The Cowes to Torquay Race is a classic British offshore race of around 200 miles of rough water and weather. As you scroll down the page it is interesting to see the development of the boats over the years.
One or two of the winners' names may ring a bell.
Dick Bertram
Don Aronow
Sonny Levi
Don Shead
Fabio Buzzi
Norberto Ferretti
http://cowes2011
.co.uk/champions.htm
There are some videos too.
Cowes Torquay Cowes Powerboat Race: vintage boats Renato "Sonny" Levi - YouTube