Just 28 seconds separated the two super yachts, Ranger and Velsheda after the first two days of J Class racing at Newport June 15 and 16, with 3 races still to go. Ranger had eeked out a 1 second win the first day on corrected time, but had more breathing space the next day.
After the conclusion of every race, though, the crews of 35+ men and women on each boat have the large task of putting their mega-yacht to bed for the night. As these photos show, large is the operative word with everything from flags to fenders to rigging inspection set upon an amplified stage.
After their 27-second win in the second race, the Ranger crew talks it over.
The fenders for Ranger can match a Mini Cooper in size.
Hauling out 7,500 sq. feet of main and jib requires lifts and lads.
Earl Williams (r), Ranger's professional skipper, and Tom Dodson (l), Velsheda's tactician, answer post-race questions.
Sponsors such as Cox, Corum and livingsocial provide the funds to make the event happen.
Teak Deck Dictum: Abandon offending shoes all those who enter here.
Ranger's sails swing across to the dock.
A staple of closing shop each day is a rigging check.
High above the deck, this Ranger crewman appears comfortable on his swing.
Detail of the Ranger crew uniform.
Velsheda crew is active stem to stern with each a specific duty.
Velsheda's spinaker, 10,000 sq. ft. of sail, fills the length of the dock.
WaterViewHome Network Publisher David Lott shares a moment with Alastair Tait, Ranger's captain.
Read all the posts in the J Class Regatta series:
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
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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