No less than 8 J-Class yachts are expected to hold their own regatta as part of the America’s Cup event in Bermuda this summer.

In June 2017, the 35th America’s Cup in Bermuda will be graced by the J Class fleet. These majestic titans of sail competed for the Cup during the 1930s and are perhaps still some of the most famous yachts afloat. Only ten J Class yachts were ever built, of which three originals survive today, including Shamrock V and Endeavour which raced for the America’s Cup in 1930 and 1934 respectively.

“The J Class era of the America’s Cup is widely recognised as being among the high points in Cup history,” says Russell Coutts, CEO of the America’s Cup Event Authority (ACEA).

Since the J Class Assn (JCA) was founded, five replica J Class yachts, built to original designs in modern materials, have launched and a sixth is due to join the fleet in January 2017. Many J Class races are decided by seconds, thanks to a handicap system developed by the JCA to allow the modern and original Js to compete fairly.

Eight J Class yachts are expected in Bermuda – including Shamrock V – with seven anticipated to compete in the J Class regatta. This will be the first time in history that seven J Class yachts have raced against each other.

“The Js still epitomise grace and power with cutting-edge design and engineering. Having the J Class join us in Bermuda will create a spectacular blend between the old and new, showcasing the best of America’s Cup challengers and defenders from almost 90 years apart.”

2017 DATES
The J Class regatta will take place on the 16, 19 & 20 June 2017

LOCATION
The J Class fleet, showcasing the heritage and tradition of the America’s Cup, will be berthed at the Hamilton Princess Marina.

RACING
The yachts will be at the heart of the AC35 action with their own exclusive regatta. Due to the size and draft of the yachts, J Class racing will take place in Murray’s Anchorage on the Bermuda north shore (an additional exhibition flyby will take place on the Great Sound, in front of the America’s Cup Race Village). J Class fleet racing is one of the most spectacular sights on the world sailing circuit.

More at: www.americascup.com  and: www.jclassyachts.com

Image: J Renedo