2013 J Class Regatta Palma
In 2013 I made my first trip abroad to see the historic occasion of five J class yachts racing together at the 2013 J Class Regatta at Palma. This year was the first time since the historic 1937 New York Yacht Club Run that 5 J Class yachts raced together. I remember well the excitement os seeing the 5 yachts, Velsheda, Ranger, Lionheart, Hanuman and Rainbow came to the line almost in a line, their sails shivering as they awaited the gun. Hanuman was the closest to me and her long blade like bow slicing its way through the water only feet away will long remain in my memory.
The yachts were all moored side by side in Palma harbour and after the day on the water I would walk along the quay watching all the crews busy washing down the decks after the days racing before heading over to the hospitality tents.