Welcome
In the early years of the Daily Express International Offshore Powerboat Race or the Cowes Torquay as it affectionately became known,
the spectators of this new and exciting sport watched the unfolding drama's in their thousands along the course from Cowes to Torquay.
Maybe you were lucky enough to be there at the beginning and you experienced that thrill, well now through our web site you can relive
those memories, which we intend will never fade..
If you were not there then here you will find pages of information, photographs, history and personal recollections that will enhance your
understanding of the sport and "the race" which celebrates its 50th running on August the 19th 2010.
Membership of the Classic Offshore Powerboat Owners Club is open to everyone who enjoys the sport, the sea and
the amazing variety of characters, designs and sounds that resulted in a unique and exhilarating experience for all…..and no you
do not have to own a boat! but by joining you can help save and safeguard the history of this fascinating sport.
The forthcoming year will not only be a chance to relive some of those memories but see many of the race boats that have survived
everything that the race threw at them and more!
Top of the list will be the first winner Tommy Sopwith's "THUNDERBOLT" plus many of the Fairey built boats and racing again next year
will be the amazing "CINZANO" which won the 2009 Cowes Classic 25 years on from the 1984 victory in the ownership of Renato della Valle
who won four consecutive times, another record.
The sport has shaken off its playboy image and returned to its grass roots format of long distance offshore racing with many of Sir Max
Aitken's original ideas forming the backbone of the rules and the Cowes Classic has once again become the "one to win".
Mike James
Commodore
