Five Js in St Barths

Biggest gathering of the classic giants since the 1930s

Hanuman, Lionheart, Rainbow, Ranger and Velsheda will fleet race together during the annual St Barths Bucket Regatta, the first time five J Class yachts have lined up together since the 1930s.

The J Class Association today announced that spectators around the world will be able to follow the J Class racing during the St Barths Bucket Regatta via equipment provided by TracTrac Live Tracking.

Louise Morton, Secretary of the J Class Association, said: “We are looking forward to five J Class yachts participating at this year’s Bucket and grateful for the support of the Bucket Race Organisers and their willingness to provide an extra day’s racing on 28th March. These magnificent yachts will also carry trackers, allowing anyone from around world to follow what is bound to be very exciting racing.”

Results will be calculated using the JCA handicap.

The St Barths Bucket will take place over 28-31 March. It is well known for its pursuit racing format, with the first boat to finish winning the day. In a departure from tradition, the J Class will have it own start just prior to the pursuit class yachts. “In the interest of safety and fair racing, we intended on having a fleet start for the racing oriented superyachts this year,” said Event Director and Race Chairman Peter Craig. “With five Js gracing the same starting line and with St Barthélemy as the backdrop it should make for some spectacular racing and race viewing.”

Racing will take place in the vicinity of St Barthélemy and its adjoining islands. The courses are expected to be coastal courses using islands, rocks, inflatable and government buoys as marks of the course.