04/04/2026
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CYQriuqwc/?mibextid=wwXIfr
From Melbourne to Jacksonville: Building Momentum for 2026
While in the United States on other business, Nick Subotsch — major sponsor of the upcoming J/24 World Championship — made the most of his trip by attending the J/24 Midwinter Championship in Jacksonville, one of the class's most competitive and well-attended regattas of the year.
Hosted by Florida Yacht Club, the event drew 42 boats across three days of close, tactical racing, with the top three teams separated by just a single point. Nick experienced firsthand the camaraderie, professionalism, and vibrant social culture that define the global J/24 community.
As a major sponsor of the 2026 J/24 Epigen World Championship at Sandringham Yacht Club in Melbourne, Nick used the occasion to connect with sailors, generate early excitement for the Worlds, and share the story of what Melbourne has in store.
A standout moment came with the presentation of three Epigen-branded spinnakers, for use during the regatta. Watching those sails fly on the racecourse created a striking visual link between Jacksonville and Melbourne — an early preview of what's ahead in 2026.
Nick also took part in a traditional club burgee exchange, a small but meaningful gesture reinforcing the international bonds at the heart of the class.
"It was incredible to witness the level of competition and the spirit of the fleet," he said. "There's real momentum building, and we're looking forward to welcoming the world to Melbourne."
What began as a business trip became something more: a genuine step toward bringing the global J/24 community together ahead of 2026.
Photo: (L to R) William Derr Jr, Vice Commodore, Herschel Vinyard Jr, Commodore, Nick Subotsch, Technical Director, Peerless Epigen
USA J/24 Class Association J24 Fleet 55, Jacksonville Florida
