HistoryThe results of the race indicated that the Technical Committee did equate the yachts better than ever before, but still not enough to prevent CHUTZPAH from repeating her ’73 performance and winning first overall by over four hours from MAMIE. Also, the handicap did not prevent RAGTIME from being the first yacht to finish, but did place her 52 overall.
RAGTIME finishing was a new thrill for me. We were out there in a powerboat to tow yachts to the yacht basin, and as long as RAGTIME had her sails up there was no way we could catch up. seventeen knots in a big star Boat crossing Diamond Head was a sight to remember.
We did notice there were many cases of where the position of the yacht on her handicap position at the start of the race compared favorably with her position of finish on overall. There is much interest in dropping the overall winners and establishing only class positions. so much for the continual striving to make this race interesting to all racingcruising yachts, with everyone having an equal chance to pick up some hardware.
In every respect, this race was outstanding. The competitors were well experienced and there were no major mishaps. The weather could have been a little stronger in order to break the record. however, the yachts that took the southerly course did very well and finished well up in their class. I am certain that the stories told back at the yacht club will be most interesting.
Of considerable interest to the Committee each year is the award of the stephen newmark seamanship Trophy. This year, SWIFTSURE not only won the trophy for her achievement in the rescue of the yacht ATTORANTE (not an entry), but at the Trophy Dinner, won a standing ovation from all of the yachtsmen and crew. This was probably the greatest award any skipper could receive — a tribute from fellow yachtsmen for competent handling of a rescue operation. Thanks, Nick Frazee.
We tried to meet every boat and let them know we were on the job. However, by the time the 46th boat finished, they had been coming in fast and furious… less than an hour apart… and many times, three at once. With no sleep for 36 hours, we finally decided to let the next Commodore establish the record. It was good to be there and to hear first-hand of their experiences. All were happy to see their families and to receive the great welcome which is provided by the one and only Honolulu Committee. We cannot say enough about the wonderful service these people rendered. how they love to welcome the yachts!
The Trophy Dinner was another outstanding achievement. Governor Ariyoshi was present and presented the First Overall Trophy. Bud Thompson put the history of TransPac on the screen and drew a big applause