Lionheartconvincinglywins Menorca Maxi Regatta

Lionheartconvincinglywins Menorca Maxi Regatta

Since her launchfrom Claasen Shipyards in 2010, Lionheart has been a strong competitor on the race circuit. The 43.4m new generation aluminium J-Class was designedby Hoek Design tobeboth a cruiser and a fast racer. True to form, sheswepttovictory in the first Menorca Maxi Regatta, held May 21-25, with five straight wins.

With the regatta racedacrosstwo classes, the Wally Class and the J Class, Lionheart (JH1) was up against her J-Class sisters Hanuman (JK6) andRanger (J5). Racing was close andcompetitivethroughout the event, but Lionheartprovedunbeatable, winning all her races. Over the fourdays of racingLionheartperformedconsistently. Conditionsweregood, with fair windsandsunshine, andwithquick starts and strong performances on everyreach, spectators wererewardedwithanexcitingspectacle on the water.

The owner of Lionheart was delightedwith the win, andrelished the chance to let Lionheart stretch her legs on the beautiful waters of Menorca. “We’ve had the most magnificentsailingwe’ve ever had. What a beautifulplace, what a beautifulisland, whatkindnessandhospitalitywe’veencountered – it has really been a fantastic event. I’dliketothank the race committee, and or course everybodywhohelpedorganisethis event on behalf of everyone in the J Class,” he said.

Victor Weerens, Technical Manager at Claasen Shipyards, was racing on board Lionheartfor the regatta and was impressed at her performance. “Lionheartperformedexceptionally well throughout the racing, anddespite the close competitioncame out on top,” said Weerens. “All of the Claasen Shipyards team was veryproudtosee her sailso well.”
This excellent result is a real-time demonstration of the capabilitythat Claasen Shipyards has for building versatileand race-worthyyachts. The yard is particularlyknownforits expertise in J Class yachts. As well as having built the aluminium hullsforthree J Class yachts, they have another J Class in build.
Next up forLionheart is the Superyacht Cup Palma, whereshewill line up againstHanumanandRangeragainandalso Rainbow andVelshedaforfourdays of racing, including a J-Class-only race on dayone of the event.Aftersuchanoutstanding winin Menorca, Lionheartwilltrulybe the onetowatch.

Credits: Photo courtesy of Claasen Shipyards - JesusRenedo