Black Jack 100 Dominates the Monohull Class at Fastnet Race
Alexandra
Overview of the Rolex Fastnet Race
The Rolex Fastnet Race, one of the most renowned offshore sailing events, recently concluded amidst celebrations marking its 100th anniversary. The race took place this year from Cowes, England, to Cherbourg, France, with a staggering fleet of 444 yachts—a record-breaking turnout that underlines the event's prestige.
Victory of Black Jack 100
In a stunning showcase of skill and strategy, the 100-foot supermaxi Black Jack 100, skippered by Tristan Le Brun, claimed line honours in the monohull class. Crossing the finish line at Cherbourg in a time of 2 days, 12 hours, 31 minutes, and 21 seconds, Black Jack 100 finished with a remarkable lead of 58 minutes over SHK Scallywag, another formidable competitor in the 100-footer category.
Conditions Throughout the Race
This year's race was characterized by relatively lighter winds compared to previous years. For instance, the record time of 2 days, 7 hours, 16 minutes, and 26 seconds was set in 2023 under gale force conditions by MACIF SantéPrévoyance, skippered by Charlie Dalin and Pascal Bidegroyy.
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Team Performance
Under the seasoned leadership of Tristan Le Brun alongside co-skipper Jelmer van Beek, and with owner Remon Vos onboard, the crew showcased remarkable teamwork and tactical excellence throughout the challenging race. The journey from the crowded start at Cowes to the pivotal rounding of Fastnet Rock was a true test of their ability to adapt and excel under pressure.
Sailing Through Challenges
The initial leg began in Cowes with a south-westerly wind ranging from 10-12 knots, compounded by an ebbing tide and overcast skies. Yet, Black Jack 100 quickly maneuvered into a competitive position, rounding Fastnet Rock just after midnight on Sunday evening, demonstrating a speed that disturbed their competitors.
Rounding Fastnet Rock
As Le Brun reflected on the round, “Rounding Fastnet Rock was close to midnight, with strong breeze and sail changes in the dark—it was an intense moment. The crew's performance was exceptional; we made no mistakes and stayed focused.”
Strategic Advantage
By the time morning arrived on Monday, Black Jack 100 had established a notable lead. Sailing eastward between the Scilly Islands and the southern TSS exclusion zone, the yacht extended its margin with every nautical mile, outpacing SHK Scallywag by 10 miles and Leopard 3 by 16 miles.
The Significance of the Win
The victory is a remarkable achievement for Black Jack 100, especially considering the boat only participated in one other race this season – the Gotland Runt, where it set a new course record. Winning line honours at the Rolex Fastnet Race marks a significant milestone in their racing career and reaffirms their return to the forefront of the offshore racing scene.
Crew Contributions
| Name | Role | Nationality |
|---|---|---|
| Remon Vos | Owner | NED |
| Tristan Le Brun | Skipper | FRA |
| Jelmer van Beek | Co-Skipper | NED |
| Sofian Bouvet | Team Member | FRA |
| Guillaume Berenger | Team Member | FRA |
| Edwin de Laat | Team Member | NED/NZL |
| Shane Hughes | Team Member | GBR |
| Rokas Milevicius | Team Member | LTU |
| Bruce Clark | Team Member | AUS |
| Rutger Vos | Team Member | NED |
| Harley Spreader | Team Member | AUS |
| Andrew Henderson | Team Member | AUS |
| Liam Woulfe | Team Member | AUS |
| Romain Testa | Team Member | FRA |
| Jorden van Rooijen | Team Member | NED |
| Robin Jacobs | Team Member | NED |
| Clément Cron | Navigator | FRA |
| Max Deckers | Tactician/Navigator | NED |
| Thierry Fouchier | Team Member | FRA |
Connecting to Sailing and Boat Rentals
The performance of Black Jack 100 at the Rolex Fastnet Race exemplifies the thrill and adventure that sailing offers. As enthusiasts witness such remarkable achievements, it highlights the growing importance of exploring the extensive sailing community, including opportunities to rent boats for personal experiences on the water. GetBoat understands that the ocean represents freedom and adventure, allowing travelers to chart their own course and create unforgettable memories.
Consider Renting a Boat
Experiencing new locations through sailing is a rich tapestry, revealing cultural nuances, scenic coastlines, and the glorious rhythm of life at sea. By renting a boat, individuals can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of inlets, bays, and lagoons—each unique in its charm. Beyond the breathtaking landscapes, sailing allows for relaxation and excitement away from the hustle and bustle of life on land. If you're contemplating your next seaside adventure, consider renting a boat to truly absorb the essence of this community, where every wave tells a story of the sea and its surroundings, akin to the local cuisine or architecture.
For those eager to experience the thrill of being at sea, GetBoat.com serves as a convenient platform, offering a wide range of options tailored to every taste and budget, ensuring transparency in the process.
Conclusion
Black Jack 100's triumph at the Rolex Fastnet Race signifies not just a victory but a reaffirmation of excellence within the world of sailing. As the international sailing community watches with admiration, it beckons enthusiasts to expand their horizons. The opportunities to explore are as vast as the ocean, and organizations like GetBoat provide a seamless avenue to rent boats and create adventures steeped in unique experiences of yachting and offshore sailing. Embrace the freedom that sailing offers and may your next nautical journey be as enriching as it is exhilarating!
