In previous new stories, we have reported on the upcoming campaign of Rob Larke and Victoria Gregory's J/80.

We are delighted to report that the ‘Joystick' team got off to an excellent start this season. In the Warsash spring series the team counted 13 x 1st places out of 17 races winning by a large margin, they also added the 14 race J/80 Spring Championship to their tally, this time 9 x 1st places from a fleet of 14. Barton Marine's Christian Brewer was invited to helm for three of the Championship races, adding a 1st, 2nd & 3rd to their tally whilst regular helm Rob Larke was away at Lake Garda racing a client's Melges 32. Good work guys!

The crew has discovered a really neat trick with the Barton boom strut fitted (part number 44030 with 14mm rods). On the start line, if they are carrying too much way and are in danger of being over the line early, they blow the kicker line to lift the boom and completely de-power the main, this works like a virtual hand brake. Other boats cannot de-power with the same effect thus giving the team more tactical options.

We will be watching Rob and Victoria’s progress with keen interest over the coming months as they prepare for
the National and World championships.