Sandberg Estates J/70 World Championship: Anticipated 100-Boat Fleet Ready to Compete
Exciting Line-Up of 100 Boats at the Sandberg Estates J/70 Worlds
13-22 September 2024
The Sandberg J/70 Worlds will be a historic sailing championship, showcasing the highest quality teams in the world’s most populous One Design class.
GPS Control at the Start
With a staggering one hundred J70s set to compete, the starting line pressure will be intense. A false start by any boat can necessitate a recall, compelling all teams to return and recommence the starting procedures—a scenario that can greatly affect race outcomes.
Thus, having a reliable system to identify boats that start early is essential. For this edition of the World Championships, the innovative “RaceSense” system will be employed. This electronic device will be carried on each boat to provide instantaneous updates on team positions at the starting line. Within a second, boats that are over the line will receive alerts, enabling them to address any infraction swiftly.
Support from the Spanish Navy and the Naval Commission of Regattas
The Real Club Nautico de Palma is preparing to host nearly one hundred J/70 teams, each requiring coordination for boat measurements and logistics. This involves lifting boats out of the water for certification, requiring ample land space for both measurements and storage of vehicle support and RIBs (rigid inflatable boats). The assistance of the Spanish Navy and the Naval Commission of Regattas is crucial for organizing this significant event.
Team Training
In anticipation of the competition, several teams have commenced training in the racecourse located between Portixoll and Cala Gamba in the Bay of Palma. The defending world champions, British team Tom Mallindene and Charlie Thompson with their boat Brutus III, are among the many teams already honing their skills.
Rafael Gil, president of the RCN de Palma, emphasized the significance of this World Championships. With participation from 98 teams across 25 countries, he noted, “It is an honor for the Real Club Náutico de Palma to welcome the competitors. We appreciate their participation and trust in our club to deliver an unforgettable experience in the Bay of Palma.”
Gil expressed the club’s commitment to offering remarkable hospitality and facilities. He acknowledged the challenge of organizing such a large-scale event but affirmed that their experienced team is well-equipped to meet the logistical demands. He wished all participants luck in enjoying their experience in Palma.
More information is available at www.rcnp.es/j70worlds.
Ava Thompson, a skilled sailor and marine journalist from Auckland, has developed a deep connection to the ocean that guides her work. With a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of Auckland, Ava is known for her engaging and detailed storytelling. Her writing brings to life the thrill of sailing and the unique maritime culture of New Zealand, earning her recognition in the sailing community. Outside of her journalism, Ava enjoys exploring the rugged coastlines of New Zealand and competing in local regattas, always in search of her next seafaring adventure.