lars Wehrmann </strong>Watch this <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SegelBundesliga/videos/375937653789866" target="_blank">German J/70 DSL Cup highlights video- sweet!</a> For <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SegelBundesliga" target="_blank">more Deutsche Segel-Bundesliga sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title"><a href="http://www.jboats.com/j88" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/88 sailing Hamble Winter Series- England" data-file-id="105833" height="324" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/6804fb19-c343-4f30-9f73-cf8a35c905d0.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 324px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Hamble Winter Series Report</span><br />
(Hamble, England)- The Hamble River Sailing Club worked with local and national authorities in the United Kingdom to ensure that sailing events could take place on the Southampton Water and the infamous Solent while adhering to the covid-19 pandemic guidelines. As a result, they were able to start up their annual Hamble Winter Series, albeit with a bit of a delay. Here are the quick reports for J/Sailors around the world. <br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j109" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/109s sailing Hamble Winter Series- England" data-file-id="105669" height="332" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/fc489bab-53ed-4f2a-ab05-436ad3522cf9.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 332px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
Saturday saw the start of racing for the two days of the Hamble IRC Autumn Championship. Fifty-eight teams went out over the weekend, including a twenty-five strong Class 1, who were also battling for the Hamble Star Trophy for the best" Big Boat." That world-renowned photographer from the Isle of Wight, Paul Wyeth, declared it was "The best turn out all season."<br />
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Conditions looked tricky for all concerned from the forecast’s light winds from the NE on Saturday and three fifths of sod all on the Sunday. The CV Condor went to East Knoll to start Race 1 on Saturday and laid a couple of windward marks and a couple of leeward marks to allow for the predicted shift in the wind.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j109" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/109 sailing Hamble River, England" data-file-id="104001" height="384" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/ea024789-20eb-4153-a6ed-b32a6bb90616.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 384px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
This turned out to be the best breeze of the weekend and the 25 strong IRC 1 fleet had a great first race and finished in a big bunch with the top four separated by only 1 minute 30 seconds on corrected time. Michael O'Donnell's J/121 DARKWOOD was second. <br />
<br />
In IRC 2, the battles between the two J/109's of Simon Perry and Mike & Susie Yates, were quickly re-joined. Mike & Susie's JAGO made the most of the first beat by staying south of the North Channel. They arrived at the windward mark first only to be interrupted by a wine glass, in the spinnaker that is, not the cockpit. This meant they spent some time going down tide allowing Simon Perry's JIRAFFE to slip through and gain control of the race. JIRAFFE finished 1st.<br />
<br />
The failing breeze meant that only Class 1 managed to finish the second race on Saturday.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j111" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/111s sailing Hamble Winter Series" data-file-id="103421" height="383" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/8cd06551-0073-4a8a-b779-37de1990522d.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 383px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 575px;" width="575" /></a><br />
As already stated, the forecast for Sunday did not look positive. PRO Peter Bateson was determined to give it a go, if at all possible, and his Saturday night WhatsApp enthused "We are going to try. It only needs a couple more knots of breeze and we'll get some racing." The Race Team went out on time and at 09.13 the message was "We currently have 4-5 knots of breeze from the North. Suggest boats come out and join us." Peter set up a short 0.8-mile course of loops to keep the fleet close for the expected failing breeze, not to mention the start of the spring tide ripping in the wrong direction. As it turned out every class was shortened by radio Amendment 3, which allowed at least some of them to have a race.<br />
<br />
IRC 1 spoiled the plan to get everyone away quickly, by forcing a general recall. "A crucial loss of 10 minutes!" was the only printable comment from those classes waiting patiently behind them. The upshot of this was that in IRC 3, only four boats managed to finish. David Greenhalgh's J/92 J'RONIMO finished a comfortable first. J'RONIMO managed third overall due to 13 retirements on the last race.<br />
<br />
In IRC 2, Race 3 started with the J/109s JIRAFFE, JAGO and one other boat OCS. Although this call by the Race Team was hotly disputed on JAGO, they duly returned with JIRAFFE and set about recovering the situation. They repeated their tactics from the first race, this time without any spinnaker trouble and came home first. Mark Stevens J/105 JACANA was second and JIRAFFE was third. <br />
<br />
With the benefit of going first, eventually, IRC 1 with their greater speed managed to get 16 boats to the amended finish. The overall positions for the IRC 1 Autumn Championship saw Cornel Riklin's J/111 JITTERBUG take third place!<br />
<br />
Peter Bateson and the Race Team are to be congratulated in getting three races run in such trying conditions. <a href="http://www.pwpictures.com " target="_blank">Sailing photo credits- Paul Wyeth</a> For <a href="https://www.hamblewinterseries.com/article/141963" target="_blank">more Hamble Winter Series sailing information</a><br />
<hr /><span class="title">J/Community</span><br />
<span class="subTitle">What friends, alumni, and crew of J/Boats are doing worldwide</span><br />
-----------<br />
<span class="subTitle"><img align="right" alt="Seahorse Magazine- September" data-file-id="112886" height="355" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4895eb8d-18f3-4276-bde6-42301f5f8333.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 355px; margin: 5px 0px 5px 5px; width: 250px;" width="250" />* SEAHORSE had the opportunity to speak with one of J/Boats co-founders, Rodney Johnstone, as part of the "innovators" series in the sport of sailing. Thanks to writer <a href="http://www.seahorsemagazine.com" target="_blank">Carol Cronin and SEAHORSE for this awesome interview</a>!</span><br />
<br />
The most broadly successful performance yacht designer of the last 35 or so years has achieved that status through a laser-like ability to lock onto the requirements of a target market and then deliver the ideal product for it — and which also works off the shelf. Carol Cronin unravels the creative force that is Rod Johnstone.<br />
<br />
<strong>SEAHORSE: </strong>We all know the story: a budding yacht designer builds a race-winning boat in his garage, then teams up with his marketing-savvy brother to create a family business— which just entered its fourth decade. So, any profile of Rod Johnstone, co-founder of J/Boats, should focus on less well-known details. Childhood, design inspirations, favourite boats? Seated on the properly distanced cockpit seats of Rod's brand-new J/99, I spent two hours enjoying a wide range of stories — too many to fit in here. <br />
<br />
There was the time he fell in the water at six months old — an inauspicious start to a sailing career. The 1970s races he can still recount, tack for tack. Chasing his future (second) wife all the way across the country, just to drag her back to Stonington. Each golden thread led to another worthy tale, because there's much more to this guy than just J/Boats. So, ladies and gentlemen, I give you Rod Johnstone — mostly in his own words. <br />
<br />
<img align="none" alt="Rod Johnstone's dinghy" data-file-id="112898" height="490" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/4417fa28-f1c1-4c45-bef2-5d9a1fff3d4b.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 490px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /><br />
<span class="subTitle">Childhood sailing:</span><br />
Rod was born in 1937 and spent childhood summers in Stonington — where, after World War II, "every family had a Lightning". He claims the home-built Johnstone Lightning class sailboat was the heaviest: "The old boats were fir plywood decks with canvas over them, but you couldn't get regular plywood — it was all used up by the US Navy. So, what did my father get? Masonite, which is like three times as heavy! And that's what we sailed on from 1947 until I went away to college." (Rod graduated from Princeton- Class of 1958.) <br />
<br />
Nevertheless, despite its weight, Rod credits that Lightning with instilling an early love of sailing in him and his two brothers. "My father was so much fun to sail with, because he had the right attitude. He was the best sailor around here, but his ego never showed; he was always very humble about it. That environment really influences you a lot when it comes to what you like to do." <br />
<br />
<span class="subTitle"><img align="right" alt="Rod Johnstone J/24 designer" data-file-id="112870" height="224" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/521c636f-bdc3-4efc-9ebe-9c327ec51648.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 224px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 250px;" width="250" />Learning and teaching: </span><br />
Rod majored in history at Princeton, though he says math’s might have been the better choice. "Math’s was a total bore to me; that was the problem. My parents always wanted me to be well rounded. So, I took that to mean that I was supposed to not be bad in anything. I love studying history, but I'm a really slow reader. If I'd been brave, majored in math’s, it sure would have been a lot easier." <br />
<br />
As a member of the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), Rod spent six months after graduation at a field artillery school in Fort Sill, Oklahoma. "That's the furthest west I'd ever been until I went out to get Lucia and bring her back to Stonington in 1971. But that's another story..."<br />
<br />
When I asked how he met his first wife, Franny, whom he married right after college, he pauses for one of the baritone chuckles that foreshadows another fond memory. "I was a member of the Tiger-tones, a singing group at Princeton. In March of 1957, we were hosting a girls' singing group and I was responsible for making sure they had accommodation somewhere. I also had the option of assigning blind dates. So, I did a little advance research, and fixed myself up with my first wife and the mother of all my children!" He laughs again. "That worked out pretty well." <br />
<br />
After the Army Rod and Franny moved to upstate New York, where Rod taught history at the Millbrook School. "I really loved that job. That's where Jeff and Phil [Johnstone] were born." (Jeff is now President of J/Boats, and Phil is the company's legal adviser.) But, now Rod also started fiddling around with boat designs, which made him realize he needed more education. <br />
<br />
He signed up for the Westlawn School of Yacht Design's correspondence course, though he never officially completed the curriculum. (However, they would eventually award him an honorary degree.) <br />
<br />
Once kid number three was on the way (Al, J/Boats VP and designer), the family moved back to Stonington. Rod ran a brokerage office and they had two daughters, but the marriage broke up in the late 1960s. <br />
<br />
Then in 1971, at a yacht club party, his sister pointed out a cute girl and suggested he introduce himself. "I am totally chicken about stuff like that, so I went up and got myself a cup of coffee. She was sitting with her parents. So, I said, "Hi Tessie, how are you doing? They weren't about to introduce me. They knew I had five kids... and I wasn't married." <br />
<br />
<img align="right" alt="Rod and Lucia Johnstone" data-file-id="112902" height="271" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/f71c6491-9e0a-441d-a9a2-7842cbef47bd.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 271px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 300px;" width="300" />He soon retreated to his own table, but the very next night, thanks to a boat engine that wouldn't start, Rod and Lucia met up at a cocktail party. After three weeks "where I didn't let her out of my sight", Lucia (with two kids from her own previous marriage) went back to her <br />
assistant headteacher's job in California. <br />
<br />
"I said, I'm coming out to bring you back to Stonington on October 15th. "`She didn't say for sure that she was coming [back], because I don't think she was sure that I was going to come out there. But I just kept making plans, told her when my plane was gonna arrive." They married in November 1971, three months after that first yacht club meeting.<br />
<br />
<span class="subTitle">Honeymooning on a 505 In Bermuda:</span><br />
After the wedding Rod spotted a brand-new Parker 505 and talked the owner into inviting them out. First, the guy Rod describes as "an archetype of an RAF pilot, handsome guy with a moustache" and he invites Lucia to put on the trapeze harness. "She takes off with this sailor and I was thinking, 'Am I making a huge mistake here? I'm standing on the dock and my new wife is going off with this handsome Englishman!'" <br />
<br />
After the 505 returned the owner then crewed for Rod — a test. "He said, 'You'll do, you can take the boat.' Lucia had never been on a trapeze before, but she took right to it." <br />
<br />
Back home they bought a cheap kit boat and drove it to regattas. There were plenty of husband & wife teams in the 505 class, though probably no others with a blended family of seven kids. Rod says they had a wonderful time but were always too small to be competitive. <br />
<br />
At one of their first regattas they capsized in very cold water. But, thanks to brand-new wetsuits, they could self-rescue and continue racing. "But, on the next leg the race committee came out and said, 'We'll give you your points for last.'"<br />
<br />
All these years later, Rod's voice still conveys a mix of disbelief and disgust. Finishing last was not in Rod's DNA, so they sold the 505 and bought a 470.<br />
<br />
But now they were too heavy for the top of that fleet. After a very hot and light CORK Regatta (and a bad gybe that prompted Rod to call Lucia an "elephant"), "we're all taking our boats apart, everybody smiling and having a good time, like they do at regattas. Lucia's smiling, too. But, between gritted teeth she tells me, "Rodney, I'm never going to get on this goddamn f#$%ing boat again!" <br />
<br />
Rod admits now he was privately pleased. So, he quickly signed on 14-year-old, 90 1b son Jeff as crew. Father and son did well together. "The most memorable sailing events were when my kids were my crew." <br />
<br />
But Lucia still wanted to race, too. So, Rod decided to build a boat they could compete on as a family. That was the genesis of the fabled J/24. They launched their little 24-footer RAGTIME in May 1976 and immediately started winning all over the Off Soundings Club summer series. When someone asked to buy it, Rod realized other families wanted to sail together, too. Then, brother Bob came sailing, and the rest is J/Boats history. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24 hull stringers and frames" data-file-id="112882" height="474" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a2e5ab55-423c-4b57-b967-7d166832a373.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 474px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="subTitle">Early designs:</span><br />
Before RAGTIME, Rod had already designed "a couple of small boats". First, he reminisces about a 9ft dinghy that he built with 10-year-old Al. "That's the boat Al started sailing, and he won a few races. It swept away in a storm off our dock; who knows where it went, but it wasn't going to sink because it had so much flotation!"<br />
<br />
Next, he mentions an 11-footer that "you might call to be loosely classified as a Moth," designed while he was teaching at Millbrook. "The building of that boat is what made me realize I needed to take a course. I won't say too much more about it; it sailed perfectly well but looked like hell and I knew that I wasn't doing it right. I knew what I wanted; I just had to learn to draw the lines of a boat." <br />
<br />
<span class="subTitle">Erasers, calculators, planimeter:</span><br />
Early on Rod says, "I went through a lot of erasers. It was all pencil drawings. No computers, not even a hand calculator — not until after I'd designed the J/24. I think one of the reasons I did so well was I could do a lot of that stuff in my head. Everybody else was on their slide rules."<br />
<br />
His most useful tool was a gift— and a piece of history. "My first wife's mother gave me a planimeter; it was her father's, and he'd been an engineer. Crosby Steam Gauge and Valve Company, 1888, it says right on it. I didn't even understand what it was until I started taking the Westlawn course and they said, 'You've got to have one of these because it makes everything so easy." <br />
<br />
"This one was really sophisticated; you could read the results in either inches and feet, fractions, or..." his voice drops, reverently, into a bass register, "millimeters. It was the key instrument to get the areas of irregular enclosures. Now they've got electronic planimeters... AutoCAD basically." <br />
<br />
When I ask how long it took to design RAGTIME, Rod shakes his head. "Many years. I actually built a model, 24in long, in 1965. I hollowed it out and made a sailing model. Guess who I made it for?" Jeff, I guess. He nods, grinning. "And, he probably doesn't even remember!" <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24 RAGTIME first launching in Stonington, CT" data-file-id="112890" height="460" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/a1f0cf58-a363-4eeb-ade5-953dff312f0a.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 460px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="subTitle">Design process:</span><br />
For any new design, Rod starts with "how long the waterline is going to be. For the J/24 I wanted something that was as big as I could build in my garage — and at least 23ft 9in because that was the minimum length for entering the Off Soundings Yacht Club's races!<br />
<br />
"It's a numbers game," he continues. "You can't just eyeball it, right? You can't. Guys used to start with a shape they would do by eye, but at some point, somebody has to determine how the boat's going to float and visualize the three-dimensional shape. Otherwise, it's going to take you a lot longer than it should. The most important thing is to know how long the waterline is going to be, plus what the maximum section of the hull is going to be. Just think of the boat going through the water," he continues. "The thing that the water has to get around. How is the water going to get there most efficiently, and then how can it get away most efficiently?"<br />
<br />
Sailing well upwind was his first priority, because "a barn door with a bedsheet on a pole will sail downwind." <br />
<br />
The next decision is "what kind of heel angle are you going to tolerate? And when you heel over, your whole hull has to have fewer wave-making characteristics. Wide-ass boats (that look like big wedges of cheese) that go around the world, they're not designed to go upwind — and they don't. They go like hell downwind, but they don't go upwind. So, you have to decide the variables." He shrugs. "That's how I design, anyway. For me it's easy. I've always figured that out from my experience sailing." <br />
<br />
I ask how long it took to design a new model, and Rod has to think about that out loud. "Well, I could design something quick and dirty and have it to you by... maybe not tomorrow, but pretty close. If I don't have to please anybody else, they go a lot quicker. All the research... if I were doing nothing else, I could probably do it in four months. Before computers, more like six months. The lofting and the drawing, so somebody can build it, that takes a lot of time. I spent three weeks on my hands and knees to loft the J/30 in 1977!" He says laughing. [Ed. note- today, son Al prints it out on mylar sheets in less than an hour]! <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j24" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/24 RAGTIME sailing upwind 1976" data-file-id="112858" height="428" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/1224efe9-30ae-42e7-9b0a-30f44311bbb0.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 428px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="subTitle">Favorite design: </span><br />
Forty of Rod's designs have been built since J/Boats started. Asked for his favourite, he quickly names the J/105, because it's simple and can be raced well and cruised well. "You can just handle it with fewer people. That's what really prompted the asymmetric spinnaker, because people were complaining about the J/35s. Most J/35 owners had to have 10 people on the rail to be competitive." <br />
<br />
The advent of carbon tubing then made the retractable sprit possible. He adds, "made out of aluminum or wood or fiberglass, it would be just too much weight.:<br />
<br />
The 105 started the J/Sprit revolution, but the original priority was price. In the early 1990s a US tax on boats over $100,000 had put a major dent in the new boat market. "We definitely had to come up with our luxury-tax beater."<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j105" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/105 offshore one-design sailboat" data-file-id="110926" height="328" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/fc4243bd-b982-4393-afc9-923c6d7217cb.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 328px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
What turned the boat into one of J/Boats' bestsellers, though, was that asymmetric spinnaker. "You could race with half the number of people, that's what really sold it.' A harder sell was the PHRF committees, who thought the new asymmetric spinnakers should be the same size as symmetricals. "You needed a 20 per cent bigger area to have the same efficiency as a symmetrical chute. You get more efficiency reaching, and not as much running. It took a while to convince them we weren't trying to hornswoggle them." <br />
<br />
After years of dealing with local handicapping, Rod has developed a theory. "If you're really a good sailor, you're better off having a well-established production boat with a rating that they can't possibly change. Right now, that's the best boat for PHRF racing." The last J/105 Rod owned was a 2008 boat that he and Lucia cruised to Maine. Add a boom tent, open the hatches and Rod claims 7.0 ft headroom. "for two people, that worked really well. It's a great sailboat." The only reason he hasn't bought another one is the class restriction on professionals. But, as he's explaining he realizes, "I'm actually not a professional anymore!" (He stepped away from a paid J/Boats position in 2015, though he still consults.) I could almost see the thought-cloud forming above his trademark wide-brimmed hat. <br />
<br />
<span class="subTitle">Regrets:</span><br />
Even with so much success Rod still has a few regrets. He designed an incredible forty-two 12-Meters for the America's Cup. But, "not a single one ever got built, and I never published anything. I wish I could have been a part of that." <br />
<br />
<strong>[Ed. note</strong>- Rod also designed a few dozen AC 75's. Truth be told, between Rod J and Angus Melrose and his famous International 14 naval architect friend Ian Howlett, they were the first team to create the super-long, super-narrow, giant-rigged AC 75 designs that ultimately won the America's Cup in 1995. Guess who that beneficiary was? <br />
<br />
Peter Blake! Because, when Rod and Peter were discussing Whitbread/Volvo Race designs in 1992, Rodney was also explaining to Peter how to make a faster AC 75 boat. Well, for you students of America's Cup history, you may recall that Team New Zealand showed up in San Diego, CA for the 1990 America's Cup with a wide, short, dinghy-like design from Bruce Farr. It did not do well. In fact, it got killed. <br />
<br />
Peter asked Rodney if he could take those design ideas with him. As a very honorable person (backed up I am sure by Pippa Blake, Peter's wife) Peter had asked Rodney's nephew, Stuart Johnstone, at the time if he could remove himself from the nascent J/65 Team Whitbread/Volvo project and take on the role of Team New Zealand syndicate Chief in 1993. Stuart said "yes", of course. Guess who was the beneficiary of that research? <br />
<br />
The American yacht designer Doug Petersen and Team New Zealand. Peter's collaboration with Rod, Ian, and Angus for the "new" super long waterline, maximum lead bulb keel, giant-rigged AC 75 became the new standard of AC 75 design...the net result? Team New Zealand's Peter, Rod J- influenced, Petersen design called BLACK MAGIC crushed Dennis Conner's USA-designed YOUNG AMERICA in five straight races. The irony of that match was Stuart's good friend Kevin Mahaney, a J/24 World Champion from Northeast Harbor, Maine had the closest boat to Rod J's concept. But, still not extreme enough! The rest is history.... New Zealand's BLACK MAGIC won 5-straight races with margins averaging over FIVE MINUTES! The largest winning margins in modern America's Cup history! That's how the America's Cup went Down Under to New Zealand. Thereafter, J/24 World Champion Ed Baird teamed up with Team ALINGHI and won it for Switzerland! Funny how the world works...but Rod J. definitely had a hand in winning the America's Cup, whether he knew it or not! And, ironically enough, another J/24 World Champion- Terry Hutchinson- is spearheading the New York Yacht Club's current American Magic campaign! Yet another J/24 World Champion leading the world of sailing!]<br />
<br />
Rod also wishes he could have been more involved in the aforementioned Whitbread/Volvo Race. The closest he got was working on a one-design class ahead of the 1993 race. "The idea was to build eight boats, and Peter Blake was going to put the teams together and put them through their paces. He was one impressive guy... so knowledgeable, and very good at managing people. You could just tell by sitting in the same room. Peter gave me all of his proprietary wind matrices from the 1989 race, when he won on STEINLAGER 2. But we never got to build it. In 1991, there was a huge recession in Europe and the USA, plus the luxury tax. Too bad, because it would have been great fun. It was going to be like a big J/70, without the lifting keel. The entire structure built around a frame for the keel, lead on the bottom. We even had talks about whether we should make the sprit retractable!" <br />
<br />
When I ask what he's most proud of, he assumes I'm still talking about boat designs and runs down a list. "The J/90, that was an incredible boat. I owned mine longer than any other J/Boat, five years. It was fun to sail, and we had lots of adventures! The other designs I'd be the proudest of are the J/35, J/44, J/80. And, of course, the 160." <br />
<br />
I rephrase the question: how about life-wise? And then I spoon-feed him the most predictable answer: building a family company. "No, take one step backwards," he says firmly, holding up a hand like a stop sign. "Just building a family. That's what I'm proudest of, if you're talking about everything. I've been lucky in a lot of ways," he continues. "I'm lucky because I love sailing with all my kids. Even my daughter Pam, who was never really into sailing." <br />
<br />
She asked me recently, "Dad, when are you going to take me sailing?" He laughs. "We all have a lot of fun together."<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jboats.com/j99" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="J/99 with Rod Johnstone and son's Jeffrey and Alan." data-file-id="112910" height="354" src="https://mcusercontent.com/1efe1999a3cf99000c29f8528/images/1e9c6593-93d1-4b77-83a7-8ffaf6b8b1dc.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: 354px; margin: 5px 0px; width: 574px;" width="574" /></a><br />
<span class="subTitle">Next adventure:</span><br />
Two hours go by in a flash, and as we wind up our conversation, Rod checks the dock for his nephew, Clay Burkhalter. Clay (an off-shore veteran) is prepping the J/99 (seen above L-R: Rod, Jeff, Al J.) for an offshore adventure to Bermuda, to deliver an owner and his friend to his 65-footer that got stuck there. "Then, Clay and I will sail this boat back." A Bermuda 4-2, I joke. "Yeah, a 4-2 is much more fun than a 1-2. Also, when you can pick your weather between here and Bermuda, that's always nice." He pauses until he's sure he has my full attention, then adds, "I never get tired of this. That's why I got this boat." As I turn the recorder off and we stand up from our cockpit seats, Rod's still sharing memories. Even though it's time to go and my brain is full. "You should write a book," I tell him. "You underestimate your influence on the sport!" Because, there's definitely a lot more to Rod Johnstone than a 24-footer that barely squeezed out through a standard garage door. And, all those designs that followed. <strong>Thanks again for Carol Cronin's amazing Rod J interview for SEAHORSE magazine! </strong><br />
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<a href="http://www.jboats.com/news/email-sign-up"><img border="0" src="http://www.jboats.com/newsletter/EMailButton.jpg" /></a>
</td>
<td>
<div class="addthis_toolbox addthis_default_style">
<a class="addthis_button_facebook_like" fb:like:layout="button_count"></a>
<a class="addthis_button_tweet"></a>
<a class="addthis_button_google_plusone" g:plusone:size="medium"></a>
<a class="addthis_counter addthis_pill_style"></a>
</div>
<script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#username=ra-4ebc424965fb7016" type="text/javascript"></script>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comNewport, RI, USA41.4901024 -71.312828528.286758365063861 -88.89095081779098 54.693446434936135 -53.73470618220901