J/109 Whiskey Jack Win at 2025 Nations’ Cup

The J/109 Whiskey Jack win at the 2025 Nations’ Cup was the highlight of a spectacular day of international racing and national pride on Victoria Harbour. Held on 4 May by the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club, this 15th edition featured 67 boats representing 19 countries, blending competitive sailing with dazzling costumes and crew camaraderie.

J/109 Whiskey Jack Win Secures England’s Fourth Nations’ Cup Title

Leading the charge was Nick Southward’s J/Boat J/109 Whiskey Jack, sailing under England’s banner. Their impressive performance in shifting wind conditions secured first place in the ATI division, marking England’s fourth Nations’ Cup title — the most of any nation. Whiskey Jack’s win was a testament to the J/109’s proven design and offshore versatility.

🛥️ Learn more about the J/109 and latest J/Boat models like the NEW J/36

J/109 Whiskey Jack (far right) leading the fleet out of Victoria Harbour into the Tathong Channel – photo by Guy Nowell Photography / RHKYC

Performance Boats, Nations, and Crews Light Up Victoria Harbour

The regatta attracted entries from across the globe, with the largest contingent from Hong Kong, China (38 boats). England followed with 7 boats, and Italy fielded 3. Other countries represented included Australia, France, Germany, the Philippines, Sweden, Ireland, Japan, and the United States.

The pursuit format featured six starting groups based on boat rating, with PHS divisions kicking off first. Light southerly winds early in the day prompted Race Officer Inge Strompf-Jepsen to adjust the start line to Hung Hom. This ensured competitors caught the best breeze possible — which later clocked in at 12 knots easterly — making for a fast, fun sail out past North Point and back.

J/80 fully powered under spinnaker coming back through Lei Yue Mun Gap – photo by Guy Nowell Photography / RHKYC

Colourful Costumes and Crew Spirit Define the 2025 Nations’ Cup

While racing was the main event, crew costumes stole the show. Themed teams ranged from “Hong Kong Athletes” celebrating the new Kai Tak Sports Park to characters from Ne Zha 2 and Twilight of the Warriors. Belgium’s entry — fully costumed as The Smurfs — won the Best-Dressed Crew Award, decided by crowd applause during the prize ceremony.

J/80 Jasmurf! (Jahoo!) (David Salembier) – Belgium – Photo by Takumi Images

Full Results: J/109 Whiskey Jack Leads an International Field

• 🥇 ATI Division Winner: J/109 Whiskey Jack (Nick Southward) – England

• 🥇 PHS Division Winner: Zoe (Johnson Yuen) – Hong Kong, China (back-to-back win)

• 🥈 Second Place (ATI): Windfall (Tom Ho) – Hong Kong, China

• 🥉 Third Place (ATI): It’s more FAB in the Philippines (Rafael Buitre) – The Philippines

🎉 See full regatta results at RHKYC.org.hk
📸 View the Nations’ Cup 2025 photo gallery by Takumi Images

📸 View the Nations’ Cup 2025 photo gallery by Guy Nowell Photography

The winning sailors representing England – photo by Guy Nowell Photography

🚤 Explore the New J/36 and J/Boat Models

The winning J/109 exemplifies the performance heritage of J/Boats, known for their racing capability and cruising comfort. If you’re inspired by Whiskey Jack’s victory, check out the latest addition to the J/Boat lineup — the J/36 performance cruiser-racer — now available in Hong Kong.

🧭 Visit JBoats.hk to learn more about models, specs, and how to join Hong Kong’s high-performance sailing scene.