10 years of growth and international success: J/70 celebrates its 10th anniversary
by Julie & Christopher Howell 19 Apr 02:54 NZST
Cascais J70 Winter Series - 6th Stage © Neuza Aires Pereira
With nearly 1,900 hulls built and National Class Associations in 25 countries, the J/70 is the largest modern sport keelboat fleet in the world. The International Class Association has released a commemorative video to celebrate its growth, accomplishments and popularity since becoming a World Sailing recognized International Class in 2014.
"We are proud of the strong growth and momentum that J/70 continues to demonstrate," said IJ70CA President Vittorio Di Mauro of Italy. "After a successful test event last year in Riva del Garda, Italy, we will soon be hosting the first all-amateur World Championship this spring in Copenhagen, Denmark, with another record-breaking 140 boats registered. Only the J/70 can do this."
"One of the keys to the success of the J/70 Class has been the enthusiasm and dedication of J/70 owners to participate in events in record numbers, and to take on volunteer Class leadership positions at local, national and international levels," said Jeff Johnstone, President of J/Boats. "Since the first Midwinter Championship in Key West, Florida in 2013, the Class has been driven by dedicated owners who are committed to making J/70 one-design racing accessible, competitive and fun."
Proof of the Class's achievements is highlighted by the incredible locations hosting its nine World Championships to date. The inaugural Worlds occurred in 2014 in Newport USA, followed by La Rochelle France, San Francisco USA, Porto Cervo Italy, Marblehead USA, Torquay UK, Marina del Rey USA, Monaco and St. Petersburg USA.
In 2024, the North American Championship will be at Vallarta Yacht Club in Mexico, April 28-May 4. Italy will host the European Championship in Argentario from May 18-25. The South American Championship takes place in Punta del Este Uruguay on November 18-24. The first-ever all-Corinthian World Championship is set for the Royal Danish Yacht Club in Copenhagen Denmark June 6-9. The World Championship will be presented by Real Club Nàutico de Palma in Spain on September 14-21.
Future World Championship locations include Buenos Aires Argentina and Cascais Portugal. The Class also plans to expand on its unique event formats moving forward with a Mixed Plus World Championship as well as a focus on all-women and youth regattas.
International Class website: j70ica.org
Link to past champions j70ica.org/hall-of-fame
International Class Presidents starting in 2013 were Jurgen Waldheim GER, Henry Brauer USA, Ian Wilson GBR, Scott Weakley CAN and current president Vittorio Di Mauro ITA.