The original and iconic J-Class yacht Endeavour has been withdrawn from the Solent Regatta and Hundred Guinea Cup Race around the Isle of Wight in the UK next month.

Despite pulling out of June's Falmouth Regatta just two months ago, the news has come as a shock as her race crew, hotels and mooring had all been booked.

It is also a huge let down for the British public who had been keenly awaiting the unique spectacle of seeing five J-Class yachts racing for the first time in UK waters.

Endeavour recently completed a major refit at Yachting Developments in New Zealand which brought her up to date with the latest rig, sails, deck gear and hydraulics.

An elite race crew had been put together, including helm Torben Grael and 20 professional sailors.

Endeavour had success in this year's St Barths Bucket in March when she beat the other three J's competing — Hanuman, Ranger and Velsheda.

A reason for her sudden withdrawal has yet to be issued.

It means that only one of the three original J's will now race in the UK — Velsheda.

Velsheda is currently on the dock at Falmouth (with Ranger and Lionheart) awaiting the arrival of the brand new Rainbow which was launched from Holland Jachtbouw just three weeks ago.

The first race of the Falmouth Regatta will be on 26 June.



Yachting World, 20 June 2012