Porto Cervo, Italy, 2nd September 2014
The 25th edition of the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup commenced with gusto as the 35 competing Maxi yachts completed a coastal course through Sardinia’s Maddalena archipelago
Strong winds ensured conditions were exacting for the five classes of Maxi yacht contesting the event, among them the beguiling J-Class yachts, where competition offers competitive racing and a compelling insight into sailing heritage.
Restoring glories
Owing to their sleek lines, tall masts and decks gleaming with polished winches and varnished woodwork, the five attending J-Class boats catch many admiring glances on the docks of the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda. The America’s Cup boat of choice in the 1930s, victim of the steel shortage during World War 2 when a number of its kind were destroyed, has enjoyed a revival since the turn of the century. In 2000, the J-Class Association was formed encouraging the construction of replicas of the perished originals. Lionheart, Rainbow, Ranger, Shamrock V and Velsheda are the five J-Class boats on show in Porto Cervo for the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup. The former three are replicas of original designs; the latter two restorations. Graceful to watch, captivating and fun to sail, the Class is equally defined by the Corinthian spirit of its competition.
Photo credit Carlo Borlenghi / Rolex, via Sailing.org
Full article here – A Touch of Yesteryear