Registration for the 2024 J/24 World Championships in Seattle is now open, and a partnership with Vakaros RaceSense has been confirmed.
The regatta will be sailed September 28-October 5, and Puget Sound promises to provide picturesque and challenging conditions for the competitors on the water while the famed Pacific Northwest will provide plenty of activity off the water.
The host Seattle J/24 Fleet 26 has assembled an experienced and enthusiastic organizing committee that includes two-time world champion Keith Whittemore. Corinthian Yacht Club of Seattle, which is a veteran of many national and international championships over the decades, will be running races along with renowned Principal Race Officer Mark Foster. There will also be on-the-water judges. Sailing conditions can vary from steady light breezes to 35-knot blows, all punctuated by the region’s challenging currents. 
Entertainment and parties will be on-site, spectator boats will be available and live video coverage is planned. Opening Ceremonies will be nearby at the Nordic Heritage Museum.
To enhance the racing experience, it was also recently announced that Vakaros, a company renowned for its state-of-the-art sailing instruments and technology solutions, has joined forces with the Seattle J24 Fleet to provide sailors with the tools they need to enhance their performance on the water. This partnership reflects the commitment of both organizations to pushing the boundaries of excellence in racing.
Vakaros RaceSense provides real-time, on-board data analysis, allowing sailors to make informed decisions during races. This data-driven approach promises to create a more inclusive and competitive racing environment for all J24 sailors, ultimately making the class even more appealing to newcomers and veterans alike.
“The Seattle J24 fleet, J70 fleet and Corinthian Yacht Club are very excited to incorporate the “Vakaros RaceSense” starting system into our 2024 racing program, including the 2024 Beecher’s Cheese J/24 World Championship. We have tested the system and see significant benefits for our racing participants and race managers. Clearly the technology is here to improve the starting process and racing in general: it is time to embrace it!” says Keith Whittemore, Seattle J/24 Worlds Organizing Committee
Note: Photos courtesy of Jan Anderson.
