Ibiza JoySail will be joined by J Class yachts for their 2023 event from 28 September to 1 October, alongside a strong contingent of returnees from 2022, and some new entries as well.
“It is early days, of course, but we have had significant interest from almost all of the boats who participated last year and who want to do it again, which is a great tribute to Ibiza JoySail,” said Regatta Director Nacho Postigo.
An invitational regatta
Due to the success of the 2022 edition, Ibiza JoySail is already receiving many requests to join the fleet in 2023. This is why, in order to maintain the essence, quality and spirit of this event, the organisation has decided to limit the number of participating boats. You can find the rules and conditions in the NOR published on the website www.ibizajoysail.com
The grace of the J Class
We can confirm that Svea, Topaz and Lionheart will join the Ibiza Joysail regatta, with others sure to follow. “We are super-excited to be going to Ibiza JoySail and are really looking forward to racing against the other Js,” said Lionheart’s captain Toby Brand. “It’s always great to be racing with them, and this event is the kind where the owner can race with family and friends alongside the core crew. We know Ibiza and Formentera well and have been there many times in cruising mode. We consider STP to be part of the Lionheart family. We have been there for years and they always look after us extremely well, especially the office team there – we are big fans.”
It is clear that the presence of the J Yachts represents an unambiguous nod of approval from one of the highest-profile superyacht sailing groups and follows a visit to the 2022 event by their new class secretary, Stuart Childerley. The world champion sailor and international race officer was clearly impressed by the excellent facilities and widespread expertise on offer at both STP Palma and Marina Ibiza.
Racing with new technologies
Keen not to rest on their laurels, Ibiza JoySail organisers have introduced an interesting change to the format of the opening race. Event Director Nacho Postigo explains: “I always say the regatta is called Ibiza JoySail for a reason; it is not about having a hard time, so we will be using a new technology for the long race between Mallorca and Ibiza. We will use robotic racing marks for that, so if the conditions in the Bay of Palma are too light to start, the race committee will host the ‘follow me’ flag and start motoring towards Ibiza. If the wind gets up in the channel, as it did in 2022, then we will set a start line with the robotic marks and go racing. The race committee could also shorten the course in the same way. The important thing is that the owners and crews have a good time, and it is not a struggle.”
