‘Old gaffers’ back on water (From Daily Echo)

‘Old gaffers’ back on water

2:34pm Thursday 21st August 2008 in

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THE Solent will be awash with beauty and tradition this weekend as dozens of "old gaffers" take to the water.

More than 40 traditional gaff-rigged yachts will take part in the Solent Gaffers' 50th anniversary race and rally on Saturday.

The yachts, which feature a distinctive four-cornered sail rather than the more common three-sided version, will race from Cowes to Portsmouth.

Tom Cunliffe, president of the Solent Gaffers, said the race would be a great spectacle for the public.

He said: "With new traditional boats being commissioned and production retro yachts in the ascendancy, the gaff-rigged movement has never looked healthier.

"Above all, gaff improves the view for everyone and this race is going to be spectacular."

Following the race the yachts will be heading to Royal Clarence Marina in Gosport for their rally, and on Sunday they will parade past Southsea.