Hi everyone
it is sad to see the old racers in this situation but remember they were pure out and out racers whereas from the 60's to mid 70's they were designed to race under strict rules especially for the legendary Cowes Torquay Races.
My interest? well I was fortunate enough to be gifted by Don Shead, racer/designer of repute, Tommy Sopwith's first Cowes Torquay winner "THUNDERBOLT" which I have restored to historic original. Not a luxury yacht I know but the forerunner of most designs around today who owe their existence to Ray Hunts talents.
She appeared at the revived Earls Court Boat Show December last year and is now awaiting a search for sponsorship/benefactor to assist with her re-engineering.
If anyone is interested please go to
www.classicoffshore.com and see what we are doing to try and save the sports history in GB.
Mike James
COPOC.