J/105 North American Championship at American Yacht Club - Day 1

by Julie & Christopher Howell 6 Oct 2023 00:04 BST October 3-8, 2023

It was a beautiful sight to see 31 J/105s on a quarter-mile line to launch the 2023 North American Championship hosted by American Yacht Club in Rye, NY.

Breeze began from the east at 7-8 knots and increased a bit, allowing two races Thursday with summer-like temperatures and sunny skies.

Bill Zartler's Deja Voodoo holds a slight one-point advantage over Brian and Kristen Robinson's Velvet Hammer. Zartler went 1,3 on the day for 4 points, compared to the Robinsons' 3,2 at 5 points. There is currently a tie for the next two positions at 9 points: Ray Wulff's Patriot and Damian Emery's Warlock.

The fleet stayed ashore for a brief postponement while the breeze filled in, and spent the time usefully holding a Class discussion. Race one was set for 12:30 pm, when a general recall led to a U-flag start. Zartler's Deja Voodoo gained the victory, trailed by two Annapolis teams: Wulff's Patriot and Robinson's Velvet Hammer. Reigning J/105 North American Champion Randy Hecht's Niuhi earned the next win, with Robinson and Zartler again cracking the top three.

Racing continues through Sunday. Complete results available here.