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December 5, 2022

A brief history of the famous “12 metre” class yachts.

Historic Yachts

Fascination 12mR

Elegant Beauties

The boats, especially the long-keeled examples of the thirties are elegant. You can look at them for a long time, from the massive stem to the stern that is lifted apart from the water.

But let’s tell the story from the beginning

America’s Cup contenders between 1958 and 1987 – the 12 Metre Class

International Rules

The America’s Cup, the oldest Trophy

The Auld Mug

“12 metres” were designed with one thing in mind – to win America’s Cup races. The design of their products reflects this in every aspect. America’s Cup twelves didn’t have room for an engine, anything below decks, or even a toilet when they were campaigning. The deck layouts of America’s Cup twelves are set up for optimal sail performance as well as for speed. When racing, the sails are the engine of the boat, so trimming them correctly and quickly was crucial to winning. America’s Cup “12 Metre” crews were also trained for efficiency. When it was their turn to compete in the famous America’s Cup, they had intensive training and practice to be flawless at sail handling and the best yacht racers in the world.

During the summer months of August and October, many of these classic racers attend numerous sailing events on the French Riviera . Noblesse Yachts is the only company that offers sailing opportunities as well as yacht charters.

Come sail with us on a piece of America’s Cup racing history on these sleek racing beauties!

Available Dates are: 07.09. – 10.09.23: Vele d’Epoca di Imperia ( See Video here ) 13.09. – 16.09.23: Monaco Classic Week ( See Video here ) 19.09. – 25.09.23: Les Regates Royales de Cannes ( See Video here ) 24.09. – 08.10.23: Les Voiles de Saint Tropez ( See Video here )

Note about copyright: This text is copyrighted by us and you may copy and use it only with a link to our website along with a clear indication of our authorship. Thank you!

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About the shipyard

In order to maintain and further utilise the know-how gained during the restoration of the 12mR yacht "SPHINX", we founded Yachtwerft Robbe & Berking Classics in the summer of 2008. It restores classic motor and sailing yachts directly at Flensburg's city harbour and builds replicas of particularly beautiful lost classics as well as new designs and constructions. With attention to detail and great passion. We would be happy to provide you with a quotation.

Since summer 2011, we have also been joined by the long-established yacht broker Baum & König, the first address for the purchase of classic yachts since 1984. And if your classic dream yacht is not on offer at the moment, we will track it down for you. We also arrange tailor-made insurance for your vessel and take care of the sale of your yacht if required.

We restore yachts when we have to and as has happened many times before from the keel up, and rebuild lost yachts to the original plans - this is your chance to own a unique and historically significant yacht.

Robbe & Berking 40ft Commuter

Robbe & Berking 72ft Commuter

Robbe & Berking 33ft Commuter

Event location

Celebrate and meet in style at Robbe & Berking. Give yourself and your guests special moments in an inspiring ambience - the maritime world of Robbe & Berking. We are happy to support you in making your festivity an unforgettably beautiful event!

New construction & restoration

We love classic yachts. That's why we restore them when we can, or build new ones. According to historical or new plans, in the traditional way or in modern construction – but always made of wood and by hand.

Sterling Cup 2023 – Limited Edition

Hafenband+ maritim.grün.gemeinschaftlich.

Winterwerft 2022

12 Metre Worlds

Official website of the International Twelve Metre Class World Championships

12MR PRE-WORLDS: Twelves Warm Up at St. Tropez

Editors’ Note: To receive the 12 Metre Worlds blog, sign up here: https://12mRworlds.com

CONTACTS: Bernard Minvielle , ITMA Vice President, Southern European fleet;  Soazig Gueho , Porquerolles Press Officer; SallyAnne Santos , International 12mR Class (ITMA) Communications Director

twelves Warm-Up at st. Tropez in 12mR Pre-Worlds Regatta

ST. TROPEZ, FRANCE (May 31, 2024) – Close racing among eight 12mRs in two divisions at the 12mR Pre-Worlds organized by the Societe Nautique de St Tropez has set the stage for a highly anticipated 12mR World Championship at the Yacht Club de Porquerolles ; now just 2 weeks away (June 17-23).

In the Grand Prix division (photo above), Patrizio Bertelli’s (ITA) Kookaburra II (KA-12) , skippered by Torben Grael , sailed a perfect regatta sweeping all five races. Christoffer Blach Petersen’s (DNK) Kiwi Magic (KZ-7) , Yan Delplace’s (FRA) South Australia (KA-8) and Christophe Babule’s (FRA) French Kiss (F-7) finished in 2nd, 3rd and 4th places respectively. These four will be joined at Porquerolles by Crusader (K-24) and Kookaburra III (KA-15) making the 2024 edition the most closely contested 12mR Grand Prix World Championship in recent memory.

Four Vintage division 12mRs also raced a tight regatta at St. Tropez. Patrick Howaldt’s (DNK) Vim (US-15) prevailed by winning 4 of the 5 races sailed (w/ one throw-out). Christoph Avenarius’ ( DEU) Nini Anker (N-15) finished second with seven points followed by Christian Bunning (DEU) sailing Flica II (K-14) and Thea (D-1) skippered by Robert deHaer . View complete 12mR Pre-Worlds race results here . This division will swell to 7 entries when they are met by Jenetta (K-1) , LaSpina (I-1) and Northern Light (US-14) at Porquerolles Including Eileen (E-21) and France 1 (FR-1) the 2024 12mR Worlds roll call will be 15 boats strong.

In the 3-year, hotly contested Coupe de France Series the first 2 regattas of the 2024 season are now in the books and reflected in the updated standings below.

Subscribe to this blog and follow our social media channels below to stay in the know about 12mR World Championship news.

NOTE: Google Translate function for entire site is found in footer

Les 12 M JI s’échauffent à Saint Tropez à la régate des PREWORLDS

Saint Tropez, France ( 31 mai 2024 )

Régates serrées pour les huit 12 M JI classés en deux divisions qui ont couru les PREWORLDS organisées par la Société Nautique de Saint Tropez ( SNST ), en prélude aux tant attendus Championnats du Monde à Porquerolles, organisés par le Yacht Club de Porquerolles ( YCP ) du 17 au 23 juin prochain.

Dans la catégorie des Grand Prix ( photo ci jointe ), Kookaburra II, ITA ( KA 12 ) à Patrizio Bertelli , barré par Torben Grael , a fait une régate parfaite en remportant les cinq manches.

Kiwi Magic , DNK  (KZ 7 ), mené par Christopher  Blach Petersen , South Australia FRA ( KA 8 ) à Yann Delplace, et French Kiss FRA ( F7 ) à Christophe Babule , ont remporté respectivement les deuxième, troisième et quatrième places.

Ces quatre Grand Prix seront rejoints à Porquerolles par Crusader ( K 24 ) et Kookaburra III ( KA 15 ), faisant de cette édition 2024 le Championnat du Monde le plus disputé depuis longtemps.

Dans la catégorie des Vintage, quatre bateaux ont couru une régate serrée . 

Vim , DNK ( US 15 ) à Patrick Howaldt , a remporté quatre manches sur cinq, Nini Anker, DEU ( N 15 ), à Christoph Avenarius  a terminé deuxième avec sept points, suivi de Flica II, DEU ( K 14 ) à Christian Bunning   et de  Thea ( D 1 ) à Robert de Haer.

Voir les résultats complets ici.

Cette catégorie Vintage se renforcera à sept bateaux à Porquerolles quand ils seront rejoints par Jenetta ( K1 ), La Spina ( I 1 ), Northern Light ( US 14 ), Eileen 5 ( E 21 ) et France ( F 1 ),

Pour un total de quinze participants.

Le classement de la très convoitée Coupe de France, courue sur deux ans de compétitions figure ci-après.

The 2024 12 Metre World Championship is sanctioned by the International Twelve Metre Association (ITMA) and hosted by the Porquerolles Yacht Club with the Yacht Club de France.

THE YACHT CLUB de PORQUEROLLES celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2016. Its founding President Sébastien Le Ber and his friends, passionate about sailing, created the Yacht Club in 1986 with a view to making the most of the magnificent body of water which surrounds Porquerolles.

THE YACHT CLUB DE FRANCE, founded in 1867, remains faithful to its vocation: to contribute to the development of pleasure boating in all its forms; in cruises and in racing, defend and promote the values of solidarity, courtesy and moral elegance that animate all seafarers. Recognized as a public utility on the eve of the Great War, the Yacht Club de France is proud to have counted among its members Jules Verne, Virginie Hériot, Alain Gerbault, Commander Charcot, Marin-Marie, Eric Tabarly. Respect traditions, bring together the sailors of tomorrow.

THE COUPE DE FRANCE by YACHT CLUB DE FRANCE was created in 1891 to develop the building of racing vessels in France. For its 55th edition, the challenge reunites the 12mR Class for twelve events throughout the Mediterranean Sea.

THE INTERNATIONAL 12 METRE ASSOCIATION encompasses a living history of racing yacht design by the world’s foremost naval architects including Olin Stephens, Clinton Crane, William Fife III, Philip Rhodes, Johan Anker, Ben Lexcen and more who pushed their designs to the very limits of innovation. The resulting boats represented the pinnacle of yacht development from 1907-1987 for the highest levels of international sailing competition– the Olympic Games (1908-1920) and the America’s Cup (1958-1987).

Administration: 12mR Fleet, S. Europe Bernard Minvielle [email protected] +33 611 19 00 95

Press Officer: YC de Porquerolles Soazig Gueho [email protected] +33 (0)4 94 58 34 49

Communications Director: International 12 Metre Class SallyAnne Santos [email protected] +1 917-330-1730

Quicklinks:

12mR Worlds Official: https://12mrworlds.com

Porquerolles YC: https://yachtclubporquerolles.fr

Coupe de France: https://coupedefrance.org

International Twelve Metre Association: https://12mrclass.com

12mR Worlds Facebook: @12MetreWorldChampionship

ITMA Facebook: @12mRClass

12mR Worlds Instagram @12mRWorldChampionship

ITMA Instagram: @12metreclass

ITMA YouTube: @International12mR

#12mRClass, #12mRWorlds, #202412mRWorldsPorquerolles, #YachtClubdeFrance, #CoupedeFrance, #PorquerollesYC, #InternationalTwelveMetreAssociation, #12mR, #12Meter, #12Metre, #12mRracing, #PorquerollesFrance

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Porquerolles preview.

If past is prologue, the 2024 12mR World Championship to be organized by the Yacht Club de Porquerolles (Hyères, FRA) from June 16-24 will be truly spectacular! Recently six twelve metres built between 1929- 1986 representing a 57-year cross-section of 12mR development experienced the glorious sailing conditions and onshore hospitality of the venue. They were, Vintage: La Spina (I-1) ; Traditional: Ikra (K-3) ; Modern: France (F-1) ; and Grand Prix: South Australia (KA-8) , French Kiss (F-7) and Kiwi Magic (KZ-7) .

Sailing conditions were perfect with 8- 14 knots wind, air temperature 24°c and fantastic coastal scenery. Porquerolles is beautiful island 5 nm south of Hyères. It is a tourist attraction like Skagen in Denmark, Marstrand in Sweden and the Cape Cod area of the US. With only 200 year-round inhabitants, the island hosts up to 10,000 visitors on a summer day. It is a little paradise, known for the most sun hours in Cote D’Azur. The marina is huge and offers plenty of space for a regatta fleet of 70 boats. The little city is charming with small restaurants around the Square. The organizers were very good, everything worked out well including the social activities. It is a superb place for the Worlds in 2024, and we can highly recommend other 12mRs to come – you will love it! Johan Blach Petersen, Kiwi Magic (KZ-7)

Calling All 12mRs to the Med!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: SallyAnne Santos , ITMA Communications Director, +1 917-330-1730

Calling All Twelve Metres to the Mediterranean!

A message from itma president, chris winter and yacht club de france president, philippe héral:.

NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND, USA (June 6, 2023)

Please see the correspondence below from ITMA President, Chris Winter and Philippe Héral, President of the Yacht Club de France to the 12mR fleet worldwide.. It contains an invitation to all Twelve Metres to gather together in the Med to participate at the 55th Coupe de France regatta series and the Puig Vela Classica Barcelona and 12 Metre Reunion, AC Edition .

ITMA President Chris Winter added: “”This is an extraordinary time of rebuilding for the Twelve Metre Class worldwide, particularly in our Southern European fleet. We hope that you will share our excitement and join us in the Med for the exceptional series of events being planned over the next two seasons.”

For more information on the Series, please visit: CoupedeFrance.org

ABOUT THE 55th COUPE DE FRANCE

The   Yacht Club de France (YCF)   has announced a series of races for 12mR yachts throughout the 2023-24 sailing seasons; the winner will be awarded one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious yachting trophies; the spectacular  Coupe de France . Participating host yacht clubs along the glamorous Riviera– including Cannes, Porquerolles, Saint Tropez, Touloun, Hyères and Barcelona– will organize a comprehensive schedule of events featuring 40 days of racing, social events and festive celebrations for the 500+ crew members expected to compete. In 2023,  the Series will include events in both Europe and the United States  (Newport, RI) before moving exclusively to the Med in 2024 leading up to the 12mR World Championship at Porquerolles.

ABOUT THE YACHT CLUB DE FRANCE

Founded in 1867, the YC de France has been the Club of 100s of both famous and accomplished sailors including Virginie Hériot, Jean-Baptiste Charcot and Eric Tabarly. With its’ partner Clubs throughout the country, the YC de France represents a strong regatta organizing power in France.

ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL 12 METRE ASSOCIATION (ITMA)

The 112 year-old International 12 Metre Class encompasses a living history of racing yacht design by the world’s foremost naval architects including Olin Stephens, Clinton Crane, William Fife III, Philip Rhodes, Johan Anker, Ben Lexcen and more who pushed their designs to the very limits of innovation. The resulting boats represented the pinnacle of yacht development from 1907-1987 for the highest levels of international sailing competition– the Olympic Games (1908-1920) and the America’s Cup (1958-1987).

QUICKLINKS:

International 12mR Association (ITMA) https://12mrclass.com

#12mRClass, #12mRWorlds2024 , #CoupedeFrance

55th Coupe de France

Yacht club de france to award most prestigious trophy to 12mr winner.

The Yacht Club de France (YCF) has announced a series of races for 12mR yachts throughout the 2023-24 sailing seasons; the winner will be awarded one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious yachting trophies; the spectacular Coupe de France .

Participating host yacht clubs along the glamorous Riviera– including Cannes, Porquerolles, Saint Tropez, Touloun, Hyères and Barcelona– will organize a comprehensive schedule of events featuring 40 days of racing, social events and festive celebrations for the 500+ crew members expected to compete. This season, the Series will include events in both Europe and the United States (Newport, RI) before moving exclusively to the Med in 2024 leading up to the 12mR World Championship at Porquerolles.

A British team sailing at Cannes was the first to claim the impressive silver cup in 1898. Since then, the Coupe de France has been awarded to teams from Italy, Germany, Norway, Switzerland, Sweden, Australia and France. 12mR sailors from all of these nations plus Canada, Denmark, Finland, Japan, New Zealand, Spain and the United States will compete for the privilege of raising this revered trophy in victory.

Learn more about the Series at the dedicated website: CoupedeFrance.org

ABOUT THE YACHT CLUB DE FRANCE: Founded in 1867, the YC de France has been the Club of 100s of both famous and accomplished sailors including Virginie Hériot, Jean-Baptiste Charcot and Eric Tabarly. With its’ partner Clubs throughout the country, the YC de France represents a strong regatta organizing power in France. Southern European Fleet

ABOUT THE SOUTHERN EUROPEAN 12 METRE FLEET: Sailing primarily in the Mediterranean Sea, this fleet includes yachts in France, Italy, Turkey and Portugal and also includes Oceania. Southern European Fleet

ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL 12 METRE ASSOCIATION (ITMA): The 112 year-old International 12 Metre Class encompasses a living history of racing yacht design by the world’s foremost naval architects including Olin Stephens, Clinton Crane, William Fife III, Johan Anker, Alfred Mylne, Charles E. Nicholson, Philip Rhodes, Ben Lexcen and more who pushed their designs to the very limits of innovation. The resulting boats represented the pinnacle of yacht development from 1907-1987 for the highest levels of international sailing competition– the Olympic Games (1908-1920) and the America’s Cup (1958-1987). To learn more, visit 12mRClass.com

NOW POSTED: 2024 12mR WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP NOTICE OF RACE

CONTACTS: Bernard Minvielle , ITMA Vice President, Southern European fleet;  Soazig Gueho , Porquerolles YC Press Officer; SallyAnne Santos , International 12mR Class (ITMA) Communications Director

2024 WORLDS NOTICE OF RACE POSTED: 12MR CHAMPIONSHIP RACING RETURNS TO THE MEDITERRANEAN

NEWPORT, RI (January 31, 2024) – The International Twelve Metre Association (ITMA) is pleased to announce the publication of the 2024 Notice of Race for the 12mR World Championship * hosted and organized by the Porquerolles Yacht Club (YCP) to be sailed in the harbor of Porquerolles (FR) from June 17-23, 2024. (*note: English version begins on PDF page 8/14)

According to a recent YCP press release: “ The 12m JI, historic class of the America’s Cup, for which they competed from 1958 to 1987, have become over the years the kings of the Cup. The Race Committee is planning “constructed” (windward-leeward or coastal) courses, very simple but technical to impose strategic choices representing the pinnacle of yacht racing for this high-level competition. ” (translated from French)

“It is a real source of pride for the Porquerolles Yacht Club to have been chosen to organize this world championship.” ~ Aurélie Lhuillier, Porquerolles Yacht Club Director

Originating as an Olympic Class in 1906, the International 12mR Class incorporates a number of age-based Divisions to accommodate the 116 years of evolution in yacht design, construction, materials and technology that is seen in the preserved and restored survivors of the premiere America’s Cup development Class.

Closely contested racing in both the oldest (Vintage: 1920-1939) and newest (Grand Prix: 1983-87) divisions is expected. In the Vintage division, the Baltic-based reigning 12mR World Champion Vim (US-15) will be on hand to defend their 2021 title; Flica II (K-14) , Jenetta (K-1) , Northern Light (US-14) and Thea (D-1) are also headed south with the Vintage Scandinavian squad from the Northern European fleet.

“We are looking forward to racing at Porqureolles and I am happy that we will have a good number of 12mRs from the N. European fleet participating throughout the Med this season.” ~ Patrick Howaldt , Vim (US-15) reigning 12mR Vintage Division World Champion (Helsinki, FI 2021)

French Kiss (F-7) helmsman, Marc Pajot said: “We anticipate great competition in the Grand Prix division with boats from the 1987 America’s Cup era.” These include: Crusader II (K-25) , Kiwi Magic (KZ-7) , Kookaburra II (KA-12) and South Australia (KA-8) .

“All of the crews are very motivated.; the site of the bay of Hyères and Porquerolles is very popular with everyone and we can’t wait to get back there” ~ Marc Pajot

Other World Sailing-sanctioned 12mR Divisions, identified in The 12mR Rule Appendix E are: Antique (1906-1920), Traditional (1950-1967) and Modern (1967-1983). Local favorite, France (F-1) will represent the Modern division. A 12mR Spirit group comprised of original but not-measured 12mRs of all divisions will be formed if more than 2 yachts of this description register for the event—these will be scored separately from World Championship competitors.

“It is fantastic to see the activity of the Southern European fleet in the Mediterranean. There is no better way to celebrate than the 12 Metre World Championship arranged by the Yacht Club De Porquerolle and the Yacht Club De France!” ~ Chris Winter , ITMA President

The 2024 12mR World Championship, the America’s Cup Legends 12mR Regatta and many other distinguished events are all part of the Yacht Club de France’s prestigious Coupe de France Series that spans the 2023-34 sailing seasons.

Event organizers strongly recommend early registration and booking of accommodation due to limited availability. Registrations received after March 15 will incur a 15% penalty.

Official Notice Board

THE PORQUEROLLES YACHT CLUB celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2016. Its founding President Sébastien Le Ber and his friends, passionate about sailing, created the Yacht Club in 1986 with a view to making the most of the magnificent body of water which surrounds Porquerolles.

YCP CONTACTS:

Director: YC de Porquerolles Aurélie Lhuillier [email protected] +33 4 94 58 34 49

Press Officer: YC de Porquerolles Soazig Gueho [email protected] +33 6 62 08 74 44

ITMA CONTACTS:

Vice President: 12mR Fleet, Southern Europe Bernard Minvielle [email protected] +33 611 19 00 95

2023 12 Metre World Championship: Serious Tight Racing, Challenge XII and Columbia Become Two-Time World Champions

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Barby MacGowan , Media Pro International, +1 (401) 849-0220 or Peggy Hersam , 12 Metre Yacht Club, +1 (203) 807-1066

12 Metre World Championship: Serious Tight Racing, Challenge XII and Columbia Become Two-Time World Champions

NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND, USA (August 6, 2023) – After participating in a morning parade around Newport Harbor that was punctuated by cannon salutes from yacht clubs and other prime waterfront viewing spots, ten historic 12 Metres moved on to Rhode Island Sound for Saturday’s final race of the 12 Metre World Championship . To be named the World Champions at the end of the day, Jack LeFort’s (Winter Park, Fla./Jamestown, R.I.) Challenge XII (KA-10) had merely to finish better than fifth among Modern Division’s five entries if Takashi Okura’s Japanese entry Freedom (US-30) , close behind in the standings, were to win. The day prior, Kevin Hegarty/Anthony Chiurco’s (Newport, R.I./Princeton, N.J.) Columbia (US-16) already had mathematically sewn up the nine-race series in the five-boat Traditional/Vintage Division.

After waiting for two hours, a windward/leeward course was set (later shortened) for a seven-knot breeze, and  Challenge XII  handily sailed to victory while  Freedom  finished fifth to maintain its Modern Division podium position of second place.  Columbia  finished third, while the fleet’s oldest boat, Mark Watson’s (Newport, R.I.)  Onawa  (US-6 ) ,   built in 1928, sailed its way to a clean victory and a claim on second place overall for the Traditional/Vintage Division.

Both the Challenge XII and Columbia teams, homegrown with mostly local crews, won the Worlds in 2019 when it last was held in Newport.

“Conditions were light, heavy, medium…we went up the (Narragansett) Bay, out on the ocean – it was just a great across-the-board test for the fleet,” said LeFort, whose veteran team includes his wife Lisa LeFort as navigator and America’s Cup/Volvo Ocean Race veteran Ken Read as tactician. “The good news is that Sunday’s conditions – light air and lumpy seas – were good for us.”

Racing started Tuesday (August 1) with one race in light 8-9 knot breezes that gave Challenge XII (in Modern Division) and Robert Morton’s (Middletown, R.I.) American Eagle (US-21 ) (in Traditional/Vintage Division) an early boost for winning. Both teams, however, fell to second behind Freedom and Onawa , respectively, after two races on Wednesday, held again in light 5-8 knot air. For Thursday and Friday, 18-20 knot winds proved also to be good for Challenge XII , as the team won three of five races held in Modern Division while Columbia won all five held in Traditional/Vintage Division.

It’s not about being the fastest boat,” said Columbia’s Hegarty, who helmed at the starts and then became tactician while Chiurco drove. “Whomever performs the best, or messes up the least, is going to win. That’s why I love sailing 12 Meters; everything is manual, and it takes muscle and teamwork. There is no other class like it.”

Hegerty said it hit him in the middle of the night on Friday that he and his team – which like Challenge XII’s has been sailing together for over a decade – were now two-time 12 Metre World champions. “I woke up and just had a big smile on my face.” The smiles (and cheers) spilled over into Saturday night’s Awards Party, held at the IYRS School of Technology and Trades, which served as headquarters for the six-day event. Kudos especially were given to PRO Mark Foster and his Ida Lewis Yacht Club Race Committee team for their extraordinary acumen and patience.

“Conditions were all over the place and the Race Committee adjusted to them and so did the teams,” said Ida Lewis representative Guy Sanchez.

Other Modern Division teams competing were Peter Askew’s (Key Largo, Fla.) Enterprise (US-27) , Andrew Rose’s (Newport Beach, Calif.) Defender (US-33) and Dawn Riley’s Oakcliff trainees (Oyster Bay, N.Y.) sailing Courageous (US-26) .

Other Traditional/Vintage Division teams competing were Jack Klinck’s (Concord, Mass.) Nefertiti (US-19) and Steve Eddleston’s (Bristol, R.I.) Weatherly (US-17) .

The Ted Turner Trophy for most significant contribution to the 12 Metre Class went to Steve Eddleston,Commodore of the 12 Metre Yacht Club Newport Station, who subsequently presented the Tiedemann Trophy for best Vintage yacht to  Onawa .

The Worlds fleet included four boats that successfully defended the America’s Cup when it was sailed in Newport in 12 Metres from 1958 to 1983: Columbia – 1958, Weatherly -1962, Courageous – 1974/1977 and Freedom – 1980.

The 2023 12 Metre World Championship is sanctioned by the International Twelve Metre Association (ITMA) and hosted by the 12 Metre Yacht Club Newport Station in partnership with Organizing Authority Ida Lewis Yacht Club .

OUR PARTNERS:

Making the 12 Metre Worlds possible are sponsors Audrain Hospitality ; Clarke Cooke House ; Edge Realty ; Flux Marine ; Gill Marine ; Hammetts Hotel ; Jefferson’s Bourbon Lemon & Line ; North Sails ; Pallas Capital Advisors ; Palm Beach Motor Yachts ; PKF O’Connor Davies ; Seabags ; and Starkweather & Shepley Insurance .

Spectator and sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, contact Peggy Hersam, 12 Metre Yacht Club Executive Director, [email protected] , +1 (203) 807-1066. Notice of Race and other race information available at www.12mrworlds.com .

Administration & Sponsorship: 12 Metre Yacht Club Peggy Hersam [email protected] +1 (203) 807-1066

Press Officer: Media Pro Int’l Barby MacGowan [email protected] +1 401-849-0220

Communications Director: International 12 Metre Assocation SallyAnne Santos [email protected] +1 917-330-1730

12mR Worlds Official: https://12mrworlds.com /

12 Metre Yacht Club, Newport Station: https://12myc.org

Ida Lewis Yacht Club: https://ilyc.org

International Twelve Metre Association (ITMA) https://12mrclass.com

12MYC Instagram: @12_metre_yacht_club

12MYC Facebook: @12MetreYachtClub

12MYC Twitter: @12myc_Newport

#12mRClass, #12mRWorlds, #202312mRWorldsNewport, #12MYC, #InternationalTwelveMetreAssociation, #12mR, #12Meter, #12Metre, #NewportRI

2023 12 Metre World Championship: At the Halfway Mark, Things are Heating Up

12 metre world championship: at the halfway mark, things are heating up.

NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND, USA (August 3, 2023) – With six races under their sailing belts, the 12 Metre sailors here for the  12 Metre World Championship  are more than halfway through their scheduled nine-race series. The ten-boat fleet of historic 12 Metre sloops – measuring 68-72 feet long and split evenly into Modern and Traditional/Vintage Divisions – started racing Tuesday (August 1), and though excruciatingly light winds on that day only allowed for a single race, Wednesday’s 5-8 knot breezes yielded two races, and today’s 10-12 knot breezes generously fueled three races.

“It was tricky and difficult for the first two days,” said New Zealander Murray Jones , who serves as tactician for Takashi Okura’s Japanese entry Freedom (US-30) , which was leading Modern Division going into today with a one-point margin over Jack LeFort’s (Winter Park, Fla./Jamestown, R.I.) Challenge XII (KA-10). “We’re not the fastest boat in light winds, so we were just happy to make it through in good shape.” Murray has sailed in six America’s Cups (1995, 2000 and 2016 aboard New Zealand; 2003, 2007, and 2010 Alinghi; and 2013 Oracle), winning all but one (2010).

Today’s relatively stronger winds showed that Freedom had legs, but Challenge XII had the better pace and tactics to turn in a full string of victories over the three races, with Freedom taking second in all three. “It was really fantastic 12 Metre sailing today,” said LeFort, explaining that Freedom is “extraordinarily well sailed” and in the second race the two boats were overlapped almost the whole time. “It wasn’t until the middle of the last leg (of the windward-leeward twice around course) that we were able to get inside them on a jibe.”

Serving as Challenge XII’s tactician was Ken Read (Middletown,R.I.), helmsman on two Stars & Stripes America’s Cup campaigns (2000, 2003) and strategist/coach for the Young America campaign in 1995. “Ken makes the decisions on where to go and the rest of us just try to get the boat there as fast as we can,” said LeFort. “Today’s were good conditions for Challenge XII ; we were right in our sweet spot.”

In Traditional/Vintage Division, Mark Watson’s (Newport, R.I.)  Onawa  (US-6 )  had the upper hand on Tuesday and Wednesday over Robert Morton’s (Middletown, R.I.) American Eagle  (US-21) , but only by a point going into today’s racing. Watson had said his team had done “a good job seeing where the wind was and getting into it” and Morton had been ecstatic over winning the first race of the series. Morton’s goal was to sail consistently and his score line of 2-4-2 today, added to his previous 1-4-2, allowed him to take the overall lead. With a 5-2-5 today,  Onawa  dropped to third place behind Kevin Hegarty/Anthony Chiurco’s (Newport, R.I.)  Columbia  (US-16) , which won all three races today.

racing schedule:

A total of nine windward-leeward races are scheduled over five days. (Four completed races shall constitute a regatta.) Yachts will sail either on Rhode Island Sound or north of the Pell Bridge on Narragansett Bay.

Tuesday, August 1 – Saturday, August 5. Rendezvous location announced on VHF Radio channel 72 at 9:00 a.m. with the first warning signal at 11:00 a.m.

Saturday, August 5 Rendezvous location announced at 9:00 with first warning signal at 12:00 noon following the boat parade. No race will start after 3:00 on Saturday.

2023 12 Metre World Championship: A Live-Action history lesson

12 metre world championship: a live-action history lesson.

NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND, USA (July 23, 2023) – The year 2023 marks exactly 40 years since the U.S. lost the America’s Cup to Australia on the world stage of Newport, R.I. That moment in sports history might not have gotten the attention it did had it not been for the breaking of the longest winning streak in sporting history (132 years) or the international intrigue surrounding the moment when Australia unveiled its “secret weapon” winged keel on its winning 12 Metre Australia II (KA-6) , skippered by John Bertrand , which prevailed four races to three over Liberty (US-40) , skippered by Dennis Conner . But there it was – on September 26, 1983 at Newport Offshore (now Club Wyndham Newport Onshore) – for millions across the globe to see by television and thousands in Newport to see in person: a bird-like appendage that contributed to a sporting upset bigger than any before, leaving 26-time (since 1851) America’s Cup Defender New York Yacht Club stunned and first-ever successful Challenger Royal Perth Yacht Club elated.

“What’s intriguing is that Challenge XII (KA-10) was built in 1982 for the 1983 Challenger Trials as a second boat for Australia (sailed by the Royal Victoria Yacht Club); it was a sister-ship to Australia II , except she had (and still has) a traditional keel instead of a winged keel,” said Jack LeFort (Winter Park, Fla./Jamestown, R.I.), who has owned Challenge XII for eight years and will skipper her in the upcoming 12 Metre World Championship, which starts Sunday, July 30. “No one on the outside knew what was giving Australia II an edge on speed, but Challenge XII was impressively fast, too.” (After losing in the Challenger quarterfinals, Challenge XII became the Trial horse for KA-6.

LeFort won the Modern Division at the 2019 12 Metre World Championship, also held in Newport, and says the competition this time around – among a total of ten historic 12 Metres (five in Modern and five in Traditional/Vintage Division) – will prove extraordinarily close on a world-class level. “In the Modern Division, the team aboard Takashi Okura ’s Freedom (US-30) (America’s Cup winner in 1980) has won the TP/52 Worlds twice and the Enterprise (US-27) team, skippered by Peter Askew , is well known for its winning Wizard campaigns. As well, Courageous (US-26) (Cup winner in 1974 and 1977) and Defender (US-33) have certainly proved themselves in recent regattas.”

“I was still in school in ’83 and was on the dock during the Trials in 1977 when Ted Turner and Gary Jobson rushed by with cameras following them,” said Courageous Skipper Dawn Riley , who would go on to sail in four America’s Cup races and two Whitbread Round the World races. “It made a big impression on a 13-year-old from Detroit!”

Riley will sail with a young and diverse crew from the Oakcliff Sailing Center she runs in Oyster Bay, N.Y. “No one other than me and one trimmer had ever stepped foot on a 12 Metre before this May,” said Riley. (The America’s Cup had moved on to other boats when Riley competed.) “ Courageous seems to be a very solid boat, and when we can sail away from other boats, we are good. When we get close to them, we have some learning to do. Hydraulic headstays and runners, check stays, overlapping jibs and dip pole jibes are all new to most of our team.”

According to Robert Morton (Middletown, R.I.), skipper of American Eagle (US-21) in Traditional/Vintage Division, “Everyone has to figure out how to beat Columbia (US-16) (Cup winner in 1958). She has a consistent record of winning each regatta, and although it is very close racing, she has a definite speed edge on the rest of the fleet. We feel that consistency is a key aspect of a long regatta like this, so our goal is to stay near the top in every race. We have not sailed against Onawa (US-6) very much, so she adds a new dimension to the racing during this series.” Nefertiti (US-19) and Weatherly (US-17) (Cup winner in 1962) are also sailing in Traditonal/Vintage Division.

Morton fondly remembers the times when the America’s Cup had a national interest (cover stories in Sports Illustrated and Time magazines) and Newport was the center of the sports world for that whole summer of 1983.

“I was there on the final day of the Cup in ‘83, and I will never forget the huge spectator fleet coming in past Castle Hill with all their running lights on because the days were shorter in September,” said Morton. “The 12 Metres turned out to be excellent boats for match racing and virtually all of the technical developments associated with gearing the boats up for the Cup trickled down to the average sailor and racer. Today, the America’s Cup is way too far from the experience of the average sailor, and those boats will never be around and sailing 40 years from now.”

Spectators can view the historic 12 Metres sailing either outside on Rhode Island Sound or north of Pell Bridge on Narragansett Bay (determined by weather) from Tuesday, August 1 through Saturday, August 5 when racing is scheduled.

“Onboard, the 12 metres are powerful and complicated,” said Dawn Riley about the single-masted sloops ranging between 68-72 feet in length, “but from off the boat, they are a majestic sight to see. I hope everyone can enjoy them all lined up and sailing at full power.”

12mR Worlds Official Facebook: @12MetreWorldChampionship

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40 Facts About Elektrostal

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 01 Jun 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy , materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes , offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development .

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy , with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

Elektrostal's fascinating history, vibrant culture, and promising future make it a city worth exploring. For more captivating facts about cities around the world, discover the unique characteristics that define each city . Uncover the hidden gems of Moscow Oblast through our in-depth look at Kolomna. Lastly, dive into the rich industrial heritage of Teesside, a thriving industrial center with its own story to tell.

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Elektrostal

Elektrostal Localisation : Country Russia , Oblast Moscow Oblast . Available Information : Geographical coordinates , Population, Area, Altitude, Weather and Hotel . Nearby cities and villages : Noginsk , Pavlovsky Posad and Staraya Kupavna .

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#12mRSphinx

NORTHERN LIGHT (US-14) SHINES BRIGHTEST AT ROBBE & BERKING STERLING CUP

June 19, 2022, Glücksburg, Germany: Northern Light (US-14), helmed by World Champion and Olympic sailor Magnus Holmberg (SWE), outshined her Division D rivals at the 2022 Robbe & Berking Sterling Cup.

Henry Rasmussen SPHINX

Sail Number: 12/ G 4

Rasmussen “Sphinx” Specifications:

LOA: 70′ 6″ / 21.48m – LOD: – LWL: 45′ 11″ / 13.74m – Beam: 11′ 9″ / 3.62m – Draft: 8′ 11″ / 2.47m – Sail Area: 1,937 sq ft / 179.95 sq ft – Rig: Sloop – Designer: Henry Rasmussen – Built by: Abeking & Rasmussen – Original Owner: NRV, Philipp Reemtsma – Year Built: 1939 – Boat Location: Flensburg, Germany – Current Name: – Current Owner: Freundeskreis Sphinx, Gorm Iver Gondesen

Sphinx was built in 1939 as a club boat for the Norddeutscher Regattaverein (NRV) at Abeking & Rasmussen’s. The construction was afforded by money subscripted by citizens of Hamburg, especially by the Hamburg tradesman Phillip Reemtsma.

For Henry Rasmussen, being the owner of the shipyard, it was – after his first 12mR yacht “Skeaf” of the year 1914, the tenth and last 12mR yacht that he could build. All in all, during its company history, Abeking & Rasmussen built 102 mR yachts: one 9mR, three 5mR, seven 7mR, ten 12mR, 15 10mR, 25 8mR and 41 6mR yachts. Sphinx was launched on April 28, 1939 and therefore only some days before the Second World War started. Obviously, the attention was turned to the Olympic Games, which sailing competitions should take place 1940 in Helsinki. In summer 1939 Sphinx was sailed by consul Franz Brinkmann, who was during the “Kieler –“ and the “Travemünder Week” always in front of all the other 12mR yachts. But at the Dansk “Öresund Week” the mast broke so that Sphinx only after the war could participate in races again.

After the Second World War the whole sailing world was in a sorry state. Also the NRV had lost its clubhouse and almost all of its boats, but was able to save the 12mR er. After the capitulation the allies committed, that Germans without special permission were only allowed to sail boats smaller than 6m. Initiated by the chairman of the NRV those days, Erich F. Laeisz, it came to that legendary barter deal. Laeisz being a worldwide known ship owner, whose big yachts all started with a “P” – among them the famous windjammer “Pamir”, “Passat” and “Preußen”, was one of the most loyal customers of Abeking & Rasmussen. Laeisz sold Sphinx to two club members of the NRV, Hans and Wolfgang Freudenberg, who were not only holders of a Chilean pass port but also owners of a big wood-shop in Hamburg. Under Chilean flag they were allowed to sail the yacht. Payment was done with a wagon load of oak, larch and mahagony. The NRV passed this wood on to Abeking & Rasmussen and Henry Rasmussen in return delivered 12 “Hummel” boats, five pirates, two small keel boats, type “Sonderling” and eight “Hansa” jolly boats.

These jolly boats were the first exemplars of this later on very popular boat type that Henry Rasmussen constructed due to the constitutions of the allies with a length over all of 5,85m and therefore smaller than 6m. The NRV sold these boats to its club members and was with this establishing the financial basis for building the new club house at the Alster, where the NRV is still located. A model of the Sphinx embedded to the wall still reminds of this new start.

After the war the Freudenberg brothers were sailing the yacht with the name “Lobito”, winning in 1948 the traditional race for the “Blaue Band der Niederelbe”. Ten years later, in 1958, Sphinx was sold to the naval college Mürwik which was using it until 2004 with the name “Ostwind” as a training ship. In the 60ies and 70ies the navy won in total 9 times the “Blaue Band der Flensburger Förde” for the fastest local yacht.

On September 30, 2005 both 12mR yachts “Ostwind” and “Westwind” of the navel college Mürwik were sold by auction. Some citizens of Flensburg tried everything to avoid this. When the auction date was fixed, three Flensburg sailors Jochen Frank, Gorm Gondesen and Oliver Berking decided to make an offer to save at least one of the yachts. They were successful! In January 2006 under direction of Kai Wohlenberg the restoring of the “Ostwind” – which for the future should again bear its original name “Sphinx” – started and will take until spring 2008.

Provenance (The Wall of Remembrance – The Owners, Crew & Notable Guest):

Owner/Guardian: (1939-1955) – NRV, Erich F. Laeisz Owner/Guardian: (1956-1960) – Hans and Wolfgang Freudenberg (renamed Lobito) Owner/Guardian: (1961-2005) – Mürwik Naval School (used as a sail training ship, renamed Ostwind) Owner/Guardian: (2005) – Oliver Berking, Jochen Frank, and Gorm Gondesen (renamed Sphinx)

Mürwik Naval School Norddeutscher Regatta Verein (“North German Regatta Club”) www.sphinx-12mr.de/

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• Cowes Regatta (1961)
• Coronet Update – December 2, 2022
• Alexander Richardson DWYN WEN

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