HIGH-speed windfoilers capable of sailing at almost 40mph are to be raced for the first time at the Jersey Electricity Gorey Regatta next month.
Established in 1857, the regatta has long featured races for dinghies, cruising and racing yachts, sports catamarans and dayboats.
This year the regatta is introducing the latest innovations with the windfoiling class. These feature boards fitted with a hydrofoil that lift the craft out of the water and enables the rider to achieve higher speeds in light winds due to the reduced drag.
“The class should provide a spectacular addition to the regatta,” said Gorey Regatta Association captain Justin Horton.
“If the conditions are right, these boards will literally fly across the surface of the sea and be the fastest craft on the water.”
Entries are now being accepted for the regatta, which takes place over the weekend of 13 and 14 July.
A popular event on the Island’s sailing calendar, the regatta attracts entries from St Catherine’s Sailing Club, St Helier Yacht Club and the Royal Channel Islands Yacht Club as well as the host port.
Windfoiling is growing in popularity across Europe and will be included in this year’s Paris Olympics.
Only five knots of wind are needed to get the board up onto its foil and, in fresh winds, speeds of up to 60kph (37mph) can be achieved.
This year’s regatta also sees the return of Jersey Electricity as the title sponsor.
“Their ongoing support is greatly appreciated and allows us to once again offer a full programme of sailing and social events,” said Mr Horton.
“Gorey Regatta is a vital component of Jersey’s rich maritime heritage,” said Adam Caerlewy-Smith, JE’s head of marketing and communications.
“Our support for the event reflects our commitment to celebrating our Island’s unique cultural legacy and fostering a strong sense of community.”
The racing programme and entry details can be found by logging on to goreyregatta.org.
The closing date for entries is 10 July.
