An Night with the J-Class
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
This Thursday evening, sailors, sailing supporters, and those with an interest in the history of racing and yacht craftsmanship should head to Newport’s Jane Pickens Theater for A Night with the J Class, an evening toasting one of sailing's most storied yacht classes.
A Legacy of Greatness
The Secretary of the J Class, David Pitman, will present an in-depth history of the J Class Yachts, made famous at the America's Cup during the 1930s in Newport. Considered to be one of the most elegant racing yachts, the J Class models were born from the introduction of the 'Universal Rule' in 1930, which for the first time efficiently controlled the size and performance of yachts built to compete for the America's Cup. The rule was based on ideas proposed by Nat Herreshoff of the Bristol-based Herreshoff family, allowing waterline length to be increased without sail area being restricted, as it had been under the International Rule. Ten massive yachts conforming to the J rule were built between 1930 and 1937, and today they are all but extinct, save for three English yachts that have been perfectly restored and all in top racing condition: Velsheda (based in Europe and coming to Newport for the J Class Regatta), Shamrock V (based in Europe and may be coming to Newport), and Endeavor (based in Europe and not coming to Newport due to current refit in New Zealand).
To Go: A Night with the J Class is Thursday, January 27 from 6-8pm at the Jane Pickens Theater in Newport. Entry is a $25 donation for Sail Newport (if purchased at the door) or Online: $20 for adult tickets, Family 4-pack for $60 (2 adults, 2 under 18) and under 18 tickets are $10 each. For reservations and information, visit www.sailnewport.org or call 846-1983.
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