Welcome
I hope you took note of our motto "Saving the past for the Future"
By the way 2011 unravelled, it seems it has registered with many people considering the number of "classics" which have reappeared from obscurity to be restored and boats which have emerged and are still emerging from in depth restorations.
At the 2011 Classic Rally 28 craft of various makes packed into the Haven at Cowes with others wanting to join in but sadly unable to due to a "full house"
But and that is a very big but ! the icing on that weekends racing the 51st CTC, saw club member Markus Hendriks win for a second time in the amazing CINZANO which is somewhere in the region of 28 years old and must rate as one of the most successful raceboats of all time.
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 dramas 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 through our website 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 celebrated 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 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".
Meanwhile the restoration of classic cruisers and some very famous raceboats is gathering speed with many unique craft returning to their natural element the water instead of rotting away in fields and old barns, all a great credit to their owners.
It is rewarding for the Club as a whole to know our expertise is sought and that we have good contacts to assist with enquiries. Germany is home not only to Markus Hendiks owner of Cinzano, it is also home to one of Vosper’s finest "Tramontana 2" and owner Wolter Groenewold will be badgered constantly to ensure she is brought over to Cowes once restoration has been completed!.
Let us hope that this and projects currently underway in GB further the cause of classic powerboats and that more will be saved and be returned to useable craft...Blue Moppie being the best known.
The Stop press box will keep all members and interested parties up to date on news as it happens and please if you want to forward any article, news or snippets of interest the contact details are there...use them!
Mike James
Commodore
