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Howth Seventeen - Howth goes back in time!
Author: Brian Turvey Posted on: 21/9/09 Print Version



The world's oldest one-design racing keelboats set sail for Howth
 
Startled observers looking seaward last Saturday (19th September) should be consoled that the dress code for sailing has not made such a sudden change.

Whilst it is not unusual to see the Seventeens and their crews making their way around the racecourse on a Saturday afternoon - their wearing 19th century sailing attire might have warranted a second look by many a stroller on the pier.

Some of the members will already know that a documentary is being made of the Howth Seventeens and part of the project (being filmed by 'Timesnap Productions') includes a re-enactment of the original delivery trip from Carrickfergus to Howth in April 1898.

The foul weather that was encountered by those who made the original trip in Rita, Leila, Silver Moon, Aura and Hera will have to be reproduced by a special effects team as Saturday's almost non-existent breeze barely filled their sails.
 

Leila's Roddy Cooper and Aura's Ian Malcolm rumage deep into the wardrobe for the authentic look!
Photo: Brian Turvey
 

The film-crew recreates Aura's earliest sail. Photo: David O'Shea
 
Many thanks are due to HYC for the use of the Free Enterprise and also to Derek Bothwell who accompanied it and the film crew out for the afternoon.

It is hoped that the documentary will be available for a 'special screening' in HYC for its members early next year before it goes on general release.