First National 12 relaunched at Norfolk Broads Yacht Club
by Jennie Clark 8 Aug 2010 16:59 BST
6-7 August 2010
N1 'Gypsy' relaunched during Classic Dinghy meeting on the Broads © Jennie Clark
Norfolk Broads Yacht Club was the place and Friday 6 August was the date for a very special re-launching ceremony. Having undergone major restoration under the caring and watchful eye of Mike Evans N1 ‘Gipsy’ was brought back to the club for an official re-launching ceremony.
Jamie Campbell gave a speech of dedication, before Mike’s wife Anne poured champagne over the foredeck to wish this remarkable piece of National Twelve history good sailing. Anne was presented with a posy of flowers to mark the occasion. Paul Bown, who did much of the work, was also present as were Raymond and Chris Jeckells who had made the very elegant new suit of sails and foredeck cover which Gipsy was sporting.
The following day saw N1 joined by 18 other Vintage dinghies, including the first Enterprise and the first Merlin to be built. The Vintage event hosted each August by NBYC has become a regular fixture in many people’s diaries, with the chance to race in gentlemanly competition, and to share stories, boat building tips and a mutual love of these old ladies of sail.
It is hoped that Gipsy will be seen on the water at a number of events in 2011, when the National Twelve class will celebrate a very special and remarkable 75th birthday.