Mackay Boats acquire designer rights on VX range - plan to expand the VX classes
by Mackay Boats 28 Mar 2024 08:21 UTC
The VX design range has been acquired by Mackay Boats © Richard Gladwell - Sail-World.com/nz
Mackay Boats have announced they acquired the IP [Intellectual Property] rights to the VX range of boats from Bennett Yachting, in March 2024.
Both companies have worked closely over the last decade along with Ovington Boats on the VX ONE and VX EVO boats and the goal is to continue supporting these exciting boats.
“The VX ONE has been a game changer for people wanting to enjoy a modern, fast, high performance, one-design dinghy, both on a racecourse or going for a sail, and we’re committed to the continuation of this successful VX formula while also supporting future
developments,” says John Clinton, from Mackay Boats.
Mackay Boats and Ovington Boats will continue to be builders, with Brian Bennett also continuing to provide support. Likewise, the VX boats will continue to be sold through a dealer network.
In the immediate future, work is underway to form an International VX ONE Class Association to protect its one-design appeal and to provide support for international events.
Support and resources will also be available to local Class Associations.
“I’m delighted that Mackay Boats is taking on the vision Bennett Yachting set out to achieve with the VX boats and I’m also pleased to be able to be part of this new phase,” says Brian Bennett.
An exciting addition soon to be released to the VX boat range will be the new VX TWO, aptly termed by those who have sailed her “a double-handed hiking skiff that’s nothing short of next-level sailing thrills.”
Shipping the boats will begin over the next two months.
Plans are also underway to showcase the boats at the Annapolis Boat Show, London Boat Show and Dusseldorf Boat Show.
The VX ONE and VX EVO were duly recognized for their all-round appeal when launched, where the VX ONE took out the Sailing World Boat of the Year award in 2012 and the EVO took out the same award in 2017 when it was launched.
The VX ONE is currently sailed in 13 countries, with competitive fleet racing in North America, Australia, and Europe.
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