Introducing the next-generation Javelin

by Javelin Association of Great Britain 26 Feb 08:30 GMT

The International Javelin Association is thrilled to announce the launch of the newest generation Javelin, a revolutionary update to the iconic Javelin class. This highly anticipated debut took place at the RYA Dinghy & Water Sports Show.

The Javelin class has a rich history, dating back to its origins in the late 1960s when the transition to glass reinforced plastic (GRP) revolutionised dinghy sailing. The adoption of GRP construction in the 1970s and 1980s attracted a new generation of sailors who sought durability and ease of maintenance compared to traditional wooden boats. With the first 500 boats built using GRP and later generations constructed with polyester foam sandwich, this fourth-generation Javelin brings a modern innovation with an epoxy foam sandwich construction, providing unmatched strength, durability, and race-ready performance.

Unlike similar sailboats where owners purchase a complete package, the new Javelin offers a unique approach: sailors can buy the hull and deck assembled with a gel coat finish for £12,650 and then customise their rigging, blocks, fittings, mast, boom, and sails to their preference. This allows for greater flexibility in optimising the boat for individual sailing styles.

When can sailors test the new Javelin?

• Inland Championship: Carsington Sailing Club 17-18 May 2025
• Demos Weekends: Rutland Sailing Club,7-8 June and 23-25 August 2025
• European Championship: Workum, The Netherlands 20-24 July 2025

Technical advancements and design improvements

• New Material: The transition from polyester foam sandwich to epoxy foam sandwich enhances the boat's rigidity, reducing flex and increasing responsiveness.
• Weight Distribution: Careful refinements in the layup process ensure an optimal balance of weight and strength.
• Structural Integrity: By using epoxy, the new Javelin boasts improved bond strength, ensuring a longer-lasting hull with reduced maintenance requirements.
• Custom Rigging Options: Sailors can select their own rig, sails, and fittings to suit their racing style and preferences.

Acknowledgement of sponsors

The Javelin project would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsorship partners, whose contributions helped bring this exciting development to life:

• Allen Brothers - Leading innovators in sailing hardware, providing world-class fittings and rigging solutions.
• Kingfisher Yacht Ropes - Showcasing their latest high-performance racing ropes on the new Javelin.
• Jon and Sandra Turner - Jon Turner Sailboats - Provided their time and materials, including non-slip surfaces, nuts, and bolts, for the fitting out of the boat free of charge. They also supplied the foils at a discounted rate for the Dinghy Show.

We extend our deepest gratitude to these companies and individuals for their commitment to the future of the Javelin class and their dedication to high-performance sailing.

The future of the Javelin class

The fourth-generation Javelin marks a turning point for the class. It paves the way for a more accessible, sustainable, and competitive fleet, setting a precedent for future builds. While traditional polyester boats remain competitive, the epoxy evolution offers sailors greater longevity and resilience, making the Javelin an even more attractive high-performance dinghy.

This project is a testament to the dedication of Javelin sailors worldwide, proving that collaboration and innovation can drive the future of our sport.

More photos can be found at www.javelinuk.org/new-javelin.html