Yachts Awards 2013 - Official Guide by The Chelsea Magazine Company

ACHTS YACHTING

Sir Keith Mills

S R U O Y

EDITORIAL Editor Gael Pawson +44 (0)7855 849273 el@creatingwaves.com ditor (features) Helen Fretter Editor (tests) Rupert Holmes rt Editor Claire Greeno cture Editor Tom Gruitt ub Editor Rob Melotti & Classes Editor Paula Irish yachting@creatingwaves.com s Jeremy Evans, Bob Fisher, Andy ndi Robertson, Joe Glanfield Unsurprisingly

FREE

LOA SAILOR DOWNOF THE YEAR

It wasn’t all work: ‘I had some fun doing that too; I remember taking one of the Farr 65s out in the Caribbean with… it was all a bit Dad’s Army really! It was a bunch of my friends and all the pro boats were out there – Disney was there – and we turned up a sort of motley crew. I think we had three or four professional sailors with us and miraculously we won the Heineken Cup in St Maarten on a bit of a beaten-up Farr 65. Those sort of things are great fun.’ It was Sir Keith who then helped Alex build his professional Open 60

was a 10-year project for Sir Keith… it certainly didn’t stop at winning the bid, he was very much involved in the planning of the sailing venue and key innovations like the fabulous spectator area – that undeniably did a huge amount for the sport, engaging the spectators in an ‘amphitheatre’ and creating an amazing atmosphere. Chatting to him about the various challenges along the way, you get a glimpse of the huge amount of planning, thought and organisation that went into ensuring the country put

If you look where the Volvo Race is with very few teams, before long we’re Ben Ainslie got an SAILOR OF THE YEAR overwhelming share of the vote, winning going to have extinction...

Ben Ainslie

about three years ago about what their aspirations were and did some consultancy, then about nine months ago they approached me again and asked if I would be interested in getting involved in bringing this sport to a wider audience. Unless we bring a wider audience to the sport, all of the teams that we have will continue to struggle to raise the funding to keep going.’ Sir Keith points out that in the 2008 Vendée Globe there were 30 teams, while this time there are 20… ‘If you look where the Volvo Ocean Race is with very few teams, before long we’re going to have extinction,’ he says bluntly. ‘I took a look at what we could do with Open 60 racing. It’s a big class; there are about 30 teams, 90 members of IMOCA. I said if all 90 of you agree unanimously to pursue a commercial path, I’ll invest the money and I’ll do it properly, but you have to sign over all your commercial rights to a company I’ll set up and then I’ll give you a percentage of the revenues we generate, but most importantly I’ll use the revenue I generate to promote the sport.’ Specifically Sir Keith sees its massive potential for providing media content. ‘If you think about 20 Open 60 boats producing 24 hours of film every day for three months, that’s a massive amount… and if you can find a way of sucking that off the boats economically and distilling it on a daily basis into either very short – I mean one-minute – or longer programme formats and really make that exciting – a bit like being in a Big Brother-type reality, you’re starting to bring sailing really to life and that it then has some great potential.’ He’s thinking big: ‘The Tour de France is now global – the most famous cycling event in the world – it attracts lots and lots of international teams, has huge coverage both for television and through all the electronic channels, and has huge commercial support. I don’t see any reason why we can’t do the same thing with Open 60 racing.’ The class already has a good circuit, Sir Keith points out, and it’s just a matter of expanding it. ‘We want to have one big event a year like a Vendée Globe or a Barcelona World Race and then in the holes pop the Fastnets or the Sydney Hobarts or create some new races of our own, so the teams have a calendar. When they go and talk to their commercial partners they have a four-year plan of events so they can plan the economics, and that suddenly

ADVERTISING the title by a massive margin. A fabulous sing Manager Lindsay Spink Ben Ainslie career: ‘In 2003-04 we established AT on what – in my opinion – is certainly pink@chelseamagazines.com Racing, which I financed basically and the best Olympic Games ever on the Finn Gold Cup victory set himBen up Ainslie for the Unsurprisingly got an set up for Alex. That’s been running water. 13 215 915 +44 (0) 20 7901 8017 now for eight years or so and he’s overwhelming share of the vote, winning defence of his Olympic title in Weymouth. Building a circuit doing his third Vendée now as we Executive Andrew Jameson Sir Keith’s most recent project could speak.’ I think of how much I’ve the title by a massive margin. A When fabulous spell an exciting future for the Open on tenterhooks, willing Alex to meson@chelseamagazines.com The fact that the tenacious Dane, Jonas been finish up safely,for I can hardly Finn Gold Cup victory set him the imagine how 60 class. He has set up a new company, +44 (0)207 901 8012 Hoegh-Christensen, threatened to spoil it’s been for Sir Keith. He nods: ‘It’s an based in Switzerland, to manage the defence of his Olympic title extraordinary in Weymouth. class, with the aim of developing its race.’ commercial potential internationally. Theto fact that thebelow tenacious Dane, Jonasof the Olympics ‘As an owner of a an Open 60 yacht celebrate Ainslie’s A small matter Below The PUBLISHING the anticipated party Organising the Olympic Games has racing team I had been somewhat TeamOrigin America’s Hoegh-Christensen, threatened to spoil taken a large part of Sir Keith’s efforts that the class association – Cup bid featured a ging Director Paul Dobson entry into the record books as the most over recent years. ‘I’ve had to juggle frustrated IMOCA - had been talking for a long time talented British sailing the anticipated party to celebrate Ainslie’s Managing Director Stevedecorated Ross that with all my business interests about promoting the sport much more. squad skippered by Ben Olympicentry sailor ever simply as well,’ ‘We had discussions with them Ainslie into the record books as thehe explains. most The Olympics mercial Director Vicki Gavin InjuryOlympic too didn’t decorated sailor ever&simply ublisher Simon Temlettadded to the drama. The Yachts Yachting Awards celebrate the best in sailing to the drama. Injury& tooYachting didn’t uct Manager Oliver Morley-Norris make the WINNERS path easyadded for Ainslie, heand Yachts Awards celebrated the We will launch the 2014 Awards at the make the path easy for Ainslie, and hing Consultant Martin illustrated Nott just what a tough ask it was; we very best in what was a fabulous year for Southampton Boat Show in September, with he Yachtsillustrated and Yachting Awards the very best in what just what a tough celebrate ask it was; we were usedwas to him winning, it had seemed sport and for sailing... from the Volvo Ocean nominations for the main categories invited WEBSITE were used to him winning, it had seemed a fabulous year from sport and for sailing… There were w.yachtsandyachting.co.uk so easy, but Olympic winning in any Olympic classGames, world recordso easy, but winning in any class Race, to the Olympic online. A shortlist will then be drawn up for so many incredibleheachievements that it iscelebrate tough the to very recognise Yachts and Yachting Awards best in what and especially such a competitive one asnew boats breaking performances, to and kit,were all voting inOF November/December. So if you come and especially ajust competitive one as PHOTO THE YEAR them such all inthe 10 categories, but you voted in your thousands, SMALL PRINT was a fabulous year from sport and for sailing… There Finn is never easy. The fact that we Printed in England by the Finn is never easy. The played a key part in inspiring sailors young and old across an amazing event or achievement, great fact that we so many incredible achievements that it is tough to recognise Ian Roman edged the win with his shot of aAbu Dhabi those votes added to the votes of thethe judging panel, and gotwere a proper glimpse of the hard work, deham Heron, Maldon, Essex. Ian Roman them all in just 10 categories, but you voted in your thousands, to take part in our fantastic sport, and added to new product or an amazing image, make sure got a proper glimpse of the hard work, the immense pressures and the pain that goes Production All Points Media the Volvo Ocean Race. We think the image speaks here are the results... Ian Roman edged the win with his shot of Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing for those votes were added to the votes of the judging panel, and www.allpointsmedia.co.uk immense pressuresinto at such high levelwater. made our enjoyment of the you get your nominations in and get involved in in andachieving thehere pain thatagoes the Volvo Ocean Race. We think the image speaks for itself! are the results... Production Creating Waves the win all the sweeter. To do it in front of www.creatingwaves.com into achieving at such a high There were so many incredible achievements helping to decide the winners for next year. level made 40 Yachts & Yachting February 2013 a home crowd… there’s not much that can bution COMAG, Tavistock Road, that it it is in tough to recognise them all in just 11 In the meantime, we look forward to seeing 1 the sweeter. 2 front 3 West Drayton, UB7 7QE the win all better To that.do There could onlyofhave been 0)1895 433600 www.comag.co.uk categories. To you on the water! a home crowd… there’s not ofmuch thatshow can the breadth, strength and one winner our award. Runners up have were and depth, the Helena inspiring and the sheer UBSCRIPTIONSbetter that. There could only beenLucasperformances, hting, Tower House, Sovereign Park, Hannah Mills; Helena’s achievement was variety of events and strands the sport of sailing one winner of our award. et Harborough, Leics LE16 9EF impressive and warrants a special mention. Tel: +44 (0)1858 438444 encompasses is not easy, but people voted in their Runners up were Helena Lucas and She won gold in the Paralympic 2.4mR class w.subscription.co.uk/yachts thousands. Those votes were added to the votes whereachievement she was the only female competitor. Hannah Mills; Helena’s was ts & Yachting is published by It was of also GBR’s first the judging panel, sailing and we enjoyed a fabulous 5 Paralympic 6 impressive4 and warrants a special mention. helsea Magazine Company Ltd, medal. Hannah, sailing with Saskia Clark 2 se, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ 1 3 event at the Tullet Prebon London Boat Show to She won gold in thewon Paralympic 2.4mR class a silver medal at her first Olympic Tel: +44 (0)20 7349 3700 celebrate the winners. where she was the only female competitor. Games... you have to say that all the Olympic © The Chelsea Magazine As well as are theworthy sponsors andParalympic Paralympic sailors of a for each category, we It was also GBR’s first sailing ny Ltd 2013. All rights reserved. prize...have but weto had to pickthe one!silver sponsor of the Awards, ISSN 0044-000 thank

AWARDS2013 AWARDS2013 OFFICIAL AWARDS GUIDE

The Yachts &Yachting Yachting Awards celebrate the best in sailing The Yachts & Awards Celebrating the veryAWARDS2013 best in racing sailing over the last 12 months... AWARDS2013

Dragonfly 32

Performance Boat of the year under 30ft J/70

Dinghy of the Year 49er FX

Innovation of the Year

TeamO Marine

Photo of the Year Ian Roman

Yacht Club of the Year Royal Southern YC

Racing Performance of the Year Banque Populaire

Sailor of the Year Sir Ben Ainslie

Ian Roman

Achievement of the Year Award David Howlett

Event of the Year

Paralympic and Olympic Sailing Competition

Lifetime Achievement Award Sir Keith Mills

Left The fabulous trophies were by Astins

Y&Y Awards 2013 8

Celebrating the very best in racing sailing over the last 12 months... PHOTO OF THE YEAR

photo: IAn romAn

Performance Boat of the Year over 30ft

1658 Keith Mills (4).indd 40

Ocean Racing in itself!

18/12/2012 13:55

ewin Dolphin Divisional Director Sasha Dabliz and Banque Populaire crewmember, round the world racer Brian Thompson 8 Ben Ainslie accepts his award on screen 9 Musto’s Managing Director, Nigel Musto Olympic coach David ‘Sid’ Howlett 10 Gael Pawson with Rob Andrews who was in charge of the running of the Olympic and Paralympic sailing competition, and Stephen ‘Sparky’ Park, who managed the GBR mpic and Paralympic teams 11 Ian Bailey, MD of Sebago and Alex Mills, Sir Keith Mills’ son 12 Lloyd Hamilton and Brian Thompson talked about Toe in the Water; Yachts & Yachting’s official charity for 2013

Yachts & Yachting

dd 11

photo: onedItIon*

March 2013

22/01/2013 19:55

medal. Hannah, sailing with Saskia Clark

photo: onedItIon*

Without their help, and that of our this magazine may be reproduced won a silver medal at herGarmin. first Olympic mission in writing. Every care is taken 1 Richard Roberts, joint Managing Director of category sponsor the Yacht Market, and Alistair Woods from the UK Dragonfly distributor, Multihull Solutions 2 Charlotte Bishop from Garmin and Didier Le Moal of other sponsors, we wouldn’t have been able to J Composites, (European builders of the J/70) 3 Gael Pawson Chris Turner from UK 49er builder and distributor Ovington Boats 4 Gael Pawson and Oscar Mead from TeamO Marine 5 Gael Pawson and you France have to say that all andthe Olympic e accuracy of information inGames... Yachts & photographer Ian Roman 6 Charlotte Bishop from Garmin and Royal Southern YC Commodore, David Mead ut no responsibility can be accepted grow the awards as we have. We’d also like to sailors are worthy of a sequences of actions basedand on the Paralympic Silver sponsor Supported by thank Sunsail for their reader-prize support, ACHIEVEMENT OF THE YEAR rayed herein. The Chelsea Magazine prize... but we had to pick one! makes every effort to ensure that the Gael Pawson, Editor Lanson for the champagne and Astins for the ontained in this magazine is derived le sources. We cannot, however, accept beautiful trophies presented to the winners. David ‘Sid’ Howlett for transactions between readers and 10 Yachts & Yachting March 2013 Coach to Olympic gold medal winner Ben Ainslie, David ‘Sid’ Howlett has always Yachts & Yachting welcomes letters. 1659 Awards (2).indd 10

photo: Ian Roman/VolVo photo: RIChaRd langdon/SkandIa team gBR* oCean RaCe*

& Yachting

photo: Ian Roman/VolVo oCean RaCe*

photo: RIChaRd langdon/SkandIa team gBR*

maintained a low profile, and yet he has been a key force behind a number of 22/01/2013 19:55 impressive Olympic performances over the 6years. ‘Sid’ was a very successful Finn and star sailor in his own right and since then he has worked with world-beating Finn and Star teams at the Olympics, earning gold medal results with Iain Percy and Ben Ainslie. His role in Ben Ainslie’s Olympic career is fundamental, perhaps best outlined by Ainslie himself in a touching video tribute to his long-time coach and friend: ‘Sid and I have been together – it’s like a marriage really… on and off for the pastto12Olympic years. Really Sidmedal makes winner the campaign honestly‘Sid’ don’tHowlett think I’d has always Coach gold Ben possible, Ainslie,I David be able to do it without him. Not only on the water but logistically running the maintained a low profile, and yet he has been a key force behind a number of Supported by campaign, getting everything together, behind the scenes he does so much that I impressive Olympic performances over the years. ‘Sid’ was a very successful Finn and can’t do and that really makes a huge difference.’

ACHIEVEMENT OF THE YEAR

David ‘Sid’ Howlett

Silver sponsor

photo: B. StIChelBaut/BpCe*

star sailor in his own right and since then he has worked with world-beating Finn and Star teams at the Olympics, earning gold medal results with Iain Percy and Ben Ainslie. His role in Ben Ainslie’s Olympic career is fundamental, perhaps best outlined 30 Yachts & Yachting February 2013 by Ainslie himself in a touching video tribute to his long-time coach and friend: 1 Richard Roberts, joint Managing Director of category sponsor the Yacht Market, and Alistair Woods Dragonfly Multihull Charlotte Bishop from Garmin and Didier Moalthe of ‘Sidfrom andtheI UK have beendistributor, together – it’sSolutions like a 2marriage really… on and off Lefor J Composites, France builders of the J/70) 3 Gael Pawson and Chris Turner from UK 49er builder and distributor Ovington Boats 4 Gael Pawson and Oscar Mead from TeamO Marine 5 Gael Pawson andI’d 1658(European Awards (5).indd 30 19/12/2012 11:29 past 12 years. Really Sid makes the campaign possible, I honestly don’t think 2013 Yachts & Yachting 31 photographer Ian Roman 6 Charlotte Bishop from Garmin and Royal Southern YC Commodore, be Davidable Meadto do it without him. Not only on the February water but logistically running the Silver Guide sponsor Supported by Awards 2013 campaign, getting everything together, behind the scenes he does so much that I Silver sponsor Supported by 1658 Awards (5).indd 31 19/12/2012 11:29 can’t do and that really makes a huge difference.’ ®

PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR 30 10

Yachts & Yachting Yachts & Yachting

February 2013 March 2013

Banque Populaire

This award for a record or race win would undoubtedly have gone to Paul Larsen’s amazing Sailrocket, but that fabulous record came too late in the year

YACHTS YACHTING EDITORIAL Editor Gael Pawson +44 (0)7855 849273 gael@creatingwaves.com Deputy Editor (features) Helen Fretter Deputy Editor (tests) Rupert Holmes Art Editor Claire Greeno Picture Editor Tom Gruitt Sub Editor Rob Melotti EDITORIAL Clubs & Classes Editor Paula Irish Editor Gael Pawson Yachtsandyachting@creatingwaves.com (0)7855 849273 Contributors+44 Jeremy Evans, Bob Fisher, Andy Rice,gael@creatingwaves.com Andi Robertson, Joe Glanfield Deputy Editor (features) Helen Fretter Deputy ADVERTISING Editor (tests) Rupert Holmes Art Editor ClaireLindsay Greeno Spink Advertising Manager Picture Editor Tom Gruitt lindsay.spink@chelseamagazines.com Sub215 Editor +44 (0) 7813 915 Rob +44 Melotti (0) 20 7901 8017 Clubs Executive & Classes Editor Irish Sales AndrewPaula Jameson Yachtsandyachting@creatingwaves.com andrew.jameson@chelseamagazines.com Contributors+44 Jeremy Evans, Bob Fisher, Andy (0)207 901 8012 Rice, Andi Robertson, Joe Glanfield PUBLISHING ADVERTISING Managing Director Paul Dobson Advertising Manager Lindsay Deputy Managing Director SteveSpink Ross lindsay.spink@chelseamagazines.com Commercial Director Vicki Gavin +44 (0) Publisher 7813 215 915Simon +44 (0) 20 7901 8017 Temlett Executive Andrew DigitalSales Product Manager OliverJameson Morley-Norris andrew.jameson@chelseamagazines.com Publishing Consultant Martin Nott +44 (0)207 901 8012 WEBSITE PUBLISHING www.yachtsandyachting.co.uk Managing Director Paul Dobson Deputy Managing SMALLDirector PRINTSteve Ross PrintedDirector in EnglandVicki by Gavin Commercial Wyndeham Maldon, Essex. PublisherHeron, Simon Temlett Ad Production All Points Media Digital Product Manager Oliver Morley-Norris www.allpointsmedia.co.uk Publishing Consultant Ed Production CreatingMartin Waves Nott

YACHTS YACHTING SAILOR OF THE YEAR

AWARDS2013

Ben Ainslie

Unsurprisingly Ben Ainslie got an overwhelming share of the vote, winning the title by a massive margin. A fabulous Finn Gold Cup victory set him up for the defence of his Olympic title in Weymouth. The fact that OF the tenacious Dane, Jonas SAILOR THE YEAR Hoegh-Christensen, threatened to spoil the anticipated party to celebrate Ainslie’s Ben Ainslie entry into the record books as the most Unsurprisingly Ben Ainslie got an decorated Olympic sailor ever simply overwhelming share of the vote, winning added to the drama. Injury& tooYachting didn’t he Yachts We will launch the 2014 Awards at the the title by a massive margin. A fabulous Awards celebrated the make the path easy for Ainslie, and Finn Gold Cup victory up for the a fabulous year for very bestsetinhim what was Southampton Boat Show in September, with illustrated just what a tough ask it was; we defence of his sport Olympic titlefor in Weymouth. and sailing... nominations for the main categories invited were used to him winning, it had seemed from the Volvo Ocean The fact that the tenacious Dane, Jonas so easy, but winning in any Olympic classGames, world recordRace, to the Olympic online. A shortlist will then be drawn up for Hoegh-Christensen, threatened to spoil he Yachts and Yachting Awards celebrate the very best in what and especially such a competitive one asnew breaking performances, to boats and kit, all voting inOF November/December. So if you come PHOTO THE YEAR the anticipated to celebrate Ainslie’s a party fabulous year from sport the Finn iswas never easy. The fact that we and for sailing… There were entry into themany record books as the most that played a key part in inspiring sailors young and old across an amazing event or achievement, a great so incredible achievements it is tough to recognise got a proper glimpse of the hard work, the decorated Olympic sailor simply butsport, Ian them all inand just 10ever categories, in your thousands, to take part inthe our fantastic and added to newRoman product or an amazing image, make sure immense pressures pain that goesyou voted added to the drama. Injury tooYachting didn’t Ian Roman edged the winthe with2014 his shotAwards Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing in those votes were added to the votesAwards of the judging panel, andthe he Yachts celebrated Weget will launch the into achieving at such a high levelwater. made enjoyment of&the you your nominations in ofand getatinvolved in make our the path easythefor Ainslie, and the Volvo Ocean Race. We think the image speaks for itself! here are results... bestTo indo what wasofa fabulous year for Southampton Boatthe Show in September, with the win all thevery sweeter. it in front www.creatingwaves.com There were so many incredible achievements helping to decide winners for next year. illustrated just what a tough ask it was; we a home crowd… there’s much that can DistributionWEBSITE COMAG, Tavistock Road, sport andnot for sailing... nominations for thewe main categories were used winning, it had seemed from thattoithim is tough to recognise them the all Volvo in justOcean 11 In the meantime, look forward invited to seeing West Drayton, UB7 7QE better that. There could only have been www.yachtsandyachting.co.uk so easy, but winning in any Olympic class Race, to the Olympic Games, world recordonline. A shortlist will then be drawn up for Tel: +44 (0)1895 433600 www.comag.co.uk categories. To show the breadth, strength and you on the water! one winner of our award. he Yachts and Yachting Awards celebrate the very best in what and especially such a competitive one breaking performances, toasnew boatsand and kit,were all voting inOF November/December. So if you come PHOTO THE YEAR Runners up were Helena Lucas and depth, inspiring performances, the sheer SUBSCRIPTIONS SMALL PRINT athe fabulous year from sport There the Finn iswas never easy. The fact that we and for sailing… Yachts & Yachting, Tower House, by Sovereign Park, Printed in England played a key part in inspiring sailors young and old across an amazing event or achievement, a great Hannah Mills; Helena’s achievement was so many incredible achievements that it is tough to recognise variety of events and work, strands got a proper glimpse of the hard the the sport of sailing Market Harborough, Leics LE16 9EF Wyndeham Heron, Maldon, Essex. impressive and warrants aour special mention. Ian Roman them all inand just 10 categories, butsport, you voted in your thousands, to take part in fantastic and added to new product or an amazing image, make sure Tel: +44 (0)1858 438444 immense pressures the pain that goes Ad Production All Points Media encompasses is not easy, but people voted in their Ian Roman edged the win with his shot of Abu Dhabi Ocean She won gold in votes the Paralympic Racing in those were added2.4mR to the class votes of the judging panel, and www.subscription.co.uk/yachts www.allpointsmedia.co.uk into achieving at such a high levelwater. made our enjoyment of the you get your nominations in and get involved in thousands. Those votes were added to the votes the Volvo Ocean Race. We think the image speaks for itself! here are the results... where she was the only female competitor. Ed Production Creating Waves the win all the sweeter. To do it in front of Yachts & Yachting is published by www.creatingwaves.com There were so many incredible achievements helping to decide the winners for next year. It was of alsothe GBR’s first Paralympic sailing we enjoyed a fabulous judging panel, a home crowd… there’s not muchand that can The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd, Distribution COMAG, Tavistock Road, medal.that Hannah, withtoSaskia Clark 2 itatissailing tough recognise them all in just 11 In the meantime, we look forward to seeing Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, West Drayton, UB7 London 7QE SW3 3TQ 1 3 the Tullet Prebon better event that. There could only have been London Boat Show to won acategories. silver medal at To her first Olympic Tel: +44433600 (0)20 7349 3700 Tel: +44 (0)1895 www.comag.co.uk show the breadth, strength and you on the water! one winner of our award. celebrate the Games... you have to saywinners. that all the Olympic Runners up were Helena Lucasperformances, and © The Chelsea Magazine depth, the inspiring and the sheer SUBSCRIPTIONS As well as the sponsors and Paralympic sailors are worthy of a for each category, we Ltd Tower 2013. AllHouse, rightsSovereign reserved. Park, YachtsCompany & Yachting, Hannah Mills; Helena’s achievement was of and strands the of sport sailing prize...variety but weto had toevents pickthe one! ISSN 0044-000 Market Harborough, Leics LE16 9EF have thank silver sponsor the of Awards, impressive and warrants a special mention. Tel: +44 (0)1858 438444 encompasses is nottheir easy,help, but and people in their She won gold in the Paralympic 2.4mR class Garmin. Without thatvoted of our No partwww.subscription.co.uk/yachts of this magazine may be reproduced without permission in writing. Every care is taken Those votes were added to the votes wherethousands. she was the only female competitor. other sponsors, we wouldn’t have been able to to ensureYachts the accuracy of information & Yachting is published inbyYachts & It was of alsothe GBR’s first Paralympic sailing judging panel, and we enjoyed a fabulous Yachting, but no responsibility can be Ltd, accepted The Chelsea Magazine Company grow the awards as we have. We’d also like to medal. Hannah, sailing with Saskia Clark 2 for the House, consequences actions basedSW3 on the Jubilee 2 JubileeofPlace, London 3TQ 1 3 event at the Tullet Prebon London Boat Show to Sunsail their reader-prize support, advice portrayed won athank silver medal at her for first Olympic Tel: +44herein. (0)20The 7349Chelsea 3700 Magazine ACHIEVEMENT OF THE YEAR celebrate the winners. Company Ltd makes every effort to ensure that the Games... you have to say that all the Olympic Gael Pawson, Editor Lanson for the champagne and Astins for the advertising contained in thisMagazine magazine is derived © The Chelsea As well as are theworthy sponsors and Paralympic sailors of a fortoeach from responsible however, accept Companysources. Ltd 2013.We All cannot, rights reserved. beautiful trophies presented the category, winners. we David ‘Sid’ Howlett prize...have but weto had to pickthe one!silver sponsor of the Awards, responsibility for transactions between readers and ISSN 0044-000 thank Coach to Olympic gold medal winner Ben Ainslie, David ‘Sid’ Howlett has always advertisers. Yachts & Yachting welcomes letters. Garmin. Without their help, and that of our maintained a low profile, and yet he has been a key force behind a number of No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission in writing. Every care is taken Olympic performances over the other sponsors, we wouldn’t5have been able toimpressive 4 6years. ‘Sid’ was a very successful Finn and to ensure the accuracy of information in Yachts & star sailor in his own right and since then he has worked with world-beating Finn and Yachting, but no responsibility can be accepted grow the awards as we have. We’d also like to Star teams at the Olympics, earning gold medal results with Iain Percy and Ben Ainslie. for the consequences of actions based on the thank Sunsail for their reader-prize support, ACHIEVEMENT advice portrayed herein. The Chelsea Magazine His role in Benwith Ainslie’s Olympic career is fundamental, perhaps best outlined THE Yachts & Yachting Awards Winners Interview SirOF Keith MillsYEAR Company Ltd makes every effort to ensure that the himself in a touching video tribute to his long-time coach and friend: Pawson, Editor Lanson for the champagne and Astins for the by AinslieGael advertising contained in this magazine is derived Take a look at this year’s winners! Keith Mills talks to us about his passion for sailing and I have been together – it’s like a marriage really… on and off for the from responsible sources. We cannot, however, accept beautiful trophies presented to the winners. ‘Sid David ‘Sid’heHowlett and how has combined his campaign busness skills with the Lifetime Achievement Award - Announced responsibility for transactions between readers and past 12 years. Really Sid makes the possible, I honestly don’t think I’d Coach to Olympic gold medal winner Ben Ainslie, David ‘Sid’ Howlett has always advertisers. Yachts & Yachting welcomes letters. be able to do it without him. Not only on the water but logistically running the sport he loves. We announce Sir Keith Mills as the recipient maintained a low profile, and yet he has been a key force behind a number of Silver sponsor Supported by campaign, getting everything together, behind the scenes he does so much that I impressive Olympic performances over the of this prestigious award. Yachts & Yachting Awards Shortlist 4 5 6years. ‘Sid’ was a very successful Finn and can’t do and that really makes a huge difference.’ star sailor in his own right and since then he has worked with world-beating Finn and Photos from the awards ceremony Take a look back at the full shortlist Star teams at the Olympics, earning gold medal results with Iain Percy and Ben Ainslie. for in this year’s awards. Take a look at a great selection of photos of the His role Ben Ainslie’s Olympic career is fundamental, perhaps best outlined by Ainslie himself in a touching video tribute to his long-time coach and friend: ceremony at the London Boat Show. ® 30 Yachts & Yachting February 2013 ‘Sid and I have been together – it’s like a marriage really… on and off for the pastthe 12UK years. Really Sid makes the campaign honestly think 1 Richard Roberts, joint Managing Director of category sponsor the Yacht Market, and Alistair Woods from Dragonfly distributor, Multihull Solutions possible, 2 CharlotteI Bishop fromdon’t Garmin andI’d Didier Le Moal of be able to do it without him. Not only on the water but logistically running the J Composites, France builders of the J/70) 3 Gael Pawson and Chris Turner from UK 49er 5 Gael11:29 Pawson a sponsor Supported by builder and distributor Ovington Boats 4 Gael Pawson and Oscar Mead from TeamO Marine 1658(European Awards Silver (5).indd 30 19/12/2012 campaign, getting everything together, behind the scenes he does so much that I 31 photographer Ian Roman 6 Charlotte Bishop from Garmin and Royal Southern YC Commodore, David can’t Mead do and that really makes a huge difference.’ February 2013 Yachts & Yachting Yachts & Yachting Awards Guide 2013

The Yachts &Yachting Yachting Awards celebrate the best in sailing The Yachts & Awards AWARDS2013

AWARDS2013

TThe Yachts & Yachting Awards TT Celebrating the very best in racing sailing over the last 12 months...

The Yachts & Yachting Awards celebrate the best in sailing

AWARDS2013

Celebrating the very best in racing sailing over the last 12 months...

photo: onedItIon*

photo: RIChaRd langdon/SkandIa team gBR*

photo: Ian Roman/VolVo oCean RaCe*

Contents 5

photo: Ian Roman/VolVo oCean RaCe*

photo: RIChaRd langdon/SkandIa team gBR*

Silver sponsor 1658 Awards (5).indd 30

Supported by

Yachts & Yachting

February 2013

19/12/2012 11:2 ®

1 Richard Roberts, joint Managing Director of category sponsor the Yacht Market, and Alistair Woods from the UK Dragonfly distributor, Multihull Solutions 2 Charlotte Bishop from Garmin and Didier Le Moal of J Composites, France builders of the J/70) 3 Gael Pawson and Chris Turner from UK 49er builder and distributor Ovington Boats 4 Gael Pawson and Oscar Mead from TeamO Marine 5 Gael11:29 Pawson a 1658(European Awards (5).indd 30 19/12/2012 February 2013 Yachts & Yachting 31 photographer Ian Roman 6 Charlotte Bishop from Garmin and Royal Southern YC Commodore, David Mead

GREAT RACING

with the Royal Southern Yacht Club

SUMM REGATER SERIES TAS

MAY 11 -12 JUNE 2 2-23 JULY 1 3-14

(IRC & Club Cla ss)

JULY 2 7-28

Join us and enjoy some of the best courses, race management and clubhouse facilities on the Solent. As well as our established Summer Regatta Series for IRC classes, Sportsboats, OneDesigns and Club Class yachts and our Passage Races featuring the renowned Cowes-Deauville Race, the Royal Southern has introduced much more to tempt you back on the water in 2013. New Friday evening, Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning races will run between 4 May and 12 July. Starting at the mouth of the river, these short, sharp races will soon have you back ashore for beer and banter or a club supper with the family. Just ÂŁ10

for non-members, check the dates on our website and turn up. With magnificent views of the Hamble River our Clubhouse offers Members, visiting yachtsmen and race crews two well stocked bars, lunches and Ă la carte dining as well as 11 en-suite bedrooms for overnight stays. In company with the other River Hamble Clubs, the Royal Southern is holding an Open Day on 6 April and invites Yachts & Yachting readers to come and see first hand what the Club has to offer. The joining fee will be waived for new members applying before 30 April 2013.

(Day Bo at & Hunt Racing, J/109 S er 707 C hampio eries n SEPTE ships) M

BER 28 -29

ROYAL SOUTHERN YACHT CLUB T: 023 8045 0300 F: 023 8045 0310 www.royal-southern.co.uk

AWARDS2013 Celebrating the very best in racing sailing over the last 12 months...

photo: Ian Roman/VolVo oCean RaCe*

he Yachts and Yachting Awards celebrate the very best in what was a fabulous year from sport and for sailingâ&#x20AC;Ś There were so many incredible achievements that it is tough to recognise them all in just 10 categories, but you voted in your thousands, those votes were added to the votes of the judging panel, and here are the results...

Silver sponsor

Yachts & Yachting

Supported by

February 2013

PHOTO OF THE YEAR Ian Roman

Ian Roman edged the win with his shot of Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing in the Volvo Ocean Race. We think the image speaks for itself!

Y&Y Awards 2013 ®

PERFORMANCE BOAT OVER 30FT

PERFORMANCE BOAT UNDER 30FT

Dragonfly 32

J/70

This was a clear winner. Arguably a boat on which the hopes of many sailors are resting – it fills a hole in a sector of the market that has been waiting for the next new thing for several years. J-Boats has almost 40 years of success with one-designs of this size, and this design brings the concept bang up to date. It’s a lightweight boat that planes readily in moderate breezes and is therefore great fun to sail in its own right. Add in one-design racing and you have a recipe that’s proven to make owners and their crews very happy. The J/70 is also well-mannered, easy to sail and to look after, minimising hassle and maximising sailing time. The lifting keel format that makes it launchable from a slipway is also one of a number of factors that helps to minimise annual running costs. It’s easy to see why the boat has been so successful just months after its launch, with almost 200 already built. The stunning Speed Dream 27 was runner up, but the judging panel felt it was worthy of a special mention.

photo: RupeRt holmeS

photo: andI RoBeRtSon*

This was a closely contested category, with the two favourite boats, the Dragonfly 32 and the Grand Soleil 43, separated by only 16 votes. While monohulls form by far the greatest proportion of big boat fleets – we’re talking close to 100 per cent – this may be more of a reflection of owners’ wishes, than what their crews might choose to sail. It was therefore a surprise for the Dragonfly 32, which made its world debut at the Southampton Boat Show in September, to win this category. However it’s easy to see the appeal – it was conceived as a proportionately lighter, more agile and faster boat than Dragonfly’s popular 35ft model. Unlike many trimarans of this size it’s not designed to be trailerable, which means more beam, greater sail carrying ability and more accommodation space. Overall, it’s a fast boat – quicker than many monohulls a full 10ft longer – but with plenty of creature comforts.

DINGHY OF THE YEAR

photo: ISaF*

49er FX

Yachts & Yachting

February 2013

The 49er FX impressed many at the Women’s Olympic Skiff Trials back in April, and was subsequently confirmed for the sport at the ISAF mid-year meeting in May, beating off a strong battle from the 29erXX, which was widely accepted among sailors to be wrong for the sport. A clever redesign of the 49er rig has resulted in a boat that is manageable, but not slower than the 49er and its adoption means we will see exciting skiff racing for both sexes at the next Olympic Games in Rio. A women’s Olympic Skiff class has been a long time coming. Runners up were the RS900, which was designed for the same trials but missed out on selection, and the Nacra 17, which claimed the new mixed multihull spot. The award judges acknowledge that the 49er FX is technically just a new rig design, and it did have mixed reviews from some sailors, and so felt the Nacra 17 should have a special mention as it’s changing the face of Olympic sailing with the first mixed event, and has proved a very popular boat amongst everyone who sailed it.

SAILOR OF THE YEAR Unsurprisingly Ben Ainslie got an overwhelming share of the vote, winning the title by a massive margin. A fabulous Finn Gold Cup victory set him up for the defence of his Olympic title in Weymouth. The fact that the tenacious Dane, Jonas Hoegh-Christensen, threatened to spoil the anticipated party to celebrate Ainslie’s entry into the record books as the most decorated Olympic sailor ever simply added to the drama. Injury too didn’t make the path easy for Ainslie, and illustrated just what a tough ask it was; we were used to him winning, it had seemed so easy, but winning in any Olympic class and especially such a competitive one as the Finn is never easy. The fact that we got a proper glimpse of the hard work, the immense pressures and the pain that goes into achieving at such a high level made the win all the sweeter. To do it in front of a home crowd… there’s not much that can better that. There could only have been one winner of our award. Runners up were Helena Lucas and Hannah Mills; Helena’s achievement was impressive and warrants a special mention. She won gold in the Paralympic 2.4mR class where she was the only female competitor. It was also GBR’s first Paralympic sailing medal. Hannah, sailing with Saskia Clark won a silver medal at her first Olympic Games... you have to say that all the Olympic and Paralympic sailors are worthy of a prize... but we had to pick one!

photo: onedItIon*

Ben Ainslie

ACHIEVEMENT OF THE YEAR

photo: RIChaRd langdon/SkandIa team gBR*

David ‘Sid’ Howlett

Coach to Olympic gold medal winner Ben Ainslie, David ‘Sid’ Howlett has always maintained a low profile, and yet he has been a key force behind a number of impressive Olympic performances over the years. ‘Sid’ was a very successful Finn and star sailor in his own right and since then he has worked with world-beating Finn and Star teams at the Olympics, earning gold medal results with Iain Percy and Ben Ainslie. His role in Ben Ainslie’s Olympic career is fundamental, perhaps best outlined by Ainslie himself in a touching video tribute to his long-time coach and friend: ‘Sid and I have been together – it’s like a marriage really… on and off for the past 12 years. Really Sid makes the campaign possible, I honestly don’t think I’d be able to do it without him. Not only on the water but logistically running the campaign, getting everything together, behind the scenes he does so much that I can’t do and that really makes a huge difference.’

February 2013

Yachts & Yachting

Y&Y Awards 2013

EVENT OF THE YEAR

photo: RSYC*

photo: onedItIon*

There was only really one contender, with a home Olympic Games that did the sport proud. Not only did Weymouth and Portland prove a fabulous host, but the Nothe provided an amazing amphitheatre that showed just how exciting sailing can be, and that it could work as a spectator sport. While battles raged across the fleets, as a nation we can be very proud that not only did we put on a great spectacle and showcase for the sport at its very best, we also provided a very level playing field, where our sailors had little if any home advantage. Fantastic organisation, race management and services for all of those involved meant a smooth-running event that many agree was the best Olympic regatta to date! In second place was the high-wind GP14 worlds, held in Looe, and third the America’s Cup World Series that continued to wow with its fast-paced AC45 racing.

photo: RIChaRd langdon/SkandIa team gBR*

The Olympic and Paralympic Games

CLUB OF THE YEAR Royal Southern Yacht Club

This was a close-run thing, the tightest of all the categories, but in its anniversary year the Royal Southern YC was judged to be a worthy winner. A wide range of special events marked the club’s 175th anniversary, from regattas to a special dayboat forum. The club hosted a conference of international clubs, as well as a series of spectacular events including a special anniversary regatta. As one of the key clubs on the Solent it remains a strong force within the sport, and in recent years has begun to work ever more collaboratively with its neighbouring clubs. Earning a very special mention was the Royal Cornwall YC, a close runner-up, and Eastbourne Soverign SC’s achievement was also noted and received special mention from the judging panel.

Yachts & Yachting

February 2013

photo: B. StIChelBaut/BpCe*

Y&Y Awards 2013

PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR Banque Populaire

This award for a record or race win would undoubtedly have gone to Paul Larsen’s amazing Sailrocket, but that fabulous record came too late in the year to be included in the nominations. Instead, the record-breaking performance of Banque Populaire won the title. It was back in January when the mainly French crewed 130ft trimaran, led by Loick Peyron, set a new round-the-world non-stop sailing record. Well, it didn’t just set a new record, it literally smashed the old one, knocking more than two days off the time and completing the course for the Jules Verne Trophy in 45d 13h 42m 53s, with an average speed of 26.51 knots. Just phenomenal. Britain’s Brian Thompson, the only native English-speaker on board, was one of the helmsmen, and in completing the course he also became the first Englishman to complete four non-stop circumnavigations.

INNOVATION OF THE YEAR TeamO lifejacket

photo: teamo*

Most innovation takes place in the form of small, incremental steps. However, occasionally a new product marks a step-change in thinking – Oscar Mead’s TeamO lifejacket is one of these. Mead started developing his lifejacket out of concern that, after falling overboard when attached by a harness line to a conventional lifejacket, the casualty is towed at speed face-down in the water, making it next to impossible to breathe. The TeamO product is instead designed to turn the wearer onto their back in the water, with their face clear of the water. It’s also designed to make it easy to attach a halyard to the lifejacket, to quickly winch the casualty back on board. It’s a product that effectively redefines the standard by which lifejackets should be judged.

Yachts & Yachting

February 2013

AWARDS2013 LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Sponsored by

Sir Keith Mills D

o you have a purple Nectar card in your wallet? Have you been cheering on Alex Thomson in the Vendée Globe? And were you, like the rest of the country, glued to the action during last summer’s phenomenal home Olympic Games? You may not have realised, but all are due in no small part to Sir Keith Mills, the worthy winner of Yachts & Yachting’s inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award. Without Keith Mills, it is very likely that the 2012 Olympic bid would not have been successful. In the business world, Sir Keith Mills is chiefly known for inventing the hugely successful Air Miles and Nectar loyalty card schemes. However, his involvement with sport and sailing dates back over many years – he was knighted in the 2006

From round the world racing to the America’s Cup, Sir Keith Mills’ influence on the sport of sailing has been far-reaching, but his biggest achievement is undoubtedly London 2012 New Year Honours in recognition of his services to sport. In 1999 Sir Keith was part of a young Alex Thomson’s winning Clipper Round the World Yacht Race crew. Recognising Thomson’s talent and potential, he worked with Alex to set up Alex Thomson Racing as Alex built his reputation and sponsorship to become one of the world’s leading solo racing skippers. From September 2003, Mills became Chief Executive and International

President of the London 2012 campaign, which saw London selected to host the 2012 Olympic Games. He was then made Deputy Chairman for the London Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (LOCOG), alongside Chairman Lord Coe, and was awarded the Olympic Order for his work. In 2007 he also set up Sported, a charity that aims to change young lives through sport. Sir Keith explains: ‘While we were bidding to host the 2012 Games I saw first-hand how sport was able to inspire young people and improve their lives. We looked hard at how we could help expand sport for development in the UK and decided to put all of our efforts into supporting the thousands of amazing community based projects throughout the UK.’ In January 2007 Sir Keith also announced his intention to lead a new British America’s Cup challenge Team

Turn to page 14 for our full interview with Sir Kieth Mills

From round the world racing to the America’s Cup, Sir Keith Mills’ influence on the sport of sailing has been far-reaching Silver sponsor

Yachts & Yachting

Supported by

January 2013

AWARDS2013 The Yachts & Yachting Awards celebrate the best in sailing

1 Richard Roberts, joint Managing Director of category sponsor the Yacht Market, and Alistair Woods from the UK Dragonfly distributor, Multihull Solutions 2 Charlotte Bishop from Garmin and Didier Le Moal of J Composites, France (European builders of the J/70) 3 Gael Pawson and Chris Turner from UK 49er builder and distributor Ovington Boats 4 Gael Pawson and Oscar Mead from TeamO Marine 5 Gael Pawson and photographer Ian Roman 6 Charlotte Bishop from Garmin and Royal Southern YC Commodore, David Mead Silver sponsor

Yachts & Yachting

Supported by

March 2013

WINNERS Performance Boat of the Year over 30ft Dragonfly 32

Performance Boat of the year under 30ft J/70

Dinghy of the Year 49er FX

Innovation of the Year TeamO Marine

Photo of the Year Ian Roman

Yacht Club of the Year Royal Southern YC

Racing Performance of the Year Banque Populaire

Sailor of the Year Sir Ben Ainslie

Achievement of the Year Award David Howlett

Event of the Year

Paralympic and Olympic Sailing Competition

Lifetime Achievement Award Sir Keith Mills

Left The fabulous trophies were by Astins

7 Brewin Dolphin Divisional Director Sasha Dabliz and Banque Populaire crewmember, round the world racer Brian Thompson 8 Ben Ainslie accepts his award on screen 9 Musto’s Managing Director, Nigel Musto and Olympic coach David ‘Sid’ Howlett 10 Gael Pawson with Rob Andrews who was in charge of the running of the Olympic and Paralympic sailing competition, and Stephen ‘Sparky’ Park, who managed the GBR Olympic and Paralympic teams 11 Ian Bailey, MD of Sebago and Alex Mills, Sir Keith Mills’ son 12 Lloyd Hamilton and Brian Thompson talked about Toe in the Water; Yachts & Yachting’s official charity for 2013

March 2013

Yachts & Yachting

Sir Keith Mills

WINNER

of the Y&Y 2013 Lifetime Achievement Award

photo: IAn romAn

Sponsored by

Yachts & Yachting

February 2013

The business of sailing S

ir Keith Mills’ London office is just a rope’s throw from the Royal Ocean Racing Club and the reception is dominated by sailing images. But this is a man who doesn’t just sail for fun; he has seriously invested in the sport as well. It is for his involvement behind the scenes, which brought the Olympic Games to our shores, helped Alex Thomson make his name, and allowed us to dare to dream that one day Britain might win the America’s Cup, that Y&Y has recognised him in our Awards… but where did it all start?

A lifelong passion Sir Keith’s love of sailing started with his father: ‘He loved the water. He took me out on a pond in Poole in a Wayfarer and I loved it too. I think I was captivated from a very young age, although I actually did very little – it was really just leisure sailing when we got the chance. Then, in my late teens, I didn’t have any money so I used to cadge lifts whenever I could mostly around the Solent.’ There followed a long break while Sir Keith forged his highly successful career: ‘I didn’t do much else other than work – very boring!’ He was in his mid-40s when he started sailing again, this time with the family: ‘I was then into family holiday-type sailing, rather than competitive sailing.’ It all changed when he decided to sail round the world: ‘As lots of chaps

Gael Pawson caught up with the winner of the 2013 Yachts and Yachting Lifetime Achievement Award, Sir Keith Mills, to find out about his passion for sailing and how he’s combined his business skills with the sport he loves do in their 40s, my wife recognised I was going through a midlife crisis and decided it would be good for me to go off and do a round the world race!’ That race was the Clipper Race, and his skipper was one young Alex Thomson… a new Oyster yacht was commissioned for Sir Keith’s return, and the seeds of his wider involvement in sailing were sown. ‘If you experience sailing, particularly when you are young, I don’t think you ever lose the passion for being on the water, the freedom, the excitement…’ He attempts to explain its attraction: ‘The other sport that I like is skiing. I get the same thrill from skiing down a mountain as I do surfing at 24 knots downwind in my TP52. It’s one of the few sports where you can really lose yourself. When you’re on a mountain you can lose yourself and when you’re on the water you can lose yourself, be completely absorbed in the sport and at the end of the day or at the end of the weekend

you can really feel you’ve been away from all the pressures of the world.’

The business of sailing Sir Keith Mills has spent his entire professional career building businesses where the primary objective was to make money, but the business of sailing was different: ‘When I started getting involved in sailing businesses the primary objective wasn’t to make money, it was to be involved in the sport, to really enjoy the sport, to understand it more.’ Ironically over the last 15 years as his spending has gone up, his time on the water has gone down. ‘Even so, I find the business of sailing, professional sailing, competitive sailing, Olympic sailing fascinating. If you talk to any of the professional sailors they’ll tell you the hardest part about being a professional sailor is getting to the startline. ‘I’m a much better businessman than I am sailor so I could bring my skills of business to a sport I love, so that was sort of the genesis of the idea.’ It all started after the Clipper Race when Alex Thomson wanted to look at a sailing business. ‘We’d become good friends during the race so I helped him and I financed the establishment of a company called Formula One sailing. We went off and negotiated a deal to lease four or five Farr 65s and then we got some Clipper 38s, and for three or four years I helped get that business up and running before we sold it.’

I wouldn’t ever discount it, but the America’s Cup needs to be much more sane than it is now – it’s insane at the moment February 2013

Yachts & Yachting

Sir Keith Mills

If you look where the Volvo Race is with very few teams, before long we’re going to have extinction... career: ‘In 2003-04 we established AT Racing, which I financed basically and set up for Alex. That’s been running now for eight years or so and he’s doing his third Vendée now as we speak.’ When I think of how much I’ve been on tenterhooks, willing Alex to finish safely, I can hardly imagine how it’s been for Sir Keith. He nods: ‘It’s an extraordinary race.’

A small matter of the Olympics Organising the Olympic Games has taken a large part of Sir Keith’s efforts over recent years. ‘I’ve had to juggle that with all my business interests as well,’ he explains. The Olympics

photo: IAn romAn

below Below The TeamOrigin America’s Cup bid featured a talented British sailing squad skippered by Ben Ainslie

Yachts & Yachting

February 2013

on what – in my opinion – is certainly the best Olympic Games ever on the water.

Building a circuit Sir Keith’s most recent project could spell an exciting future for the Open 60 class. He has set up a new company, based in Switzerland, to manage the class, with the aim of developing its commercial potential internationally. ‘As an owner of a an Open 60 yacht racing team I had been somewhat frustrated that the class association – IMOCA - had been talking for a long time about promoting the sport much more. ‘We had discussions with them

Astins Sailing Trophies

• Unique designs, courtesy of our in house design team. • Shipping worldwide • Engraving services available • Commissions undertaken Contact us to discuss your requirements Tel: +44(0)1503 240863 • Email: richard@richardvasey.co.uk or visit www.astins.co.uk Sculpture site- www.richardvasey.co.uk Designed by sailors, designed for winners

AWARDS2013 Our 2013 awards aim to highlight the best performances and products launched over the last 12 months... we received plenty of suggestions, and here are the top six nominated for each category.... so read through and get voting to decide the winners... ®

1. PERFORMANCE BOAT (30FT+)

2. PERFORMANCE BOAT (UNDER 30FT) Bavaria B-One

Dragonfly 32 The Dragonfly 32 Swing Wing is a new folding trimaran which fills the gap between the hugely successful Dragonfly 35 and Dragonfly 28 models.

Dufour 36 Performance Likened to the beginning of a new era in Dufour’s stable, the 36 borrows from the latest trends in performance yacht design, with nearly vertical topsides and a U-shaped bottom.

Grand Soleil 43 The new 43 is the result of extensive research on 25 different hull designs in conjunction with the Wolfson Unit at Southampton University, resulting in a faster, lighter boat despite an extra 250kg in the keel.

MC34 Striking Lombard design with dramatic chines, side decks tapering to an eye-catching wide stern, fixed A-frame bowsprit and conventional pole. Super light and intended to be fresh to frisky downwind, it’s a clear step on for IRC design.

Sly 38 Sly Marine describes itself as a ‘young and dynamic’ yard from Italy and the company already has a range of 40-60-footers in production. The 38 is their newest and smallest model with a conventional deck layout, twin wheels and nice long lines, plus a fixed bowsprit.

Bavaria’s sportsboat has proved a hit in Europe, can it make an impact over here? It showed that it was competitive under handicap at Cowes Week, but it’s the one-design racing market this baby is aimed at.

Elan 210 Elan has a great pedigree for pretty-looking cruiser-racers that have the potential to do well and the 210 is no different. A lovely little boat perfect for round-the-cans racing.

Speed dream 27 A prototype that has been released as a production boat. It’s a wedge-shaped monohull with a keel that swings so far (80 degrees), that unless the boat is sailing totally flat, the keel is out of the water reducing drag phenomenally.

Archambault A27 An intriguing combination of performance and style, with teak cockpit sole, flared topsides, retractable pole and 80sq m asymmetric – the A27 is designed to be fast and fun but not utilitarian.

Seascape 27 The new 27 is big sister to the Seascape 18. A modern planing GRP sandwich hull with hard chines, a retractable keel, open cockpit, twin rudders and a carbon fibre mast are some of this design’s key features.

J/70

Xp 50 It’s been a while since X-Yachts made true cruiser-racers, but last year’s launch of the Xp range put them back in the frame. The latest model is the Xp 50, which has plenty of 50-footer glamour touches but a full racing deck layout, an optional carbon sprit, rig and deep draught keel.

We found this pocket racer simple and exciting when we tested it - and we were so keen for a sail we even made the trip to the USA to get a spin before it landed in this country. Now it’s over here and looking to make quite an impact.

Vote now at www.yachtsandyachting.co.uk/awards2013 Silver SponSor Garmin Supported by: Brewin Dolphin, huGo Boss, musto, olympus, seBaGo, sunsail, swims, theyachtmarket.com, triDent

Yachts & Yachting

December 2012

49er FX Winner of the ISAF women’s skiff selection trials, the FX is basically a 49er with a redesigned rig that enables female crews to enjoy the skiff performance of the 49er - it’s even faster than the 49er in some conditions!

4. CLUB OF THE YEAR phOtO: ISaF*

3. DINGHY OF THE YEAR

Eastbourne Sovereign Reasons for nomination ranged from the club’s efforts to reduce energy bills with solar water heating for showers and motion sensor lighting, to alternative racing formats, its support for new sailors and open events, and the great social scene.

Pennine SC

Arup Skiff A brand-new one-design based on the Cherub rule and created by Kevin Ellway backed by engineering firm Arup. Extremely lightweight with a T-foil rudder to improve speed upwind and stability downwind, using some cutting edge technology.

Aura

phOtO: ISaF*

Specifically designed by Ovington Boats for the women’s skiff trials, the blunt bows and modern sail design give it a cutting-edge look.

Has had a fantastic year, particularly with its youth section. From a standing start six years ago it now has three children in the north zone Topper squad, one in the national intermediate Topper squad and one in the Mirror squad. Both its Friday evening training sessions and summer week for children were over-subscribed with 30+ children taking part. Training Coordinator, Dominic Barnes says: ‘For a small sailing club the results have been exceptional.’

Royal Cornwall YC A busy year put the club very firmly in the spotlight as it hosted first the Finn Nationals and then the Finn Gold Cup. Over 100 club members volunteered their time. The club then hosted the J Class Regatta, with four of these imposing yachts racing together in a fleet for the first time in history.

Royal Southern YC

phOtO: ROyal SOutheRn yC*

The early June gales failed to derail the Royal Southern YC (below), as it put on a full fortnight of racing and events celebrating its 175th anniversary. The 16-day sailing extravaganza, sponsored by Brewin Dolphin, was bookended by the club’s regular May and June Summer Series regattas. The club has also been very active in encouraging debate - including a well-attended dayboat seminar.

Nacra 17 Winner of the ISAF multihull selection trials, the Nacra 17 impressed the sailors and the committees, coming out clear favourite to scoop the spot as the new mixed Olympic multihull class.

RS900 Launched for the women’s skiff trials, the 900 made everyone sit up and look, very much a baby 49er, rather than an adaptation of the 800 it proved a delight to sail... sadly it wasn’t picked.

SK2 A canting keel on a dinghy-sized hull, the SK2 (right) truly breaks the mould. A small keelboat with the look and feel of a skiffstyle dinghy, we found the SK2 to be exciting and responsive to downwind.

South Staffordshire SC This Midlands club aims to promote dinghy sailing and racing and is renowned for its friendly atmosphere and for encouraging all ages to join in. Its strong volunteer ethos sees training sessions for juniors, adults and school children... Michelle Evans says: ‘In the short time I have been a member I have learnt a new sport, made many new friends, met some truly inspirational people and become a member of a community.’

Stone SC Stone SC in Essex is described as a ‘happy, friendly, family club’ and in addition to supporting its usual busy racing and social scene, members backed a major programme of improvements to the clubhouse and grounds to further enhance the facilities, despite the economic climate. Honorary secretary Lorraine Stone says: ‘Not only have the members helped to fund phase one of the extension work and improvements to the club, many of them also assisted in the work carried out.’

Vote now at www.yachtsandyachting.co.uk/awards2013 Silver SponSor Garmin Supported by: Brewin Dolphin, huGo Boss, musto, olympus, seBaGo, sunsail, swims, theyachtmarket.com, triDent

December 2012

Yachts & Yachting

y&y Awards 2013

5. ACHIEVEMENT OF THE YEAR

6. RACING PERFORMANCE

British Olympic and Paralympic Sailing Team

Banque Populaire V

Winning a total haul of seven medals, the British Olympic and Paralympic sailing team had an outstanding year.

Loick Peyron and his crew smashed the outright round the world sailing record by nearly three days.

David ‘Sid’ Howlett

Financial Crisis

Coach to gold medal winning Ben Ainslie, David Howlett has coached a clutch of gold medal winning sailors.

Marco Nannini finished second in the Global Ocean Race in his largely self-funded Open 40... a tremendous performance.

Hugh Styles

Groupama

Laser Radial coach Hugh Styles was nominated for his work with the country’s Radial sailors helping to improve their performance.

Groupama’s win in the Volvo Ocean Race was an impressive display of perseverance... the team came from behind to sneak the win from the initially dominant Telefonica.

Iona Cornish

Hugo Boss

Iona doesn’t just look after four generations of her family, she also has a day job and is Principal Race Officer and almost the entire regatta management team for Findhorn Week.

Alex Thomson decided to train for the Vendee Globe Race by setting records... and set them he did, his new Transatlantic record was very low key, but awesome, nonetheless.

Stephen Park RYA Olympic Manager ‘Sparky’ (pictured right) led the team to an amazing performance in Weymouth.

Hydroptere phOtO: RIChaRd lanGdOn/SkandIa team GBR*

Rob Andrews The man behind the organisation of the London 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Regattas, which did our country proud.

The giant foiling multihull continues to wow; in San Francisco she set a new record for sailing around the bay.

Team GAC Pindar Lead by Ian Williams, Team GAC Pindar are chasing their fourth Alpari World Match Racing Tour title, lying in second place overall with just one event to go… we’ll have to wait until December to find out if they can pull it off.

phOtO: GuIlIan GRenIeR/team ORaCle uSa*

7. PHOTO OF THE YEAR

phOtO: thIeRRy maRtInez/OnedItIOn

phOtO: tanIa SamuS

Yachts & Yachting

December 2012

neXt issue special

Lifetime Achievement Award Announced

phOtO: B.StIChelBaut/BpCe*

3 phOtO: JRupeRt hOlmeS*

phOtO: JeRemy eVanS*

phOtO: andI ROBeRtSOn*

5 1 Elan 210 2 J/70 3 Dragonfly 32 4 Team Banque Populaire 5 Grand Soleil 43 6 Speed dream 27 6

December 2012

Yachts & Yachting

8. sAILOR OF THE YEAR Ben Ainslie Everyone knows the story... five Olympic medals, four of them gold... Ben has to be on the list!

phOtO: yVan zedda/VOlVO OCean RaCe*

Ben Saxton Young Ben Saxton beat the very best sailors in the country to win the Endeavour Trophy... an impressive display of young talent.

Hannah Mills Competing in her first Olympics, Hannah, with her crew Saskia Clark, won the first ever Women’s 470 Olympic medal for Britain... it was silver, not the gold she’d hoped for, but she also won the 470 worlds... an incredible performance for an Olympic rookie.

Helena Lucas Helena (far left) won Britain’s first ever Paralympic medal, not only was it a gold, but she was also the only female competitor in the 2.4mR fleet... who says men and women can’t compete on a level playing field?

Loick Peyron The French Banque Populaire skipper pulled together a truly international team to smash the crewed circumnavigation record. phOtOS: OnedItIOn

Nathan Outteridge

phOtO: ChRIStOphe launay

phOtO: tOm GRuItt/CReatInG WaVeS

An impressive performance, that also showed you can have fun and win at the top level, Outteridge even donned a snorkel on his way to 49er gold in Weymouth... one of the sport’s most talented sailors.

1: Guilian Grenier The AC45s have been stunning the crowds, this great shot was taken in San Francisco.

2: Tania Samus 3: Thierry Martinez*

phOtO: Ian ROman/VOlVO OCean RaCe*

This shot really captured the action at the Musto Skiff Worlds. 6

This is a stunning shot of ‘Actual’ rounding the needles in the JP Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race.

4: Christophe Launay This amazing shot of Hydroptere DCNS in San Francisco was taken by Christophe Launay.

5: Tom Gruitt This great shot of Ben Ainslie at the Olympics was taken by our talented Picture Editor.

6: Ian Roman There were a lot of stunning shots from the Volvo Ocean Race, this image of Abi Dhabi Ocean Racing won through. December 2012

Yachts & Yachting

Y&Y Awards 2013

9. EVENT OF THE YEAR

10. INNOVATION OF THE YEAR

America’s Cup World Series The AC45s proved exciting machines as the competition got hotter and new teams joined the fray – including one JP Morgan BAR (Ben Ainslie Racing)… The most recent event attracted huge crowds, and the circuit’s success has led to much debate as to whether the Cup itself should have been held in smaller boats…

Adidas Boat Lace Trainer These are a bit like Marmite - you either love them or hate them. They look very different to more traditional sailing footwear brands, with Adidas retro styling and bright colours, but also feature technical Climacool ventilation, quick dry fabrics and high traction soles.

Boat Beacon A simple AIS Navigation App designed for iPhone and iPad or Android smartphones and tablets which offers increased safety at a fraction of the cost of a dedicated AIS system. Sometimes it’s the little things which make a difference...

photo: tom Gruitt/fotoboat

Garmin GPS Map 451 Who needs a 10in screen with HD video inputs? The 451 is under £400 and features a four-inch colour screen with UK/Eire charts included. It’s NMEA 2000 compatible and has an SD card slot to upgrade to G2 Vision.

GP14 Worlds at Looe The 130-boat limit for the Aigua Charter GP14 Worlds was reached six months before the event even kicked off. Ian Dobson and Andy Tunnicliffe successfully defended their title in a hotly contested championship as a full race programme was completed in conditions that kept many other fleets ashore. Great socials, a superb location and the commitment of Looe SC members too created a memorable event.

Musto Skiff Worlds at WPNSA The Musto Skiff Worlds attracted 105 entries from 11 nations and saw Bruce Keen taking the title in the final race. WPNSA proved welcoming hosts and combined with a helpful measurer and international jury, and highly competent race management, to ensure first class racing. Spectators were able to watch the racing on class president Keith Musto’s yacht, and there was a royal visit from HRH Prince Charles.

Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week Running straight after the Olympic Games, this year’s Cowes Week had a real buzz.

Olympic and Paralympic Games The Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy provided a world class venue for the 2012 London Olympics as it showcased sailing to a spellbound audience. Against a backdrop of Dorset’s World Heritage coast and the thousands of spectators who packed the shoreline, GBR achieved five medals from the 10 Olympic sailing events and two from the three in the Paralympics for the cheering home crowds – what a result!

RORC Season’s Points Championship The 2012 RORC Championship came to a dramatic conclusion with the final Cherbourg Race. 278 yachts competed in the 10-race series, which was won overall by the smallest margin. Piet Vroon’s Ker 46 ‘Tonnerre de Breskens’ won the last race, but Laurent Gouy’s Ker 39 ‘Inis Mor’ claimed fifth to win by a single place.

Marlow Prodrive Anti Torsion Furling cable Likely to trickle down from 50ft+ and AC45s to a number of popular classes around the coast, this removes the need to band spinnakers below decks.

Sebago Sebago’s Marine Squall boot – A giant leap forward from the home of the docksider comes this new Thermolite insulated waterproof leather boot with Cordura uppers and removable breathable inserts

TeamO lifejacket Designed to ensure the wearer will be dragged on their back, rather than their front, if they fall overboard. The harness clips on like normal for wearing onboard, but designed to slide around to the back of the wearer’s head under load. Developed by short-handed ocean sailor Oscar Mead.

WIN A SUNSAIL HOLIDAY Cast your votes for the Yachts & Yachting Awards 2013 and you’ll be entered into our prize draw to win a £4,000 flotilla holiday for four in the Mediterranean, courtesy of Sunsail. Vote now at www.yachtsandyachting.co.uk/awards2013

Vote now at www.yachtsandyachting.co.uk/awards2013 Silver SponSor GArMin Supported bY: Brewin Dolphin, huGo BoSS, MuSto, olYMpuS, SeBAGo, SunSAil, SwiMS, theYAChtMArket.CoM, triDent

Yachts & Yachting

December 2012

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