The International J/70 Class Association Executive Committee has been closely monitoring the worldwide developments in the COVID-19 pandemic and is determined to continue with the planning for our major events in 2021, while recognizing that in some cases there may be public health or travel restrictions that limit participation.
The Committee understands the huge commitment of time and money it takes to participate in a major Championship, as well as the enormous resources that our host clubs dedicate to such events. Although we know that participation in the 2021 Worlds may not be as geographically comprehensive as we would like, we are very hopeful that the introduction of the vaccine will make travel to and from California possible in August.
Accordingly, the Executive Committee, on behalf of the Organizing Authority of the 2021 World Championship in Los Angeles, California, has begun sending invitations to competitors who have previously qualified for the 2021 Worlds. In addition, any J/70 boat owner may now submit a petition to fill an empty berth in the World Championship. The petition should include how long you have owned a J/70 and in what events you have participated. Petitions will be accepted until the registration deadline but should be received by the Class Office before February 28, 2021 to have the best chance of filling one of the berths.
2021 World Championship petition link: https://form.jotform.com/210106034484141
With respect to other major J/70 Class events that remain on the schedule for 2021, the Executive Committee remains in constant discussions with the Organizing Authorities. As we noted above, it is our intent to proceed with these events if at all possible.
We hope that this approach will help clarify the way the Class is addressing this situation and allow our Class members to plan accordingly. The Executive Committee meets regularly and will provide updates as needed. In the meantime, the Class wishes all J/70 sailors and their families the best in these unusual times.