(Plymouth, England)- As the J/97 fleet continues to grow on either side
of "La Manche", enthusiasm not just for offshore handicap racing in RORC
events has increased, but the desire to sail more one-design racing has
also emerged amongst the lovers of this easy-to-handle 32 ft family
cruiser-racer. As a result, the J/97 EuroCup event has been announced
as part of the 2013 J-Cup hosted by the Royal Western Sailing Club,
Plymouth from 21st - 24th August. The UK J/97 fleet hope boats from
Ireland, Scotland, France and Benelux regions join them for some great
sailing after Cowes Week.The fleet will enjoy eight races over three days, both inside and out of the Plymouth breakwater, with most races scheduled to finish within view of the sailing club and spectators on the Hoe and surrounding areas. The overall results will determine both the winner of The Lombard J/97 UK National Championship, and now the European Championship also. Both winners will be awarded some first-rate prizes for their success on the water.
The J/97 is the smallest cruiser-racer of the J/Boats range. Measuring 32 ft', it combines 6' of headroom and family cruising accommodation in a high performance, easily driven hull. Launched in 2009, a sizable fleet of J/97s has developed in the UK, enjoying both one design and IRC racing. The boat has proven its competitive ability under IRC time and again; in 2012 the J/97 was crowned champion at the IRC SW Championships, IRC Nationals, IRC2 Class at Dartmouth Week, Class 5 at Cowes Week, and finally, overall winner of the coveted Scottish Series.
The annual J-Cup regatta is exclusively for racing yachts of the J-Boats brand and all J-Boats models are eligible to compete. A different venue is selected each year, and the event returns to Plymouth for the first time since 2007. Sailing photo credits- Tim Wright- Photoaction.com. For more J/97 EuroCup and UK Nationals sailing information
