(Sydney, Australia)- A bit like the infamous "Energizer Bunny" on
American TV, the J/122 is seemingly indomitable and indefatigable on the
world's Seven Seas. And nowhere can it be much harder to bring home
the silver than to compete in Australia's offshore circuit with lots of
custom IRC designs that are all designed to act like Aussie 18s offshore
and plane away to Cape Horn way, way, way, way East at 100 knots. As
one might expect, at some point you have to "turn the corner". That's
when "real sailboats" designed with realistic "balance" come into their
own. The J/122 sailing in Sydney has bee there, done that.
Like last year, Ray Entwistle's J/122 JACKPOT has finished the CYCA’s
Spring Short Ocean Point Score series in the silverware again.
Following on from JACKPOT's previous SOP’s series results of two firsts
and a second they again finished equal 1st on points with a Swan 60 and a
Beneteau 45. "The J/122 is amazing, she just keeps bringing in the
results," said a very pleased Entwistle after Saturdays spring series
finale. "At forty feet she is definitely at the smaller end of this
highly competitive Division 1 Sydney fleet but takes on all comers.
She continues to punch way above her weight with constant top 3 finishes
and surprises everyone how well up the fleet she finishes on the water.
The added benefit of this incredible boat is the interior. In a few
minutes we can remove the racing sails, top up the tanks and fridge, add
the dodger and go cruising in opulence. We wish all our crew,
competitors the very best for the festive season and thanks to the
staff of the Cruising Yacht of Australia, Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron
and Middle Harbour Yacht Club who take it in turns week on week to run
this competitive offshore series," says Ray. "JACKPOT will be back for
the Autumn Point Score series starting in January and if you would like
to taste victory in this highly competitive div one racing then get
yourself a J/122 and join us for some fun at the top of the fleet. If
racing is not your thing then go cruising, this boat does both in
complete style. Happy Christmas from the J/122 JACKPOT crew"