All four magnificent vessels that will participate in this year’s J Class Regatta, were out practising on Sunday. With an ideal 12 knots and sunny conditions the vessels, including charter yacht Ranger, sailing yacht Lionheart, luxury yacht Rainbow and superyacht Velsheda, were out for over four hours practising starts, and perfecting their amazing spinnaker handling.
Luxury sailing yacht RANGER
Ranger, Lionheart and Rainbow superyachts are all using new dark North 3Di sails while luxury yacht Velsheda is using 3Dl. The black sails make a stark contrast with the horizon.
While they got close at times, they never lined up together. There is a chance this will happen today, the last practice day, Monday 25th.
Rainbow is berthed alongside her support ship MV Holland at the end of A&P’s dock. Ranger, Lionheart, and Velsheda superyachts are berthed at Port Pendennis Marina. Anybody wishing to see the boats can go to Events Square where there is an excellent view of the dock from above.
Crew aboard Velsheda superyacht
Race starts
After consultation with the captains, the race start has been moved to 1200 each day, weather permitting. The spectactors can view the yacht preparations from either alongside the Maritime Museum or on the pontoons.
Ratings
Ratings (TCFs) showing the small performance differences will be issued tomorrow. These are calculated by the Wolfson Unit, Southampton University, to ensure the best possible fairness between each yacht.
J-Class sailing yacht Rainbow by Holland Jachtbouw
Top professional sailors
All four crews have some of the most talented professionals in world sailing, including;
Earle Williams – Helmsman – Ranger
Godfrey Cray – Tactician – Ranger
Bouwe Bekking – Tactician – Lionheart
Tom Dodson – Tactician – Velsheda
Justin Clougher – Crew boss – Velsheda
Three of the owners will helm the yachts themselves, including Chris Gongriep who boasts years of sailing experience, having raced charter yacht Windrose for many years before building Rainbow superyacht.
