SOME of the most famous yachts in the world are to return to the Solent for a classic regatta in the run-up to the 2012 Olympics.
Up to ten beautiful J Class yachts will re-enact the race around the Isle of Wight which led to the birth of the most prestigious trophy in yacht racing, the America’s Cup.
The regatta will comprise three events featuring the likes of Velsheda, Shamrock V, Endeavour and Ranger, some of the best-known classic yachts in the world.
The first of the events will see the 130ft yachts race at Falmouth before heading to the Solent, the traditional home of J Class racing in the 1930s, for a regatta.
The series will be concluded with a re-enactment of the Hundred Guinea Cup race, a 75-nautical mile race around the Isle of Wight covering the same course raced in 1851.
J Class secretary David Pitman said: “I dreamt about the rebirth of this wonderful class in 2000 when the class association was formed.
“This is a wonderful achievement for yachting, and a unique opportunity to see all these yachts racing together in the Solent. The legend lives on.”
l The first regatta in Falmouth will take place between June 27 and 30, 2012 before moving to the Solent for racing between July 19 to 21.
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