irishcar.com

24 May 2002: The Alfa Romeo J24 European Sailing Championships 2002 will be staged in Dublin Bay, from August 26th to 30th. It will be hosted and organised by the Royal Irish Yacht Club, Dun Laoghaire and sponsored by Alfa Romeo. Up to 50 crews from all over Europe will compete.

Michael Howe, Managing Director of Alfa Romeo Ireland (pictured above on right with Fred Espey, Commodore of Royal Irish Yacht Club), said that his company was delighted to be the sponsor of an event certain to be one of the highlights of summer 2002. He said that Alfa Romeo’s history and ethos as makers of sporting cars means the company is always keen to support all those engaged in performance sports.

In sailing circles, the J24 is recognised as one of the most popular classes in the world. The yachts originated in the USA and although usually sailed by amateurs, many of those who have sailed them have gone on to compete at the very highest professional level, including the America’s Cup.

With a crew of five, the provide close, competitive racing and spectacular excitement. The battle from the start line to the first mark is remarkably similar to the scenes when Formula 1 cars speed towards the first bend on the circuit.

Each daily race in the Alfa Romeo J24 European Sailing Championship lasts between 60-90 minutes depending on wind conditions and the overall winner of the Championship is decided after a series of races sailed over the five days.