Thrilling one-design showdown as J/99s conquer the Noakes Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race

The 2025 Noakes Sydney Gold Coast (NSGCYR) Yacht Race witnessed a thrilling spectacle. Among the fleet of 63 yachts racing down the mighty seas, a titanic contest emerged: a one-design showdown featuring the dominant J/99 yacht designs.

Of the 63, 14 gutsy Double Handed yachts engaged in a nail-biting 384-nautical mile race. The J/99s came to the fore with six intrepid yacht entries, delivering a captivating race within a race. These formidable vessels were the Balancing Act, Blue Planet, Jupiter, Rum Rebellion, The Gaffer, and Verite, helmed by experienced and ambitious pairs eager to outmaneuver one another.

Take, for instance, The Gaffer, co-skipped by Rob Frayne and Richard Dumas, a duo with a compelling narrative. Though unlisted in the previous year’s entry, it sparked curiosity aboard as the first J/99 to reach Cabbage Tree Island during the 2024 Race. Their strategy? Gain vital offshore experience by artfully shadowing the fleet.

Another notable J/99, Jupiter, owned by Ian Smith, proved a picture of dogged determination and seasoned strategy. Smith’s love for the discomfort the offshore challenges bring fueled his decision to stay in the game, and it paid off tremendously. Despite limited ocean racing experience, Smith bagged third place in the 2024 Rolex Sydney Hobart.

With an entire fleet of J/99s participating, this was more than a race; it was a veritable one-design spectacle. A tactical battleground where every yacht was closely watched and the slightest slip could change the game completely.

The J/99s’ rise in this year’s NSGCYR signals a changing tide in offshore racing. The thrill, elements of strategy, and sheer mastery of these yachts and their skippers underscore the boundless possibilities and ongoing evolution of the sport. As we look forward to more races, one thing is certain: the J/99s are here to stay.