12-Metre Class: Beaut Michele Almeida photos from last weekend's North Americans; 30+ Twelves no
NEWPORT, RI (#1107) – A group of regional sailors, including Newport’s Bob Morton (USA), captured the Traditional Division crown during the 12 Metre North American championship regatta held this past weekend. The eight-race series on Rhode Island Sound and Narragansett Bay was hosted by Ida Lewis Yacht Club and included divisions for historic 12 Metres from the Modern and Traditional eras — 1974-1983 and 1958-1970, respectively. The race was especially competitive this year as teams prepare for the 12 Metre world championship, which also will be hosted by Ida Lewis Yacht Club next July [2019]. –Article on NewportRI.com earlier this week. Full story.
Recent media reports indicate that more than 30 Twelves, with perhaps as many as a dozen from Europe, are expected in Newport for next year's Worlds. That regatta will be hosted 8-13 July 2019 by Ida Lewis Yacht Club and also be chaired by Peter Gerard (USA). If so, it will the largest gathering ever of these historic yachts, many of which raced in the America's Cup during the 12M era from 1958 to 1987. No doubt next summer's Worlds in the spiritual home of yacht racing in the USA will be a spectacular event for both sailors and spectators. More info on the 2019 12 Meter World Championship website.
Congrats to skipper Bob Morton (USA) and his team on AMERICAN EAGLE, winners of the Traditional Division of the 2018 12-Metre North Americans last weekend in Newport, RI. Photo: Stephen Cloutier via NewportRI.com.