Jarhead Young Sailors Foundation unveils new design for J109 racing yacht

The Jarhead Young Sailors Foundation (JYSF) has taken another exciting step forward with the launch of a newly branded look for its J109 racing yacht, Jarhead. This refreshed design highlights the foundation’s growth and strengthens its identity both on and off the water, while staying true to its core mission of introducing young people to the sport of sailing.

The unveiling marks the first stage of a broader collaboration with MMH Malta Ltd., a long-standing supporter of JYSF. As part of this initiative, MMH Malta Ltd. is funding the branding of both foundation yachts: Jarhead and JYS Jan. The rebranding of Jarhead has now been completed, while JYS Jan will be revealed in the coming weeks with a different color scheme but a coordinated overall design.

“While our focus remains on creating opportunities for young sailors to develop valuable life skills through sailing, we also recognize the importance of presenting a strong and professional image,” said Wilfrid Buttigieg, Administrator of the Jarhead Young Sailors Foundation. “Thanks to MMH Malta Ltd., this vision has become a reality.”

Present at the launch was Angelique Abela, CEO of MMH Malta Ltd. and a passionate sailor with a long-standing personal connection to the foundation. She has often sailed alongside JYSF crews and expressed her pride in supporting the project:

“At MMH, we are thrilled to back the Jarhead Young Sailors Foundation because it represents so much more than competitive racing,” Abela said. “By sponsoring the new yacht wrapping and related works, we aim to increase awareness of the foundation and give it the visibility it deserves. The JYSF isn’t only about competing in prestigious events like the Rolex Middle Sea Race—it’s about inspiring young sailors and building a vibrant community. A striking yacht design helps deliver that message even more powerfully.”

The Jarhead Foundation has been a regular competitor in the Rolex Middle Sea Race, one of the most renowned offshore sailing events in the Mediterranean. Its crews typically consist of a mix of experienced skippers and young, novice sailors, who undergo rigorous training focused on improving performance while fostering teamwork, discipline, and lifelong friendships.

Despite often being younger and less experienced than many of their rivals, JYSF crews have achieved impressive results over the years, including podium finishes in their respective classes. With its refreshed identity and ongoing commitment to youth development, the foundation continues to chart a course toward inspiring the next generation of sailors.