by Di Pearson
Extraordinary things happen in sailing; and one of many tales from Audi Victoria Week relates to the unthinkable - the sinking of a Victorian yacht in the Passage Race last year – and her revival under a new owner and with a new name…
Greg Cooper and Peter Southwell’s Adams 10, ‘Ten Too’, sank approximately 10 nautical miles after the start of the race, following a collision with another competing yacht, Magic Bullet.
Cooper and Southwell, along with their four crew members, were rescued by competitor Robert Tanner and taken aboard his yacht Alegria 2 to the Royal Yacht Club of Victoria.
Sadly, ‘Ten Too’ disappeared to the bottom of the ocean, but two months later was recovered and salvaged. Ironically, she was purchased by a sailing mate of Southwell’s, Max Peters. The two are also members of the same club, Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron.
Peters takes up the story: “We purchased the wreck and rebuilt her and renamed her ‘Bo Derek’.” Why? “Because she’s the perfect 10,” he retorts, explaining that in sailing circles, Adams 10’s are known as “Tens”.
Now both Peters and Southwell are entered in Audi Victoria Week’s BIA Super 30 series. Peters with ‘Bo Derek’ and Southwell with his replacement Adams 10, aptly named ‘Ten Past Too’.
Remembering the sinking, Southwell said: “That was only our second attempt at Audi Victoria Week.”
“Thanks to the help of Club Marine, we were able to buy another Adams 10 within a couple of months of that sad day, so we’re back for more this year with ‘Ten Past Too’ - and a determination not to hit or be hit by anyone!”
Of his old boat, Southwell says: “Max has completely replaced the damaged bow section and refurbished the mast and rigging. He’s now beating us regularly in our old boat! He sails well and he has a better rating, so I would think he’ll have the upper hand this week.”
Watch this space...
Audi Victoria Week
