J/24 Fowey Trophy

J/24 Fowey Trophy © Alex McKay

Day 1

The Fowey Cup commenced under fairly cold, but great sailing conditions with easterly winds ranging from 12 to 14 knots. Sailors faced a choppy sea state under sunny skies, setting the stage for intense competition. Throughout the day, four races challenged the fleet, each highlighting tactical prowess and competitive sailing.

In Race 1, Jive's early lead around the first windward mark did not translate to success, being overtaken by several boats on the downwind leg. Shane Hewlett aboard Mr Mann demonstrated exceptional sailing skills, securing victory with James Torr helming MaJic taking second place, followed by Neil Trathen on Juggernaut in an impressive third.

Race 2 was led by James Torr aboard MaJic claiming victory in the shifting conditions. Shane Hewlett on Mr Mann continued to display competitive form, securing second place. Tim Octon on NJO2 rounded off the top 3. Keen off the line was Chloe Nunn with her new team onboard Red Alert who were OCS.

The third race of the day saw Shane Hewlett reclaiming the top spot on Mr Mann, further solidifying his position in the overall standings. MaJic, despite leading at the first windward mark lost out as early gybers came out on top, with the course slightly skewed by the persistently clocking breeze, ending the first downwind leg in the bottom half of the fleet, but managed to claw back to 3rd place.

Day 1 concluded with Shane Hewlett extending his dominance with yet another victory on Mr Mann in Race 4. MaJic secured 2nd place with NJO2 in 3rd, matching the overall results for the end of the day.

J/24 Fowey Trophy - photo © Alex McKay

Day 2

Sunday's racing brought lighter and more variable winds, testing the adaptability and strategic skills of the competitors. The start of racing was delayed due to the unpredictable wind patterns, but two races were successfully sailed in shifting winds ranging from 4 to 8 knots and shifting from easterly to south-westerly directions.

Race 5 began with Red Alert and Mr Mann being called OCS but managed to split from the fleet, heading right and gaining back considerable ground with a large right shift. It was Sam Marshall helming WiJit that led Jojo at the first windward mark though, with the two and Mr Mann coming into a close battle on the downwind leg. In the end, NJO2 claimed victory and Violent J took an impressive third place.

The final race of the Fowey Cup saw Shane Hewlett maintaining his winning streak, securing another first-place finish on Mr Mann. Sam Marshall aboard Wijit secured second ahead of Tim Octon on NJO2 who maintained his consistent performances.

Overall

After two days of thrilling competition, Shane Hewlett aboard Mr Mann emerged as the overall winner of the 2024 Fowey Cup. Tim Octon on NJO2 secured second place, followed by James Torr helming MaJic in third. Neil Trathen on Juggernaut claimed the top spot among the Westerly division, showcasing impressive sailing throughout the event.

The return of the J24 fleet to Fowey after several years away was celebrated by a great turnout, particularly of Westerly boats, as the fleet start their qualification campaign for the 2025 World Championships to be held in Plymouth. The event would not have been possible without the dedication and hard work of the race officer, volunteers, and thanks go to the Royal Fowey Yacht Club and Fowey Gallants Sailing Club for hosting a fantastic event.

Overall Results: