Ranger

Ranger, the greatest of the J-Class sloops, was launched at the Bath Iron Works at Bath, Maine in 1937. She was built of steel for the New York Yacht Club’s 16th defense of the America’s Cup to race against Thomas Sopwith’s Endeavour. Syndicate head and skipper, Harold S. Vanderbilt advised teaming the noted Starling Burgess and the young Olin Stevens for the design of their defender. Wisely, his advice was taken and the result was dramatic: Ranger would prove to be unbeatable in her trials and in all her races against Endeavour. The year 1937 would be the last time these extraordinary sloops competed for the America’s Cup.

John has returned to his favorite position just off the leeward bow of a charging J-boat, moving at speed, all sails set and drawing. John understands the power and motion of these wonderful classic yachts, having sailed extensively on the J-boat, Shamrock V, and has translated that experience into this painting. Ranger is shown here charging smoothly through ocean swells.

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