The new year offered proof that the one-design J/70 fleet is thriving, judging by the number that turned out to compete in Act III of the Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series, with 40 boats out on the water. “The race area and conditions were top with a steady wind and flat sea. I was especially impressed by how responsive the Race Committee and staff were in managing races in such quick succession,” said Ian Wilson, International J/70 Class President. He was racing this weekend on one of the Irish boats (Soak Racing) to see the Yacht Club de Monaco’s organisation ahead of the Worlds that are set to take place in the Principality in 2021. In terms of results, it was difficult to determine a winner as the lead changed at every mark. After seven races, a leader emerged in Andreï Malygin (Maria) who also won the Corinthian category. Knowing the record of some of the professionals, one can only be impressed by this Russian and his team who were always in the lead group. One premature start almost cost him first place. Flanking them on the podium were the two Yacht Club de Monaco boats, Loïc Pompée’s Allo Ill who was celebrating his birthday and Ludovico Fassitelli on Junda, leader of this winter championship, who despite the absence of his tactician proved combative and quick. For more event details, visit https://www.yacht-club-monaco.mc/fr/home/.