More than a year ago, the first X-35s were sold in Holland from the drawings only. The buyers were sailing in the top ranks of IMS: X-99, J-22 and Star, but they were ready to sail a new one design class 35’ sports boat . Before anyone had seen the first boat, eighteen boats had already been sold, the Class Organisation was established and the class sponsor in Holland was found: AUDI.

During early March, the first training was set up with seven boats in the water. Journalists fought for a place in the dinghy in order to write the first cover story: this was a unique event in the marine industry. With AUDI as Cup sponsor, the Class Association was able to purchase its own website (www.audix35cup.nl), own buoys, two RIB’s and organize its own race, including a race committee. After the training session, everybody agreed that the boat was great fun to sail, but considerable training would be needed to keep her under control.

The first events, in light weather conditions, resulted in close finishes.

Besides four Audi X-35 Cups, we have our own start during the Ytoren Race, the North Sea Regatta and Delta Week. Even the Belgian teams have joined the Audi X-35 Cup and, for the North Sea Regatta, teams from the UK will join us too. Amazingly, about twenty boats will compete in the very first year the boat has been shown to the public!

X-Yachts Holland