The J Class Association is thrilled to confirm that at least three J Class yachts will participate in the Royal Yacht Squadron Bicentenary International Regatta, running from 27-31 July 2015. Sailing yacht Lionheart, charter yacht Ranger and superyacht Velsheda will reach the beautiful Solent yacht charter destination on or around 20 July, and will be moored in Ocean Village, Southampton.

J Class yachts Lionheart, Ranger and Velsheda to compete at RYS Bicentenary International Regatta - Image credit to J Class Association

Racing is scheduled from the Royal Yacht Squadron (RYS) line from Monday 27 – Friday 31 July in and around the Solent and will be ‘round the cans’ courses. The event is also expected to include a clockwise round the island race, or coastal course of a similar distance. Close, competitive racing is a signature of all J Class racing and the fleet consistently delivers a great display for spectators and followers on and off the water.

Jonathan Peel, PRO of the RYS Bicentenary International Regatta, said: “The J Class yachts are a magnificent addition to a regatta that promises to be a memorable spectacle to celebrate 200 years of the RYS.”

The Js will race as a fleet under the JCA handicap rules, with challenging 2-3 hour courses in and beyond the Solent, depending on conditions. Other classes taking part in the RYS Bicentenary International Regatta include Classics, IRC and One-Design sportsboats.

John Grandy, Race Officer for the J Class, said: “We are delighted that the J Class will be so well represented at our 200th Anniversary Regatta. This historic class has a deep heritage with the RYS and it has been wonderful to see it revived and raced so competitively in recent years.”