Which was really the world’s first one-design class?
hen trying to determine what is the oldest, fastest or first boat to appear in yachting circles, it can help to set up a stalking horse and invite others to come up with a better answer to the point raised. A good example is to be found in Hal Sisk’s Sternpost article in the July issue (CB421) in (pictures), and , for the Clyde Canoe and Lugsail Club, based in Helensburgh, in time for the 1886 season. The club wanted even racing so as to avoid the handicap rules, as well as stopping the spiralling costs of making individual boats more competitive as found in other classes. That year the local press faithfully reported on their races. Forgive me Hal, but the hallowed memory of GL Watson required a repost. Can anyone do better than my candidate?
