All four spectacular J Class yachts were out practicing on Sunday in a perfect 12 knots and sunny conditions off the Cornish coast for this year’s J Class Regatta. The yachts were out for more than four hours practicing starts, and perfecting their impressive spinnaker handling.



Three of the owners will helm the boats themselves, including Chris Gongriep who boasts years of sailing experience, having raced Windrose for many years before building Rainbow (above). Amongst the crews are some of the most talented sailors in the world.

Anybody wishing to see the boats can go to Events Square where there is an excellent view of the dock from above. Rainbow is berthed alongside her support ship MV Holland at the end of A&P’s dock. Ranger, Lionheart, and Velsheda are berthed at Port Pendennis Marina.

The first of five daily races starts tomorrow (Tuesday). After consultation with the captains, the race start has been moved to 1200 each day, weather permitting.

Click here to read an archive feature about why J Class yachts remain so endearing or click here to see a gallery of J Class yachts and their crew throughout the years.

For some images of yesterday’s warm-up click on an image below: