Alec Cutler has successfully defended his J/70 Corinthian World Championship crown in Marseille, France.

The Royal Bermuda Yacht Club helmsman came from behind to win the seven-race series by ten points over runner-up Sam Haynes of Australia. Tonu Toniste, of Estonia, finished third, a farther six points adrift of Cutler.

Speaking to race organisers after sealing his victory, Cutler spoke of the special bond he has with his crew.

We all sailed together in college,” Cutler said. “It’s very special to be able to sail with your friends. It’s the way Corinthian sailing should be. We very much enjoy our time together, and the sailing is a bonus.

“Marseille was technically challenging sailing. We are probably the oldest boat by average age, so we have more patience. We have a good time and rely on the Race Committee to do a good job.”

Cutler and fellow crew Charles Pucciarielloo, Keith Davids and Brad Rodi produced their worst showing of 27th in the opening race but immediately bounced back with a second-place finish in the very next race to get their title defence on track.

Even better fortunes awaited the local team in the third race, which saw them lead the 88-boat fleet across the line to chalk up their only bullet of the series.

An eleventh-place showing in the fifth race stalled Cutler’s momentum but he again managed to quickly bounce back with finishes of fourth and third in the final two races.

Cutler won the championships for the first time in Marblehead, Massachusetts last year.

Pucciarielloo and Rodi were the only crew members from last year with Davids replacing Ryan Cox.

Also flying the island’s banner in France was Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club helmsman Paul Wollman and crew Mike Wollman, Calum Healy and Jamie Diamond, who finished 27th with a best showing of sixth in the opening race.

The international regatta took place from May 23 to 30 and was organised by Club La Pelle and Union Nautique Marseillaise.

All races were contested on the waters of Marseille Marina, which also hosted the Paris 2024 Olympic regatta.