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2010 J/80 Worlds Site is On-line
 The 2010 J/80 Worlds website is now online with the Preliminary Notice of Regatta and general travel information. Many more details will be filled in during the coming weeks, but this will get J/80 sailors started on their planning for this pinnacle event in 2010. | 24 November 2009 | 2010 Worlds Website |
Klingler Reclaims North American Championship
 The 2009 J/80 North American Championships proved to be the perfect ending to a great season of J/80 racing. The best of the best came to Texas to give it their all in a fight for the championship. Six past North American Champions joined the fleet of 27 boats, in what proved to be almost perfect conditions on Galveston Bay. The regatta went down to the wire of the final race of the 8 race series, with Kerry Klingler and crew aboard Lifted edging Terry Flynn by 1 point, to win the 2009 North American Championships. In third place was another past champion, Glenn Darden, followed by Jay Lutz in fourth. The current Midwinter Champions, the Storck Family, rounded out the top 5. We went back to our 7th place finisher, Bill Rose and the crew of Kicks to win the Corinthian Trophy. Congratulations to all the competitors, the fleet was mixed every race through out the regatta, making it the most competitive J/80 regatta I have seen.
I want to thank this years host venue, Lakewood Yacht Club for having us. Terry Chapman, the club General Manager, and his staff did a fantastic job. A lot work was put in by our race committee, Marc Holdaway, Principal Race Officer, and Dwight Bengston, Race Committee Chairman, did a great job in putting together a very organized group of individual to run all the races. There were 29 different people helping on race committee on either mark set boats or committee boats, thank you all. Andrea Todaro served as our Head Judge and Protest Chair person. Thankfully to all the J80 racers, we handled our business professionally on the water and the protest room was never used. Finally, I want thank Kristen Robinson and the J80 Class for their support and for the party on Friday Night. Thank you guys the sailors and members of the J80 class, you make events like this fun to put on. Practice up all winter if you can, the 2010 Season is just around the corner, and Marion is hosting the North Americans, followed by the Worlds in Newport. It is a great time to be in the J80 class.
Robert McMahan
Kaos USA 703 | 28 October 2009 | Results |
Upcoming North American Tune Up Regatta
Galveston Bay Cruising Association (GBCA) is hosting its annual BBVA Compass Bank Regatta on the weekend of October 17-18, 2009. This is the weekend prior to the J/80 North Americans being hosted in the same racing area of Galveston Bay. Great chance to come get some practice in on Galveston Bay and tune up your boats and crews for the North Americans the following week. Lakewood Yacht Club is hosting those for launching and storing their boats during the event as well. Register online for the Bank Regatta at http://www.regattanetwork.com/club/gbca.html.
Also if you havent registered yet for North Americans do so at the same time, looks like a very strong and competitive fleet this year as 18 boats have registered for the event at this time. Any questions or help please feel free to contact me at robertm@higman.com or robdoyle2@aol.com.
Robert McMahan
Fleet 2 Captain | 23 September 2009 | Bank Regatta Registration |
Registration is Open for the 2009 North American Championship!
 Texas is welcoming back J80 sailors from across the country on October 23-25, 2009 at Lakewood Yacht Club in Seabrook, Texas for the 2009 North American Championships. Fleet #2 is excited and looking forward to hosting this event, especially one year after Hurricane Ike landed ashore in Galveston and resumed across Galveston Bay into the Seabrook area. The area has fully recovered and is back on the water racing. Lakewood Yacht Club is excellent host club, providing great facilities, a very experienced race committee, and very near by accommodations. It is always year-round sailing here in the Houston areas, temperatures in October are very mild with low humidity, typically find it in the 70s during the day with sunshine. Robert McMahan (USA 703 Kaos) and Uzi Ozeri(USA 122 Infinity) are leading the regatta organization and the social calendar for the event. Fleet 2 is looking forward to seeing you and your crews here for some good ole Texas hospitality. Follow the link to register now!
| 01 September 2009 | Register Here! |
Charter boats are 1, 2 at the Worlds
 Race-ready and fast out-of-the-box take on a whole new meaning with the J/80. Consider that in this year's World Championship in Spain, the 1st and 2nd place teams (out of 132) raced newly built, unmodified charter boats supplied by the local J dealer. There was no time in advance with the boat, no time to even think about changing anything just add sails and go. The Worlds winners sailed an incredible regatta in dynamic conditions, but isn't it great to know you can hop aboard a new boat in a competitive class without having to complete a laundry list of items to get up to speed? And to prove it wasn't a fluke, charter boats were 2nd and 3rd at the 2008 Worlds in Kiel! | 14 August 2009 |
Rayco Tabares is 2009 J/80 World Champion
 Rayco Tabares and his team from the Canary islands aboard Princesa Yaiza raced a nearly flawless series to capture the 9th J/80 World Championship in Santander Spain. A record 132 boats competed in the 12 race, one discard series, that saw a wide range of conditions and very tough competition.
The Royal Santander Yacht Club and their sponsors put on a very impressive show both on the water and ashore. The jury was active on the water enforcing the bowsprit and pumping rules. The fleet was split into Gold and Silver after three days of qualifying. All scores were carried forward. For complete results, pictures and stories of this fabulous event, click on the worlds website link. | 16 July 2009 | World's Site |
Jay Lutz Accident at the J80 Worlds
 Jay Lutz, the 2006 J/80 World Champion and a long time competitor and supporter of the J/80 Class, was involved in a rather unfortunate accident at the J/80 Worlds in Santander, Spain when a rib crashed USA 407 "Fired up" right before the practice race. The photoboat crossed the boat from port to starboard, the prop got stuck in the cockpit, smashed the boom, blew apart the mainsail and partially landed on Jay. Steve LeMay was aboard Fired Up as well and was checked into the hospital as a precaution, probably with a mild concussion. And from Jay Lutz: "I used my superhuman strength to move the boat off me, but fractured my pelvis (3 places) and slight fracture of my L2." This picture here does not do justice to what actually happened other than the fact you can see the engine stuck on the windward rail and the photoboat out to windward. We wish Jay and Steve well and hope that they recover in good health and spirits quickly! | 06 July 2009 |
2009 Worlds Fleet to be the Biggest in J80 History
Most classes consider 60-70 boats to be an incredible turn-out for a world championship. Try doubling that and you get a sense for just how big the 2009 event will be in Santander, Spain. Months ago organizers had already anticipated a big turnout and so plan to initially seed the fleet into four groups who will sail against each other for a series of qualifying races. Scores will carry through when the fleet is divided into gold and silver fleets. Representing the USA will be the Jay Lutz/Gary Kamins team aboard USA 407 and Jeff Johnstone USA 1173 who will sail with an all-French team aboard JACUZZI. | 02 July 2009 | Read more |
ISAF Approved 2009 Rules Changes
ISAF recently confirmed the approval and new release of the 2009 J/80 Class Rules. This document along with the summary of the rules changes is now uploaded on the RULES page of the International J/80 site. Most notable of the changes is the expansion of the advertising rule to allow more than one advertiser on the hull (where previously there was a limit of one advertiser for the boat and sails). The bowsprit rule is also simplified by ridding the conflicting language regarding retracting the sprit at the leeward mark. The new wording suggested and approved by the ISAF rules committee reflects the same intent as the previous rule only with less chance for misinterpretation by event judges. | 29 May 2009 | Read more |
J/80 Best Practices Guide Now Available
J Boats has compiled, with the help of several industry experts, a best practices inspection, maintenance and use guide for J/80 owners. All owners are strongly urged to read the recommendations, to proactively and periodically inspect all critical components of their boats, and to contact anyone in the J/80 network of dealers, builders and class associations when any questions. Please click on the J/80 Best Practices link on the left side menu of the Int'l Home Page. | 18 May 2009 | Read more |
Inspect Your Keels Update
Following two separate incidents in the past 12 months where 15+ year old J/80s suffered apparent keel stub failures, J Boats, with the help of several industry experts, is compiling a best practices inspection, maintenance and use guide for J/80 owners. The following is an excerpt of the draft document, specifically regarding inspection of the keel and keel floor area. We strongly urge all owners to read carefully the recommendations and to inspect their boats.
INSPECTION FREQUENCY
Considering the typical high-frequency use seen by many J/80s, at a minimum, we recommend that J/80s be inspected on an annual basis and that a professional survey be done every five years.
HOW TO INSPECT YOUR KEEL/KEEL FLOORS (For Owners and Surveyors)
1. With your boat suspended from travel lift straps (OK) or braced in a cradle (best) or trailer (good), grab the keel at the bottom and forcefully rock it back and forth. This tip deflection test on a deep keel boat should create a small amount of flex over the span of the keel and sump (if solid fiberglass like the J/80), but there should otherwise be minimal movement from side to side. When you release the keel it should immediately return to position (and not continue to cycle). It is also important to have someone belowdecks to check for movement in the keel floor or bilge area, or any evidence that the sump is moving independently of the keel floors.
2. Are there any visible signs of cracking on the hull at the front and back of keel? Check the leading edge and bottom of keel for any impact marks/dents, scrapes. The two go hand in hand with grounding or impact damage.
3. Is there any cracking at the sump/keel joint? A crack in the cosmetic wrap could indicate that the keel nuts have loosened and need to be re-torqued. A crack may also permit water to penetrate to the keel bolts and cause crevice corrosion over time particularly if in salt water. Keel nuts should be torqued according to ISO standards, which specify the setting based on bolt material and thickness. For example, a 316 stainless keel bolt has a torque setting of 125 ft lbs assuming clean threads.
4. Is there any cracking, no matter how small, along the radius of the hull to molded sump interface? This is the transition from the hull fairbody to the keel sump. If yes, then bottom paint/gel coat should be sanded back to identify depth of cracking. One should also inspect the corresponding area on the turn of the sump inside the boat and consider sanding back interior gelcoat to see if any damage to the glass (white crazing). The tip deflection test (#1) can help better identify whether the cracks are a result of flex or a different issue.
5. Pull up all floorboards and thoroughly clean and dry all bilge components. With flashlight and mirror check all keel floor to hull intersections, including all edges of tabbing for any cracking or debonding. The integrity of the molded keel sump relies primarily on the keel floors and their secure attachment. If the keel and sump have excess movement, it is likely that the tabbing of one or more keel floors is compromised in some way (i.e. the floor is floating free from the hull). If there is any sign of different color gelcoats or paint, it is likely the keel sump has been previously repaired. When in doubt, sand away any gelcoat, clean area with a solvent, and look for white spots in the laminate-- this may be a sign of delamination. Have a surveyor immediately inspect this area for structural integrity.
6. Carefully inspect the keel bolt nuts for signs of corrosion. Periodically have your yard back off the keel nuts (one at a time) and inspect for crevice corrosion on the keel bolts. This can also be checked with a magnet. 316 stainless steel is not magnetic but crevice corrosion changes the properties and the steel could become magnetic.
7. A surveyor will use other tools to check the area: the tap test- tapping with a phenolic hammer to sound out both the exterior and interior for voids or delamination as well as to check the integrity of the glass tabbing along the keel floors; a moisture meter for finding areas of elevated moisture; even thermal infrared imaging to check for any inner laminate damage that might not otherwise be visible to the naked eye (see www.inspectboat.com for sample thermography images).
Structural Repair Considerations
For J/80s, the owner and a certified SAMS (www.marinesurvey.org) surveyor or composites expert should (1) determine the extent of cracking, distortion, wetness or delamination and (2) if there is any evidence discovered in step #1 that indicates a potential problem, the surveyor should then conduct destructive or non-destructive testing and, depending on the results of the test, recommend a repair procedure that is carried out by a qualified repair facility.
| 01 May 2009 |
Inspect Your Keels - Notice to J/80 Owners from J Boats
We learned this morning that a 1994 J/80, racing offshore in a rough Double-handed Farralones Race off San Francisco lost its keel about 8 miles from the finish. Thankfully, both crewmembers were safely rescued by the Coast Guard.
In the absence of a specific incident such as a collision, hard grounding or drop from a crane, a failure of this kind is highly unusual without some kind of warning sign. In the only other keel loss incident among 1,150 J/80s worldwide, the composites surveyor judged the boat to have had significant longitudinal crazing visible at the exterior hull fairbody/ keel sump juncture that predated the failure. In other words, a routine inspection or survey could have led to the repairs needed to have prevented such a failure.
No sailboat is going to last forever without some updating and repairs, particularly if campaigned hard. We do not know what factors over its 15 year life may have led to the keel failure on J/80 hull #45. But we strongly urge all J/80 owners, indeed all J/Boat owners, to routinely inspect keel stringers and keel sump areas, both internally and externally with frequency and most importantly prior to entering an offshore race. Owners should specifically look for any longitudinal (fore/aft) cracking that appears on the outside of the hull and/or on the turn of the bilge, as well as any issues with the fiberglass tabbing attaching the stringers to the hull. Any compromise to the stringer tabbing, due to any number of reasons, can severely weaken the overall sump system. If you find cracks, do not assume that it’s OK, without confirmation from an expert surveyor.
For all boat owners, the keel sump and stringers, along with other high stress areas, such as rigging attachments, chainplates, rudder pintles, mast step, mast partners and primary bulkheads should be inspected at least once per year. As this unfortunate incident reminds us, one can not be too vigilant when dealing with life threatening situations. Pro-active inspection of the key structural elements of the boat are part of keeping oneself, family and crew safe.
Owners should contact their local J representative if they need assistance.
| 31 March 2009 | Read more |
Inside the Storck Family's KW Success
Stuart Streuli of Sailing World magazine caught up with Kaity Storck in Key West last week to find out more about their successul defense of the J/80 Midwinters.
What's your job on the boat?
We actually have a really cool thing. I sail with my dad and usually my two older brothers. We all sort of rotate through positions. This week I am the second most forward person and I'm pulling the spinnaker up, taking the spinnaker down, and helping call tactics. I'm also calling waves and puffs as we go upwind.
Give us this history of this team?
My dad has sailed Key West I think probably six times in the J/80, maybe seven times. This is my fourth year in the J/80. We basically started sailing as a family together four years ago. We were actually gearing up to sail the worlds in Corpus Christi, Texas. We were all busy with junior sailors, and, my dad, he sailed a PHRF boat, and then he realized that if he got a one-design boat, we would actually sail with him. So he did, and then we did. I actually have a younger brother and we've sailed with all five of us once, and that was at Block Island Race Week two years ago and that was cool because I got to drive for that.
Tell us a little about your day?
It was definitely a really difficult day. The breezeI'm not sure if it was this way on all the coursesbut on our course it was really streaky and localized. You could easily be going upwind next to a boat that you're pretty close to and suddenly you're pointing 20 to 30 degrees different. Sometimes something would last for a while, sometimes it would only last for a second. You'd get a big header and tack, and then get a big header again. It was definitely really difficult, which made for really tight competitive racing. The first race we finished fourth and I think there was something like 15 seconds between the first six boats [Ed's note: first five boats finished in 35 seconds according to the Premiere Racing website]. The second race we won by less than a second. It was the same thing on the downwind. People sometimes don't realize that in an asymmetrical boat, as shifty as it is on the upwinds, you've got to be just as game on for the downwinds.
The J/80 is a tight one-design boat, but is there any one piece of equipment that was particularly valuable today?
Our personnel is our key tool. We have a new jib that seems to be working pretty well. We've had UK Halsey sails since we've gotten into the boat and they've always done really well. This one seems to have a little more shape at the bottom than our older jibs. This is our first time sailing with it, so we're just figuring it out.
Who would be the MVP of the team today?
The one thing our team has always done really well, is that everyone focuses on doing their own job and just their job. I think that's a problem that a lot of boats have difficulty with, especially when you have a lot of really good sailors together. It's hard for everyone to focus on doing just their job. More often than not, it's not that you run into problems with people messing up their job, but people sort of overstepping boundaries. So everyone always does a really good job on our boat. But probably with the conditions being so shifty and up and down breeze wise, we were seeing easily 10 knot ranges and the really big shifts, I think John, my brother, who was driving the boat, probably gets the MVP for keeping the boat moving.
What sort of advice would you give to another J/80 sailor looking to sail at Key West Race Week for the first time?
Trying to put together a team that has sailed together before so you can be really focused on going fast for the regatta, and everybody knows what they're doing. I will not hesitate to say our strongest point is our speed. If you have a good mix of all-stars and people who have sailed the boat before that's definitely better than all all-stars that maybe have never sailed before because things can get done a lot better. Like I said before, the most important thing on a boat is everybody doing their job. They've got to be good at their job, so they've got to be an all-star at that. But, yeah, speed is really important down here. | 31 January 2009 | Sailing World KW Blog |
Rumor Wins Key West Race Week 2009!
Key West's famous sailing conditions returned to form last week as sailors from across the planet congregated for the annual battle of the high seas at Acura Key West Race Week, including the 2009 J/80 Midwinter Championship. John Storck Jr. and family (John III and Katie) aboard Rumor repeated as Midwinter champions, and earned the Lewmar Boat of the Day on Thursday for the top performance in the most competitive class. The J/80 Class was able to boast as one of the largest one-design Classes in attendance this year. Over the 10 race series, Rumor finished on top followed by Bill Rose (League City, TX) on Kicks and Kristen Robinson (Annapolis, MD) on Angry Chameleon. | 29 January 2009 | Results and Photos |
Can't Make It to Key West Race Week this Year - View the Action on Your Computer
The USA J80 Class has hired Kattack to track all the action at Key West Race Week 2009. You can see all the choices and lanes the racers choose and keep track of your local favorites! Every night you will be able to view the days racing at www.kattack.com. Good luck to all who are making the trip down south! | 15 January 2009 | Kattack Website |
2009 J/80 Class Rules Submissions
Please review the attached 2009 J/80 Class Rules Submissions. In accordance with the class by-laws, there is a minimum 60 day minimum review period from the date the resolutions were submitted by the Technical Committee to the Executive Committee (December 3, 2008). This would mean that the ExCom can vote on the submissions after February 3rd. Please email any comments or questions you may have to your Fleet Captain and/or Executive Board. | 16 December 2008 | 2009 J/80 Class Rules Submissions |
Congratulations to the 2009-2010 J80 USA Class Officers
The Class Officers for the J80 USA Class has been voted in. Your Class Officers for 2009 through 2010 are:
President: Kristen Robinson, #255, Fleet #10 Annapolis, MD
Vice President: Conor Hayes #265, Fleet #1 New Hampshire
Treasurer: Lane Wimberly #703, Fleet #2 Galveston Bay, TX
Secretary: Curt Johnson #284, Fleet #11 Southern California
Lets support them and encourage them to facilitate the growth of our class. Some of the major issues they will be tackling and assisting the Class with in the coming months will be:
* Organizing the 2009 North American Championships in Texas
* Organizing the 2010 North American Championships in Marion, MA
* Organizing the 2010 World Championships Newport, RI
* Transferring the Class from the current sail patch system over to non-removable buttons.
* Training more Class Measurers, in more locations, in the USA
* Assist in the Class in getting through this downturn in the economy and emerge stronger than before!
Please email your Class President if you have other issues that you believe the Class needs to address and rectify. Thanks for the support and we look forward to serving as you Class Officers. | 02 December 2008 |
J/80 One-Design Racing in China
Eight teams from eight countries participated last week in the first International J/80 Invitational Regatta in Xiamen, China hosted by J Boats Asia and J World Xiamen. This marked the first ever J/80 one-design event in the Pacific Rim.
Team Belgium captained by Barry Hayes and skippered by China's Olympic Yngling skipper Song Xia Qun won the five race no-throw out series over Team Hong Kong, Team Singapore and Team USA. Other countries included Philippines, France, China, Taiwan, and Australia. Sailors enjoyed the use of brand new J/80s right off the production line of J Boats new Asian builder, Hudson Yacht Industries of Xiamen. Jeff Johnstone of J Boats was on hand to measure boats and run the sailors (most of whom were new to the J/80) through a pre-regatta speed clinic.
"We couldn't be happier with the turnout and the high quality of the competition," said Jeff Brown, president of J Boats Asia and the event chairman. "Xiamen is a beautiful sailing venue and the perfect location to launch a new J World sailing school and the J/80 Asian class. We look forward to welcoming new students when the school officially opens in 60 days and to hosting even bigger J/80 events in the future."
| 02 December 2008 |
Bruno Pasquinelli and Tiamo are the J80 North American Champions!
Light air was once again the order of the day, for the final two races of the J/80 NAs but with an unusual twist. At the scheduled time for the warning signal, the breeze was coming from 200-210 far left from the normal direction. PRO Tom OConor postponed the start for about 15 minutes, hoping the wind might shift a bit to the right before sending the fleet up the course. That didnt happen, so O'Conor had the weather mark placed at 205 degrees and started the sequence in 7-knots of wind. No one was surprised when the wind clocked 30 degrees in the next 25 minutes, but those boats who positioned themselves properly on the course to take advantage of that shift were launched. The first three finishers were the top three boats in the standings. More importantly, however, Bruno Pasquinellis second place finish was more than good enough to insure that his Tiamo had won the championship without even needing to sail the eighth and final race. That set the stage for the final race which became a duel between Kerry Klinger from Larchmont, New York and CYCs Curt Johnson a duel to see who would occupy the second spot on the podium. It was an intense race from start to finish, but in the last few feet of the race course, Klinger passed Ed Cummins Bold Forbes by inches to take second place. Johnsons fifth place finish in that race put him into a tie with Klinger a tie that was broken in favor of Klinger to give the New York team second place, with Johnson settling for third. | 03 August 2008 |
J80 North American's Day Two Update
The second day of the J/80 North American Championship had a decidedly different look than Day One. The sun made a late appearance – showing up only for the third and final race of the day. As a result, the sea breeze had a difficult time grabbing a solid hold, so the winds were lighter and much shifter than the fleet experienced during the previous three races on Day One. Most of the racing took place in 6-8 knots of wind. However, the pressure varied considerably over the race course, which helped shuffle the pecking order a bit at mark roundings. But there were at least a couple of constants. Bruno Pasquinelli’s Tiamo – the boat that has occupied the top spot in the standings since the opening race – and defending champion Kerry Klinger, always started near the pin, and more often than not both worked the left side of the course on the weather legs. Tiamo looked very fast going upwind, and has now opened up a six-point lead on the leaderboard. Curt Johnson from the host club seemed much less baffled by the shifty conditions than many of the other competitors. Johnson was never dueling with Pasquinelli or Klinger for the pin at the start but consistently was able to find a comfortable hole on the starting line so he was always able to sail his own race. Johnson “won” Day Two with finishes of 1-2-4, and is now in second place. At the same time, Klinger took a 40% penalty for an issue at the leeward gate with Pasquinelli in race five of the series, and is now in third place – five points behind Johnson. Although a throw-out has now kicked in for scoring purposes, it would be shortsighted to overlook the fact that Tiamo’s worst race is only a fourth – four points less than that of any other boat in the fleet. This fact will not be lost on Bruno Pasquinelli’s team as they go into the final two races of the championship on Sunday. | 02 August 2008 |
J80 North American's Day One Update
A casual observer on the water watching the first day of the J/80 North American Championship, might easily have gotten the impression that Bruno Pasquinelli from the Fort Worth Boat Club in Texas was giving a seminar. Pasquinelli's Tiamo won the first race of the series rather easilty and although he needed to pass a boat or two on the first run of the second race, after two races he was still undefeated. He and his crew seemed very comfortable in the 7-9 knots of breeze in which both of those races were sailed, and seemed happy to start each race at or near the pin and protect the left side of the course upwind. The third and final race of Day One had a bit more breeze, but once again Pasquinelli started at the pin and protected the left side, which rewarded him with yet another first place rounding at the weather mark. However, on the second beat, the left side magic deserted him. Steven Hammerman, also from the Dallas area, hit the right corner on that beat in a breeze that built to 11 knots...and was several boat lengths ahead of Tiamo at the top mark. Hammerman's Hammertime held on to that lead to win the third race and move into a tie for third place with defending North American Champion Kerry Klinger from Larchmont, New York. However, after three races, Pasquinelli sits comfortably at the head of the pack with a five point lead over Ed Cummin's very consistent (3-2-4) Bold Forbes, steered by Mike Sturman, with Hammertime and Klinger's Infiniti two points further back. Three more races are scheduled for Saturday with the final two races on Sunday. The weather? Look for more 7-11 knots of breeze with bright sunshine and temperatures in the mid-70s. | 01 August 2008 |
Rodriguez is new J80 World Champion
The winner of the Tutima J80 Worlds comes from Spain. Ignacio Camino Rodriguez and his "Nextel engineering" Crew took the title despite the fact that the Spanish crew was black flagged in the last race. Only two points ahead Ignacio Camino Rodriguez saved his lead and was happy that race officer Mandus Freese did not start the twelth race because of strong winds. All three days before of Tutima J80 Worlds the Spanish team was on first place in the daily rankings. First time skippering a J80 in a Worlds the president of the J80- Class, Jeff Johnstone, USA sailed into the second place, just two points behind the winner. With the boat chartered from a German trader and equipped with sails of the Kiel sail makers Faber and Mnker the 48-year-old sailor needed a couple of races to get used to the conditions in Kiel, but showed then with three day wins and further rankings in front. The fleet of 63 Boats and crews from 12 nations was dominated by, besides the Spanish crews, especially teams of France, Great Britain and Sweden under the top ten of the fleet. After all, French sailor Patrick Bot could achieve four wins in the daily valuations. But after some worse places unfortunately rank 4 was left for the French team. Although rarely worse than 15th, Kevin Sproul (GBR), sailed himself into the total rank 5. The hosts and initiators of the Tutima J80 Worlds Uli Mnker and Peter Hecht finished as best German team. Temporarily being on rank three finally the Kiel ones have to be satisfied with place nine. We always had nice conditions here in Kiel, winds between 10 and 20 knots all the time and very seldom a strong rain shower. With a total of eleven races we could deliver a perfect performance", head of organisation, Thore Hansen, summed up. Final results: 1. Ignacio Camino Rodriguez/Alberdo Padron Gomez Jose Luis/Armando Gutierrez (ESP) 52 2. Jeff Johnstone/Bo Teichmann/Stella Mau/Florian Fh/Henning Mittelmann (USA) 54 3. Carlos Martinez/Chencho Ortega/Eugenio Pedreno/Juanma Barrionuevo (ESP) 63 4. Patrick Bot/Frederic Denis/Matthieu Durand/Frederic Hauville/Agathe Brucelle (FRA) 71 5. Kevin Sproul/Yoann Richomme/Robert Gullan/Aarian Gray (GBR) 75; 6. Javier Padron/Juan Gonzalez/Abelardo Queuedo/Cesar Obregon (ESP) 79 7. Ingemar Sundstedt/Jrgen Strmquist/Olof Detlefsen/Anne Tempelmann/Mikael Linquist (SWE) 79 8. Jonathan Lobert/Flix Pruvor/Thomas Le Breton/Benjamin Diouris (FRA) 81 9. Ulrich Mnker/Philipp Schn/Willem Geertz/Erik Hecht/Peter Hecht (Kiel) 87 10. Luc Nadal/Francois Meesmaecker/Pierre Mousselon/Gilles Curcaud (FRA) 106 | 14 July 2008 | Read more |
Johnstone gets second
A real perfect performance shows the boat with the number USA 1151 on the third day of Tutima J80 Worlds in Kiel. Jeff Johnstone, president of J-Boats himself, steered his J80 on the second place overall. Going further ahead to fetch the titel, the crew of Ignacio Camino Rodriguez is leading with eleven points in front of Johnstone. In Kiel Jeff Johnstone gives daily proof that he controls his “own” boat perfectly. He belongs to the second generation of the boat- builder family Johnstone from Newport/Rhode Island. The J80, designed by his brother Alan in 1993, which is represented in Schilksee 63 times, stands out due to her wide dynamic. “She is, nevertheless easy to handle ", how Jeff stresses. "All boats we built must pass the test by the family”, emphasizes Jeff Johnstone, sole American Skipper at the J80 Worlds. He appreciates very much that the J80 class takes it for granted to be open for young people. That’s why 14-year-old Stella Mau and 15-year-old Florian Föh are part of his crew. It is the first time that Jeff Johnstone takes part in a J80 World Cup. Until now he was known more to be an adviser and measurer in the regatta scene. Nevertheless two races have to be sailed on Saturday and perfect conditions will be expected. Top five after ten races: 1. Ignacio Camino Rodriguez/Alberdo Padron/Gomez Jose Luis/Armando Gutierrez (ESP) 2,2,6,8,3,4,(11,00),4,5,8/42 points; 2. Jeff Johnstone/Bo Teichmann/Stella Mau/Florian Föh/Henning Mittelmann (USA) 7,11,3,5,13,(14,00),7,1,1,5/53; 3. Carlos Martinez/Chencho Ortega/Eugenio Pedreno/Juanma Barrionuevo(ESP) 4,18,7,2,6,5,2,(65,00),4,10/58; 4. Javier Padron/Juan Gonzalez/Abelardo Queuedo/Cesar Obregon (ESP) 1,9,4,9,8,8,8,2,10,(21,00)/59; 5. Kevin Sproul/Yoann Richomme/Robert Gullan/Aarian Gray (GBR) 3,14,2,4,14,15,10,(32,00),3,3/68 | 14 July 2008 |
Tutima J80 Worlds Day 2: Rodriguez still ahead
Already two Spanish teams resume the lead in the Tutima J80 Worlds at Kiel, with Ignacio Camino Rodriguez (ESP) on top and Carlos Martinez on second place. From a position far behind yesterday the German team of “Needles and Pins” with Uli Münker and Peter Hecht celebrated their comeback into the tops today. With a series of 1, 3 and 5 today they take the third place in the fleet of 63 boats in Kiel. While many collisions and unavoidable protests characterized the first race day, today constant southerly winds between 2 and 5 Bft brought calmness into the field. Ignacio Camino Rodriguez from Spain has the lead unchallenged. Still without a first place in a race but always among the first eleven boats the vice- world champion of 2007 dominates the 63 boats fleet from twelve nations. As the Spaniard, like all crews, could discard his worst result, he was able to enhance his balance to 25 points. Only one point behind ranks Carlos Martinez (ESP) with his crew. While things ran not quite optimal on board of "Needles and Pins" of Peter Hecht and Uli Münker at the start of Tutima J80 Worlds yesterday, the Kiel Yacht- Club team confirmed their world class condition and catapulted themselves onto a potential bronze rank. More than half of the Tutima J80 Worlds races have been accomplished with that. So until Saturday five races are left according to plan. Top five after seven races: 1. Ignacio Camino Rodriguez/Alberdo Padron/Gomez Jose Luis/Armando Coniertua (ESP) 2,2,6,8,3,4,(11)/25; 2. Carlos Martinez/Chencho Ortega/Eugenio Pedreno/Juanma Barrionuevo (ESP) 4,(18),7,2,6,5,2/26; 3. Ulrich Münker/Philipp Schön/Willem Geertz/Erik Hecht/Peter Hecht (Kiel) (26),6,8,11,1,3,5/34 4. Javier Padron/Juan Gonzalez/Abelardo Queuedo/Cesar Obregon (ESP) 1,9,4,(9),8,8,8/38 5. Tomas Movin/Peter Ohlsen/Nils Ohlsen/Peter Thorwid (SWE) (17), 8,11,10,2,1,9/41 | 11 July 2008 | Read more |
Tutima J80 Worlds Day 2: Rodriguez still ahead
Already two Spanish teams resume the lead in the Tutima J80 Worlds at Kiel, with Ignacio Camino Rodriguez (ESP) on top and Carlos Martinez on second place. From a position far behind yesterday the German team of “Needles and Pins” with Uli Münker and Peter Hecht celebrated their comeback into the tops today. With a series of 1, 3 and 5 today they take the third place in the fleet of 63 boats in Kiel.
While many collisions and unavoidable protests characterized the first race day, today constant southerly winds between 2 and 5 Bft brought calmness into the field. Ignacio Camino Rodriguez from Spain has the lead unchallenged. Still without a first place in a race but always among the first eleven boats the vice- world champion of 2007 dominates the 63 boats fleet from twelve nations. As the Spaniard, like all crews, could discard his worst result, he was able to enhance his balance to 25 points. Only one point behind ranks Carlos Martinez (ESP) with his crew. While things ran not quite optimal on board of "Needles and Pins" of Peter Hecht and Uli Münker at the start of Tutima J80 Worlds yesterday, the Kiel Yacht- Club team confirmed their world class condition and catapulted themselves onto a potential bronze rank. More than half of the Tutima J80 Worlds races have been accomplished with that. So until Saturday five races are left according to plan. Top five after seven races: 1. Ignacio Camino Rodriguez/Alberdo Padron/Gomez Jose Luis/Armando Coniertua (ESP) 2,2,6,8,3,4,(11)/25; 2. Carlos Martinez/Chencho Ortega/Eugenio Pedreno/Juanma Barrionuevo (ESP) 4,(18),7,2,6,5,2/26; 3. Ulrich Münker/Philipp Schön/Willem Geertz/Erik Hecht/Peter Hecht (Kiel) (26),6,8,11,1,3,5/34 4. Javier Padron/Juan Gonzalez/Abelardo Queuedo/Cesar Obregon (ESP) 1,9,4,(9),8,8,8/38 5. Tomas Movin/Peter Ohlsen/Nils Ohlsen/Peter Thorwid (SWE) (17), 8,11,10,2,1,9/41 | 10 July 2008 |
Spain takes the lead in the Tutima J80 Worlds
‘Have a shower..’, that was the motto for today’s races. Heavy rain showers cooled down the fresh winds during the first day of the Tutima J80 Worlds on Kiel Bight. In between wind speed decreased a bit, but the wind came back punctually for the third race. Finally four races were sailed in at least best conditions. The courses were dominated by the crews from Spain, at the end Ignacio Camino Rodriguez (ESP) and his crew took the lead in front of Javier Padron (ESP). The British team of Kevin Sproul achieved the third place. J-Boats designer and maybe the first J80 sailor in the world at all Jeff Johnstone from the US came in fourth and showed how well he knows his ‘own’ boat.
Race director Jobst Richter had fired the signal for the first race of the day at firm winds from west at 11:25 a.m. “We had very variable wind conditions on the courses and had to lay out a new course for each new race. With every cloud the wind shifted by at least twenty degrees, which made it a challenge for the sailors as well”, declared Jobst Richter.
He will now give the race management responsibilities into the hands of Mandus Freese for the rest of the Tutima J80 World Cup
The new J80 World Champion will be determined on Saturday.
Top five after four races:
1. Ignacio Camino Rodriguez/Alberdo Padron/Gomez Jose Luis/Armando Coniertua (ESP/2,2,6,8) 18; 2. Javier Padron/Juan Gonzalez/Abelardo Queuedo/Cesar Obregon (ESP/1,9,4,9) 23; 3. Kevin Sproul/Yoann Richomme/Robert Gullan/Aarian Gray (GBR/3,14,2,4) 23; 4. Patrick Bot/Matthieu Durand/Frederic Hauville/Agathe Brucelle (FRA/22,1,1,1) 25; 5. Jeff Johnstone/Bo Teichmann/Stella Mau/Florian Föh/Henning Mittelmann (USA/7,11,3,5) 26.
Follow the link for exciting pictures
| 10 July 2008 | Read more |
J/80 Worlds Entry Closes
More than 60 teams from 12 countries are now entered in the Tutima 2008 J/80 World Championship, taking place in Kiel, Germany next month. Never before have so many countries been represented at the worlds. Kieler Yacht Club and the German J/80 Class are proud of this result and look forward to welcoming all competitors to Kiel. | 19 June 2008 | Read more |
J/80 Hull #21 Skillagalee
We regret to report that on Saturday, while racing in the Sprit Fest Regatta in Long Island, J/80 hull #21 broached with spinnaker the up and in the process lost its keel. Conditions were 22-25 knots with higher gusts. The incident took place on the last leg of the first race, where hull #21 broached three times, the third and final of which took place just after finishing. Everyone aboard was safe. The J/80 was later towed very slowly back into port and then hauled out. The boat will be undergoing a thorough survey in the coming weeks, and a full investigation will take place to determine, if possible, the cause of the accident. We will endeavor to inform all J/80 owners what is learned from the investigation. The J/80's 15 year record speaks for itself regarding the boat's durability and seaworthiness. At this point, this is believed to be an isolated incident.
We will keep you posted on the developments.
| 04 June 2008 |
2008 J80 North American's Update
 California Yacht Club is pleased to host the J/80 Class for their North American Championship this July 30th through August 3rd. Sailing conditions in Marina del Rey at this time of year are ideal for a championship event, with a 10 to 15 knot breeze typically filling in by noon under warm and sunny skies.
Come sail on the same waters where many championship regattas have been sailed, including the Star Worlds, the Laser Radial Worlds, the J/105 North Americans, and the J/24 North Americans. Experience the dedication of a race management team that has been awarded US Sailings prestigious St. Petersburg Trophy three times in the past decade.
Marina del Rey is an ideal vacation destination for the whole family. Enjoy shopping experiences from chic Rodeo Drive to eclectic Melrose Avenue. Visit cultural attractions such as the Getty Museum and the LA County Museum of Art or enjoy a concert under the stars at the Hollywood Bowl. Family excursions include Universal Studios, Disneyland and Knotts Berry Farm. Competitors and their guests also are welcome to use the Clubs facilities during race days, including a heated pool, snack bar and dining facilities.
Chairman: Marylyn Hoenemeyer
310.472.3577 or 310.617.3870
J80NA@roadrunner.com
A full calendar of events has been planned. Please click on the link for further details: | 20 May 2008 | Read more |
J/80s Finish 1-2 in Asian Sportboat Champs
The J/80 recently debuted in Asia at the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club's Maersk Asian International Sportboat Championship, where two out-of-the-box J/80 yachts took the top two spots, finishing ahead of a mixed fleet of custom and production built sportboats from China, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. Jeff Johnstone of J Boats and his all-Hong Kong crew edged out colleague Jeff Brown of San Diego to complete the one-two sweep. Brown, with partner Hudson Wang, recently opened the J Boats Asia dealership with an office in downtown Hong Kong and with plans for a mainland China office in early 2008.
The Asian debut comes at a time when J/80 activity is booming worldwide. The recent J/80 World Championship in La Trinite-sur-Mer, France had 124 competing teams - a record for the Class, and momentum continues to build. "The J/80 is a solid all-around performer that's really easy to sail," Johnstone said. "It's more stable than most sportboats, and so attracts and rewards sailors from a wider age and ability range."
Jeff Brown is equally enthusiastic about the J/80's Asian debut. "We see Hong Kong, China, and Asia as great opportunities for J/80 sailing and for the J/80 Class," said Brown. "There is no better small keelboat for new sailors - the J/80 combines the speed and responsiveness of a small boat with the comfort and stability of a larger yacht. With momentum so strong around the world, we're hoping to host the J/80 Pacific Rim Championship in a few years!"
The J/80 will be on display at the Shanghai International Boat Show next April. | 23 November 2007 | Read more |
Kerry Klingler wins 2007 J80 North American Championships
Eastport Yacht Club and its top-notch race committee team hosted an outstanding regatta last weekend. A strong fleet of 33 boats showed up in Annapolis with teams from as far away as California and Texas who were treated to a typical mixture of fall conditions on the Chesapeake Bay. Kerry Klingler, a class veteran and professional with UK Sailmakers, used solid crew work and superb boat speed to capture the North American crown with a low score of 16 points. The crew of Lifted consisted of Doug Lynn, Neil Bresnan, John Bowden, and Kerry Klingler. This victory was Klingler’s third North American Championship and second consecutive win. Everyone had high praise for EYC race committee, chaired by Jeff Borland. "Overall, the race committee did a great job of running races in difficult conditions. They worked hard to ensure fair and fun races," Klingler wrote in a blog entry on the UK Sailmakers website. "The regatta was well run and a lot of fun. I would like to thank Eastport Yacht Club, which provided the home base for the event. If you missed the regatta, you missed out on some great sailing and great competition." | 15 November 2007 | Read more |
2007 J80 North Americans Moving to Annapolis!
Due to the very low water levels in Lake Norman, NC the 2007 North Americans will now be held in Annapolis, MD. Eastport Yacht Club will be hosting the event. Dates for the championship regatta remain the same, Nov. 9-11, and if you have already registered, you registration fee and application will be transferred to the new race organizers. If you have not already registered, please do so now! Annapolis is the “Sailing Capitol of the World” and promises great race committee, great parties and a great atmosphere. Details, including a new NOR, schedule of events and information on visiting Annapolis, will be posted shortly. Please help Eastport Yacht Club, Fleet 18 and your J80 USA Executive Board in making this a great National Championship! Click "dots" to enter Regatta Website | 10 October 2007 | Read more |
2007 J80 North American Championships
Sign up now for the 2007 J80 North American Championship being held on Lake Norman, NC and being hosted by Don Trask and the Lake Norman Yacht Club. The registration form and NOR can be found in the calendar section of the USA website and also by clicking on the NA's header of the homepage of the USA website. Check out the great activities planned in the Schedule of Events! Current Entries | 14 September 2007 |
USA J/80 Production Update
J/80 momentum is cranking along worldwide and production has resumed in the USA with six boats already having shipped from Pearson Composites in Rhode Island. Current J/80 Midwinter and former J/80 World champion Kerry Klingler picked up Hull #1001 last month. Designer Rod Johnstone has sold his bigger J and will be sailing his new J/80 at the North Americans in November. The new 2008 USA model incorporates several features from the J/Europe J/80 while retaining the SCRIMP molding used on all previous USA built J/80s: New style rails and stanchions reduced to the 450mm class minimum height; Molded companionway step in lieu of old style ladder; Tack line clutch; Sparcraft France J/80 anodized spar package; J/Europe new style bowsprit and end fitting; All California gray deck; Harken carbo block upgrade; New style Ronstan jib tracks and plunger cars.
| 30 August 2007 |
J/80 Worlds Declares New Champion
La Trinite, France....It first came as a surprise but the astonishing superiority of a strong Spanish contingent at the beginning of the week turned almost into a clean sweep as Santander's skippers Jose Maria Torcida Seghers and Ignacio Camino struggled against each other until the last and decisive 11th race. Torcida Seghers emerged as the new J/80 World Champion with an impressive 5 wins in 11 races.
"We came here with very limited objectives knowing we would face the word's best. We've only been sailing seriously and competitively in the J/80 since last October. We decided to train as a team with the entire 30 boat fleet gathered in Santander. All that hard work has paid off."
Germany's Ulrich Muenker's third place overall prevents the Spaniards from heading home with a unique grand slam in the J/80's World history. For the very first time, the Worlds winner does not come from the organizing country. 124 J80s entered this competition. Defending champion Glenn Darden made an excellent showing, finishing 6th overall, including a bullet in Race #7.
Overall top six
1. Jose MariaTorcida Seghers, ESP, 29 points
2. Ignacio Camino, ESP, 46
3. Ulrich Muenker, GER, 57
4. Rayco Tabares, ESP, 61
5. Sylvain Pellissier, FRA, 65
6. Glenn Darden, USA, 66
| 09 July 2007 | Read more |
Ole! Spanish Armada takes on J/80 Worlds
First a great showing at the America’s Cup, both as host country and a leading challenger, and now Spain is showing its stuff at the top of the one-design world with the top 3 placings with one day to go at the 2007 J/80 World Championship in La Trinite sur Mer, France. In what is likely to be the largest keelboat World Championship of the year (with 124 boats), three Spanish teams led by Jose Torcida Seghers, Ignacio Camino and Rayco Tabares are showing their heavy air prowess with a dominating performance. Four races were held today in the relatively “lighter” 15 knot conditions and even lighter winds are expected to shuffle the fleet on the final day of racing. All previous J/80 Worlds have been won by a team from the host country, but this is likely to change with the top 7 teams all from visiting countries. 3rd place is still within reach for several boats including defending champ Glenn Darden, as well as Ulrich Muenker of Germany and Kevin Sproul of Great Britain. | 07 July 2007 | Read more |
Spaniards Solidify Lead at Worlds
With 6 races complete and another 5 to go, Ignacio Camion of Spain leads the 124 boat fleet at the 2007 J/80 World Championship in La Trinite sur Mer, France. Spain is the newest country to adopt the J/80 as its one-design keelboat of choice (100 new boats delivered in the past 14 months with another 30 on order), and the results at the Worlds are showing. Fellow Spaniard Jose Torcida Seghers is in 2nd place just in front of Victor Lanier of France and Kevin Sproul of the UK. Five countries are represented in the top six teams with defending champ Glenn Darden of the USA in 5th and Ulirch Muenker of Germany in 6th. The fleet now splits into Gold and Silver divisions with all but one race carrying forward to the final tally.
RESULTS (with one discard)
1: Ignacio Camino, Spain "Nextel Engineering" (6 pts)
2: Jose Torcida Seghers, Spain "Ecc Viviendas" (9 pts)
3: Victor Lanier, France "Equipe de France Militaire Ecole Navale" (11 pts)
4: Kevin Sproul, Great Britain "The Duke" (12 pts)
5: Glenn Darken, United States "Le Glide" (20 pts)
6: Ulrich Muenker, Germany “Needles And Pins" (22 pts)
7: Sylvain Pellissier, France "Voilerie All Purpose" (24 pts)
8: Jean Queveau, France “Nantes St. Naarre) (22 pts)
9: Rayco Tabares, Spain “Hotel Princesa Yaiza” (26 pts)
10: Luc Nadal, France "Gan'ja" (28 pts)
| 06 July 2007 | Read more |
Racing Cancelled on Day #2 of Worlds
Racing was cancelled on Day 2 of the 2007 J/80 Worlds due to high winds and seas. With the competitors awekening to 25-35 knot winds out of the Northeast, and no let-up in sight, the race organizers kept the boats in harbor for the day. The forecast for the rest of the week looks to be much improved and racing will continue on Thursday. | 05 July 2007 | Read more |
Spaniards Take Early Lead at 2007 J/80 Worlds
With 124 boats from 8 countries, the 2007 J/80 World Championship (in La Trinite sur Mer, France) kicked off with 3 qualifying races on opening day (Tuesday July 3rd). The fleet is split into four flights for a qualifying series, before being sorted into gold and silver divisions later in the week. With most of the qualifying races counting in the cumulative score, there’s no time for competitors to relax. Ignacio Camion and Jose Torcida Seghers, both of Spain, sailed nearly flawless to take the regatta lead. French match racing champion Victor Lanier is in 3rd, narrowly in front of Kevin Sproul of the UK and defending World Champ Glenn Darden of the USA.
RESULTS
1: Ignacio Camino, Spain "Nextel Engineering" (4 pts) (2,1,1,)
2: Jose Torcida Seghers, Spain "Ecc Viviendas" (6 pts) (1,4,1,)
3: Victor Lanier, France "Equipe de France Militaire Ecole Navale" (9 pts) (1,4,4,)
4: Kevin Sproul, Great Britain "The Duke" (11 pts) (7,1,3,)
5: Glenn Darken, United States "Le Glide" (12 pts) (4,6,2,)
6: Luc Nadal, France "Gan'ja" (14 pts) (5,2,7,)
7: Sylvain Pellissier, France "Voilerie All Purpose" (15 pts) (5,2,8,)
8: Ulrich Muenker, Germany “Needles And Pins" (17 pts) (2,7,8,)
9: Patrick Bot, France "Ecole Navale Cg29" (17 pts) (6,5,6,)
10: Nick Chery, Great Britain "Unlimited Sailing" (18 pts) (10,5,3,)
| 05 July 2007 | Read more |
Boats Still Available for 2007 Worlds
Anyone interested in chartering a boat for the 2007 Worlds should contact JEurope at mic@jeurope.eu.com. | 08 May 2007 |
2007 North Americans at Lake Norman, NC
The 2007 J80 NAs have been awarded. They will be hosted by the Lake Norman Yacht Club and J80 Fleet #15. Lake Norman Yacht Club is located in Mooresville NC. The dates of the regatta are November 8-11, 2007. The central location, about equidistant from NH and TX should draw a great number of boats. More details to follow. | 29 March 2007 |
JAN 4th, 2007 New Board Elected
The votes are in and a new Board has been elected to serve our J80 Class for the next two years.
They are:
Steve Hammerman - President,
Kerry Klingler - Vice President,
Kristen Robinson - Secretary,
Kevin Hayes - Treasurer | 04 January 2007 |
J80 Class Association USA Officer Elections
Nominations for the open J80 Class Association officer positions (President, VP, Secretary & Treasurer) have been open on the Forum under “Class Association Business” for some time now. Nominations will close on 12/20, when the class will hold an election online for the positions. The new officers will hold 2 year terms beginning January 1, 2007.
Class members will receive a link for the election by email from the class Treasurer on Thursday, December 21st from the email address jwbalich@gmail.com. Now would be a good time to update your member profile if your email address is out of date.
It has been a pleasure to serve the class for the past two years.
Uzi, Bob, Bernie & Jason | 10 December 2006 |
And the winner is...
Thanks for all those who voted. Owner J/80 Class Association Members will be receiving a trailer hitch cover with the following design. The hitch cover is cast in pewter and then painted with a navy blue enamel.
| 18 October 2006 |
J/80 Trailer Hitch Covers
The Class Association will be creating custom trailer hitch covers cast in pewter and highlighted in blue enamel to decorate your tow vehicle when you are not towing your J80 to a regatta. We are considering the following three options and would like your input to pick which one is used. Please vote in the weekly poll to the right.
Hitch covers will be given for 2007 class members and will be available for purchase on this website once they become available in November. | 09 October 2006 |
2007 Class Membership & Sail Royalties
October 31 is the final date to make payments for 2006 Class Membership. Starting November 1, all transactions will go toward 2007 dues. Also, sail royalties for 2006 will be closed December 15. Orders received after that date will go toward 2007 purchases. | 02 October 2006 |
KLINGLER'S LIFTED WINS 2006 NA's
Light winds dominated the event with no races completed on Friday. A total of six races were scored with the final race on Sunday being a bit of frustration. As the breeze diminished to zero, only Jason Balich's Over Achiever was able to finish within the time limits.
Congratulations to Kerry Klingler and his crew of Jay Lurie, Doug Lynn, and Neil Bresnan on Lifted, the 2006 J80 North American Champions. The top three finishers were: 1st-Lifted (Kerry Klingler, Larchmont, NY), 2nd-US 352 (Blake Fleetwood, Amagansett, NY), 3rd-FKA (Les Beckwith, Wolfeboro, NH).
More reports to follow in the days ahead.
Get full results at | 11 September 2006 | Read more |
RULES CHANGE PROPOSAL TO BE SUBMITTED
Please review the Rules Change Proposal on THE FORUM at Class Rules Discussion/ 2006 Rules Change Proposal.
Your inputs are important to the overall process so please comment on the Forum with pro or con. | 07 August 2006 |
2006 NORTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIP REGISTRATION IS OPEN
The Lake Winnipesaukee Sailing Association and J80 Fleet 1 cordially invite you to participate in this year's North American Championship Regatta on Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire, September 8th - 10th. Check out the website for all you need to know. The J-Jamboree traditionally produces excellent winds, great race administration, lots of races, the famous Beer Truck, and an outstanding barbecue. This year's NAs promises no less! | 12 May 2006 | Read more |
2006 J-80 WORLDS
The 2006 World championsip web site is up and running everybody is urged to sign up as soon as possible, Please note that the hotel the class will be using is the Omni, The class has secured special rate for the competitors.Omni at 361-887-1600 or on the web http://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/default.asp?h_id=60, Thanks, Uzi Ozeri | 06 March 2006 |
More J-80 Key West News
Report by Jay Lutz
WOW! What a regatta! Five days of fabulous racing (scary at times), and the atmosphere of Key West to boot! This should be a stop for any J80 owner. Slightly expensive but where else could you attend the finest regatta in the world in the cold of January. Plus there is something to do for all non-sailors as well.
I first want to congratulate our crew …because this regatta in particular, was a total team effort, especially during the mid week with the winds 25-35.. JT, Brian and Derek were fantastic and it was a pleasure to race with them. Now on to the racing.
We arrived early Saturday morning and had plans of setting the mast quickly and spending most of the day out on the water. Unfortunately, and maybe it was an omen of things to come a Front came through early that morning and it “Honked” out of the North-NW about 30. The temporary Marina at the Truman Annex was scared to death of us gin-poling the mast up in those winds and asked that we postpone until later. Well, later almost never came so after negotiating with S&S Marine and taking all responsibilities we took 5 minutes and raised the mast between 30 knot puffs. Not a big deal when you have a good gin pole…Thanks “Hammertime”.Sunday was a perfect practice day and allowed the crews to get the cobwebs out and start to think about “Sprit” sailing again.
Monday – Race day 1
Winds were light North Easterly with the possibility of a right hand shift during the day. Our racecourse consisted of Melges 24, J105’s and the J80’s. In the light lump the J80’s were sure to be faster then the “class” jib 105’s and our discussion prior to the start proved correct. We were going to have to deal with the 105’s as we caught up during the race. What we didn’t know was how quickly we would need to start looking for clear air “lanes” from the 105’s… By the time we reached the windward mark our strategy had changed to dealing with the 105’s---and our normal fleet! After having to over stand the windward mark by 15 boat lengths in order to stay in clear air we still arrived with a very comfortable lead. Glenn Darden on “Hoss” was second. Our lead quickly shrunk at the leeward gates when a pack of 105’s stalled and hearing a “no room” from a 105 clearly outside two boat lengths we proceeded to see the J80 fleet from behind roll right up from behind and the race was on again! We were lucky to hold off the group for the win with Rick Shaffer second and Hoss third.
Race two saw slightly more wind which kept most of the 105’s ahead for the race duration as well as that right hand shift I mentioned earlier. Unfortunately for us, knowing about it and positioning for it was two different things. After leading half way around the course we gave up two spots to John Stork and Glenn Darden after a “mind fart” and forgot we were going to protect that side!
Tuesday – Race Day 2
When we left the dock winds were SE at 20 with the potential to build, and build they did (to around 30) till mid afternoon. Race one was probably the hardest with the mainsail flogging most of the windward legs. Downwind…what a ride! Speeds in the area of 16- 18 knots…Throw in the jibes and look out. The best J80 wipe out we saw was Shaffer and crew on “Nasty” with an unplanned jibe broach that I would have to give a 9.6 with a high degree of difficulty… A sideshow was that we set up mostly on the port tack layline and watching the Melges 24’s scoot downwind was amazing. Also what was amazing was how many Melges 24 masts were breaking. I think we saw (and heard) 5 and counted about 8 broken.
Race 2 was more under control with the breeze lowering into the 25 range….which really seemed light and manageable!! The results were similar with our Synergy winning and Nasty second. Oh, and more Melges 24 masts exploding on the run made for interesting conversation during our upwind leg. Instead of “Up 5, big wave” were heard “CRACK! There goes another one”.
Wednesday – Race Day 3
And you thought yesterday was windy! A cold front arrived during the night and brought with it North winds 30+. Now a cold front in Key West is not like the rest of the US, the temperature dropped to about 65!! A 90 minute dock postponement by the RC let the wind drop to 30+…. But the forecast was for less in the afternoon. At least, because we raced in the lee of the island, the waves were not as big a factor as Tuesday but the velocity was higher. For the J80’s the start was all the fireworks with “Hoss” unable to make the leeward boat and stuck head to wind as the jib backed onto port. That was not a good thing for our “Synergy” as we were the next boat up on the line. As the “Hoss” crew remembers vividly, me yelling “OH NO, THEY ARE ON PORT!” we collided and spun towards the leeward RC boat only to avoid a head on but unfortunately got our port life line tangled with the RC boats bow cleat!! For the next couple of minutes (seemed like an hour) we were One. That incident started a chain reaction with “Nasty” and “Hyperdrive” tacking to port to avoid the melee which then caused “Emotional Rescue” to force both boats back to starboard and another collision occurred. Unfortunately, somehow the protest committee ruled it two separate incidents and DSQ’d “Nasty”…Weird. Downwind the A-spinnaker runs were completely out of control. In the big puffs the spray from the boats waves made it so you could not even see where you were going…and then we had to pick our way through the two fleets in front of us that were going back upwind and THEN figure out when and HOW to jibe!! You had to be there to understand completely! “Nasty” got the gun but John Stork and his Young Guns got the victory. J80 President Uzi and Dave Hendrickson were second, passing our “Synergy” on the final run after a combination of shrimping, broaching and tangling our spinnaker around the jib. (Because of all the problems we had I did not even want to mention to the crew that the rudder gudgeons were loose and the rudder was about to fall the boat). Winds never did die down and in fact might have increased a little. The RC called it for the day. More Melges 24 masts and even a couple of J105 sticks came tumbling down. Oh, our thought for the day was that J105 masts sound louder when breaking then Melges 24’s. Aluminum is louder then carbon fiber.
Thursday – Race day four
NE winds 13-20. An absolutely beautiful race day. All clear at the start and what a fun first beat. There were about 6 boats vying for the top spot at the windward mark with Shaffer and crew hitting a nice left shift just before the mark, after ducking transoms and then blasting away on a nice downwind puff that the rest of us never saw to extend his lead at the leeward gates. The rest of the race was catch up for us and after a fantastic jibing battle we were able to pass Rick at the finish. Third was the Darden/Hillard crew. Race two for this day was similar at the finish with “Nasty” pushing us around for most of the course and “Rumor” third. No mast breaking! The tough though for the day was downwind. When to head up and plane and when to rotate the spinnaker and try to sail low. We were at that wind speed when (at least for me) it’s tough to decide. We actually did both during the each downwind leg depending on the puff and/or lull’s.
Friday – Race day five
East 10-15. Another outstanding day on the racecourse. Key West, your beautiful. The RC had two races planned in order to make up for the single race on Wednesday. Our position in the regatta allowed for us to only race one, and since we were last on the list for haul outs, and I needed to get to my son’s Opti regatta in St. Pete we headed for the barn early. The Stork crew on “Rumor” with two 1sts dominated this day and a hard fought second overall for Key West Race Week. “Nasty”, with a 3-4 closed out the week in third with Glenn Darden fourth and rounding out the top five in the overall standings was USJ80 president Uzi Ozeri.
Victory thoughts:
Crew work was key in very heavy days.
Ability to flatten mainsail without turning sail inside out and flogging in heavy air.
Making sure the mainsail boom jibed in heavy air without hesitation.
Having the vang ready, and releasing after jibe in the 30+ stuff.
Ability to sail low on the run opens many tactical doors.
Staying out of the previous fleets bad downwind air and waves. (Did not do a good job on Synergy”)
Then tactical mistakes are made limiting the loss.
Go faster then everyone else..
| 11 February 2006 |
J-80 Key West Race Week
We started off roll tacking and ended up hiking our butts off.”
Congratulations to the Synergy team for a great win and congratulations to all the other competitors for making it through a very tough regatta. We had very light winds to start the week off and then very heavy winds for the remainder of the week. The racing was very competitive. Look at some of these stats.
16 Different boats had races in the top 10
9 Different boats had races in the top 5
16 Boats competed in 2005 and 19 boats competed in 2006
11 Boats competed in 2006 that were not there in 2005
11 Different states and Canada
0 Lost rigs
As a class, we had our share of collisions and protests but we had no where near the carnage that occurred in the Melges 24 and J105 fleets.
The top 5 boats, Synergy, Rumor, C’est Nasty, Hoss Racing and Infinity, were consistently at the top, but the rest of the fleet was always hanging around waiting for an opportunity to stick it in with the top boats.
Off the water, the events were well planned and thought out. Thanks to Al for setting us all up with information and planning even though he couldn’t attend himself. We got a great introduction for the Worlds from Uzi. Everyone should show up it looks like it is going to be an awesome event! The “meeting” at Monty’s was well attended and everyone had fun meeting up with the competitors from the water.
Next up, St. Pete NOODs for those of you who are remaining on the East Coast.
Also, remember, to all the Fleet Captains out there, this year we will be getting the results from you as soon as the regattas end. And we will make sure that the results and recaps are posted in a timely fashion.
Thanks Brian and Kristen Robinson #255 “Angry Chameleon”
| 10 February 2006 |
WINTER CIRCUIT REGATTA BOAT STORAGE
We have arranged for the J80 travelers this winter to store their boats (and maybe your vehicle) in between the designated winter stops.
Storage will be secure, be at no or minimal cost, and must be arranged by you directly with the noted contact below.
ST PETERSBURG - Storage location: JSI, contact Bill Wright at bill@newjsi.com.
CHARLESTON, SC - Storage location: Charleston Boat Works, contact Teddy Turner and his people at 843 554-7775. | 23 December 2005 |
J-80 Southern Circuit Austin Result
Pos Boat Skipper Race 1 2 3 4 5 Total
1 Le Glide Darden/Hillard 1 3 3 1 1 9
2 Flyer Rush, Ira 4 1 2 3 5 15
3 Tiamo Pasquenelli,Bruno 3 2 6 8 4 23
4 Wild Hare Welles, Claude 6 8 1 4 8 27
5 DnA Hammet, Dave/Amanda 2 4 5 7 9 27
6 Infinity Ozeri/Hinrichsen 7 11 8 2 3 31
7 Lickety Split Leonard, Buck 5 10 4 5 7 31
8 C'est Nasty Schaffer, Rick 11 6 9 6 2 34
9 Gremma Cohen/Wimer 8 5 7 9 6 35
10 Sting Bencavenga, Valeria 10 7 11 10 11 49
11 Cluster Caldwell, Walter 12 9 10 11 12 54
12 Vamanos Hanszen, Thomas 9 12 12 12 10 55 | 22 October 2005 |
New Merchandise Page
There is now a new page on the website to promote J-80 merchandise. The first item available is the J-80 battle flag which looks great flown from the forestay or backstay during regattas. In November the new 2006 J-80 calender will be made available for those who would like more than 1 copy as a gift (you get 1 with '06 dues). These are great quality shots of J-80's in action mode at numerous regattas the past few years and they include the entire '06 regatta schedule. I encourage anyone to take advantage of these & future merchandise postings, to help support your class and keep us a vibrant part of one design racing. | 21 October 2005 |
J-80 2006 Calender
There will be a full color 2006 calender with action photos of J-80's racing, available in November '05. This will be provided to all members who wish to pay their '06 dues beginning November 1st. It will include the entire J-80 regatta schedule for 2006, so if you pay your '06 dues early you will have available info to plan your campaign for next year. | 21 October 2005 |
2006 rule changes proposal,
All rule change proposals for the year 2006 have been approved by ICA Ex Com, Pending ISAF approval Nov 15th the USA Ex Com will allow the use of kevlar headsails starting January 1st 2006 in all US major regattas.
All kevlar headsails will carry a 2006 royalty sticker. | 04 October 2005 |
25 boats enjoy first East Coast Championship on Lake Winnipesaukee, NH
Twenty five J80s hit the starting line in New Hampshire on September 10th and 11th for the 18th annual J Jamboree and the first ever J 80 East Coast Championships. Ten traveling boats and fifteen locals met on the starting line and the talented fleet made for some exciting racing, with local skipper Les Beckwith and the crew of The Boat Formerly Know as Anagazander besting perennial favorite, Jason Balich and his Over Achiever team and Kerry Klingler's Lifted to win the title.
The complete results of the regatta are available at www.lwsa.org/j-jamboree. Some great photography of the event can be viewed at www.LakesRegionAerials.com | 19 September 2005 |
Proposed Rules Changes Ready for Review
Now is the time to review the proposed rules changes that would be effective next year (March 1 2006). Make your comments known on the J80 Forum at "Class Association Business" on the "Proposed Rules Changes for 2006" thread. The ICA ExCom will vote on the proposal on August 15th. | 13 July 2005 | Read more |
Pinnochio wins Long Islang Championship IV!
Bob Knowles and Team Pinnochio topped a 15 boat fleet and light air to win the fourth annual Long Island Championship! Bob & his crew capitalized on getting good starts and manuvering around shifty 3-5 knot winds to win the regatta on Day Two. Jamie Nawojchik and Team Grace who were in first place after Day One. Kerry Klingler/Blake Fleetwood (USA 352)were 2nd followed by John Stork (Rumor, USA 19)and Jamie Nawojchik (Grace, USA 56). | 04 June 2005 | Read more |
J/80 North American Championship Regatta
John Kolius and team Quantum Racing crowned new J/80 North American Champions. Follow this link for more information: | 23 May 2005 | Read more |
J/80 North Americans
The North American Championship will be held May 18-22, 2005 and hosted by the Lakewook Yacht Club in Seabrook, TX. For NOR, Entry, Entry List, and additional information go to the web site: | 24 March 2005 | Read more |
A new fleet is formed
The executive committee welcomes the latest edition to the J80 class. Fleet 11 has been formed in Southern California with CURT JOHNSON as the fleet captain. The fleet has already put together their 2005 race schedule which you will find on this web sight. The fleet curently has eleven (11) boats and more are anticipated. Information about individual boats & owners in this fleet are available in the OWNERS section of this site.
Once again, Welcome to the class.
UZI OZERI | 03 February 2005 |
KEY WEST RACE WEEK
The J80 class at Key West Race week was won by Rick Schaffer on C`EST NASTY and his seasoned crew of Joe Sircely,Paul Brigenzer and David Hiebert. They sailed a challenging set of races with winds ranging from 5 knots to over 35 knots gusts finishing first with one race to spare (dnc on Friday).
In second place was SOONER MAJIC skippered by Mac Kilpatrick followed by John Storck on RUMOR.
Congratulations to the winners and to all participants for a job well done, We will see you all at the North Americans in May.
Uzi Ozeri | 24 January 2005 |
2005 J/80 North Americans
Lakewood Yacht Club, ph# 281-474-2511 in Seabrook, Texas will host the 2005 J/80 North American Regatta on May 20-21-22. This will be a stand alone regatta. The RCC is John Barnett ph# 281-474-5122, email bio@net1.net.Also David Whelan is future RCC at Lakewood ph# 832-643-2481, email dwhelan2@houston.rr.com. They have promised us a great regatta. | 29 December 2004 |
New J80 USA Class Officers ready to take charge!
The J80 USA class is very fortunate to have four extremely capable individuals step forward to assume new roles as Executive Members. They will be Uzi Ozeri-President, Bob Knowles-Vice President, Jason Balich-Treasurer and Bernard Nauta-Secretary. These gentlemen will assume two-year posts and focus on improving our class in a multitude of ways. Please join me in welcoming them. Their enthusiasm and determination will certainly serve our class well.
Please also recognize the exiting USA Class Officers. Craig White-President, David Jannetti-VP, Scott Spurlin-Secretary, and both Karl DeHam & Matt Baker (Treasurers) improved our class markedly during their time tenure. They built on Steve hammerman's progress and improved the website, centralized a member database, organized a phenomenal Worlds regatta in Ft. Worth and produced a successful NA in Sag Harbor. All achievement, of course, was most largely due to the many selfless volunteers who dedicated their time & efforts along the way. Here's to progress and a promising new slate of officers! | 15 December 2004 |
Sail Royalties
Sail royalties for 2004 will be closed December 15. Orders received after that date will go toward 2005 purchases. | 13 December 2004 |
New Fleet IV Captain - Jamie Nawojchik
On behalf of Fleet IV it's my pleasure to announce that Jamie Nawojchik is the new Fleet Captain. Jamie owns Grace (hull 56) and has been instrumental in building one of the most promising fleets in the Northeast. As an active J80 enthusiast Jamie has raced at Key West, Annapolis, Newport, Winnipesaukee, Annapolis and locally at Sag Harbor. Please join me in welcoming Jamie. Our class will certainly benefit by his energy and enthusiasm.
David Jannetti
Former Fleet IV Captain | 28 October 2004 |
2005 Class Membership
October 31 is the final date to make payments for 2004 Class Membership. Starting November 1, all transactions will go toward 2005 dues. | 26 October 2004 |
Class Officers for 2005
The current term of the current Executive Board is coming to an end this year. It is time for some new ideas and new blood in the administration of our class. Members seeking to help organize and run the class business should contact any Executive Committee member to see about getting on the ballot for election. Working with David J, Scott S, Karl D, Matt B, and Jeff J has been a pleasure I will alway remember. We hope that we have lived up to your expectations as Class Officers.
Craig White | 22 October 2004 |
J80 Whitebread Results!
New Suffolk, NY. - The running of the Peconic Bay Sailing association's 11th Whitebread "'round the whirl" attracted 105 boats this past weekend, including 8 J-80’s, the largest one-design fleet present. USA352 sailed by Kevin Fallon had a strong showing at their 1st local J-80 regatta of the season with a breakaway early lead and soon became the boat to beat. John Storck & Team Rumor ground them down and passed for a convincing lead at about the half way mark on the race winning the J-80 fleet and finishing 4th overall on corrected time. J-80 Fleet 4 has donated a perpectual tropy to be awarded annually to the best perfromance by a one-design boat. Click link for complete results! | 11 October 2004 | Read more |
OverAchiever wins its second NE Circuit stop at the Marblehead NOOD
The three days of racing challenged the J/80 fleet both mentally and physically. Although the first day of racing was in light and shifty winds, the day's racing was hair-raising. In the first race of the regatta, all boats but Jeff Kirchhoff's Gostosa, from Fleet #1 on Lk. Winnipesaukee rounded the incorrect turning marks forcing the boats to retire after the finish. The "second" race was even more bizarre as the race committee began a race without a starting pin in the water--and even called one boat over early! The race committee realized their mistake only after all boats crossed the finish line and informed them of their error. The "real" second race of the day showed the close competition of the fleet with several finishers being separated by mere inches. The second day brought the physical challenges for the fleet with strong winds and 6ft chop after a cold front passed before racing began, requiring all the boats to adjust their boats after the previous day's light air. The regatta ended in medium breeze that once again brought close racing, tacking duels upwind and downwind legs resembling matc hracing more than fleet racing. Jason Balich on OverAchiever won with 5 bullets in 7 races, John Storck on Rumor finished second, only 5 points back, and Jeff Kirchhoff on Gostosa rounded out the top three finishers.
| 27 July 2004 |
OverAchiever wins Red Grant!
Like the name says, Jason Balich and crew overachieved once again, winning the Red Grant Regatta in decisive fashion. Matt Baker on Hyperdrive took second and Vicky Neiner on Thrown Together finished third. Special thanks to Jason for traveling from Mass., and extra-special thanks to Vicky for organizing the entire regatta! | 12 July 2004 |
Darden/Hillard and Team Le Glide take the 2004 NA's in Sag Harbor!
The inclement combination of dense fog, rain & high winds prevented resumption of the last scheduled race on Sunday. A total of seven races of disparate conditions were sailed and Glenn Darden, Reese Hillard and Team Le Glide earned 1st place. Congratulations Le Glide for a terrific showing of how to move a J80 quickly around a race course.
Jay Lutz and Synergy crew took a 1 point advantage over Kerry Klingler (USA 352) for second and third place respectively.
Many thanks to everyone who attended the largest J80 regatta EVER in New York waters! Please use the following link to view the official final results. | 06 June 2004 | Read more |
NA's - Day Two
Four races were held today in 8-15 knots of breeze. Synergy/Jay Lutz took the first gun and C'est Nasty/Rick Shaeffer took the second gun. The Easterly winds continued to build throughout the day. Le Glide, co-owned by Glenn Darden & Reese Hillard took the final two bullets and clinched the regatta. The top five boats overall are as follows:
Le Glide, 10 pts; Synergy, 17 pts; USA 352, 18 pts; C'est Nasty, 28 pts; Banjo, 31 pts. | 05 June 2004 |
NA's - Day One Results
The 2004 J80 NA's began with USA 352/Kerry Klingler conquering shiftly light air and taking the first race. The Northery wind dropped out completely leaving the 25 boat-strong fleet no other other choice than to patiently await new breeze. Well over an hour later a light Westerly filled Noyack Bay and FAST COMPANY/Paul Baehr's expeditous performance earned them the second gun of the day. The Westerly turned South and gained strength. Le Glide/Darden, Hillard seized the new conditions and the third race to finish as the top boat of Day One.
The top three positions (after Day One):
Le Glide, 9 points;
Banjo & USA 352 (tied), 10 points;
Synergy, 17 points
Stay tuned for results from an anticipated blustery day tomorrow! | 04 June 2004 |
Rumor takes Annapolis NOOD
Congratulations to the team on Rumor, J80 hull #19 skippered by John Storck, Jr. who grabbed 5 bullets in 7 races and 1st place at the 2004 Annapolis NOOD this past weekend. The 12-20 knots of consistent breeze were optimal conditions for great J80 sailing! Rumor led the fleet through the 2-3' chop from the first day and never looked back. Hyperdrive and Jibber Jabber finished second and third respectively.
Next Northeast circuit stop is the Long Island Championship/North American's which will be held June 4th-6th in Sag Harbor, NY. | 04 May 2004 |
Southern Circuit Stop #2 Results
Crazy Weather, Crazy races, crazier racers and good times! Here are the results from the 2nd Circuit Stop held at Ft. Worth. Results | 04 April 2004 |
2004 J80 NA's registration list growing!!
TWENTY FIVE boats have registered for the J80 North Americans to be held in Sag Harbor (June 4-6th. If you're not on the official list of entrants below then sign up today! Skippers bags are limited to the first 25 entrants ONLY. Registration, including crew weigh-ins and sail measurements will be conducted Thursday, June 3rd from 0900 to 1700 at BYC. Local boats and earlier arrivals may be registered, sails measured and crews weighed on Wednesday, June 2nd if time allows. Racing is scheduled for Friday, Saturday and Sunday with Warning given at 1000 hours.
C'est Nasty, Rick Schaffer; Fort Worth, TX
Best Betts, David Betts; Southampton, NY
Kikiyaon, Bob Lyons; Tyngsborough, MA
Hyperdrive, Matt Baker; Skillman, NJ
Clipper, Paul Rendich; Delray Beach, FL
Jibber Jabber, David Jannetti; Sag Harbor, NY
Vertigo, Guy Perrone; Wading River, NY
Dreamland Express, Mark Belsky; Avon, CT
Warrior, Craig & Martha White; Fort Worth, TX
Jester, Robert Miller; El Paso, TX
Margaret, Bud Rogers; North Haven, NY
Bigamy, Dennis Meichel; Pittstown, NJ
USA 352, Kerry Klingler; Larchmont, NY
Synergy, Jay Lutz; Houston, TX
Pinoccio, Bob Knowles; Meredith, NH
Gostosa, Jeff Kirchoff; Northfield, NH
What Me Worry?, Jim Ryan; Seaford, NY
USA 155, Les Beckwith, Wolfeboro, NH
Banjo, Rod Johnstone, Stonnington, CT
Currahee, John Chapman, New York, NY
Fast Company, Paul Baehr, Montreal, Canada
Grace, Jamie Nawojchik, Sag Harbor, NY
Le Glide, Darden/Hillard, Ft. Worth, TX
Joie, Brown, Yardley, PA
Kicks, David Balfour, Austin, TX
See the January 22nd posting for entry info or call David Jannetti at 631.921.2787!
| 12 March 2004 |
Want to sponsor the J80 North Americans?
The 2004 J80 NA's are shapping up to be an awesome event. This regatta will be a terrific place to advertise your product or services so please contact David Jannetti (631.921.2787) ASAP if you're interested in being a sponsor! | 23 February 2004 |
Class Association Bussiness & Class Rules Discussion
Please check the Forum for Karl Deham's replacement and the Rules effective March 1, 2004. | 09 February 2004 |
Get Ready! Its on! Southern Circuit 2004
The Southern Circuit for 2004 gets underway the last weekend of February at Austin Yacht Club in Austin, Texas. Judging by the enthusiasm and the new owners that we have this years circuit promises to be competitive with each stop exceeding 20 boats and over 40 owners participating. Along with the regular stops at Austin, Fort Worth and Houston your Southern Circuit Fleet Captains have added new stops at Dallas Corinthian Yacht Club in conjunction with the Luekemia Cup and the season ends at windy Corpus Christi. Make plans to join the fun!-See you in Austin! NOC | 08 February 2004 |
Thinking about the Worlds?
The 2004 Worlds will be held July 26-31 in Sandhamn, Sweden. For more information, click on the logo:
 | 03 February 2004 |
2003 Southern Circuit Final Results Posted
Another record year for growth in the South with 37 boats participating in one or more of the five circuit stops. The three fleet captains from the host clubs of Austin YC, Fort Worth Boat Club and Houston have cooked up a great schedule for 2004. Several more J80's have been purchased which indicates even more growth for 2004! Results | 28 January 2004 |
Membership Dues
Membership dues are now due for 2004. You can mail them or pay online with PayPal. We are working out the bugs to try to get the membership database updated once we receive the snail mail or the PayPal notification. We understand that this is frustrating for you the membership but be patient with us and we will figure it out. In the meantime rest assured that your money is in good hands and the class appreciates your support (and needs it!). In the meantime if you use PayPal it would help us if you could include your hull number and boat name and other owners in the message box. Dropus an e-mail to let us know you paid and this will help us get the database updated soomer. Thanks for your patience! | 28 January 2004 |
More News coming!
As our class association grows there will be more news items generated. We rely on the membership to submit this information to us to post on the web. This is a volunteer run organization and as such we rely on your inputs. With this in mind please plan on having someone that participates in your event to send us the NOC, NOR, results and writeup for any J80 news worthy event. We should have last years 2003 SC results up today or tomorrow. We've been waiting for the Notice of Circuit for the 2004 Southern Circuit along with the Notice of Race for the first stop in Austin. Please contact Chris Block at cblock@austin.rr.com if you have questions about the 2004 southern circuit. Chris as soon as you send us the info we will post! | 28 January 2004 |
LATE Breaking News! Tom Gore wins the last 2003 SC Stop
The last Southern Circuit stop was held the weekend immediately after the worlds this past October. It was a weekend of great racing with the entire fleet made up of die hards that had competed in the Worlds the previous week. Tom Gore battled it out with the last race deciding who would take the first place trophy home. It was a great weekend of racing and a great capper to another excellent seaon of racing down south! | 28 January 2004 | Read more |
2004 North Americans Entry Form and NOR
The 2004 North American's is gearing up to be the largest event in the NE since the 2001 Worlds! Here's the NOR and Entry Form. Complete & send today to guarantee your crew gets event freebies! | 22 January 2004 |
Key West Race Week 2004
Go to the USA Class Forum, Events and Scheduling, for marina and boat accomodations in Key West. Start finalizing your plans now. | 04 November 2003 |
Announcing the 2004 NA's - June 4th-6th in Sag Harbor, NY
J80 Fleet IV in conjunction with the Breakwater Yacht Club has been selected at the venue for the 2004 North Americans! The NA's look to build on the success of the 2003 Worlds and we anticipate 25-35 boats attending! Since the Worlds will be held in Sweden this is your chance to race in North America's most prestigious 2004 J80 event. Jay Lutz, winner of the 2004 Worlds and several other top performers will be there. More information will be posted soon. For interim information please contact David Jannetti (631.921.2787 or djannetti@americanteleconnect.com) | 28 October 2003 |
J80 Worlds 2003-A Truly Superb Event!
Forty eight teams participated in 10 races over four days to compete for the title of 2003 J80 World Champion. Boat speed was secondary as the top teams fought for position in the "wind lanes" and to keep in phase in the tricky, shifty conditions found on Eagle Mountain Lake. Jay Lutz's team consistently found the lanes and stayed out front Wednesday thru Thursday, and did not need to race on Friday, as they wrapped up a convincing championship run after race 9.
This was a fantastic event hosted by Fleet 5, Ft. Worth, Texas. More details can be found at: http://oemsites.com/OEM/oem.cfm?event_id=7 | 21 October 2003 |
Photos Posted
Sue Bodycomb has some great shots of the Texas NOOD/North Americans. As always, she has sorted them by boat name. We've put them in the photo album section for future reference. | 26 September 2003 | Read more |
Great Racing at the North Americans!
Jay Lutz and team topped the 33 boat fleet to win the 2003 North Americans. Second place went to John Kolius and his crew, which included 4 female members of the LaPorte High School team. 3rd place went to Glenn Darden and team from Ft. Worth, Texas. It was a great weekend of racing as the fleet was able to log 6 races on Friday and Saturday. Sunday was rained out. Great job by the Houston Yacht Club, The race Committee and the local J80 fleet. Along with all of the NOOD activities the class held an owners meeting on Friday night and the local fleet hosted a fantastic party on saturday night. Fun was had by all in attendance!
Look for more great J80 racing at the Worlds in Ft. Worth-October 13-17.
Sailing World has the daily articles and they can be read by clicking on: | 23 September 2003 | Read more |
J-Jamboree Results
Thanks to Bob Knowles and J-Jamboree organizers who produced the largest NE event this year with 16 boats attending! Unusual light air conditions produced a good mix of top finishes but Overachiever walked away with their 2nd NE Circuit win! Congratulations to teams Gostosa and Anagazander who took 2nd and 3rd place. Click for photo of winners circle. | 19 September 2003 | Read more |
North Americans-Notice of Regatta (NOR)
Click the following link for a .pdf file of the NOR. | 11 September 2003 | Read more |
USA 352 takes Larchmont NOOD
Kerry Klingler and his crew aboard USA 352 capitalize on light air tactics in near-drift conditions to take first place at the 2003 Larchmont NOOD last weekend. Boat waves, current and extreme wind shifts challenged the entire 12 boat fleet but somehow USA 352 persevered to maintain their winning streak in the Northeast. Matt Baker (Hyperdrive) and crew take close second followed by John Storck, Jr. (Rumor) in third place. It was encouraging to see several new faces & boats at Larchmont. It further demonstrates that J80 growth in the Northeast is alive & well! Next NE event? Winnipesaukee J-Jamboree next weekend! | 09 September 2003 |
IMPORTANT: WORLDS REGISTRATION DEADLINE
If you have not paid to enter the WORLDS, you have not entered!
PAY BY SEPT. 15 OR SUFFER THE LATE FEE.
| 06 September 2003 | Read more |
Gear Up for the WORLDS!!
Nautica has signed on as a sponsor for the 2003 Worlds. The Worlds organizers are offering this gear for sale to anyone that loves the J80, the class, and the Worlds event. Please consider buying these great products at great prices. Proceeds support the Worlds. | 06 September 2003 | Read more |
North Americans-September 19, 20, 21
Its time to start finalizing your plans to make it to the North Americans. This is being held as part of the Galveston NOOD, so the Regatta will be excellent in regards to organization, race committee, and shoreside activities. NOOD Notice of Race link: Galveston NOOD NOR. Three weeks later the Worlds will be held in Ft. Worth making this an excellent regatta combination. Keep your boat at Houston after the NOOD and then pull to Ft. Worth for the Worlds. Members of the Southern Circuit may volunteer to tow east/west coast boats from Houston to Ft. Worth if this would motivate you to attend both events. Fly out of Houston and then fly into DFW for the Worlds. (Boat set up not included!)e-mail: info@j80.org for more information. We may need additional charter boats for the Worlds as well-so please consider chartering your boat and make a little extra cash! | 06 August 2003 |
Overachiever wins Marblehead NOOD
Congratulations to Jason Balich and his crew aboard Overachiever who posted 5 bullets out of 8 races to win the J80 Marblehead NOOD! Hyperdrive (Matt Baker) and Gostosa (Jeff Kirchhoff) take second & third place. Next stop in the NE Circuit? Larchmont NOOD, September 5-7th. See you there!! | 30 July 2003 |
J80 Fall Special-Get one now in time for the worlds!
JBoats is again offering the fall special. Act now and get one in time to race at the NA's in September and the Worlds in October. Or the class needs charter boats, buy now collect a charter fee for the worlds and then race it next year. For 2004 additional OD events are being planned in all areas of the country. Get a boat and join the fun. Here's the link for more details on this offer: JBoats 2004 package offer. | 28 July 2003 |
Nautica Onboard! New J-80 Worlds Registration Form
Good News. Nautica has signed on to help sponsor the J-80 World Championship to be held at the Fort Worth Boat Club, Fort Worth, Texas, USA. Because of this, prices for the Nautica Collared Short Sleeve Shirt will be lowered to $30 US and the Nautica Long Sleeve Tee Shirts will be lowered to $18 US. We will also be offering a Nautica fleece garment with the description and price to be announced soon. A new Registration Form will be forthcoming on the Worlds web site with these changes. Refunds for boats that have already entered and ordered shirts will be provided at registration.
As a reminder. The completed entry form and the entry fee of $325.00 US must be received by the Organizing Committee on or before Sept. 15, 2003. Late entries with the corresponding late fee of $200.00 US may be accepted at the discretion of the Regatta Committee up to Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2003. No entries will be accepted after October 1, 2003.
| 20 July 2003 |
John Storck Jr. & crew win Fleet IV's July 6th Sprint Series
In light wind conditions and record J80 turnout John Stork Jr. and his team aboard RUMOR (Hull 19) win 3 bullets and capture Fleet IV's July 6th Sprint Series! John's experience as President of the Optimist Association and past Chair of Storm Trysail coupled with a talented family crew made all the difference edging out Grace (Hull 56) skippered by Jamie Nawojchik and their ambitious crew by one point! | 10 July 2003 |
Now collecting dues electronically.
If you have not yet paid your 2003 Class Association dues, you can do so easily using your credit card and PayPal. Click the Membership tab on the left menu and follow the directions. | 10 July 2003 |
Forum is back!
Please note that if you self-registered, you need to do so again. The Forum does not know your site password, so will probably want to choose the same password for both if you self-register. | 09 July 2003 |
Proposed International Constitution and Summary of Rules Submission changes
There are three new documents posted in the "member area" under class business. The documents are: "Cover letter for 2004 Constitution changes", "Proposed International Constitution - ISAF", " Summary of Rules Submissions- ISAF".
These three documents were generated to further pursue the requirements of updating our class constitution to be reflect the J80 class as a recognized international class byt the ISAF. The rules submissions document reflects the rule change submissions from each of the national class associations that make up the international J80 class. | 07 July 2003 |
Website & Forum Down
Our website has moved to a new server after a catastrophic failure. Please resubmit any membership changes or classified submissions made after 6/18. The FORUM will take a little longer to reappear. | 30 June 2003 |
Northeast Circuit Championship Racing is heating up!
Matt Baker on Hyperdrive won NE #1 at the Annapolis NOOD, Klingler/Fleetwood on USA 352 won the NE #2 as part of the Long Island Championship. Next stop: Marblehead! More results and information on the great racing action in the NorthEast is coming soon. | 12 June 2003 |
Forum now open.
The new Forum is now available. Click on "Forum" in the left menu bar. | 02 June 2003 |
New USA home page launched.
This is the new home page for the J80 USA Class Assocation. Please take some time to familiarize yourself with the new features and the new navigation scheme. Most of what was on the old site can be found here on the new site. | 01 June 2003 |
WARRIOR wins again.
WARRIOR conquers Southern Circuit on home waters in Ft. Worth. | 06 May 2003 |
WARRIOR best at Texoma.
WARRIOR was the top boat in a 20 boat fleet at Texoma Lakefest to continue leading the Southern Circuit. | 15 April 2003 |
Rule Changes.
The procedures for changes to class rules have been posted. | 08 April 2003 | Read more |
Northeast Circuit.
The Marblehead NOOD has been added to the Northeast Circuit thanks to the efforts of Jason Balich. | 15 March 2003 |
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