Date: Tue, 09 Apr 1996
From: "Robert F. Thomas" solidcut@gis.net
Subject: Racing Success with a "Middle Aged Shark-24"

Hello!

        I am the happy owner and skipper of a Shark-24 named Wings built in
1967 which has enjoyed some spectular success racing PHRF in Nantucket Sound.

        Wings has raced in several FIGAWI races from Hyannis to Nantucket,
finishing third 4 times, and in 1993 winning our class and being the first
boat to finish in a fleet of 208 boats.  In fact we covered the
approximately 20 mile course in a little over two hours.  The race committee
had to dispatch a chase to boat to get our finish time, since the designated
comittee boat was still 20 behind.



        Of course it was an exceptional day, perfect SHARK conditions:  20
to 25 Knots of breeze with a typical Nantucket Chop.  We very much enjoyed
our Nantucket Sleigh ride.

        We have also had our share of mis-adventures, breaking several
rudders, back stays, and sides stays; but even in a good breeze (35 - 40
knots) with 15+ foot breaking waves and a broken rudder, the boat has always
been remarkably stable and surprising dry.



        I would love to learn more about the SHARK-24 Association. It has
repeatedly not been listed in U.S. Sailing's list of associations. 
(Editor's note:  I am trying!!!)
Additionally, it would be fun race against other boats in my area.

Enclosed are three pictures of Wings and her motley crew.