J/Boats News is a digest of worldwide events, regattas, and news for sailing enthusiasts and members of our J Community. Contributions regarding your racing, cruising or human interest stories on-board J's are welcome- please send to "editor@jboats.com".
Monday, June 5, 2006
High Seas Battle of the Brands
Among the list of 274 Newport-Bermuda Race applicants as of June 5th, the world's two leading performance brands account for 32% of the Centennial Fleet with J/Boats (44 boats) and Swan (44) leading the pack. Among classes: J/44s (12) and J/42s (9) have earned their own starting divisions. J/120s (7) and J/133s (6) with asymmetric spinnakers and retractable bowsprits are close behind along with the Swan 45s(7) . The next five brands each have less than a 5% share, with Beneteau (12 boats) and Hinckley (8) next, followed by X-Yachts (7) , Baltic (7) and C&C (7) tied for the 5th spot. http://www.bermudarace.com/2006/entrylist.php