J24 Nationals 2024 – Plymouth Regatta

The J24 UK Nationals this year was held as part of Plymouth Race Week. A fleet of 15 J24s were entered for the 3 day, 10 race series. Boats travelled from as far as Ireland to line up against the UK fleet and test the waters ahead of the UK World Championships to be hosted in Plymouth in 2025.

With heavy rain forecast for the afternoon, the fleet aimed to get four races in on day 1 in light and variable winds. A sensible decision was to race inside Plymouth Sound, making the most of the available wind early in the day. There was tight competition with each race being won by four different teams, Davy J, Mr Mann, NJO2 and MaJic. A busy start line, combined with outgoing tide resulted in a couple of general recalls and a few of the fleet suffering disqualifications under U-Flag. Dave Hale with Davy J led after day 1, closely followed by MaJic and then Mr Mann to round out the top three positions.

Once ashore the fleet enjoyed a sociable evening pontoon party, kindly provided by NJO Sails and celebrated a couple of important birthdays! Luckily the rain held off whilst racing, but sadly that can’t be said for the pontoon party, where the waterproofs and umbrellas were needed!

On day 2, the fleet arrived to glassy waters and a postponement, keeping the fleet ashore whilst the committee boat headed outside the breakwater to search for the wind. The fleet spent their time wisely – relaxing, chatting and sharing tips! After a couple of hours, the fleet headed out for another 4 races. Davy J continued their good form by winning another two races but with one high score to use up their discard after a start line incident and a protest hearing. Mr Mann and MaJic continued to stay near the top of the fleet to leave themselves on joint points, after the discard came into play. Jupiter had a consistent day with all top 4 results after finding their form on day 2. NJO2 managed to secure another race win in race 3.

On day 3, two races were scheduled but again, the fleet arrived to no wind and a postponement ashore. The race committee headed out to the course to find some wind, but after several hours unfortunately there was not enough and a time limit meant there would be no more racing, ending the regatta early.

Overall Dave Hale and his crew aboard Davy J were crowned National Champions for a third year in a row, congratulations! Shane Hewlett on Mr Mann finished in second place on count back and James Torr on MaJic in third. Caspar Barton and Jason Culmer on Violent J put in an impressive performance to secure the First Westerly prize.

It was great to see a strong fleet out in the Plymouth as they all fight to qualify for the J24 World Championships 2025. Qualification is in full swing, with 5 events out of 8 sailed (4 to count). Its not too late to get involved, contact the J24 class if you would like to take part! The fleet now looks forward to Torbay Regatta in August.