SVEA AND VELSHEDA CLAIM COVETED TROPHIES DURING THE J CLASS BARCELONA REGATTA
The history of the America's Cup is intertwined with the heritage of the J Class.
The J Class Barcelona regatta, a significant event in the rich heritage of the America's Cup, unfolded this past week with three majestic yachts competing. The crews, in their quest for glory, were vying for two prestigious trophies: the revered J Class Trophy for the overall regatta winner and The Kohler Cup, a season-long points championship award named in honor of Terry Kohler, the former owner of North Sails.
After five thrilling days and seven races, Svea emerged victorious, claiming the esteemed J Class Trophy. Velsheda, maintaining their pre-regatta position, secured a well-deserved season win, taking home The Kohler Cup.
J Class Regatta Barcelona – final standings after seven races, no discards: 1st - Svea J/S1 1,2,1,2,2,1,1 10pts | 2nd - Velsheda K7 2,1,2,1,3,3,3 15pts | 3rd - Rainbow J-KZ 13,4(DNC), 3,3,1,2,2, 18pts
Quinny Houry, North Sails Superyacht Expert and Svea sail coordinator reflected on the team's win:
"Barcelona was the culmination of two and half years of racing and training on Svea, during which the owner set the objective of becoming the J Class World Champions during their first meeting with the permanent crew of the yacht. Our owners assembled a diverse team to perform and enjoy the legacy of one of the most iconic America's Cup classes. Being part of the 37th America's Cup and winning against incredible competitors in Rainbow and Velsheda is humbling and exhilarating."
North Sails Grand Prix Leader Paul Westlake, and Svea sail-trimmer, commented on the team's win:
"It was a whole team effort to make this goal a reality. I am very proud to be a part of a program that creates a dynamic crew. We have a diverse mix of nationalities and young sailors anchored by seasoned professionals, and we're committed to promoting young female sailors- an absolute necessity for the future of our sport. Sailing with the Svea team is special, and this win in Barcelona proves we're on the right track."
A long-time Velsheda crew member, Tom Dodson, explained what The Kohler Cup means for the team:
"We win the season. We are very proud of that. It means a lot to us as it memorializes Terry Kohler. He was a very special man, and so we are very proud to win the Kohler Cup for 2024. And here we have loved watching all the foiling Cup boats, and we are happy to have been part of the America's Cup festival."
