JOG Yacht Racing grows 30 per cent in 2024 with Henri-Lloyd’s continued support
In an era where many yacht clubs are experiencing a decline in participation, especially among young sailors, the Junior Offshore Group (JOG) Yacht Racing is defying the trend. The group has reported a 24 per cent increase in membership and a 30 per cent rise in race entries during 2024.
According to JOG’s Stuart Lawrence (which was established in the 1950s), over 1,300 crew members completed the 2024 race season. Notably, 25 per cent of those were under 30 years of age.
The Generation JOG program is a key factor in this success, as it encourages newcomers and younger sailors to engage in yacht racing. Not only has the involvement of young sailors increased, but the programme has also boosted female participation, with females making up 35 per cent (on average) of race crew members.
This initiative is supported by sponsors such as Henri-Lloyd, who has been the technical clothing partner for four years.
Henri-Lloyd provides prizes to Generation JOG sailors for race wins and other milestones, sponsors a one-weekend race each season, and supplies vouchers for events and for members to purchase technical clothing throughout the year.
Oli Hawkins, skipper of SailFish and winner of the Yacht of the Year and Generation JOG Youth Challenge Trophy, notes: “SailFish is exclusively skippered and crewed by Generation JOG members, all aged 23 and below. Without Henri-Lloyd’s support, we could never have afforded our crew kit. The cost of kit is a significant barrier to youth sailing, and having a sponsor who understands that is invaluable.
“Our crew comprises new sailors or those who have never raced before, demonstrating the importance of a cohesive team over individual prowess. We used our Henri-Lloyd vouchers to purchase new technical jackets. Having a team kit like this is crucial in fostering a sense of pride and belonging within the team.”
Lawrence adds perspective on the progress. He says: “In 2019, before the pandemic, we had only 481 crew members, with just 9 per cent under the age of 30. This year’s growth is extraordinary. Our younger teams have truly excelled, with boats like Sailfish and Spectrum, operating on limited budgets with entirely youth crews, achieving outstanding results at our events.”
In addition to winning Henri-Lloyd prizes, JOG Yacht Racing members enjoy a membership discount on all Henri-Lloyd products and merchandise, with the opportunity to purchase and brand team kit through Henri-Lloyd’s printing partners.
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