Ready for the Start Line? JOG Racing Manager shares key updates for the first race
Tuesday 17 March 2026
With the first race of the 2026 season just days away, we caught up with JOG’s new Racing Manager, Martin Evans, to hear what’s in store and what competitors need to know before heading to the start line this weekend.
So Martin, first race of the season…how’s it looking?
“It’s shaping up to be a great start to the season. There’s a real buzz around the fleet after the winter break. We’ve got a few updates this year, but the core of JOG racing remains the same; competitive, friendly, and a great day on the water. It’s a massive fleet, and it’s looking light, so it could be a challenge for my first race at the helm!”
What are the key things competitors need to do before Saturday?
“First and foremost sign into your myjog account and check those outstanding items! That includes downloading the Nautical Cloud Racing App. That’s going to be central to how we run things this season.”
“You’ll also want to take a proper look at the Notice of Race and Sailing Instructions here. There are a few updates in there, particularly around the starting sequence, so it’s worth making sure you’re familiar before race day.”
“Don’t forget to join the Lonely Tower and Great Escape Weather and Race Briefing on Friday 20th March at 2000 via this Zoom link. There’s no need to register just click the link at 2000 on Friday.”
Any other notable changes this year?
“Yes, one of the big ones is that we’re no longer running ID gates, which should simplify things out on the water.”
“However, crew checks are still required and these now need to be completed via the Nautical Cloud Racing App. So it’s important that at least one person on each boat have the app downloaded and ready to go ahead of the weekend. Keeping those phones charged is important, because we’ll also be running tracking through the App for the first time. Tracking will be live on the JOG website, so make sure to tell your family and friends!”
Anything new to look forward to?
“We’re introducing a Teams entry option for the Lonely Tower Race, which should add a fun, social element alongside the racing. You can team up with two other boats across different classes, it’s a great way to mix things up and get a bit of friendly rivalry going.”
And finally… what’s the vibe for the weekend?
“Aside from a few tweaks, it’s very much JOG as usual, great racing with great people. And of course, I’m looking forward to catching up with sailors afterwards. I’ll be at Island SC, and the usual mainland gang will be at the Royal Southern.”
Before you race this weekend, don’t forget:
- Complete your boat checklist
- Download the Nautical Cloud Racing App
- Clear any outstanding tasks
- Read the Notice of Race & Sailing Instructions
- Familiarise yourself with the updated starting sequence
- Ensure crew check is completed via the app
- (Optional!) Enter the Teams competition via myjog race entry
We can’t wait to get the season underway — see you on the start line.
Photo credit @ Paul Wyeth
