Here are our first selects of photos from the J Class Regatta held in Newport June 15 thru Sunday June 19. The white hulled Ranger won over the dark-blue Velsheda in what was a match race 4 races to one. But the results were not the real story.
The story was that these magnificent anachronisms were there. And there are more on the way. Newport marked the dawn of a new, modern era for the Js, and the excitement is just beginning to build. All photos by David Lott ©2011.
A rare sight during the J Class Regatta at Newport, Velsheda in front.
With a crew of more than 35 men and women, teamwork is a skill prized above all others.
Ranger is a replica, with modern adjustments, of the 1930s America's Cup competitor.
The 129-foot Velsheda is one of three original J Class boats to survive to present day.
Today's J Class competitors must be able to weather tough seas and transatlantic crossings.
One of the key members of the crew, the bowman, keeps his eye on his opponent.
Ranger crosses Velsheda's bow as the super yachts vie for an advantage.
The chase boat keeps the throttle open as it matches Velsheda at 18 knots and more.
Captain and crew wear no life jackets despite the lack of life lines or railings.
Ranger pounds the waves on its way to another victory.
Swells outside of Narragansett Bay rose to 6-8 feet on Saturday.
Ranger's carbon-fiber sails reflect like mirrors in the sunlight.
Bow crew work the spinnaker.
Out on the Atlantic, fog quickly engulfed both super yachts, creating a ghostly tableau.
Read all the posts in the J Class Regatta series of articles:
Off to Newport & the J Class Regatta
Cruise to Newport & J Class Regatta Begins with a Run to (a Quiet) Cuttyhunk
Cruise to Newport/J Class Regatta: Sakonnet's Elegant Clubhouse & Warm Welcome
J Class Regatta at Newport Puts Big Power, Precision and Majesty on Display
Everything Is Big on a J Class Yacht: Crews, Sails, Accessories & Maintenance
In Newport for J Class Regatta, World's Most Beautiful Yachts Compete for Attention
Final Day of J Class Newport Regatta Has Moments of Drama & a Velsheda Win
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