Tricks that old racers get up to after retirement

[FUJIMO]

Had to remove photo due to Google ad violation https://www.screamandfly.com/images/smilies/frown.gif
Greg
...God Bless America!...:D...

[jackiewilson]

I have lived close to Brighton in West Sussex most of my adult life, it just happens to be home to the largest gay community in Great Britain.
Some of the festivals and celebrations they produce, could match anything Key West puts out !
First time I went down to Key West, SEEBOLD booked me into one of the “International” hotels—— girl in reception was topless with a great pair of knockers——- her “ assistant” behind the bar was equally well endowed. Guys round the Pool were buck naked——- took us two hours to find another place to stay.
I was much younger and very shy—- single minded —- and a tad biased in those days.
Still don’t understand how come the gay community festivals attracts the thousands of people it does !
But I must confess it’s one hell of a festival.
Appreciate the time and effort you put into all those great pictures Fuji—— didn’t know whether to laugh or cry!!!
l

[powerabout]

Shine and show your silicone...

[jackiewilson]

Shine and show your silicone...

Dont tell me you don’t know anything about this in Singapore Pilgrim!

[powerabout]

Dont tell me you don’t know anything about this in Singapore Pilgrim!
no never seen that in Singapore but we will have another powerboat race later in the year so I will make sure its on the agenda

[jackiewilson]

no never seen that in Singapore but we will have another powerboat race later in the year so I will make sure its on the agenda

Dont know where you hide out in Singapore Pilgrim—— but over the years I’ve seen some very odd goings on in various parts of Singapore!
I learned early on that it’s not the done thing to disagree with a policeman—- chew gum, or exceed the speed limit!

[powerabout]

Dont know where you hide out in Singapore Pilgrim—— but over the years I’ve seen some very odd goings on in various parts of Singapore!
I learned early on that it’s not the done thing to disagree with a policeman—- chew gum, or exceed the speed limit!
Siloso beach on Sentosa island, new years eve party but its all hidden under bubbles...
https://www.timeout.com/singapore/nightlife/ring-in-the-new-year-with-a-splash-at-siloso-beach-party-2019
and this venue still running, just..
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EAPapctI0ys

Its imported cigarettes they jump on now, 1 cig $1000 fine, second offence jail
They are easy on speeding, get a warning letter up to 10kph over, must work as everyone drives slow now.

[jackiewilson]

One of the few places in the world where it’s safe to walk the streets at night Pilgrim——Gay thing seems to be worldwide, I just don’t remember it being “in your face” as much as it is today .
But, I’m one of the old fashioned folk who believe that ability should take priority over ethnicity—- bugger the PC element. Tired of do gooders and tree huggers trying to “Redress the balance”— sod that for a game of soldiers.
If a woman can do as good a job as a man, then she should be paid the same, if she can’t, stop bitching about masculine and feminine.
I have not come across a woman yet with a deep enough voice to commentate on a rugby match ( or a soccer match either). I dislike intensely the high pitched screaming that goes with a female commentator. Might go Down well with women’s football. But that doesn’t interest me either.
Yes, I do believe in equality—- but there’s a hell of a lot of inability being covered under the guise of “Equality”.
When I watch the news —- I like to hear it spoken in KINGS ENGLISH—- not some dialect from god knows where, that mutilates the English language.
BBC is more interested in keeping the ethnic balance of the presenters than it is the quality of broadcast.
Well, somebody had to say something—- ok, I’m waiting???

[powerabout]

The in your face gay thing doesnt exist in asia officially.
I bet some thai lady boys could do football commentry

[jackiewilson]

458885

Try ing to explain to Ted the intricacies of the COSWORTH at key west a few years back!

[jackiewilson]

458886

You don’t often see a pair of REDBIRDS at a time——- one was for Gene—— the other was Teds!

[jackiewilson]

There’s a new expanse of water on this planet “ LAKE ENGLAND”—— and it’s getting bigger!
I drove from Chichester to Horsham yesterday, good job I had the trusty Lexus—- roads aqqclosed at Pulborough—- the water was over the causeway at Amberley. Only possible for high up SUV’s and sailing ships.
Ive lived most of my life in this neck of the woods and have never seen this amount of water laying in what was the fields.
Once went to collect a boat from Shakey Bill in Tewksbury—-the whole town was flooded—- took me two days to get out of there. Today the whole area around the town is one massive fast flowing river
with hundreds of homes flooding..

[jackiewilson]

458951458952

It’s either a red river or raw sewage—— some heavy duty pumps doing overtime.

[jackiewilson]

458953458954

Kids on the way to school—- I’m pretty sure there’s a canal around here somewhere.

[jackiewilson]

458955458956

Dennis had such a wide front and was deep too.

[jackiewilson]

458957

Shoulda bought a Lexus—— Bloody Beemers!

[jackiewilson]

458958

It rained quite hard last night then!

[jackiewilson]

458959458960


Swop it for a Lexus!

[jackiewilson]

458961

Keep lookin at my hands and feet——- some folk are getting Webbed”

[jackiewilson]

458983458984And there’s more.

[jackiewilson]

459000459001

and more,

[jackiewilson]

459002459003

And more still.

[jackiewilson]

459004459005

Maybe you’re getting the picture ?

[jackiewilson]

459006459007

As you can imagine we’re all pig sick of this weather———- good news is —— very little rain tomorrow before the new front coming for the weekend !

[jackiewilson]

My younger sister Janet flew out to Singapore to join a P+O cruise for 21 days—— never did get to board ship— stayed there for two days before flying back to the Uk .
George Clooney’s £12 million mansion is flooded——- it is on an island in the Thames—— and the river is at its highest level ever recorded, so he shouldn’t be that surprised the tennis courts under water.
Ive joined Rich Luhrs offshore group——- mainlybecause there’s a lot of my friends in the club ( so to speak), wondered if I qualified—— but apparently their ok with me.

[jackiewilson]

Well, I suppose it had to happen one day, purely on the amount of hours and the machinery I have in the workshop——-“ an industrial accident “- I keep a bunch of hand tools on the bench, all ready for instant use, one of them being an angle grinder with a two mill cutting blade.
Dropped one of the roller wheels, bent down to pick it up with my right hand—- put my left hand on the bench for balance and inadvertently switched on the grinder!
Index finger came into contact with cut off blade and lost the contest——- bit between the first and second knuckle—- not quite all the way through , but damn nearly!
Wrapped a piece of mutton cloth round the said digit—— her indoors had a dickiefit and demanded my immediate retirement from the shop (we both know that’s never going to happen)—— took a goosey and gipped! ( had a look at it and retched in old English).
Announced she would take me to the hospital to see if they could stitch it back on again—— I reckoned I could suture it with Gaffa tape but she would have none of it !
Im waiting until the folk who are looking at the house have been, then the hospital, which is why I’ve got all the time in the world to tell you my woes!
Just another of the stupid things retired old boat racers do when they’re not chasing tail!
You could get quite a few messages today bemoaning my stupidity—— but I still won’t be “doing a Lassie”——- living on the net—- got better things to do, but not enough time to fit everything in.

[jackiewilson]

Took one look at the CORONAVIRUS queue in the A+E and decided against exposing myself to alternate unhappy endings !
Finally got it through to her who shall be obeyed at all times that a pair of lolly or plain chocolate “Magnum sticks” combined with a few inches of Gaffa tape will suffice—— help the national health service budget——;and make me happy —- which is when all is said and done, the main objective! Of the exercise.
Took one of the happy pills a couple of hours ago—— but it’s wearing off a bit now and the digit has settled into a quietly uncomfortable throbbing—— unfortunately one can only imbibe one of these horse pills every four hours —— there’s a good chance you could wind up neighing and farting in public as nags do should you exceed the dosage.
i may have to take another in the next hour and wind up with a whinny and a silent love puff !
Nap time for an hour or so , then a visit to the tooth fairy for a fitting of the new fangs. Just over a year since I started the procedure for a missing tooth—— wound up over two grand out of pocket and nothing to show for it——— maybe it’s all about to change—— who knows?

[2us70]

In my working life I spent a few years as a Paramedic. One thing I learned is that machinery does not care who it hurts. Hope you have a full recovery.

[jackiewilson]

In the end I had to go to chichester A+E—- finger Simply would not stop oozing out the vital liquid—— was seen quite quickly and told twas no laughing matter. Nurse tried for two hours to stem the bleed——- sent me for xrays —— all the usual stuff.
Turns out I’ve cut through the tendons and the bone——- and cut a minor artery—— lots of attention over the four hours we were in there.
Finally stemmed the bleed——- needed a couple of tablets to ease the ache—- another course of anti- biotics and a trip to the Royal Victoria Hospital in East Grinstead first thing tomorrow. They specialise in repairing tendons etc.
An eventful day all in all, Wont be in the shop any time soon—— so no more rollers!
Those of you who have one of these—— hang on to it —— apparently I’m the only guy in the world making them and I have a waiting list. Whatever you paid, you doubled your money already!
They take six weeks to complete——- I’ve learned lots of things since I started making them——- later ones are far superior to the early ones——- but then again there’s only ten in existence!.
You could be hearing a lot more from. Me over the next couple of weeks—- got bugger all else to do.
Maybe you’ll laugh maybe you’ll cry—— I try not to be boring—— join in if you want, Id like that!
Rub your hands together Rich, you are the owner of the original number one 1907 Rolls-Royce silver Ghost——- a fine investment.

[jackiewilson]

Oh yes, another thing, I missed my dental appointment—— so no chance to try the new fangs ! Maybe next week.
What started out as a promising day certainly turned into a can of worms !
Upside of all this is, I don’t feel bad about it——- it was as close to an accident as it can be. I didn’t make a mistake or misuse the machinery. ——- with a bit of luck and a far wind, I could be up and running in a couple of weeks.

[jackiewilson]

459144

There’s the digit in all its puffed up glory——- twas still throbbing all night long making sleep impossible. That was in spite of taking the thousand mile an hour pain pills.
I did have the Tetanus jab, but these days it’s combined with the diphtheria and poliomyelitis vaccines.
In the old days , before decimalisation and the EU, They always made you drop your pants before taking two steps back and throwing the syringe like a dart at the most tender part of ones rectum.
Turns out I hadn’t had a tetanus jab for over twenty five years.
Have to go—— leave for the East Grinstead Victoria Trauma Hospital first light.
Let you know how I get on.

[jackiewilson]

459163459163

[jackiewilson]

State of play—— fingers in one piece again —— tendons all joined together, back in place twenty + stitches cobble the whole shebang in place!
surgery took 80 minutes —— opened up a couple of doors in the finger to get at the tendons and sew em back together.
Bad news is, no workshop for a couple of months ——- fingers in a splint and will remain so for a couple of weeks until the tendons are healthy again.
Insurance company says no driving until both sling and splints are removed—- just can’t beat the bastards—— don’t get sick—- don’t have an accident —- don’t grow old —— just pay the premiums —- no good looking for loopholes—— there aren’t any!

[peterse90]

Bad news is, no workshop for a couple of months ——- fingers in a splint and will remain so for a couple of weeks until the tendons are healthy again.

Jackie - take care and get well as quickly as possible.

On the PLUS side you will now have plenty more time for this 'Tricks' thread as the evidence shows you can still type.

On another note I just got back home from a short 4 day visit with my son in London and enjoyed ever minute of being in that great city. My guess is I was not far from where you live after landing & departing from Gatwick.

[jackiewilson]

Jackie - take care and get well as quickly as possible.

On the PLUS side you will now have plenty more time for this 'Tricks' thread as the evidence shows you can still type.

On another note I just got back home from a short 4 day visit with my son in London and enjoyed ever minute of being in that great city. My guess is I was not far from where you live after landing & departing from Gatwick.

Do most of my writing with my right index digit——- if I was trying really hard to do more than five words a minute —- then I would use both index fingers—— Thats no longer possible, as the wounded digit has to be held at shoulder level, ,or above for at least two weeks.
Used to love London Town, but afraid I don’t visit any more—— random knife crimes and religious fanatics killing for no reason doesn’t exactly enamour me to the place .
Takes me fifty minutes from my front door to Gatwick Airport, North or South terminal.Nine hours to Florida ——- My son picks me up, then two hour drive from Miami —- Orlando—- or Fort Lauderdale .
Normally, it takes 14/15 hours from leaving home to having a drink or a swim in the pool.

[AZMIDLYF]

Ouch...take care of the finger Jackie.

459183

[powerabout]

get well soon but I see it hasnt interfered with your typing.

[jackiewilson]

[QUOTE=powerabout;3190069]get well soon but I see it hasnt interfered with your typing.[/QUOTE

It has really. Pilgrim——-:I just get over it—- through it—— round it—- or under it, but I get there, eventually.
Fifty mile an hour wind and torrential rain this morning, with more to come today and tomorrow!

Just hope some of the old farts out there strike up a conversation with me—— can’t talk about a poorly finger much longer!
Anaesthetic wore off after sixteen hours and then the old digit really did start to throb and complain about its recent treatment—— it’s not happy, is letting me know in no uncertain terms what a Pratt I am.
Used to think a “lie in” on a Sunday morning might be nice—— well it’s not, it’s a complete waste of valuable time.
Havent had a bath in twenty years , no I don’t stink, I shower at least once a day, but have been advised to keep the pesky digit dry —— this means showers are out!11 a
it’s no good, I can’t lie in bed any longer,

[jackiewilson]

Ok, I’m sat here in my easy chair in front of the fire with a throbbing digit that is pissing me right off—- what to do to create a bit of controversy ?????


Tunnel boats and their builders ( as I know them)

First tunnel boat I ever saw was at the boatbuilders trial at Chasewater—— it was a Proutcraft with two 350 Mercs on its bum. Owned and raced by JOHN MERRYFIELD and his brother in law. (1963) . Ran steady as a rock but didn’t do any more than 40 mph . I could run with him in my 11’ Derry with a 450 merc. Never saw it again, but I liked what I saw.
Just as an aside, John Merryfield never got the credit he deserved in boatracing
The three hardest men racing at that time were Shakey Bill—- Jock Geddes and John Merryfield. Jock Geddes never raced a tunnel ?
Next time I saw a tunnel boat was 1964 at Evian in the Twenty four hour race—- I was due to race with Shakey but due to admin errors ( long boring story) Bernard Michel wound up driving with him. ( and won the overall)
Arthur Brown and my young brother “ Nipper Wilson” drove an identical AVON SPECIAL, and were actually the race leader when Arthur wrapped it round the huge pylon in the middle of the lake—— never raced again!
Thats where I met the Rasini Brothers, Henri and Carlo, they were driving either a Molinari or a Torrigia——— my memory’s shot these days, but I believe it WAS a Torrigia. Renato was there, but was just a kid, not old enough to drive.
The tunnel was allowed to run in the experimental class, not eligible for any prize!
Shakey and Bernard won the overall——- but the tunnel was light years ahead at the finish——- unfortunately they weren’t even mentioned in dispatches!
Later that same year a pair of tunnels turned up again at the Six Heures De Paris——- pissed all over everything until the last ten minutes when the pair of them collided.
The following year a mate of Arthur Browns (ROY ????——TROUT —-) financed a trip to Torrigia——— I bought the actual Paris boat——— and a fourteen foot four seater tunnel, and the most beautiful fourteen foot V bottom in the world.
All three boats looked sweeter, had a better finish, than anything that ever came out of the Riva factory.
I raced the big Torrigia at the LMBRC venue at Iver Bucks, Comandatore at the time was Len Britnell—— he made the Remark——- Blimey Jack —— two of those and the lakes full !
Sold the Vee bottom to Freddy Miles who took it back to Campione and won the world EU championships with it.
Sold the little cat to Mike Rose an insurance broker in Corby——- he later bought my 17’ Schultze———- then the Little 15’ Schulze—— that was before the excrement hit the fan—— he had been dipping into his clients funds to further his ambitions.
.will have to rise off my buttocks, I’ve got finger ache and arse ache, dont know whether I want a drink, a crap or a haircut——- im not going anywhere soon—- so as the General said “ ​I WILL RETURN”—-

[powerabout]

[QUOTE=powerabout;3190069]get well soon but I see it hasnt interfered with your typing.[/QUOTE

It has really. Pilgrim——-:I just get over it—- through it—— round it—- or under it, but I get there, eventually.
Fifty mile an hour wind and torrential rain this morning, with more to come today and tomorrow!

Just hope some of the old farts out there strike up a conversation with me—— can’t talk about a poorly finger much longer!
Anaesthetic wore off after sixteen hours and then the old digit really did start to throb and complain about its recent treatment—— it’s not happy, is letting me know in no uncertain terms what a Pratt I am.
Used to think a “lie in” on a Sunday morning might be nice—— well it’s not, it’s a complete waste of valuable time.
Havent had a bath in twenty years , no I don’t stink, I shower at least once a day, but have been advised to keep the pesky digit dry —— this means showers are out!11 a
it’s no good, I can’t lie in bed any longer,
plastic bag over whole hand and duct taped to wrist is how you shower

[jackiewilson]

[QUOTE=jackiewilson;3190106]
plastic bag over whole hand and duct taped to wrist is how you shower

Not what the surgeon said Pilgrim—— heat in the shower causes condensation—- no liquid whatsoever should come into contact with wounded digit—— that’s why he said “TAKE A BATH”———— ugh— only dogs, overpaid soccer players and geriatric old ladies take baths. A bath is bad for you—- rots you’re skin and softens the teeth——- or is it the other way round.
.

[Lake X Kid]

[/QUOTE
Just hope some of the old farts out there strike up a conversation with me—— can’t talk about a poorly finger much longer!
...
Havent had a bath in twenty years , no I don’t stink, I shower at least once a day, but have been advised to keep the pesky digit dry —— this means showers are out!11 a
it’s no good, I can’t lie in bed any longer,[/QUOTE]

Hey Jackie, you still claiming and typing as "Europe's 1st Mercury Service Center"?
I saw this in the 1973 July issue of Yachting & Boating Weekly.

Enjoy your upcoming bath, and keep the stories coming. I am glad we saw each other last November at Tavares. You brought the cold weather from England to Florida that weekend.

459223

[Lake X Kid]

My younger sister Janet flew out to Singapore to join a P+O cruise for 21 days—— never did get to board ship— stayed there for two days before flying back to the Uk .
George Clooney’s £12 million mansion is flooded——- it is on an island in the Thames—— and the river is at its highest level ever recorded, so he shouldn’t be that surprised the tennis courts under water.
Ive joined Rich Luhrs offshore group——- mainlybecause there’s a lot of my friends in the club ( so to speak), wondered if I qualified—— but apparently their ok with me.

What a disappointment for your sister Janet. bad timing on that planned trip.

How many mansions does George Clooney and his wife own, besides on Lake Como and the Thames river? Probably more than the number, I will ever spend a night sleeping in. Clooney probably has a yacht moored at his home on the Thames, so then he will be dry when he's in town.

Onshore - offshore its all good.

[jackiewilson]

What a disappointment for your sister Janet. bad timing on that planned trip.

How many mansions does George Clooney and his wife own, besides on Lake Como and the Thames river? Probably more than the number, I will ever spend a night sleeping in. Clooney probably has a yacht moored at his home on the Thames, so then he will be dry when he's in town.

Onshore - offshore its all good.

Do I detect a touch of the green eyed monster there Pilgrim——- it’s not as though Georgie Boy is even good looking——- with a drop dead gorgeous piece of crumpet for a spouse—- three multi- million pound mansions—- a billion dollar yachtie—— unlimited super cars and a taste for NESCAFÉ.
Whats all that compared to having raced a boat and friends on Scream and Fly????

[FUJIMO]

Do I detect a touch of the green eyed monster there Pilgrim——- it’s not as though Georgie Boy is even good looking——- with a drop dead gorgeous piece of crumpet for a spouse—- three multi- million pound mansions—- a billion dollar yachtie—— unlimited super cars and a taste for NESCAFÉ.
Whats all that compared to having raced a boat and friends on Scream and Fly????
...Amen Jackie. You just know he's jealous.;)

[powerabout]

wrong reply Jackie, that wasnt me it was Lake X's post and I dont think his wife is anything special and I dont drink Nescafe till they pay me what they pay him

[Lake X Kid]

Do I detect a touch of the green eyed monster there Pilgrim——- it’s not as though Georgie Boy is even good looking——- with a drop dead gorgeous piece of crumpet for a spouse—- three multi- million pound mansions—- a billion dollar yachtie—— unlimited super cars and a taste for NESCAFÉ.
Whats all that compared to having raced a boat and friends on Scream and Fly????

Green envy of George Clooney, not in the least. My tastes are to simple, to be consumed with what is not mine, and rightfully earned by others. More power to his financial success. But in comparison to the many whom only have one house to call home, I have less sympathy for a super-rich person when one of his many habitats got flooded.

I reckon the majority of women on both side of the pond, will disagree with you, and say "Georgie Boy" is good looking. And the producers of Hollywood movies will agree with that assessment.

Toys are nice to have driven, but friends are long lasting. :)

[GENE LANHAM]

Ouch...take care of the finger Jackie.

459183

Jackie--don't give up-----as age and ARTHRITS and accidents have their way with us--help is on the way!!

[jackiewilson]

Jackie--don't give up-----as age and ARTHRITS and accidents have their way with us--help is on the way!!

Ok Gene—— I’ll take two—— Just in case!!

[powerabout]

no condensation of you have a cold shower....

[jackiewilson]

no condensation of you have a cold shower....

Cold showers are only for Floridians who have spent too much time in the sun and over sexed horny honchos with a hard on.
Just had a bath ( first in over twenty years) wasn’t too bad at all until I tried to exit—— took me all of ten minutes ———- kept flopping back in every time I heaved myself up. Ideally I needed a “sky hook”. ( something of a rarity in Walberton) .
Eventually solved the problem by rolling over and drawing my knees up —— grabbing the bath sides and hoiking myself out!
Daftest part of all this—— I put my left hand under water to help push—— thereby negating the whole exercise. No fool like an old one !!!

[jackiewilson]

[/QUOTE
Just hope some of the old farts out there strike up a conversation with me—— can’t talk about a poorly finger much longer!
...
Havent had a bath in twenty years , no I don’t stink, I shower at least once a day, but have been advised to keep the pesky digit dry —— this means showers are out!11 a
it’s no good, I can’t lie in bed any longer,

Hey Jackie, you still claiming and typing as "Europe's 1st Mercury Service Center"?
I saw this in the 1973 July issue of Yachting & Boating Weekly.

Enjoy your upcoming bath, and keep the stories coming. I am glad we saw each other last November at Tavares. You brought the cold weather from England to Florida that weekend.

459223[/QUOTE]

Believe it or not ROY—- This was a really big deal for me—— capital outlay was huge (to me that is)
special kit—- workshop manuals for every motor every year and every change ——ring clamps— gauges — pullers and extractors— MICROFICHE and all who sail in her.
Roy Ridgell and Pat Frewer talked me into it——- I really was the very first “MERCURY SERVIce CENTRE”“ in Europe—— even changed the name to Mercury Marine —- that raised a few eyebrows, but I got away with it for years!
Was a SOLE MERCURY DEALER for years—— fought off the advances of Jonrude for many years, until the extra 5% loyalty bonus was outweighed by selling a couple of hundred Yamahas per annum!
Yamahas brought a lot of fun people onto the outboard scene——- real crazy kids that ran the British operation. Went to Japan with them a couple of times—— there was always something “exciting” going on with them.

[jackiewilson]

Rainy afternoon—- nothing better to do—-; might just as well recap on my memories ( which are not always written in stone and deadly accurate) but well within the acceptable parameters of an old fart.
Ron Walbold ( WOBBLY) was a true carpenter boatbuilder, based in the midlands, he built the BLUE-FIN Randy of boats———- For Merryfield and direct to anyone who wanted them.
Bill Shakespeare was true wood man who had a chippie called DAVE Burgess working for him—- he built the first SHAKESPEARE tunnels.
After Shakey’s demise, Freddy Miles employed DAVE to build the Milesmaster tunnels—— then DAVE went off on his own and built the range of BURGESS boats.
Meanwhile overindulged Italy—— various boatbuilders went in the tunnel boat direction—- Cetti at Torrigia Molinari and Scotti at the bottom end of lake Como—- Tullio Abbatte further upstream.
Schultze took the American boat scene by storm when he took a tunnel to Havasu in ‘68—- from then on things were about to change forever.
Carl Keikhaefer tied up Molinari with a deal nobody could turn down—— orchestrated by ROY Ridgell and Bill Steele, built up a team of drivers from all over the world (me included). Names like Velden SEEBOLD —- im sure you’ve all seen the line ups at sometime in your life!
Omc then tied up Scotti until his untimely death in Paris——- Big fall out in 75/75 between Molinari and Mercury——— molinari went with OMC——- SEEBOLD was told to build boats for Mercury in America whilst Cees was given licence to build in Europe for the firm.
Garbrecht had Seebold send his builder over to Holland to show how a tunnel should be built—— one of the reasons early Seebolds and Veldens look similar!
There were various other Tunnel boat builders in the uk—- Hodges—— Brocklington—-Peverelle—- im sure I could remember most of them if pushed.
Thats it for today—— and if I don’t get questions before long—— that’s it about tunnel boats.

[robert j garner]

Hi Jackie

I know you don't like ifs buts or maybes but how do you think Bill Shakespeare would have fared in the factory wars had he not perished at Windermere ,
What was your opinion of the stinger cats . Hope your digit heals quickly mangled fingers are always in the firing line.

Best regards Rob

[Rotary John]

Guess it's time for me to say hello and wish you well. I'm sure if you were building an American Rotary instead of that bloody English car, you finger would still function. I'm like you and haven't been in a bathtub for years. Can't figure out how sitting in dirty water can get you clean.

[jackiewilson]

Hi Jackie

I know you don't like ifs buts or maybes but how do you think Bill Shakespeare would have fared in the factory wars had he not perished at Windermere ,
What was your opinion of the stinger cats . Hope your digit heals quickly mangled fingers are always in the firing line.

Best regards Rob

Make no mistake Shakey was five foot two of total mean when he got into a boat—— Merryfield was no different, winning was everything to the pair of them—- each disliked the other. JM was past his sell by date come 1970 and had virtually retired. Double M was history and John wanted to play with his BUGGATTI.
Days of the 16’ Levi were long gone—— Sony’S Tunnel was an abject failure—— too heavy for circuit and too short for offshore. Phil Hook paid a big bag of gold for it and was not best pleased.
Boat met a timely death in a fire at the London Road car park November the fifth ( bonfire night).
Shakey really got that little cat howling—— was laps ahead of everything in Liege befor co driver Wilf Gregory got a tad over anxious and whacked the pits.
Garbrecht bought the boat “as seen” and shipped it back to Oshberg.
Maybe Mike Butler remembers what happened to it—— I don’t ever remember seeing it again—— but I’ll bet a pound to a pincha Stippitch does!!!
No question about it—- Shakey was as hard as anyone the Americans had!
In Shakespeare’s book he says he didn’t think there was a future for tunnels————- second item of note is a picture of him squeezing me onto the top island at Fairford——— caption reads “Jackie Wilson trying to overtake me on the inside”. Like I said—— Shakey took no prisoners—— he would have been a great FACTORY driver.

[jackiewilson]

Guess it's time for me to say hello and wish you well. I'm sure if you were building an American Rotary instead of that bloody English car, you finger would still function. I'm like you and haven't been in a bathtub for years. Can't figure out how sitting in dirty water can get you clean.

Je Concur mon ami —— thanks for the best wishes Johnno !
Fingers fixed —- up and running don’t ya know—- shame about the time lapse—— I can no longer afford it!
Next concept is a great looking radial rotory—— got your name written all over it—— but it’s expensive!

[jackiewilson]

Eight o’clock and I’m still lying in bed—— remember the old adage “Careful what you wish for”—— I’ve often wondered what it would be like to HAVE A LIE IN——— I can tell you in all honesty—- it’s not all it’s cracked up to be.
Selling my South Bend—- thought I would go into the shop and take a few pictures for the ad. Kitchen goddess had gone to work for the day——- keys for the shop were nowhere to be found.
Confess to being a tad miffed by this, challenged aforementioned female on her return—— told me politely that she didn’t trust me to stay out of the shop.
Thats when I threw my dollies outa the pram——- duplicates should be finished later in the day!

[jackiewilson]

459337

View from my bedroom window—— snowdrops and crocus are all finished for this year—— turn of the Daffodils and heather . Sun shone for five minutes before it buggered off into the long distance—— sleet and snow on its way.

[jackiewilson]

Ok, so where was I ? ——oh yes, now I remember, my experiences with tunnels and their builders!
First one I ever saw that lit my candle was at the 24hrs on lake Evian. The one which raced in Paris later that year.
I trailed that mother across the alps along with two other Torrigia’s in the middle of winter—— snowed all the way , there and back——- had a Morris J2 van with an MGB motor and gearbox , plus overdrive on all gears including reverse!
Only the St Gotthard pass was open, all the others were closed due to heavy snowfalls.
Managed to get them all home safe.
Next up was the 17’ SCHULTZE—- Dieter and I became good friends over the next couple of years—— mainly because I was instrumental in selling a shedload of boats for him.
Arthur Brown—- Denny Burton—— Mike Rose—- Bob Spalding—- me myself had him build a little 15’ for the 65hp Koenig—— dieter was very late with the delivery so I stuck a 1000BP on its tail. Bob, Don and myself hauled it down to Milan for a three hour race——- that opened everyone’s eyes, created quite a stir! Renato never built another 18’ after that. I would go as far as to say—— that altered the course of tunnel boat history. TBC———
@

[powerabout]

can you add the dates to your stories as in what years?

[jackiewilson]

can you add the dates to your stories as in what years?

Dont talk so bloody ridiculous Pilgrim——- can’t remember what day of the week it is —— not even sure if I woke up this morning——- i’m 88 and a rambler, I can mumble for ever, if Id have been Harvey’s lawyer he’d have got away with it. ,!!!
I could tell you to the nearest ten years, but only on a good day!

When you reach 85 Pilgrim—- you automatically get inducted into the hall of forgetfulness—- I’ve earned that right, never forget —- I’m one of those that went before and ————— bugger, What was it we were talking about????????

[jackiewilson]

459347

This was my race club for many years, it’s where I started, all my kids grew up here —— spent every weekend from March to October there! Started with an “ IGLOO “ tent and a van—- kids slept in the tent ——we slept in the mini van. By the time the kids were grown up we had graduated to a GMC 6 wheeler with air suspension and six berths.
Even today I still think that RV is the best looking camper ever produced by anyone in the world ! It would run 100 mph fully loaded hauling a boat and trailer.
Anyway back to business, Above photo was taken August bank holiday weekend 1964 Saturday!
l around 15:00 Hrs First of four 12 lap heats. British ON Championships!
Ron Walbold —— Bluefin Volante—— Blue-Fin
Brian Hunt——-Hammer On.—-Bristol
Bill Brown—— Venus—— COSWORTH 2 litre BDG
Ron Burchell ———- is Miss Chief 11 —— Bristol
Denny Burton—— Uncle Den——- MM/Levi
Jock Geddes—— Palladin —- Give gun - Will Travel !
Chris Kingsbury——- Phaedra—— MM/Levi
John Merryfield. Keikhaefer 1V— MM/Levi
Collie Coulson——- SHHH—UNO—WHO—— MM/LEVI
John May—— Thunderbolt 11—— MM/LEVY

RED BOAT WITH BLACK DECK is
Bill Shakespeare in the AVON SPECIAL—- Orange jacket —- polka dot underpants ( with skid marks)
How am I doing so far Pilgrim ? This what you’re looking for?

[jackiewilson]

459350

I meant it when I said GMC. SIX WHEELER IS THE BEST RV EVER MADE,

[Lake X Kid]

Hey Jackie, you still claiming and typing as "Europe's 1st Mercury Service Center"?
I saw this in the 1973 July issue of Yachting & Boating Weekly.


Believe it or not ROY—- This was a really big deal for me—— capital outlay was huge (to me that is)
special kit—- workshop manuals for every motor every year and every change ——ring clamps— gauges — pullers and extractors— MICROFICHE and all who sail in her.
Roy Ridgell and Pat Frewer talked me into it——- I really was the very first “MERCURY SERVIce CENTRE”“ in Europe—— even changed the name to Mercury Marine —- that raised a few eyebrows, but I got away with it for years!
Was a SOLE MERCURY DEALER for years—— fought off the advances of Jonrude for many years, until the extra 5% loyalty bonus was outweighed by selling a couple of hundred Yamahas per annum!
Yamahas brought a lot of fun people onto the outboard scene——- real crazy kids that ran the British operation. Went to Japan with them a couple of times—— there was always something “exciting” going on with them.[/QUOTE]

*****
Jackie one of the things I like about your AD in the magazine, is that it is different and therefore stands out. Yours caught my eye, whereas the others had the same basic pattern, with the Merc engine.
And that segues me into the different colors which race cars and boats used to identify themselves, from the pack on the race course. Watching on TV the Pennzoil, Tide, Jag or Ferrari cars (and others) is that their colors define them. They do not have to be leading the race, for you to visual notice them in the pack.

I remember the first time, I saw the black Molinari with the racing stripes (I do not believe this is the first Molinari black boat, but it represents the color scheme). It was brought down to the bottom floor (rigging area) at the Como race shop. And I thought this look defines; I am bad and am here to win the race. I do not recall any other Molinari boat, that gave me the wow look at that, in the 1971 to ’73 time frame.

I will also admit Downard and Pellileo winning Paris boat in 1971, was the least favorite color scheme to me, of that year’s fleet from Como. And then when Cees started flying the Marlboro logo, it was subtle in looks, but pronounce enough not to be mistaken for any other race boat. To me, and I suspect to advertisers, colors are one of the primary ingredients in showcasing a/your product.
459351

[jackiewilson]

Believe it or not ROY—- This was a really big deal for me—— capital outlay was huge (to me that is)
special kit—- workshop manuals for every motor every year and every change ——ring clamps— gauges — pullers and extractors— MICROFICHE and all who sail in her.
Roy Ridgell and Pat Frewer talked me into it——- I really was the very first “MERCURY SERVIce

CENTRE”“ in Europe—— even changed the name to Mercury Marine —- that raised a few eyebrows, but I got away with it for years!
Was a SOLE MERCURY DEALER for years—— fought off the advances of Jonrude for many years, until the extra 5% loyalty bonus was outweighed by selling a couple of hundred Yamahas per annum!
Yamahas brought a lot of fun people onto the outboard scene——- real crazy kids that ran the British operation. Went to Japan with them a couple of times—— there was always something “exciting” going on with them.

*****
Jackie one of the things I like about your AD in the magazine, is that it is different and therefore stands out. Yours caught my eye, whereas the others had the same basic pattern, with the Merc engine.
And that segues me into the different colors which race cars and boats used to identify themselves, from the pack on the race course. Watching on TV the Pennzoil, Tide, Jag or Ferrari cars (and others) is that their colors define them. They do not have to be leading the race, for you to visual notice them in the pack.

I remember the first time, I saw the black Molinari with the racing stripes (I do not believe this is the first Molinari black boat, but it represents the color scheme). It was brought down to the bottom floor (rigging area) at the Como race shop. And I thought this look defines; I am bad and am here to win the race. I do not recall any other Molinari boat, that gave me the wow look at that, in the 1971 to ’73 time frame.

I will also admit Downard and Pellileo winning Paris boat in 1971, was the least favorite color scheme to me, of that year’s fleet from Como. And then when Cees started flying the Marlboro logo, it was subtle in looks, but pronounce enough not to be mistaken for any other race boat. To me, and I suspect to advertisers, colors are one of the primary ingredients in showcasing a/your product.
459351[/QUOTE]

Funny how once you start digging the treasure that’s buried kinda jumps up into your hand.
It was Ham Hamburger who taught me to be different—- never follow the crowd—- think for yourself—- be noticed.
Phil Read and I were long time friends and sat next to each other at the Annual Mercury Conference held at the poshest hotel in Bournemouth when Hamburger delivered his speech!
This was the year the star of the show was the new four cylinder eighty Merc.
Was to be unveiled just before the Banquet—— early evening. We toured Poole to “ Borrow” a Seagull century plus and swopped it for the eighty Merc. We were stood next to each other minutes before the presentation when Pat Frewer MD of SWMF came up behind me and whispered quietly in my ear——- JACKIE, PUT IT BACK !—— raising my palms to the sky and feigning innocence, I just said Pat—— I know nothing, If it’s not back on the stand in five minutes, you are no longer a Merc dealer. Readie and I replaced the motor like a pair of lambs.
I asked him how the hell he knew I was the one who nicked the motor—— his reply was —— I asked myself who would possibly pull a caper like that ? You were the first and only person who came to mind!
So you see ROY, it doesn’t always pay to be different!
Told Angelo over a coffee in the bar next door I wanted a short boat—— Willabee never believed this, but it’s true , he rough sketched a boat on a table napkin !!!
Oh, Angelo—- I want it painted all black ! No, no, no, no, Black is MORTE, we never paint a boat black———— but he did!
With a 1000 BP shoving it along, that boat became a legend in Europe! Merton raced it at Havasu——- Spencer Dunn had it ——— then the other Canadian—— the one with the curly hair !,,,, Mark Rathermell raced it!

[FUJIMO]

https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=459350&d=1582658215

[FUJIMO]

https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=459347&d=1582647154 (https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=459347&d=1582647154)

[jackiewilson]

What do you know—— it finally stopped raining. How long for is anyone’s guess—- we had so much rain, even the sea’s full up! England’s flooded —— that’s official—- but it could be an ice rink come Thursday with sub zero temperatures forecast.
Fuji made a nice job of clearing up the pictures—— that was my second GMC six wheeler, first one I bought off Barry SHEENE for £7,500—- after my kids decided it was the ONLY way to travel.
Even today, the multi million dollar coaches that pose as RV’S or camper vans as we know them, do not have the head turning ability or the “PANACHE“ of the 1974 GMC 6 WHEELER.

[jackiewilson]

https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=459347&d=1582647154 (https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=459347&d=1582647154)
So many memories of this place—— Iver Heath Bucks. Home of the London Motor Boat Racing Club.
Peasant, Pauper or millionaire, made no difference here, only thing that mattered was how well you could drive a boat.
Cyril Benstead was the 300 lb Commandatore—- a Warren Street car dealer—- ruled the club with an iron fist along with his wonderful wife Jacque.
Mark , my son is now 63 and still talks about his time there!

[powerabout]

Warren st, Bernie eccelston's stamping ground

[jackiewilson]

Warren st, Bernie eccelston's stamping ground

Carnaby Street was for clothes what Warren Street was for cars——- wonderful place to drop by for an hour or two—— all the London villains hung out there. Big money changed hands there too.
Like most of the 60/70’s hunting grounds — long gone!
Every weekend and Wednesday night, there would be a parade of cars —— hot rods—— dune buggies—- muscle—- run what you brung! The parade could last for hours, often well into the early hours of the morning. Hodges had a VW DUNE BUG with huge feck off lights underneath. He was a regular contender.
Bernie made enough money in Warren Street to finance his own F1race team——- then took charge of the whole show until he became “ GOD F1”.

[jackiewilson]

459393

If you don’t know this “famous four”—— then you don’t know much about powerboats!

[FUJIMO]

https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=459393&d=1582743565

[FUJIMO]

they cleaned up nicely didn't they...suits, ties, polished shoes, etc...?;)

[GENE LANHAM]

459393

If you don’t know this “famous four”—— then you don’t know much about powerboats!

459395

[FUJIMO]

https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=459395&d=1582746754 (https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=459395&d=1582746754)

[jackiewilson]

https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=459395&d=1582746754 (https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=459395&d=1582746754)
Harmsworth Trophy Gene——- my son Mark was part of the team that won it for England!

[jackiewilson]

The Harmsworth Committee. And the K7 Club awarded KEITH Duckworth the HARMSWORTH for contributions to powerboating !
NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT!

[jackiewilson]

459406


Gonna get by with a little help from my friends !!! ​The Good Guys.

[jackiewilson]

459407

And another! “Old Reliable” .

[jackiewilson]

459408

And there’s another old friend ! I’ve always been blessed with good friends!

[FUJIMO]

https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=459406&d=1582756982 (https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=459406&d=1582756982)

[FUJIMO]

https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=459407&d=1582757117 (https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=459407&d=1582757117)

[FUJIMO]

https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=459408&d=1582757220 (https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=459408&d=1582757220)

[jackiewilson]

459433




Another good friend of mine—— my eldest granddaughter Louise—— makes sure things run smoothly
for team GIECO.

[jackiewilson]

459434459435459436

Did this for Marks desk a few years back, long before he actually finished his boat!
Of course it’s up and running perfect now—- 55+ with the twin diesels and Arnesons?

[jackiewilson]

459437459438459439

Took seven years to finally get its bum wet, problem with Mark is, everything has to be perfect ( unlike me).
Mark and Hodges drew up the original design Chris helped with the mold, then cluttered off to obscurity in Australia.
Boat comes in at 50’ and has just about everything on a boat that can possibly be crammed in.
Twin A/C units —- Fly by wire—— Gyro—- Bow Thrusters—— elevating cockpit—- Twin Sat-Navs—- outside galley with fridge/Freezer and ice maker —- coolers —- Twin Showers and a football field sized fish platform!
It’s not for sale —- done a couple of trips to the Bahamas and back—- next trip is to the west coast—- pick up SEEBOLD and down to key west in mid March!,

[jackiewilson]

459440

the original “PET SHOP BOYS” Awesome group of men—- certainly made their mark in the powerboating world!?

Im not going to apologise for posting all these pictures—— I’ve got both time on my hands and pictures——- ​Live with it !

[jackiewilson]

459441

Now THATS a racing gearcase——- OMC always had a nicer shaped gearcase than Mercury—— Mercury should have had a crescent shape to start with!
Not saying the OMC didn’t have problems because they definitely did. Just saying it was a better looking piece of kit.
Konig and crescent had beautiful bottom ends—- why didn’t the big outboards have them?
The offshore number six upwards look like they’re fast —- even on the stand!

[jackiewilson]

459442

Pirates cove with a CC7— one of my favourite lunch time places!

[jackiewilson]

459447459447

Buggered if it isn’t that man ODELLE in MONA LOU 111 —— he’s a new friend of mine! —-
First met the legend that is Odelle at the first OFF meeting. along wth Bakos—- Sutphen—-Langham —
Mosely —- Rotory John—— CHARLIE Wolfe—- Steve SIROIS. .
Thats what happens at the old farts—— everything—— and you never know what, that’s one of the reasons it should never lose its identity.

[jackiewilson]

459448

How many of you know this is?

[jackiewilson]

459449

Wonder if that’s not “Treasure” in the Raveau???
Its lunchtime so that’s all for now—— probably more this afternoon.
Hospital wants to see me Friday morning “crack o sparrow “. (Early for the colonials ) .

[FUJIMO]

"why didn't the big outboards have them?" not every boats a race boat Jackie, that's why, lol:smiletest:

[jackiewilson]

"why didn't the big outboards have them?" not every boats a race boat Jackie, that's why, lol:smiletest:
Granted Fuji—- but that didn’t stop them making a Quickie gearcase for big motors—— it just wasn’t a nice one.
Here we are fifty years on and they finally listened—- the number eight is a piece of art— but forty years late that’s all!

[FUJIMO]

would any kind of "quickie" or speedmaster type gearcase on a big pleasure use outboard "back then", shift forward-neutral-reverse? answer is no.

[powerabout]

459441

Now THATS a racing gearcase——- OMC always had a nicer shaped gearcase than Mercury—— Mercury should have had a crescent shape to start with!
Not saying the OMC didn’t have problems because they definitely did. Just saying it was a better looking piece of kit.
Konig and crescent had beautiful bottom ends—- why didn’t the big outboards have them?
The offshore number six upwards look like they’re fast —- even on the stand!
OMC had them for all engines in ranges in the 80's
15hp
sst45 as shown
F3 engines
old 60's-70's v4
CCC and similar for the custom for the 2.0 ltr v6
sst100 80's v4
F1 v8
F1 v8 offshore custom shifting twin pinion

sst45 and F1v8 still made by Seaway and in stock normally for way less than any Merc box

[powerabout]

would any kind of "quickie" or speedmaster type gearcase on a big pleasure use outboard "back then", shift forward-neutral-reverse? answer is no.
well maybe....one of those old fashioned lightweight 2 strokes from 30 years ago

[FUJIMO]

no pleasure use large outboard installations now...or then...none...for a reason. in reality, about a dozen reasons...

[jackiewilson]

would any kind of "quickie" or speedmaster type gearcase on a big pleasure use outboard "back then", shift forward-neutral-reverse? answer is no.

Youre missing the point totally Fuji, which is not at all like you !!
There were “ Quickie” gearcases. Being used on the biggest outboard of the day—— made by Mercury, OMC likewise. These were for racing—— nothing else, but they were pug ugly—- not the beautiful hydro type gearcase at all .
Why would we want a reverse gear on a raceboat——- forward and reverse boxes were for stock outboards——- only reason either of the factories made them was to comply with UIM and APBA rules made centuries before.
theres plenty of classes within the UIM that allow run what you bring ——- capacity rules were what mattered.
Hydros never had gearbox restrictions— so they were given the O. The raceboats designation——- that’s why, even in the USA you saw RACEBOATS with the class designation letters—— ie—- OI ——- up to 1500 cc—— ON—— up to 2000cc——- OZ—— to the moon and back, totally unrestricted——- either in number or capacity ???
You could put multiple motors of unlimited capacity on any size boat——- although OMC did add codicills as to size for their F1 series!!
As I said in clear and simple language earlier—— OMC made a better looking gearbox than Mercury did! End of.!!!
Didnt mean they lasted any longer than the Mercury’s——- have heard it said many times by both factory teams that gearcases left a lot to be desired !

[FUJIMO]

see…I got that blood flow'n now...to heal you up faster...lol...hows the fingy feel'n today?

[2us70]

I saw gene run this car a few times. It was a 3/4 Midget better known as a TQ. I think that car was Crosley powered. The track was way down south in Florida City an I think 1/8 mile around. I had a good friend who built 44in Mercury motors for a guy running at that track. I think his name was Earle Hatch.
459448

How many of you know this is?

[2us70]

I wound up with this boat at the end of it's racing life. Traded it to Nick Chapman for the last flat bottom boat he built.
459449

Wonder if that’s not “Treasure” in the Raveau???
Its lunchtime so that’s all for now—— probably more this afternoon.
Hospital wants to see me Friday morning “crack o sparrow “. (Early for the colonials ) .

[FUJIMO]

https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=459433&d=1582786489

[Rotary John]

https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/86392086_10219380618439089_4502668847827910656_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&_nc_sid=ca434c&_nc_ohc=Nh5m8D_qYL4AX8dWDzk&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=c5e6bddfe94aba3bce7a886111cdc0a1&oe=5EBF38A0

[jackiewilson]

see…I got that blood flow'n now...to heal you up faster...lol...hows the fingy feel'n today?

Fuji—- I was born with royal blood—— not just flowing but pumping like a mountain spring—- healing capacity—— well you wouldn’t believe it if I told you. Faster than a speeding bullet—— In no time flat I will have grown a full new index digit. I do believe that there are folk out there who just grow fingernails ????
Tell you the results tomorrow After the unveiling!
No worries—- I could tell you the results now—— but modesty forbids.

[jackiewilson]

https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/86392086_10219380618439089_4502668847827910656_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&_nc_sid=ca434c&_nc_ohc=Nh5m8D_qYL4AX8dWDzk&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=c5e6bddfe94aba3bce7a886111cdc0a1&oe=5EBF38A0

Thank you Johnno—— that’s exactly what I mean about a good looking foot. There’s hydro heritage in that one, it looks good, feels good , and by golly it is good.

[jackiewilson]

459520

If you’re an “Old Fart, you will no doubt recognise these characters!!!
Craig Wilson—— MD Wilson Custom Composites.
Mark Wilson—— MD Wilson Custom Marine .
Jack Wilson (Retired). Concept turnerouter.
Gary Stray—- Crew Chief GIECO!
Simon Cheeseman. If I told you, I’d have to kill you!

[powerabout]

Thank you Johnno—— that’s exactly what I mean about a good looking foot. There’s hydro heritage in that one, it looks good, feels good , and by golly it is good.

From the pen of Clarence no doubt?

[Rotary John]

From the pen of Clarence no doubt?
I'm told this is the V-8 gear case. Clarence indeed did the original, but Jim Nerstrom is taking credit for this one.

[jackiewilson]

Mercury never seemed to understand the need for the crescent front and the angular fin of a race motor gearcase.
Rolla drew out a gearcase which was almost identical to the Koenig bottom end , only more so.
He showed it to Dick Schneider but I don’t think it went any further.
Put an OMC gearcase next to a Mercury gearcase and you’ll see what I mean!
Looks like a mechanic drew the Merc—- and an artist designed the OMC—— I don’t think either was fault free—— both had major issues.
To me ( yes I am totally biased) Phil Rolla was the greatest authority on high performance propellers at that time—- both circuit and offshore!
He moved quickly from The traditional two blade, then to a three blade—— even quicker to a four blade which was highly successful —— on to five and six blades——
Now it cost near as much to make an F1 prop at around £500, as it did to produce an offshore prop—— be it five or six blades——- both required many hours of hand work——-there was also much more money to be earned from offshore props than there was from circuit props. So F1 circuit props did tend to drop by the wayside .
Sorry about that—- it’s what I do, I start to talk—- then to think—— then to remember—- then forget what I was talking about in the first place.
If any one wants to chip in and challenge—— or discuss—- or just yell “BOLLOCKS”, please feel free so to do !!!

[jackiewilson]

459530

They seem to be getting the hang of things now Fuji—— shame it took fifty years—— if only they’d listened!!!!

[jackiewilson]

459531
wonder who that is getting a little fresh air. .

[jackiewilson]

Don Hendricks was OMC’S prop guru in the late sixties and seventies. I met him a couple of times at Rollas place on the lake Before his big move to Lugano.
There were very few “Prop” men in those days—— although there were a few foundries that would cast props for a price—— Radice—- Michegan . Etc!
Propulsion is not and never has been an EXACT science—— Theres a lot of feel—- gut feeling—- trial and error —— heartbreak and diligence comes into the equation.
Mercury were slow on the uptake in the early days, but caught up rapidly to become a front runner in the propellor stakes.
You can have 200 horsepower at the shaft—— but it’s not worth a hill of beans if you don’t have the wheel to suit ? Then of course the jockey still has a say in what goes on
Rolla and Arneson were good friends—— Mark got to know Howard quite well——- TWIN DISC bought the ARNESON company——- Twin Disc then bought Rolla Propellors providing Mark ( who had been working for Rolla for ten years at that time) came with the deal.
This is all leading up to the fact that the world is not exactly brimfull of knowledgeable propeller gurus.
Its a long , steep and winding road that only a few men will ever reach the summit.
Just saying Mark Wilson is one of the few that made it to the top and stayed there!
Again—- I’m rambling—— trouble is—- I’ve got six weeks of “time on my hands” —- so there could be a lot more of ramblings on the “ TRICKS” site on S+F !

[jackiewilson]

459542

One of my early attempts at fernagling a quickie gear case——- took a bloody long time, and it didn’t seem like it was worth all the effort.
Another of my better attempts was on the big Jonrude stuck on the bum of the PUGH I DID FOR ROGER HINSDALE.

[Rotary John]

Looks like a mechanic drew the Merc—- and an artist designed the OMC—— You are correct Jackie. Clarence Blanchard designed the outside shape of the OMC gear case above and those who knw him, know he was an artist first. In his later years he carved decoys that were sold for small fortunes.
Jim Nerstrom (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009051379415&comment_id=Y29tbWVudDoyNTM3NTkxMjE2NTE5MjMwXzI1MzkxNDUzNTk2OTcxNDk%3D)
Charlie Strang designed the first twin pinions while he was at Jones Engines waiting for his non-compete with Kiekhaefer to end. He worked with an engineer at OMC Waukegan who did the actural design layout - Hank Duer. Clarence Blanchard designed the CCC gearcase, which btw had a pitot tube cast into the strut/skeg. The pitot idea was later dropped because they would plug up and could not be cleared. I designed the CC, 727, V8 and SST100. Karl did not design any of our products.

[Rotary John]

459542

One of my early attempts at fernagling a quickie gear case——- took a bloody long time, and it didn’t seem like it was worth all the effort.
Another of my better attempts was on the big Jonrude stuck on the bum of the PUGH I DID FOR ROGER HINSDALE.
You did one for my rotary model you did fr me. As a footnote, the rotary never ran with the "Darth Vader" gear case.

[jackiewilson]

You did one for my rotary model you did fr me. As a footnote, the rotary never ran with the "Darth Vader" gear case.
Did get a great bottle of very expensive single malt for that one Johnno——- that day I ate bear!!!

[jackiewilson]

459543459544

Few years ago—— one for Gene and one for Ted—- tried hard to make em look alike !
Both men played an important part in the tale of the REDBIRD.

[jackiewilson]

Spent a couple of hours at the Trauma unit in the Victoria Hospital East Grinstead today—— been a week since the surgery and the damn thing was beginning to stink.
Sure enough when they finally removed the dressing wet rot had set in—— looked a bit grey- spit out and trod on —- not quite right somehow !
Its all cleaned up with a thermal plastic splint—- it’s good to go until Tuesday, we’ll take it from there!
Bad news is——- no driving —- no workshop—- no dust or dirt for the next five weeks, which means I get to bore the crap out of all those poor souls who read this column for the next few weeks.

Might have to write the book —— the one about the sport we all love so much
—- it’s people—- places and events that I can remember or fabricate if I can’t.
It covers all five continents——- multiple countries—— amazing boats and race people, as well as dog boats and crap people.
Probably be a bunch of people wanting my arse——- get in line !!!!
Just keep in touch for the next five weeks—- I promise you lots of stuff never seen before—- with tales from long ago you couldn’t even make up if you tried !
Guess I can put the Silver Ghosts on hold for five weeks !

[Mark Poole ModVP]

Your posts are never boring. Hope you get healed up soon. Love the art you have been producing in the workshop.

[jackiewilson]

Your posts are never boring. Hope you get healed up soon. Love the art you have been producing in the workshop.
Thanks for that Mark—— you’ll probably be seeing a great deal more of it on these pictures in the near future—— I’ll be whiling away the hours somehow——and I have lots of pictures like these!459614459615

[Lake X Kid]

Spent a couple of hours at the Trauma unit in the Victoria Hospital East Grinstead today—— been a week since the surgery and the damn thing was beginning to stink.
Sure enough when they finally removed the dressing wet rot had set in—— looked a bit grey- spit out and trod on —- not quite right somehow !
Its all cleaned up with a thermal plastic splint—- it’s good to go until Tuesday, we’ll take it from there!
Bad news is——- no driving —- no workshop—- no dust or dirt for the next five weeks, which means I get to bore the crap out of all those poor souls who read this column for the next few weeks.

Might have to write the book —— the one about the sport we all love so much
—- it’s people—- places and events that I can remember or fabricate if I can’t.
It covers all five continents——- multiple countries—— amazing boats and race people, as well as dog boats and crap people.
Probably be a bunch of people wanting my arse——- get in line !!!!
Just keep in touch for the next five weeks—- I promise you lots of stuff never seen before—- with tales from long ago you couldn’t even make up if you tried !
Guess I can put the Silver Ghosts on hold for five weeks !

Your book about “the sport we all love so much”, sounds like an interesting read. I would like to suggest a protagonist on a journey will, generate a wider readership, then a journal book of events. I have mentioned this to Ron Hill in the past too.

Rocky is probably the most successful sport’s movie. And the storyline is not just the fight game, but tensions & resolves with his trainer and his girlfriend’s brother. And also Rocky pursuing and courting his new girlfriend.

Race car movies like Ford vs Ferrari, Rush, Grand Prix and Lemans all have storylines off the race track too. These movies want the viewer to identify with the protagonist racer, and his struggles and accomplishments off the track. Then the viewer will root-for the racer, when he is racing on the big screen.

These basic movie formats that bring out large audiences will, also lend themselves to books. You mention “fabricate” and that might be what it will take to bring a boat racing book to the masses. I took a lady friend to see the movie Ford vs Ferrari, and I was surprised she liked the movie. And why —it had an interesting storyline and characters, because she is not interested in race cars or racing.

[jackiewilson]

Your book about “the sport we all love so much”, sounds like an interesting read. I would like to suggest a protagonist on a journey will, generate a wider readership, then a journal book of events. I have mentioned this to Ron Hill in the past too.

Rocky is probably the most successful sport’s movie. And the storyline is not just the fight game, but tensions & resolves with his trainer and his girlfriend’s brother. And also Rocky pursuing and courting his new girlfriend.

Race car movies like Ford vs Ferrari, Rush, Grand Prix and Lemans all have storylines off the race track too. These movies want the viewer to identify with the protagonist racer, and his struggles and accomplishments off the track. Then the viewer will root-for the racer, when he is racing on the big screen.

These basic movie formats that bring out large audiences will, also lend themselves to books. You mention “fabricate” and that might be what it will take to bring a boat racing book to the masses. I took a lady friend to see the movie Ford vs Ferrari, and I was surprised she liked the movie. And why —it had an interesting storyline and characters, because she is not interested in race cars or racing.

Tell you what ROY—- how about I Write down my thoughts and send em to you to add your thoughts—— then make up a round robin of interesting power boat personalities to add thers——- SEEBOLD —— WARBY—— before it’s too late.
Events alone would never be enough—— has to include the midnight oil—- girlfriend’s—- parties —— aims ,ambitions , successes , failures—- everything there is or ever was in boating.
its the never ending boat story ????

[jackiewilson]

459616459617459618459619459620

459621

One of the offshore concepts from last year—— hardwood—-I have a choice of either polishing or painting!
zFound a really brilliant way to mount most of the boat concepts that come out between 12” and 24” which is relatively simple and fully adjustable.

[STEVERINO]

459626
Don Hendricks was OMC’S prop guru in the late sixties and seventies. I met him a couple of times at Rollas place on the lake Before his big move to Lugano.
There were very few “Prop” men in those days—— although there were a few foundries that would cast props for a price—— Radice—- Michegan .







I’m rambling—— trouble is—- I’ve got six weeks of “time on my hands” —- so there could be a lot more of ramblings on the “ TRICKS” site on S+F ! When OMC first introduced the 2.5 crossflow engines in early 1977 the drivers from the OMC Brugge factory ran the old props from the 2.0 litre crossflow engines because Hendricks had a waiting list Italy and the Usa came first it took me 18 months to take delivery of 2 props by this time these engines were history.

[jackiewilson]

[QUOTE=STEVERINO;31 the 2.5 crossflow engines in early 1977 the drivers from the OMC Brugge factory ran the old props from the 2.0 litre crossflow engines because Hendricks had a waiting list Italy and the Usa came first it took me 18 months to take delivery of 2 props by this time these engines were history.[/QUOTE]
Good Prop men were rare as rocking horse sh-t——- Shakey was one of the first to use Phill Rolla along with Mike Bellamy—— once drivers knew of him, it took some time before you could get a prop fashioned to your own needs.
Like I said Hendricks and Rolla were close friends.
Phill is in hospital at this moment in Switzerland and likely to be so for the next six weeks, Hes well past 80 and prop bashing has taken its toll.

[jackiewilson]

459627

Told you I had a “Shedload” of concepts.
Time to unload and make room for some newer fernaglings?

[jackiewilson]

459628

Sister Ange wanted a “nice modern concept for the garden”. Ten years on its still out there looking good——- stainless and brass!
Another example of “ Concepts”——

[jackiewilson]

459629

Sammy James bought this off me in Tavares a few years back.

[jackiewilson]

459639

I had never seen the tower in the flesh so to speak , until a couple of years back, when the old farts visited Lake X. Most of the people I knew from Mercury had at one time or another been down to the lake. I honestly thought I never would get to see it. But I did.
I had made at least three concepts of the tower long before I got to see it.
I think I might just do another one, just to prove to myself I can!

[jackiewilson]

459656459657

Did this one for BUTLER—— one of my all time favourite people!

Thats me done for the day!!!

[Rotary John]

Jackie: When you take a picture, put something in it that people will recognize, like a pack of cigarettes. It give a perspective of size. I don't think most people realize how big your concepts really are.

[jackiewilson]

Jackie: When you take a picture, put something in it that people will recognize, like a pack of cigarettes. It give a perspective of size. I don't think most people realize how big your concepts really are.

Ok Johnno- I’ll bear it in mind, lots of the concepts I don’t even take a piccy of.
Main purpose of Fernagling is to ward off the arthritis and keep the mind active. I’ve seen so many of my old acquaintances retire to the tv and armchair gracefully—— then cop their clogs just as gracefully.
I want to go at 100 mph plus—- out of time and out of breath—- still trying to dodge the reaper!

[jackiewilson]

459681

metals good to work with, but slow, hard , expensive and dirty!—- Could never make up my mind whether or not it was all worth while.

[jackiewilson]

459682

mix of the wood and metal—— years on and I still can’t make up my mind?

[jackiewilson]

459683

Horses for courses I suppose!

[jackiewilson]

459687459688

There are times when woo is good!

[Rotary John]

459683

Horses for courses I suppose!
Jackie: I put your picture of your plane on Lars Evinrude blog with a note to Jim Nerstrom. He is into planes now and Lars deleted it almost immediately. Petty BS

[lars strom]

Jackie: I put your picture of your plane on Lars Evinrude blog with a note to Jim Nerstrom. He is into planes now and Lars deleted it almost immediately. Petty BS

Not sure why you do this Rotary John but here is the rules for the Evinrude FaceBook page.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2043017495976607/?ref=bookmarks

You are a FB friend with Jim Nerstrom so why not but this not related to Evinrude on Jim's FB page instead.

Thanks

Lars

https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=459703&d=1583080139

[jackiewilson]

Not sure why you do this Rotary John but here is the rules for the Evinrude FaceBook page.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2043017495976607/?ref=bookmarks

You are a FB friend with Jim Nerstrom so why not but this not related to Evinrude on Jim's FB page instead.

Thanks

Lars

https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=459703&d=1583080139

Whoa ease up a little Lassie—— we have known each other nearly fifty years—— I have no axe to grind with you. Never really close friends but acquaintances, I have loads of friends who are Jonrude orientated but have never ever fallen out with them. Have to tell you, all the drivers in the factory teams respected each other, we were on different sides of the fence, apart from that, we were all exactly the same.
If ever there was a JONRUDE stalwart it’s ROTORY JOHN—— engineer— designer—probably .the greatest authority on the Jonrude ROTORY IN THE WORLD,!!
You are wholly Evinrude committed, well good for you!!! They didn’t do me any favours, they were part of the opposition! So, I do not hold the Evinrude brand torch above knee level.
Why on earth would you criticise Rotory John for posting something that was not “ Evinrude “.
I have seen various postings on your site that were not wholly Jonrude—— the million dollar RV—— Carinas Zumba—— military landings on your property—— so stop being so bloody righteous—- I think an apology to John Sheldon is in order Lassie. Let’s not get in to a pissing contest as to the content of the offending item!

Me—- Im totally Mercury oriented—— I was a team member—-Mercury dealer—— yes I’ve fallen out with most of the Mercury guys over the years , but never with a Jonrude driver, but the tricks site is open to all comers , on any subject, and you especially Lassie..
You were sorely missed at Tavares in 2019 . You will be welcome at any of the OFF meetings any time, it saddens me that you felt the need to belittle a man of John Sheldon’s standing.

P.S. I would have put this on your site—- but you would probably have it removed before it got printed .as it’s not Jonrude oriented.

[jackiewilson]

Jackie: I put your picture of your plane on Lars Evinrude blog with a note to Jim Nerstrom. He is into planes now and Lars deleted it almost immediately. Petty BS

Johnno , I am so sorry this happened—- you have inadvertently walked into the minefield that seems to exist between Lassie and myself.
You are very much OMC whilst I am Pretty much Mercury—- yet we have become great friends over the years, so it can be done.
When and if I ever meet Lassie again , I’ll do my damndest to put things right.

[lars strom]

Jackie..you are missing the point..Rotary John placed the picture and info on my Facebook page not here at Scream & Fly.
I am spending a lot of time moderating my FB page from off topic stuff..!!
A very successful Facebook page and I like to keep it that way.

[FUJIMO]

...and this is just one, of many reasons, so many signed on to facebook years ago, and then dropped it completely a couple years later, or rarely go there anymore... but the teenagers still use it, I understand...

[jackiewilson]

Jackie: I put your picture of your plane on Lars Evinrude blog with a note to Jim Nerstrom. He is into planes now and Lars deleted it almost immediately. Petty BS

Johnno , I am so sorry this happened—- you have inadvertently walked into the minefield that seems to exist between Lassie and myself.
You are very much OMC whilst I am Pretty much Mercury—- yet we have become great friends over the years, so it can be done.
When and if I ever meet Lassie again , I’ll do my damndest to put things right.

[jackiewilson]

459738

Did this one when Craig was racing P1 several years ago—- a pair of P1’s crossing the start line together with the start clock in the background. Last time I saw it was in the office of WILSON CUSTOM COMPOSITES.
Numbers in that particular class seem to have dwindled down to a precious few!

[jackiewilson]

Jackie..you are missing the point..Rotary John placed the picture and info on my Facebook page not here at Scream & Fly.
I am spending a lot of time moderating my FB page from off topic stuff..!!
A very successful Facebook page and I like to keep it that way.
OK, Lassie, let me get this straight, did Rotory John post the plane picture on S+F or not.?

[jackiewilson]

459738

Did this one when Craig was racing P1 several years ago—- a pair of P1’s crossing the start line together with the start clock in the background. Last time I saw it was in the office of WILSON CUSTOM COMPOSITES.
Numbers in that particular class seem to have dwindled down to a precious few!

[jackiewilson]

459739

Been more rain over the weekend—— this is in East Yorkshire. Lots of misery for the residents.

[Rotary John]

OK, Lassie, let me get this straight, did Rotory John post the plane picture on S+F or not.?

Jackie: It was not on S&F. It was on a group I am part of on MY FB page. Jim Nerstrom contributes to that group on occasion, but not S&F. so thinking he may have an interest in your plane, I posted it where he would see it. Fear not, if Lars gets his nose bent out of shape over trivia like that, he can keep his little group. He posts the same stuff on S&F.

[jackiewilson]

Jackie: It was not on S&F. It was on a group I am part of on MY FB page. Jim Nerstrom contributes to that group on occasion, but not S&F. so thinking he may have an interest in your plane, I posted it where he would see it. Fear not, if Lars gets his nose bent out of shape over trivia like that, he can keep his little group. He posts the same stuff on S&F.

Oh yes, he does have a tendency to post the same stuff over and over—- mind you Johnno— he does have a huge following and the fastest growing site on S+F, so he can’t be doing it all wrong!
Only one keeping pace with him is Fujimo. It’s OMC’S v Mercury all over again.
I try to stay neutral but with a tendency leaning towards black!

[Rotary John]

I guess it's me and you on "Tricks". Lars kicked me out of his little group. I guess it's not hard to expand a site if you continually use other peoples pictures, post the same stuff over and over again, and spend your days searching the internet for pictures. If you want to see what he's posted on his FB site, look at S&F, it's all the same stuff. Not one thing original. And if someone posted something on his S&F site, he immediately reposts it on his FB site.

[jackiewilson]

Jackie: It was not on S&F. It was on a group I am part of on MY FB page. Jim Nerstrom contributes to that group on occasion, but not S&F. so thinking he may have an interest in your plane, I posted it where he would see it. Fear not, if Lars gets his nose bent out of shape over trivia like that, he can keep his little group. He posts the same stuff on S&F.

Oh yes, he does have a tendency to post the same stuff over and over—- mind you Johnno— he does have a huge following and the fastest growing site on S+F, so he can’t be doing it all wrong!
Only one keeping pace with him is Fujimo

[jackiewilson]

Spent all Sunday afternoon (4hours) in the a+e department at chichester hospital—— the digit was stinking and throbbing —— was found to be tad off, treated and away we went home.
appointment at the trauma unit at East Grinstead for this afternoon—— upshot of all this —- it’s getting better— but slower than I like.
Doesn’t help knowing I’ve still got another month to go before I can get back into the shop.

Gave me a chance to continue with “ The never ending Boat book” —— but , it’s been going on for over twenty five years, just don’t hold your breath.

[jackiewilson]

Forget to tell you , I finally collected the new fangs. Been nearly eighteen months and three thousand quid since the treatment started!!
I no longer have a “lipth “ —— I look and feel better than most of the other old farts including Rich Luhrs.
Now it’s bedtime—- been a long hard day!

[jackiewilson]

Nearly forgotten what a good nights sleep was, last night I had one.
Pain killers are down to one in the morning and one at night, instead of the six a day every four hours.
Have to smile to myself every time I speak now, from lisping for fourteen years since a dumb assed French dentist “improved” my top plate by adding a pound of plastic and a “Leepth” ( French for a lisp).
This new device is wafer thin and only round the gums —- does not cover the roof .
I no longer sound like a gay with a lisp.
The pong has gone !!! Digit smells of Dettol and betterness—— hope lies in the breast eternal?
Time to shower and spray on some smelly—— time to start being a been again—- a human bean— with ambition!
Keep looking—- there will be something — I promise !

[jackiewilson]

Forget to tell you—— Woke up this morning to a cloudless blue sky and no wind, for the first time in nearly two months.
i think it’s the first or second day of spring — maybe the tides turning, better things to come!

[jackiewilson]

Ok, promise this is the last bit of depression I’m posting for a long while.
Didnt have a lot on so I went with her indoors to the therapy clinic, she’s been having therapy for nearly a year now since the new hip was implanted, but I’ve never actually sat inside and waited.
Was amazed and disquieted on how many disabled old gits there are being treated for Dementia—- Parkinson’s—- Diabetes’s—- Motor Neurone—- Rabies, Scabies and all ailments in between.
None of them had even reached my age— poor sods! I Ran back to the car —- looked up to the cloudless blue sky and offered a soundless prayer. Today I’m eating bear!

[jackiewilson]

Today, my oldest and dearest friend ADAM LASZCZAR died.
He walked all the way from Warsaw to Ceylon—- armed with just a slingshot at the age of eight.
Started to ring round our various friends to inform them—- only to realise that I was the only one left, last man standing. Nobody left to call .
So I called each of my kids—- they had all known Adam all their lives.
Forgive me for putting the news out here, many of you will never even have heard of him.
None the less —- Hes part of the rich tapestry of life that goes into the “ Tricks” site.
It comes as a hell of a shock to realise the next on the reapers list is you!

[Rotary John]

It comes as a hell of a shock to realise the next on the reapers list is you!
Never fear Jackie, you're too ornery for the grim reaper.

[robert j garner]

Pretty sure the reaper wouldn't have the balls to take on the Yorkshire cumudgen !!!! :eek:

[jackiewilson]

Never fear Jackie, you're too ornery for the grim reaper.

Johnno—— today the bear ate me —— tomorrow I have to face his wife and kids !

Grim reaper better keep a low profile for a while!

[jackiewilson]

Pretty sure the reaper wouldn't have the balls to take on the Yorkshire cumudgen !!!! :eek:

Lot of truth in that today ROBERT!

[jackiewilson]

459838

Made Adam this concept of the boat he and I took to Paris in ‘74/5 . Was a Hodges with a V6 —- coming up to the Tour Eiffel during the second hour, boat took off horizontal about ten feet up—— turned hard right , head first into a parked steel barge.
I bailed out a split second before the boat hit.
The barge won!

[jackiewilson]

What the hell is it about life and death—— fact is stranger than fiction—— my mind is too old and stubborn to accept —— coincidences—- three events at a time—- old wives tales—— all that sort of old bollocks.
Be that as it may—— another old friend of mine just “Copped his clogs”——- John Paske—— Senior Captain of the FOXBRIDGE GOLF CLUB in Ifold.
At this rate I’m locking the bloody door to the shop and throwing away the key, either that, or staying in bed, just pushing buttons on the iPad trying to to throw up all of the FACTS I know about racing boats and motors that were painted black!
Not really a great start to spring—— two funerals to attend and it’s only the fourth of March!
No good thinking about taking a break, nowhere to run to——- bloody coronavirus everywhere—— think I’ll wait six months and see how things settle down.
Planes are empty——- talk of mergers , with air lines failing miserably to cope with the crisis. no wonder when the airlines don’t give rebates on unused tickets——now the way its heading, there’ll only be one air line left—— GLOBAL——- just two fares——- local and international——- tickets are good for a year, and transferable . First and cattle class only. Stop fleecing passengers, they pay the wages.
same on the trains—- buses and subways—— enough is enough—— put your house in order—- or the people will !
Well, I am feeling pissed at the world today and it’s beginning to show!

[Lake X Kid]

https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=459682&d=1583057614 (https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=459682&d=1583057614)

[Lake X Kid]

Tell you what ROY—- how about I Write down my thoughts and send em to you to add your thoughts—— then make up a round robin of interesting power boat personalities to add thers——- SEEBOLD —— WARBY—— before it’s too late.
Events alone would never be enough—— has to include the midnight oil—- girlfriend’s—- parties —— aims ,ambitions , successes , failures—- everything there is or ever was in boating.
its the never ending boat story ????

Jackie your stories are a great read. I am to lazy an arse to put all the good events and midnight oil into a novel. But maybe somebody will.

But if I did. I would be tempted to rewrite history, and instead of an Italian and an American challenging each other for F1 supremacy, I would consider the (fictional or factual) great rival between an English man and a Swedish man. Oh the real and fictional drama, that could be written down in a boat racing novel.

In closing I admire both camps, be it Mercury or OMC, and the guys that breathe it and made the rivalry real.

[Scream And Fly]

Hey everybody, I have to ask a favor. Google issued me a violation because some of the photos on this thread are not 'all-ages' friendly. The site as a whole is designated as an all-ages site, and some of the photos here are pushing that boundary a little. I know there is absolutely no bad intent on anybody posting them, but Google is the primary means of revenue for this site and I can't take chances with losing that account. I hope you all understand.

Greg

[jackiewilson]

Hey everybody, I have to ask a favor. Google issued me a violation because some of the photos on this thread are not 'all-ages' friendly. The site as a whole is designated as an all-ages site, and some of the photos here are pushing that boundary a little. I know there is absolutely no bad intent on anybody posting them, but Google is the primary means of revenue for this site and I can't take chances with losing that account. I hope you all understand.

Greg

Greg.
Now using an “OLD FARTS” still active and analytical mind —— and my own powers of deduction, one would assume that pictures and drawings would have to be of a sexual or suggestive nature before Google started raising a heavy Victorian like hand!
”ALL AGES” friendly ????? There must be guidelines?
Disagreements and differences of opinion can’t possibly be of concern anywhere I’ve visited on S+F ?
Or maybe I’m missing something here Greg and you might need to elucidate or point me in the right direction!
Maybe it’s the use of “regional” language like sh-t and similar?

[jackiewilson]

Jackie your stories are a great read. I am to lazy an arse to put all the good events and midnight oil into a novel. But maybe somebody will.

But if I did. I would be tempted to rewrite history, and instead of an Italian and an American challenging each other for F1 supremacy, I would consider the (fictional or factual) great rival between an English man and a Swedish man. Oh the real and fictional drama, that could be written down in a boat racing novel.

In closing I admire both camps, be it Mercury or OMC, and the guys that breathe it and made the rivalry real.

Roy, get back to you later in the day—— need to sit down quietly and formulate the decent reply your comments deserve.

[jackiewilson]

Jackie your stories are a great read. I am to lazy an arse to put all the good events and midnight oil into a novel. But maybe somebody will.

But if I did. I would be tempted to rewrite history, and instead of an Italian and an American challenging each other for F1 supremacy, I would consider the (fictional or factual) great rival between an English man and a Swedish man. Oh the real and fictional drama, that could be written down in a boat racing novel.

In closing I admire both camps, be it Mercury or OMC, and the guys that breathe it and made the rivalry real.

OK, Here goes.
I first met your dad ROY at a Mercury dealer conference in Bournemouth in the mid sixties—— he was always on the skinny side and constantly chewing on a matchstick, even when talking to you face to face, he was always chewing on a matchstick. He was accompanied by a rather portly, white haired gentleman called Joe Swift who was the PR rep for Mercury at that time.
Roy and I hit it off immediately—— he told me tales of fifty boats fishing for bass, and I told him tales of racing clubs in England and the places in Europe we went to race !
One Saturday Both ROY and Joe turned up at a club race at IVER —— first time I had ever driven the 18’ Torriggia in an actual race.
Formatof a club race was four heats of twelve laps, with the best three heats counting.
Confidence was high—— first imported tunnel into the country—- and it was running a good clean 60+ mph.
No power trim back then—— just the tilt pin holes—— or the shims under the clamps if the settings we’re inbetween.
Things were barrelling along great, I kept on pulling the pin out —- second, third , the fourth pin hole —— man, I tell you — that big cat wasn’t even kissing the water occasionally—— we were flying—— looked at the six inch speedo ( knew we had to be doing a hundred at least——- or so it seemed)
Oh, ohhh, silence—- change of scenery—- sun, sky, clouds——— then black water—— noooo! It couldn’t be happening——- then a gentle thump and things are back to normal —— sure enough the Speedo is set at sixty and we are lapping all the other boats.
Looked down at the once beautiful AVANTO steering wheel, only to find my hands are holding a figure of eight twisted piece of wood and polished metal.
Carried on racing, won the heat and pulled into the pits to find Roy grinning from ear to ear—— told Joe you were going over for the last five laps!
Turns out ROY had blown an Italian tunnel over at lake X just a month before!
There are a series of pictures of that event somewhere—— think Andy Elliot might have them!

Which brings me to this ROY——- just pick up a typewriter or a laptop—— think boats and let your fingers do the rest!
Ive got reams of paper all over the hog market from the book I’ve been meaning to write for over twenty five years. There are poems about racing—- bits about people—— boats and the builders—- clever bit is going to be stitching it all together into something that keeps a reader interested.
By the way —— hows your mum—— she still drinking a case of coke a Cola a day?

TBCont.

[jackiewilson]

Jackie your stories are a great read. I am to lazy an arse to put all the good events and midnight oil into a novel. But maybe somebody will.

But if I did. I would be tempted to rewrite history, and instead of an Italian and an American challenging each other for F1 supremacy, I would consider the (fictional or factual) great rival between an English man and a Swedish man. Oh the real and fictional drama, that could be written down in a boat racing novel.

In closing I admire both camps, be it Mercury or OMC, and the guys that breathe it and made the rivalry real.

OK, Here goes.
I first met your dad ROY at a Mercury dealer conference in Bournemouth in the mid sixties—— he was always on the skinny side and constantly chewing on a matchstick, even when talking to you face to face, he was always chewing on a matchstick. He was accompanied by a rather portly, white haired gentleman called Joe Swift who was the PR rep for Mercury at that time.
Roy and I hit it off immediately—— he told me tales of fifty boats fishing for bass, and I told him tales of racing clubs in England and the places in Europe we went to race !
One Saturday Both ROY and Joe turned up at a club race at IVER —— first time I had ever driven the 18’ Torriggia in an actual race.
Formatof a club race was four heats of twelve laps, with the best three heats counting.
Confidence was high—— first imported tunnel into the country—- and it was running a good clean 60+ mph.
No power trim back then—— just the tilt pin holes—— or the shims under the clamps if the settings we’re inbetween.
Things were barrelling along great, I kept on pulling the pin out —- second, third , the fourth pin hole —— man, I tell you — that big cat wasn’t even kissing the water occasionally—— we were flying—— looked at the six inch speedo ( knew we had to be doing a hundred at least——- or so it seemed)
Oh, ohhh, silence—- change of scenery—- sun, sky, clouds——— then black water—— noooo! It couldn’t be happening——- then a gentle thump and things are back to normal —— sure enough the Speedo is set at sixty and we are lapping all the other boats.
Looked down at the once beautiful AVANTO steering wheel, only to find my hands are holding a figure of eight twisted piece of wood and polished metal.
Carried on racing, won the heat and pulled into the pits to find Roy grinning from ear to ear—— told Joe you were going over for the last five laps!
Turns out ROY had blown an Italian tunnel over at lake X just a month before!
There are a series of pictures of that event somewhere—— think Andy Elliot might have them!

Which brings me to this ROY——- just pick up a typewriter or a laptop—— think boats and let your fingers do the rest!
Ive got reams of paper all over the hog market from the book I’ve been meaning to write for over twenty five years. There are poems about racing—- bits about people—— boats and the builders—- clever bit is going to be stitching it all together into something that keeps a reader interested.
By the way —— hows your mum—— she still drinking a case of coke a Cola a day?

TBCont.

[jackiewilson]

I agree with you on both OMC and Mercury camps—- Pruett was friends with everyone in the world unti he downed his tenth CC7 —— just step back—- don’t get in front ! He would floor a guy —- then put a fatherly like arm around his shoulders —- walk him up to the bar and buy him a drink, be friends with him for the rest of his life!.
But he was friends with all the OMC personnel and every single driver—— Friday evening before lift off he had taken me to meet some of the Jonrude drivers, Jimbo- Ted May— Bob Nordskog—- Art Kennedy and his dad—- Bob De Witt—— Scotti, who id known from way back.

I knew from way back.
Was invited to the OMC “ shrimp bake “——- on the Sunday night!
Pruett was in hospital with a busted hip, broken ribs and a flattened ego after blowing the twin molinari “Up and Way” to the moon and back.
Smitty was in the pits trying to salvage something out of the wreckage of Pruetts rig —— which meant his wife Kathy Flo was all on her own—— anyway CHARLIE and Anne invited us to the “Shrimpbake”—-That was another turning point in my life that lasted for the next fifty years,.!!!!

Tbcont.

[jackiewilson]

First time I met Pruett was on the dockside at Toulon—— I was first in line and had actually boarded the ferry to Dez Embiez .
Pruett was trying to manoeuvre a triple axle trailer with a monstrous power boat perched on top on to the ferry. By simply using common sense, any damn fool could see there wasn’t enough room on the deck for them and us.
I simply drove my rig off the ferry and on to the dock whilst Pruett disappeared toward Dez Embiez!
There’s a week of powerboating around the island —— The Dauphin D’ OR .
Island is owned by Paul Ricard—— it’s where the aniseed plant is grown to make the aperitif RICARD,
Johnny Bloch has a permanent holiday chalet on the island —- was him who invited us to the island .
Next time I saw him, he was stood next to a yellow Maserati—- about two foot high ——-down in Como, in front of the seaplane hanger, dressed in tight jeans, High heeled fancy Sh- t kickers and the black Apache hat. Broke off his conversation, sauntered over with a Hiya Jackieeeee!
Roy walked out of the hanger —— came over and shook hands —- friendship lasted until the reaper caught up with them both!
But there’s a million stories before I’m done with ROY Ridgell and Billy Don Pruett!!

[jackiewilson]

The Torriggia factory on lake Como was something else—— only an architect designed workshop — by an Italian— for an Italian could turn out like this!
Three floors of marble, glass and poured concrete under a red terra cotta tiled roof, with every window looking out over Lake Como.
Downside was—— parking for just three cars——- access was by over One hundred steps —- boats were hauled up and down the cliff face by a mighty crane.
Top floor was a mottled green marble floored showroom that would hold some twenty tunnel boats on trailers.
Second — middle floor — was where the work was done—- joinery shop—- boat building— machinery.
Bottom floor was paint shop and ovens—- rigging —- fitting and launching, with an electrically controlled sliding floor that opened up straight into lake Como.
First time I went there was to collect an 18’ Torriggia tunnel boat that had raced in Paris the previous October.
Boss man was a genial Italian by the name of Jeremiah Cetti Owner—- Builder of the Torrigia set up——

I have no idea of how come it was in the hands of Molinari two years later—- whether Mercury took a lease on it! Or Molinari’s rented it I do not know.!
Maybe I’ll talk to Rolla one day—- he was a-good friend of both Angelo and Jeremiah —- he knows most things about damn near everyone in both offshore and circuit racing worldwide.
On my next visit to Torrigia—- ROY had moved into the huge villa next door to the factory— wife, kids, brother Bobby the whole shebang. Again, right on lake Como.
Half the Hi- Perf personnel from Oshberg were billeted in the little ALBERGO just down the street.
Wyrabeck—Welch—- Le More—- Byers—- Garbrecht. And more, but I can’t remember them all!
We all met early for breakfast in the little diner down from the factory—— most of the guys order eggs and bacon for breakfast——— now Italians do not have bacon and eggs for breakfast—— they have thick, stand the spoon upright black coffee and a dry cheese and ham roll——- end of, no choice. So when the cafe owner got an order for ten “ bacon and egg “ breakfasts, he simply did not know which way to turn—— first two portions came out of the kitchen on a tin plate —— straight out of the oven
One slice of raw palma ham with an underdone snotty egg on top ——- not at all what the Mercury guys were looking for!
I quickly donned an apron and looked at the various meats in the fridge —- saw the box of fresh eggs and set about making something a little more palatable! Half an hour later the cafe was empty—- I still hadn’t eaten. Jovanni the owner said” Mr. Jack—— teach me to make an American breakfast! Told him there was no such thing—— it was a mutilated ENGLISH BREAKFAST,
GG asked me to spend the day teaching him all the variations of a simple breakfast—— it must have worked—- the guys ate at the ALBERGO all the time after that.

Tbcont.

[jackiewilson]

There’s a lot been written about Molinari—- Mercury—- and Torriggia—— most of it’s confined to the archives, very few people left can remember it, let alone talk about it!
Willabee was there for most of the time so he could give a very good account of the happenings there!
Gary and I had had issues ! He had replaced me with Spalding and Percival—- I was still friends with everyone else so I was allowed to call in at Torrigia anytime.
Right up to the end—- after the bust up with Molinari Mercury moved out and omc moved in.
There was only one truck being loaded with motors and parts to return to the USA .
That thing was full to the gills of Mercury parts.
Roy was in charge of what was dumped into the lake and what was saved—— ROY knew which gearcases were done—- which blocks were duds—- I helped dump thousands of dollars worth of parts into lake Como.
I remember Lake como and Torriggia and the American invasion——- The Ridgells residing there—- the fight my kids had with Bobbys kids——- Boo and Biff getting into it big time—— having to be separated by Angelo.
Being very cross when Tom and Bob got my job—- my little sprint being taken and the motor confiscated. It all seems trivial now, but at the time my perfect little world collapsed.

[STEVERINO]

There’s a lot been written about Molinari—- Mercury—- and Torriggia—— most of it’s confined to the archives, very few people left can remember it, let alone talk about it!
Willabee was there for most of the time so he could give a very good account of the happenings there!
Gary and I had had issues ! He had replaced me with Spalding and Percival—- I was still friends with everyone else so I was allowed to call in at Torrigia anytime.
Right up to the end—- after the bust up with Molinari Mercury moved out and omc moved in.
There was only one truck being loaded with motors and parts to return to the USA .
That thing was full to the gills of Mercury parts.
Roy was in charge of what was dumped into the lake and what was saved—— ROY knew which gearcases were done—- which blocks were duds—- I helped dump thousands of dollars worth of parts into lake Como.
I remember Lake como and Torriggia and the American invasion——- The Ridgells residing there—- the fight my kids had with Bobbys kids——- Boo and Biff getting into it big time—— having to be separated by Angelo.
Being very cross when Tom and Bob got my job—- my little sprint being taken and the motor confiscated. It all seems trivial now, but at the time my perfect little world collapsed. Jacki let me run this by you in 1969 Mercury had 13 SBP race engines running in the UK.In 1970 you and Rossi got the first Twister 1 you ran it on a red 17ft Molinari and Billy Shakespeare got the other. Mercury had to bring over Molinari and the Rasini bros for the Chasewater 500 race which you and Rossi won. Billy had his engine taken off him and given to Freddi Miles because he also ran a OMC outfit.Meanwhile Tucker from Omc Brugge had asked Spalding to race a Johnson powered Molinari with Percival in that same chasewater race you won.In 1971 Bob Spalding went back to Mercury with a Twister 1 and Percival too ran the same engine on a Abbate outfit. Meanwhile I think Gabrecht had an idea the JPS sponsorship was coming so when this was announced in 1972 he provided both with new Molinaris next thing Velden arrived with a Marlboro sponsored Molinari.that made 4 UK outfits in total If things had been any different there would never have been any Cosworth powered inboards so I think maybe its not such a bad trade off.

[jackiewilson]

Jacki let me run this by you in 1969 Mercury had 13 SBP race engines running in the UK.In 1970 you and Rossi got the first Twister 1 you ran it on a red 17ft Molinari and Billy Shakespeare got the other. Mercury had to bring over Molinari and the Rasini bros for the Chasewater 500 race which you and Rossi won. Billy had his engine taken off him and given to Freddi Miles because he also ran a OMC outfit.Meanwhile Tucker from Omc Brugge had asked Spalding to race a Johnson powered Molinari with Percival in that same chasewater race you won.In 1971 Bob Spalding went back to Mercury with a Twister 1 and Percival too ran the same engine on a Abbate outfit. Meanwhile I think Gabrecht had an idea the JPS sponsorship was coming so when this was announced in 1972 he provided both with new Molinaris next thing Velden arrived with a Marlboro sponsored Molinari.that made 4 UK outfits in total If things had been any different there would never have been any Cosworth powered inboards so I think maybe its not such a bad trade off.

One of my favourite things in life was to load my family into the camper , hook up the boat and head up to Oulton BRoad for the Thursday evening meetings.
Bob and I had been friends for years—- long before the advent of tunnels —— my girls and the Spalding girls are still friends. My wife Brenda and Patsy Spalding were long time friends.
Frankie Holmes-Peter Sabberton— John Clayburn — Percy—- I’ve raced against them all !
Tom always raced an Abbatte—- was never quite up to the calibre of the Molinari .
Always thought Bob was the better Driver of the two—- Tom had his days—- Bob was consistent when given decent kit . Always believed I was better than either of them. Just never drove over my head,I had five great kids and a good life—— something I tried to get through to GG.
Carl himself gave Shakey the First 100 hp Mercury after he won Paris with it , so for a while he was the dogs cajones with Mercury! Downside, he was always testing the latest Jonrudes against the latest Mercs——- Pat Frewer from SWMF found out and pulled the Merc , and gave it to Freddie.
John Tucker and I were good friends—- he always wanted me to run a Rude—- I always declined—- even paid for a trip to Brugge—- offered me the latest engine, it never happened!
Closest I got to an OMC factory drive was with Alfie Bullen in Paris——- Alfie wrecked the boat in the first hour—— just wasn’t meant to be !
Bill Brown was the first to run the COSWORTH 2 litre BDG’s —- again, he wasn’t as good a driver as me—- he never ever came close to beating me once !
I ran four Boats with the BDG——- The Milesmaster with Bill Brown—— then the Scimitar on my own, best boat I ever ran. Woodwork was not anywhere near the quality of the Hodges, but the ride was the best I ever had—— only boat I ever had that always did what it was told—— DAVE Brocklington from Chard built it for Roger Hook!
Had another three Hodges BDG’s —- all fell short of what I expected.
Got Hodges to build the boat to House the DFV—- I knew we only had one shot at it— the deal with KEITH Duckworth was a one off—- for one brief season—- again, I trod very carefully. If I had gone with SEEBOLD———the motor, with a conservative 400 horsepower—-and capable of producing over 600 hp. Same motor in F1 was pulling 750 .
Cees said he would build me a boat for free—— told him no thanks.
He asked me why not—- told him —- ‘Cos I don’t like you
!
I know that a lot of the above gleanings are not politically correct—- but it’s time to tell things the way they are or we’re back then.
Hope that answers your questions Steve. That’s the way I saw it—— Feel free to ask anything you want to know if you think I might have the answer!.

Just for the record—— the 17’ Red Molinari and the silo belonged to Mercury—— it was never mine—-
Don blew it over in Amsterdam—- he was three laps in the lead at the two hour mark.
He tore his hip out—- never raced again.

[jackiewilson]

It’s worth mentioning that Bob and Tom had acquired a full Martini Sponsorship—— Garbrecht told them there was no way they could run Martini and stay in the Mercury team—— they had to run the John Player logo.

[powerabout]

ya still cant get bacon in Italy...

[jackiewilson]

ya still cant get bacon in Italy...

Have to be very careful where we tread here Pilgrim—— Americans only eat overcooked streaky crispy bacon—— English as a rule eat either Smoked or green lean back bacon!
And to be fair, you can’t get Negro, cured Parma or Serrano ham in the states—— except at Italian deli’s —- or Spanish tapas bars!

[jackiewilson]

Up to Thursday my little village—-Walberton had managed to escape the floods that have plagued England for most of the winter —— then it all changed—- 48 hours constant heavy rain was a bucketful too far. For most of the afternoon the roads in and out of the village were flooded—- it was up to the sills on the Lexus.
Wettest February since records began ——- March came in like a lion —- high winds and lots more rain.
The ides of March are supposed to dry out the fields so the farmers can plant the crops.
First time in many a long year I haven’t been in the workshop. Yes, I am getting withdrawal symptoms.
prognosis is another seven weeks .
I thought seeing as how I can’t use the lathe I might as well sell it —— put it on eBay—- sold it to guy in China for a big bag of gold.Payment was immediate via PayPal.
Problem is attaching it to a half palate and shipping it up to the midland for despatch to China from a central collection area!
Do have another lathe waiting in the wings—— much more up to date—— DRO and all that jazz!

[powerabout]

Have to be very careful where we tread here Pilgrim—— Americans only eat overcooked streaky crispy bacon—— English as a rule eat either Smoked or green lean back bacon!
And to be fair, you can’t get Negro, cured Parma or Serrano ham in the states—— except at Italian deli’s —- or Spanish tapas bars!
Bacon is both smoked and salt cured I think which is what makes it unique. Italians dont have any pork done that way.

[STEVERINO]

460090460091460092
One of my favourite things in life was to load my family into the camper , hook up the boat and head up to Oulton BRoad for the Thursday evening meetings.
Bob and I had been friends for years—- long before the advent of tunnels —— my girls and the Spalding girls are still friends. My wife Brenda and Patsy Spalding were long time friends.
Frankie Holmes-Peter Sabberton— John Clayburn — Percy—- I’ve raced against them all !
Tom always raced an Abbatte—- was never quite up to the calibre of the Molinari .
Always thought Bob was the better Driver of the two—- Tom had his days—- Bob was consistent when given decent kit . Always believed I was better than either of them. Just never drove over my head,I had five great kids and a good life—— something I tried to get through to GG.
Carl himself gave Shakey the First 100 hp Mercury after he won Paris with it , so for a while he was the dogs cajones with Mercury! Downside, he was always testing the latest Jonrudes against the latest Mercs——- Pat Frewer from SWMF found out and pulled the Merc , and gave it to Freddie.
John Tucker and I were good friends—- he always wanted me to run a Rude—- I always declined—- even paid for a trip to Brugge—- offered me the latest engine, it never happened!
Closest I got to an OMC factory drive was with Alfie Bullen in Paris——- Alfie wrecked the boat in the first hour—— just wasn’t meant to be !
Bill Brown was the first to run the COSWORTH 2 litre BDG’s —- again, he wasn’t as good a driver as me—- he never ever came close to beating me once !
I ran four Boats with the BDG——- The Milesmaster with Bill Brown—— then the Scimitar on my own, best boat I ever ran.









. The first ON class Scimitar boat built was a lemon the first time I drove it was in the 1973 Paris race I have told this story before after 1hrs fuel load was gone it wanted to float along so after just over 1hr I came in early to refuel told the other driver Jeff Edwards to come back in after 1hr the team thought I was nuts.He never listened to me and ended up in a hospital in Paris for the next week .A few weeks later the owner of Scimitar boats invited the Powerboat and Watersking magazine to Fairford and had Peter Thorneywork and Rodger Jenkins drive the same boat both saying how good it was and had the magazine publish it Jeff Edwards went on to fly this boat 3 times in total they called him the flying greengrocer

[jackiewilson]

460090460091460092 The first ON class Scimitar boat built was a lemon the first time I drove it was in the 1973 Paris race I have told this story before after 1hrs fuel load was gone it wanted to float along so after just over 1hr I came in early to refuel told the other driver Jeff Edwards to come back in after 1hr the team thought I was nuts.He never listened to me and ended up in a hospital in Paris for the next week .A few weeks later the owner of Scimitar boats invited the Powerboat and Watersking magazine to Fairford and had Peter Thorneywork and Rodger Jenkins drive the same boat both saying how good it was and had the magazine publish it Jeff Edwards went on to fly this boat 3 times in total they called him the flying greengrocer

Never got to tell anyone down at chard my thoughts on the boat—- Roger Hook was gone— the boat had never had a motor in it or been on the water before I bought it.
First time on the water in Amsterdam, it led for the first hour comfortably until a split hose doused the electrics. And the deck and the hull parted company.
Chas Shooter worked the oracle and had it up and running for the next heat—-same thing again in the second hour and a half heat—— Led from start to finish, but must confess —— did split a hose and slowed towards the end.
This was against both factory teams —- everyone was there including Molinari—— Cees was organising the race , so didn’t participate!
You would not believe how much I was paid for that boat.

[STEVERINO]

460104460100460101460102460103460105
Never got to tell anyone down at chard my thoughts on the boat—- Roger Hook was gone— the boat had never had a motor in it or been on the water before I bought it.
First time on the water in Amsterdam, it led for the first hour comfortably until a split hose doused the electrics. And the deck and the hull parted company.
Chas Shooter worked the oracle and had it up and running for the next heat—-same thing again in the second hour and a half heat—— Led from start to finish, but must confess —— did split a hose and slowed towards the end.
This was against both factory teams —- everyone was there including Molinari—— Cees was organising the race , so didn’t participate!
You would not believe how much I was paid for that boat. This story continues in 1974 I asked Dave Brockington if I had a Scimitar boat built could we find another OMC Stinger for me to use as Edwards had the E P BARRUS supplied engine.We did find out Alf bullen had a load of spare V4 parts Alfi said if dave builds you an engine to race you can use it for 2 races then I want it back.So i arranged with Brockington to pay for a boat building at Scimitar but they were non too pleased with my opinion after their first attempt so Brockington said you did all the criticising with the first boat you do the drawings for this one and i still have the drawings to this day i even took them to caddilacs one year for you to see.The first race it ran in was the 1974 Amsterdam 3hr race this was groundbreaking race as Garbrecht had 8 all new Molinaris with the new T3 engines on fuel injection running this new boat i had was 19ft long so i never had to slow down for the rough water we had a troublefree race and finished 4th overall and got 1st place as a private entry.I have a picture of my boat it looks identical to your inboard in 1975 I did the drawings for a 17ft version that Scimitar built and in 1978 I had a sprint version built which finished 1 place behind you in the 1978 World OZ race at Chasewater.

[jackiewilson]

The World F1 championship at Chasewater was a funny old time for me—- after financing the COSWORTH Boat wise —- paying for the stern drive—- instrumentation—— plus having my mechanic , Bob Savage working full time up at COSWORTH’S in Northampton for six weeks, the pot was empty!
A blow over was not acceptable, I simply couldn’t afford it—— COSWORTH did the installation and supplied the motor. ( A DFV in Le Mans trim——- would run 24 hours non stop—- gave out a modest 400 + horsepower).
Boat was always a front runner, right from the start, Duckworth always wondered if I was as good as the factory drivers ( I never had any doubts). So we had a discussion with SEEBOLD and Garbrecht!
Seebold was to drive the boat round Chasewater as fast as he could—- see if he could better my times—- he never did!
We tried the wing , but down the straight there was a cross wind that played havoc—- arse end was corkscrewing—— front left sponson was waving at the crowd—— if ever a set up was out of shape, this was it. Dumped the wing—- got the boat going round corners ok , but lost ten miles an hour—- 20’ was too long, I realised that at Bristol.
We topped up fifth ( I think) against both factory teams—— not the result we wanted, but self preservation and conservatism played a huge part in the result.
As usual, the motor ran faultlessly—— motor’s top RPM was 10,000—- never once in the entire season did we run any More than 8,500 rpm.

[STEVERINO]

The World F1 championship at Chasewater was a funny old time for me—- after financing the COSWORTH Boat wise —- paying for the stern drive—- instrumentation—— plus having my mechanic , Bob Savage working full time up at COSWORTH’S in Northampton for six weeks, the pot was empty!
A blow over was not acceptable, I simply couldn’t afford it—— COSWORTH did the installation and supplied the motor. ( A DFV in Le Mans trim——- would run 24 hours non stop—- gave out a modest 400 + horsepower).
Boat was always a front runner, right from the start, Duckworth always wondered if I was as good as the factory drivers ( I never had any doubts). So we had a discussion with SEEBOLD and Garbrecht!
Seebold was to drive the boat round Chasewater as fast as he could—- see if he could better my times—- he never did!
We tried the wing , but down the straight there was a cross wind that played havoc—- arse end was corkscrewing—— front left sponson was waving at the crowd—— if ever a set up was out of shape, this was it. Dumped the wing—- got the boat going round corners ok , but lost ten miles an hour—- 20’ was too long, I realised that at Bristol.
We topped up fifth ( I think) against both factory teams—— not the result we wanted, but self preservation and conservatism played a huge part in the result.
As usual, the motor ran faultlessly—— motor’s top RPM was 10,000—- never once in the entire season did we run any More than 8,500 rpm.I have the original program for the 1978 World f1 championship race at Chasewater they had 22 entries altogether.Our old friend Dave Brockington did all the work to get my new boat to this event it only arrived 7 days before the race it only had a back cowl which Chris Hodges had supplied dave took a mould off my Molinari front cowl and did the white paintjob we arrived at chasewater at 3.30 friday afternoon the boat had never seen water and the time trials finished at 4.0 clock they said you have 3 flying laps and then told me that either the 3rd fastest or 4th fastest boats from each country only would qualify any way we made it i think Alfis entry was through Belgium i am sure Bob Spalding never qualified he had a big fall out with GARBRECHT and never got a special powerhead for this event.He had to run his normal race engine Garbrecht supplied new hot powerheads to the other Mercury supported drivers even Jenkins who started running under Mariner.I think they had the Perno Grand Prix in 2 heats as the support race and Bob Spalding did run in that event and i did too and i managed to blow another gearcase had to borrow one from Bill Badsey to make the last heat.

[Lake X Kid]

Looks like Bristol.

Post# 11687.

https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=460101&d=1513418401

[Lake X Kid]

You really must not like a guy (boat builder at that) when he tells you he will build you a new boat, and give it to you FREE! Mr. Jackie, I am clueless why you thought of Cees like that. But I do know Cees to be a little different than most. I remember him peddling diamonds to my Mom (and yes she still drinks Coke & Pepsi, but I not certain which is her brand of choice today). Cees had in the palm of his hand some cut diamonds, and asked me if I wanted to buy some too, and I declined the offer.

The better/faster driver between Bob S. and Tom P. I also leaned slightly towards Bob, until I saw both race at Bristol 1973. Tom was impressive. I remember at Auronzo (might have been 1971) and it was sprint heats, and Bob and Tom couldn't separate from each other in the race. So much so, that I remember after one heat, in the pits Bob mentioned as much to Tom. It seemed they were rubbing paint with each other.

The Scimitar your "best boat I ever ran" is a major testament. Considering all the other hulls you drove including Molinari and Schultz too.



Always thought Bob was the better Driver of the two—- Tom had his days—- Bob was consistent when given decent kit . Always believed I was better than either of them. Just never drove over my head,I had five great kids and a good life—— something I tried to get through to GG.

I ran four Boats with the BDG——- The Milesmaster with Bill Brown—— then the Scimitar on my own, best boat I ever ran. Woodwork was not anywhere near the quality of the Hodges, but the ride was the best I ever had—— only boat I ever had that always did what it was told—— DAVE Brocklington from Chard built it for Roger Hook!
Had another three Hodges BDG’s —- all fell short of what I expected.

Got Hodges to build the boat to House the DFV—- I knew we only had one shot at it— the deal with KEITH Duckworth was a one off—- for one brief season—- again, I trod very carefully. If I had gone with SEEBOLD———the motor, with a conservative 400 horsepower—-and capable of producing over 600 hp. Same motor in F1 was pulling 750 .
Cees said he would build me a boat for free—— told him no thanks.
He asked me why not—- told him —- ‘Cos I don’t like you
!
I know that a lot of the above gleanings are not politically correct—- but it’s time to tell things the way they are or we’re back then.
.

[jackiewilson]

You really must not like a guy (boat builder at that) when he tells you he will build you a new boat, and give it to you FREE! Mr. Jackie, I am clueless why you thought of Cees like that. But I do know Cees to be a little different than most. I remember him peddling diamonds to my Mom (and yes she still drinks Coke & Pepsi, but I not certain which is her brand of choice today). Cees had in the palm of his hand some cut diamonds, and asked me if I wanted to buy some too, and I declined the offer.

The better/faster driver between Bob S. and Tom P. I also leaned slightly towards Bob, until I saw both race at Bristol 1973. Tom was impressive. I remember at Auronzo (might have been 1971) and it was sprint heats, and Bob and Tom couldn't separate from each other in the race. So much so, that I remember after one heat, in the pits Bob mentioned as much to Tom. It seemed they were rubbing paint with each other.

The Scimitar your "best boat I ever ran" is a major testament. Considering all the other hulls you drove including Molinari and Schultz too.

Roy. I have known and raced against Bob and Tom for many years, long before the factory days.The circuit racing community was much smaller than in the USA.
Most drivers were family men, so their kids went with them——— same thing at every club in the country. Kids looked after each other, became friends for life.
All the venues were away from the main arterial highways——- plenty of room for the kids to play!
As we started to venture abroad, we met French, Italian, DUTCH, Spanish Australian and AMERICAN pilots——- most of them had children—— doesn’t matter what nationality you were—- a kids a kid !
Even if they couldn’t speak the language, the kids understood each other—- there were no barriers.
Once caught Tom measuring up my new Molinari at Chasewater —- told him I’d ram the rule up his arse if I ever caught him doing it again !! Typical Tom reply !!
“I say Jackie —— that’s not quite like you” !!!—— told him it wasn’t every day I bought a new Molinari .
They both turned out to be really good drivers—— but I had at least ten years previous experience— so in my mind, that always gave me the edge.
First met Cees During the week long series of races in Provence held by the Cote De Azur club in Nice.
A series of races held in the summer including Nice— Cannes—Antibes—- Monte Carlo —Dez- Embiez and a couple of others. We became good friends. Carried on until the row I had with Wim Ruberg and Cees in Auronzo. Was the world ON championships—— each country is allowed two drivers.
Auronzo is up in the mountains with ice cold water any time of the year—- not a big lake —- a tight little course. Entry list is always overbooked very early on in the season——- for some reason, I wasn’t racing and the English pilots asked me to be their drivers representative! Wim Ruberg was the DUTCH representative——- Hans Pelster and Arie - De Boom were the Dutch drivers.
Entry list had been closed for months—- Wim was the UIM representative anyway .
A motion was put forward that Velden should be allowed to race “ IN THE SPIRIT OF THE RULES” even though he had not entered—- was a full factory driver—- and the Dutch had already nominated their two entries!
F O. Sex and travel—— you all know the rules—- two entries per country, Wim is pleading the case !
I wouldn’t budge—— neither would the Italians—— by a majority of one, Cees never got to Race, neither did he ever forgive me!
This carried on right up to the time that OMC went tits up—— Cees and San Germano, along with Rolf Fraulin and some UIM underhand dealings took over the FONDA series ——- quite amazing how it suddenly became F1 again after the coup.
Cees and I never got to be friends again—- we were civil to each other, but that’s all—— maybe you understand why I turned down Cees’s offer of a free boat!

I suppose I had better clarify my remarks on the Scimitar !

Bill Brown and I had parted company in Rotterdam after he dropped the boat off the crane whilst being in the lead after the first hour and a half.
Then announced that “ Carlsberg” wanted him to race the boat in Amsterdam the following week—- we were supposed to be equal partners in the venture, each of us doing alternate races.
As you can imagine—- I was not best pleased at this request!
After throwing out all my dollies, common sense prevailed—— told him he could keep the boat —- if he could supply me with the latest BDG COSWORTH Motor in two days——- Chas shooter and I had travelled to Rotterdam on a 250 Honda motorcycle of unknown age and origin. We left that night.
Chas picked a brand fire new BDG from Northampton and I motored down to Devon to buy the scimitar. We met back at the garage in Southwater Wednesday morning——- we had three days to put a rig together that would piss all over Bill Brown! We never went to bed for the next72 hours.
Four of us worked night and day—— on Friday night —- we hooked the boat up to the GMC camper van —— caught the cross channel ferry and Amsterdam!
i had been out of racing for a few years by now and the authorities in Amsterdam did not want to let me race—— Cees was officer of the day and told them to back off and accept my entry. It was now late Saturday—— practice was over.
Sunday the boat is in mid air thirty feet up—- facing the dock as the minute hand on the start clock started the countdown . “Chas, if you don’t get me down any time soon, I’ll kill you stone dead” as the boat was lowered down, Chas gently turned it round between Tom and Bob who were number one and two on the start grid —— leapt aboard and unhooked the slings, just as the start gun fired. Chas few like a bird as I hit the start button. Damned boat came out of the traps like POLARIS—— reached for the sky and tail walked all the way to the first turn bouy. Thumbed the trim until the boat settled down and came round the pit turn in the lead by a country mile.
fiddle farted with the trim buttons until optimum and settled down to the most comfortable ride ever!
boat would do anything—- docile as a lamb—- hit a biggie and it flew straight and true.
boat—- motor—- prop, had never seen water before it fired up —— took me five laps to lap Bill Brown the first time——- was a job well done.
Thats the main reason I always had fond memories of a boat that cost me so little — but did so much.
Hope you can understand why i have such a soft spot for the Scimitar ROY.

[jackiewilson]

How’s this for logic——- Grandpa Jack——- nobody will read that—— you don’t have any pictures!

Out of the mouth of babes????

[jackiewilson]

It’s bloody true you know—— written word will never get as many hits as a nice pair of boobs !460291

lets see if the ratings improve!

[jackiewilson]

460292

This should move us up the leader board!

[Rotary John]

Jackie: If that girl hugs you any tighter, that silicone bag is going to burst and then all hell will break loose.

[jackiewilson]

I was just an innocent bystander down in key west “watching all the girls go by” when I was accosted.
I resisted valiantly —— managed to escape and lived to fight another day Johnno

[Lake X Kid]

What goes on in Key West, stays in Key West.
Even if the zipper goes down or up.

https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=460292&d=1581668101

[jackiewilson]

Ah well, Back to reality and the S+F we know and love—— we just have to tread a bit careful here, we have had a written warning from Greg—- our unsung hero Administrator—- about the misuse of a family boating site.
Suppose I ought to pass comment on Stevarino’s comment about Spalding and Garbrecht having a few cross words.
Make no mistake about it Garbrecht picked the winner—- we all knew that ! Whether it was SEEBOLD—- Fountain—BENTZ—- GG decided who had the best boat—- Motor—- and prop.
He did not ever brook dissent— argument or discussion! Gary was the ringmaster.
Yes , of course I fell out with him, same as I fell out with anyone who didn’t agree with me.
CK had made him an extension of himself—— absolutely beyond reproach—- Race Director with a free hand, and he did an admirable job of it——— no wonder OMC wanted him so bad—— paid him a big bag of gold, and an almost unlimited budget to leave Mercury.
After Liege and Toms untimely accident—— Gary and Bob grew even closer, so for Bob not to be first choice at his home world championships would be cause for concern!

[jackiewilson]

Now, I don’t believe in coincidences— never have, no such thing, so try and explain this. My best friend ADAM LASZCZAR and my old friend John Pasque, both died, and are to be buried on Thursday next at twelve noon!!!
Problem is——- they’re being interned 25 miles apart!
Add to that, another old friend DAVE Brady copped his clogs and is being buried later in the day!
Reckon I must have pissed that grim reaper chap right off!!
Have a feeling God is none too pleased at me either——— it’s rained fire and brimstone—— hail and snow——- Singapore style raindrops for two months—— chuck in the coronavirus lark, and it’s not all jolly hockey sticks.
Both Adam and DAVE are past LMBRC members—-

Today the bear made a bloody great meal of me!!!

[jackiewilson]

To cap it all—— the digit started to decline rapidly.
Went and had it seen to, back on the anti-B’s—- double dose age——- a months supply.
Better not run down the street, or hop skip and jump, pills tumbling about will sound like a drum roll!
Be glad to see the end of this week——- I’ve had better.

[jackiewilson]

460440

Paris 1970 not a happy Paris race for me !

[Lake X Kid]

Suppose I ought to pass comment on Stevarino’s comment about Spalding and Garbrecht having a few cross words.
Make no mistake about it Garbrecht picked the winner—- we all knew that ! Whether it was SEEBOLD—- Fountain—BENTZ—- GG decided who had the best boat—- Motor—- and prop.
He did not ever brook dissent— argument or discussion! Gary was the ringmaster.
Yes , of course I fell out with him, same as I fell out with anyone who didn’t agree with me.
CK had made him an extension of himself—— absolutely beyond reproach—- Race Director with a free hand, and he did an admirable job of it——— no wonder OMC wanted him so bad—— paid him a big bag of gold, and an almost unlimited budget to leave Mercury.
After Liege and Toms untimely accident—— Gary and Bob grew even closer, so for Bob not to be first choice at his home world championships would be cause for concern!

The waves apparently got pretty choppy in Europe at times, with ringmaster Gary Garbrecht having eventual fallouts with you, Bob S. and Renato Molinari. Maybe when Gary was in Europe the food was not to his liking and then drivers beware.

In hindsight It seems Gary G. had a more congenial authority with his American drivers. Okay maybe not, Downard mention there was some ill feelings, before his switch to OMC. And Stickle recently told me, he didn’t like the role he was offered before he chose his Merc factory team departure.

When the ringmaster is at the top of the food chain, not everyone beneath gets treated meritoriously. But the thing about Gary is, his teams were successful at the race circuits. A telling testament to his management decisions.

460462

[Lake X Kid]

So what went wrong at the 1970 Paris race?

https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=460440&d=1583940259 (https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=460440&d=1583940259)

[jackiewilson]

So what went wrong at the 1970 Paris race?

https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=460440&d=1583940259 (https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=460440&d=1583940259)

Renato led the race for the first two hours—— I took over, never missed a beat—- no boat ever passed me——- perfect pit stop——- Renato finished the race. Not a single worry EXCEPT. According to the official result, we were three laps down on the winners Sanders and Posey !
Course—— Renato blamed me—- and I told him he wasn’t the hot shot driver he was cracked up to be,
Big inquest at the George V hotel—— went on until midnight——- so we all missed the official prize giving and reception.
Only race I ever protested in my life.
My daughter Tracy. ( Boo to everyone) used to do the timekeeping for me——- strictly unofficial——
told me we were the winners—— she had timed every lap—- but —- she was twelve years old,
We never actually got into a fist fight—- but Renato and I never had the same friendship again!
A week later I was supposed to co drive with him in Berlin—— that arrangement was cancelled!
The French timing system has long been suspect—- but to lose by three laps was insane and unacceptable——?
Told you before ROY—— I fall out with damn near everyone, sooner or later!
Second place silver medal still hangs up in the workshop—— it never made it to the trophy cabinet!

[FUJIMO]

You couldn't pick a worse place, water conditions-wise, to hold a tunnel boat race.

[STEVERINO]

460564
You couldn't pick a worse place, water conditions-wise, to hold a tunnel boat race. It was always a exciting race to be in and watch and 1970 was the last year they ran the barges while the race was running so from 1971 on you could drive flat out and some years they had over100 entries apply to race I always enjoyed every race I had there and most drivers looked forward to it each year.But I would not say it was the roughest race on the calendar.

[Lake X Kid]

Avoiding a floating dead donkey on the race course, now that is one of the most unusual obstacles to race around.
A part of the Paris 6 Hour legacy.


https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=460564&d=1573905548

[Lake X Kid]

Renato led the race for the first two hours—— I took over, never missed a beat—- no boat ever passed me——- perfect pit stop——- Renato finished the race. Not a single worry EXCEPT. According to the official result, we were three laps down on the winners Sanders and Posey !
Course—— Renato blamed me—- and I told him he wasn’t the hot shot driver he was cracked up to be,
...
We never actually got into a fist fight—- but Renato and I never had the same friendship again!
A week later I was supposed to co drive with him in Berlin—— that arrangement was cancelled!
The French timing system has long been suspect—- but to lose by three laps was insane and unacceptable——?
Told you before ROY—— I fall out with damn near everyone, sooner or later!
Second place silver medal still hangs up in the workshop—— it never made it to the trophy cabinet!

Jackie did you really believe "he wasn't the hot shot driver he was cracked up to be, or was that just in a heated moment of being blamed, frustrated and disappointed?

[jackiewilson]

Jackie did you really believe "he wasn't the hot shot driver he was cracked up to be, or was that just in a heated moment of being blamed, frustrated and disappointed?

You have no idea of just how pissed off with world I was at that time—— and when I’m pissed, you don’t want to be within a country mile of me!
Billy and Renato—- without question—- were the best drivers in the world at that time—— Bill SIROIS had moved to offshore so doesn’t come into the equation!
Billy never did offshore—— Renato did, but never quite made it—-
Sirois was the best in both—— which makes him unique!
So , I guess you could call it a heat of the moment thing!
I unfortunately did have those quite regularly !

[jackiewilson]

Avoiding a floating dead donkey on the race course, now that is one of the most unusual obstacles to race around.
A part of the Paris 6 Hour legacy.

When Len Britnell got Chris Kingsbury to see if he could organise a race on the Thames, he had no idea what he was letting himself in for!
Wasnt just dead animals that were thrown into the river—— anything that did or didn’t float was thrown in.
First practice run was like a battlefield—— OMC and Mercury had mountains of ruined equipment!
My friend Chas Shooter was running a RON Joes Tunnel with a Keith Black 427, was the only boat that looked like a winner——river was twice as rough as the Seine knew how to be.
Was surprised to see him being towed back to the bits—— I asked him what the problem was—- his reply was ——-I HIT A HANDLE !,
me— SO ..
Chas—- IT WAS ATTACHED TO A DOOR .?
me— BUT YOU GOT A KT MATE. A DOOR COULDNT STOP YOU!
chas.— IT WAS STILL ATTACHED TO THE SHED,

A boom was strung across the river, but after two hours had collected tons of flotsam and had to be lifted—— there was a dead horse included in the contents!
ALL the factory drivers failed to finish—— it was a race of attrition, won by Peter Inward I think!

https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=460564&d=1573905548

Thames race was far rougher than the Seine race!

[jackiewilson]

The waves apparently got pretty choppy in Europe at times, with ringmaster Gary Garbrecht having eventual fallouts with you, Bob S. and Renato Molinari. Maybe when Gary was in Europe the food was not to his liking and then drivers beware.

In hindsight It seems Gary G. had a more congenial authority with his American drivers. Okay maybe not, Downard mention there was some ill feelings, before his switch to OMC. And Stickle recently told me, he didn’t like the role he was offered before he chose his Merc factory team departure.

When the ringmaster is at the top of the food chain, not everyone beneath gets treated meritoriously. But the thing about Gary is, his teams were successful at the race circuits. A telling testament to his management decisions.

460462

This was at the world F1 championships at Chasewater—- our kerfuffle at Windermere was in the past

[jackiewilson]

I could not believe the amount of money being chucked about by OMC in Europe.
Figures were staggering, when you consider what factory drivers were paid previously!
Even the most loyal Mercury drivers were tempted, and eventually changed sides.
Spalding, Jenkins, Ericsson——— plus a rake of drivers from the lower classes—— Frost, Strom, Marshall.
Bullen, Percival , Beard had previously run OMC’S—— although Percy had been in the Mercury team previously.
Hodges put together a three boat team with SPALDING ,PERCIVAL AND ERRICSON
VELDEN ran a three boat team with Benson and Hedges.
Molinari ran three boats for Saffa—- and Martini.
Shudder to think what the initial cost of the set up was—— including the backhanders to the UIM.
And believe me—— Garbrecht would not have come cheap!!
Have often wondered what might have happened had the Oz’s—- ON’S—— and OE’s run a series jointly—— where the sport might have ended up, but the problems were insurmountable! It simply never could have happened!

[jackiewilson]

Saturday morning—- Her who shall be obeyed at all times dropped me off at the car boot sale for an hour——- about the number of stalls you’d expect for a wet March Saturday.
But it was the mood of the people walking round, and the stall holders, depression and despondency—— managed to buy A bandsaw for £20, with seven brand fire new Starrett blades. A really well made dovetailed box to ship all the lathe parts to China for a pound! Everyone’s chin was on the floor—— Ah well, it’s an I’ll wind !!!!
Been trying to think up an idea as to how to make my fortune——- spray on—— Peel off gloves, costing 5 pence a pop, but. charging a pound a time—— you know what I mean—— something along those lines.
You know things are pretty serious when APPLE stores are closed for a month——- BA grounds most of its planes and warns of heavy job losses.
ALL sport is cancelled——- F1 is not going to happen anytime soon——— London and Brighton marathons are called off———- 2020 Olympics are called off.
Price of petrol has fallen dramatically OPEC and Russia are head to head—— but the Arabs will definitely win that one——— oil under $20 a barrel ——- nobody’s getting rich at that price.
Werent many cars on the road today———- storage tanks full—— production halted—— jolly hockey sticks! Sun just came out—— must be an omen!
Oh bugger, forget that—- it’s just gone back in!!

[ron54]

How’s the toilet roll situation down on your manor Jackie?...Pretty much non existent up here in the Bristol badlands.Luckily we can still get copies of “The Sun” or the “Mirror” to fall back on....(Pun intended)��...

[jackiewilson]

How’s the toilet roll situation down on your manor Jackie?...Pretty much non existent up here in the Bristol badlands.Luckily we can still get copies of “The Sun” or the “Mirror” to fall back on....(Pun intended)��...

Nah! I’m -one of the few that doesn’t need any more than normal—— crapping habits haven’t changed at all—— still use three sheets per dump—— two rolls a week, one for each bogerootle

[Bob V]

How’s the toilet roll situation down on your manor Jackie?...Pretty much non existent up here in the Bristol badlands.Luckily we can still get copies of “The Sun” or the “Mirror” to fall back on....(Pun intended)😊...

460662

[jackiewilson]

When a plentiful supply of bog rolls is of paramount importance——- I’m stepping off!!

[jackiewilson]

Lots of coverage on FaceTime of the Tavares event—— nice weather to go with it, bit different from last November’s meeting.
I never got warm until after Christmas!
World has gone “Coronavirus” mad——all you can do is use a bit of common sense——-go with your gut feeling and trust your instincts.
Media is simply looking for the most outrageous headlines!
Of course it’s serious—— there will be dire consequences—- but it’s not helped by politicians world wide trying to make a name for themselves out of a crisis.
Spreading panic achieves nothing——- now anyone who coughs—- sneezes. —- or has a runny nose, automatically thinks they’ve got a dose of the dreaded Lurgy.
With the world in lockdown—— all sport cancelled——- borders closed—- aircraft grounded—- supermarkets empty—— gasoline down to ninety cents a gallon—— where are you going.
Maybe we might get back to talking to each other——- family get togethers—— kids learning to cook—- speak properly—— dress decent instead of the ragged arse, hole in the pants that hang down to knees .
who knows—- folk might actually talk to one another again!

[jackiewilson]

Talked with Mark yesterday—— asked him what he was doing?—- Hes out on his boat with Craig and the grandkids—— parked on a sandbank in Jupiter!
My daughter Sam and Clive are there too——- swimming, while the grandkids are catching fish!
Its not all doom and gloom!

[jackiewilson]

Guess what—— I have been allowed an hour in the workshop with a plastic bag over my left hand!
After forty minutes ——— the bag was buggered—- her highness was spitting feathers—- and that was the end of the first session——- need the gaffe tape!
But the precedent has been set ! Game on!

[GENE LANHAM]

Guess what—— I have been allowed an hour in the workshop with a plastic bag over my left hand!
After forty minutes ——— the bag was buggered—- her highness was spitting feathers—- and that was the end of the first session——- need the gaffe tape!
But the precedent has been set ! Game on!

”KEEPING THE ARTHRITIS AT BAY”—A quote by Jackie

At least six more weeks till the snow melts in Colorado—and the trusty Benz needed some TLC

So what does an old retired boat racer do?

460743460740460741460742

[jackiewilson]

Had another session in the shop this afternoon——— nothing exiting—— was working on the concept of the Schneider trophy airplane engine . The Itchifanni, a six cylinder radial motor.
Year was 1932 ——— the ITALIAN entry was called COMO CLARA (after the famous red haired hooker that frequented the area around the seaplane hanger at the south end of LAKE COMO)
Sold the west Bend lathe to a man in China—— trouble is , I need a friend to help me dismantle it on to a pallet +——- problem is their dropping like flies——- this damned coronavirus caper isn’t going to help either
Buried two of “em last week——- have not got enough left to start burying them in pairs!—- on the same day!

[FUJIMO]

just did the same thing. these days you don't "turn" the rotors anymore. you just throw them away & install new ones. on my cars & trucks anyway.:rolleyes: https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=460739&d=1584296336

[FUJIMO]

https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=460740&d=1584296431

[FUJIMO]

you working on the wheels too gene?...https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=460741&d=1584296533

[FUJIMO]

...amazing, your hands resemblance to those wrenches. did you pose for the artist that made them?;)https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=460742&d=1584296635

[FUJIMO]

https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=460743&d=1584296954 (https://www.screamandfly.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=460743&d=1584296954)

[FUJIMO]

on our old hands gene, lanoline helps after or during degreasing...

[jackiewilson]

Aw, c”mon guys—- they're “THUNBSCREWS” ?

[FUJIMO]

…"thumbscrews"...butterfingers...:rolleyes:

[jackiewilson]

…"thumbscrews"...butterfingers...:rolleyes:

Stilson?

[jackiewilson]

Monday—- Monday—- just love that day!! Especially when the forecast is for four days sunshine and no damned rain.
World headlines are all about Coronvirus—- no doubt about it, panic has set in the world over.
Once again, common sense and plain logic is out of the window.
Hollywood couldn’t even dream up a disaster movie like this.
Over 1000 cases in England with 35 deaths, mostly the elderly with underlying health problems.
Hundreds of people have the disease —-but are fighting it and getting better.
World leaders and politicians are going the headless chicken routine—- they know nothing, but have to appear to know everything!
The “knock on” effect is worrying——- the world cannot stand still for four months and expect businesses to survive without massive financial support.
Every country in the world is in debt up to its eyeballs——- apart from the odd one or two oil rich nations—— Switzerland and Norway!
All other civilised countries have national debts of trillions—— after Coronvirus—- gazillions?

Tavares looks to have gone off very well with fine weather and a good turnout, congrats to all concerned!
Will get back to you with an update later in the day!

[Bob V]

How’s the toilet roll situation down on your manor Jackie?...Pretty much non existent up here in the Bristol badlands.Luckily we can still get copies of “The Sun” or the “Mirror” to fall back on....(Pun intended)😊...

460797

[jackiewilson]

As my sainted mother used to say “ THERES ALWAYS ONE” .
There could be a REBELLION in England for the first time in 400 years ——— Theyre messing with the old folk!
Normally, a docile old lot normally, until the current prime minister tells them they must “ Self Isolate” for twelve weeks ???
Now that’s already four weeks less than he wanted yesterday—— but it’s ten weeks more than the isolation period for all others.
Yup, I’ve got it, clear as mud———-he doesn’t know whether he wants a crap or a haircut, as long his lips are moving —- he’s happy !
One thing for sure —— he’s put the fear of God up a few million folk ——— and annoyed the hell out of another few millions ,

[jackiewilson]

Does any one else get a feeling of Dei Je Vous today —— didn't Orson Welles frighten the world to death in the 1930’s with his “ WAR OF THE WORLDS”. ——- MARTIANS HAVE LANDED .???

[jackiewilson]

So, it’s official—— BRITAIN is closed for three months—— No sport—- no shops open—- no restaurants—— Airlines to stop 90% of all flights.
Now that’s all very well until you realise that commerce only works if it’s doing business—— if the work stops—- the money stops—- trade and money go hand in hand ! No money—- you don’t eat—— you don’t eat——- you starve and die, fact !
Around the world, there are still more people dying of flue than coronavirus!
More folk killed every day on the roads than by coronavirus.
Im not saying the situation is not very serious indeed——— but the draconian measures measures being taken by world leaders is a tad difficult to understand!
Norway—— CLOSEDOWN—— not a single Coronavirus death!
One thing for sure—- when this is all over—— spivs, gangsters and the mafia will be waiting in the wings to “build a new world”——— Mad???—- or not???

[powerabout]

14 days might have done it?

[jackiewilson]

14 days might have done it?

Long time no hear Pilgrim—- have they not shut down the gateway to the east ( Singapore) yet!
Uk borders are closed from noon today——- the Grand National has been cancelled———and the biggest catastrophic news of the day——-THE BOAT RACE HAS BEEN CANCELLED—-!!!!!!!
Oh dear me- oh lord—now you know it must be serious—— the annual OXBRIDGE boat race has been cancelled! That cannot happen—— if the Thames is flowing, there will be a boat race! Now the excreta really will hit the whirlygig!

[jackiewilson]

New lathe arrives tomorrow—— thought I’d better get in before they stop all road transport—— those big bad lorries can carry all sorts of bugs—— don’t want all those nice shiny, almost new vehicles contaminated do we!???
Small problem to overcome——- need to get the trusty South Bend dismantled and palleted and on its way to China before the new one arrives tomorrow afternoon!
Somedays you eat bear—— but Lifes never dull is it .???

[powerabout]

yep shutdown here as they worked out all infections are from people flying in.
The world should of down this in Jan and it would have been contained now we are still dealing with an expanding disease and slowly tightening movements.
Need a shutdown of movement and then check its not expanding anymore

[ron54]

New lathe arrives tomorrow—— thought I’d better get in before they stop all road transport—— those big bad lorries can carry all sorts of bugs—— don’t want all those nice shiny, almost new vehicles contaminated do we!???
Small problem to overcome——- need to get the trusty South Bend dismantled and palleted and on its way to China before the new one arrives tomorrow afternoon!
Somedays you eat bear—— but Lifes never dull is it .???
Goodwood Members meeting off as well.

[jackiewilson]

Goodwood Members meeting off as well.

They haven’t notified me Phil. Another institution feeling the pinch!

[jackiewilson]

yep shutdown here as they worked out all infections are from people flying in.
The world should of down this in Jan and it would have been contained now we are still dealing with an expanding disease and slowly tightening movements.
Need a shutdown of movement and then check its not expanding anymore
Jesus wept Pilgrim—— there’s nothing else left to shut—— lid on the biscuit tins superglued.

[jackiewilson]

So, the chancellor has put up 350 billion pounds——- he calls it a war chest !!!!
Small firms and businesses can “borrow” from it at any time????
Now my sainted mother used to drum into me——— never borrow anything—— there always follows a “payback” day !!!!
Just where on Earth are they expecting to find this war chest???—— only one place it can come from—— the taxpayer——— all he has to do is put income tax up to 50% the first year across the board.
when he sees he’s got away with it the first year——— increase it to 60% .
We have just entered cuckooland
close everything—— the High street—— the Raiways—- The Airports—- The Hospitals—The Restaurants and pubs. People working from home ??? Only office workers and the like can work from home—— garbage collectors Cant!
Time to recruit the common sense brigade—— these Eton— Harrow and Oxbridge politicians seem to have lost all semblance of common sense ( that’s if they ever had any in the first place).

[jackiewilson]

Well, I don’t have much idea of what’s going on across the pond—— Marks birthday today, all the family are spending the day on Hutchinson island .
Really shouldn’t be pushing and shoving lathes about at my age——- every muscle and sinew is screaming at me.
New one is being delivered this morning so there will be a certain amount of “ Manoeuvring” involved.
Road traffic is down by 50% and this is just the first week. Be interesting to see. What happens after a month!
Borders across Europe are now closed——-travellers Who didn’t quite make the deadline are in dire straights ! Another case for common sense to prevail—- but I doubt it will!
Images from around the world make depressing viewing——- we should just pull up the drawbridge and hibernate for three months! Today it’s officially SPRING.
You’re not supposed to laugh?

[powerabout]

So, the chancellor has put up 350 billion pounds——- he calls it a war chest !!!!
Small firms and businesses can “borrow” from it at any time????
Now my sainted mother used to drum into me——— never borrow anything—— there always follows a “payback” day !!!!
Just where on Earth are they expecting to find this war chest???—— only one place it can come from—— the taxpayer——— all he has to do is put income tax up to 50% the first year across the board.
when he sees he’s got away with it the first year——— increase it to 60% .
We have just entered cuckooland
close everything—— the High street—— the Raiways—- The Airports—- The Hospitals—The Restaurants and pubs. People working from home ??? Only office workers and the like can work from home—— garbage collectors Cant!
Time to recruit the common sense brigade—— these Eton— Harrow and Oxbridge politicians seem to have lost all semblance of common sense ( that’s if they ever had any in the first place).


just print the cash like the EU does...

[jackiewilson]

just print the cash like the EU does...

Its doubtful whether the EU or the USA has the biggest national debt—— both think they have A flock of “GOLDEN GEESE”————— And a magic wand! It’s spreading too, Boris thinks he’s the new Houdini, and can perform miracles!

[Bob V]

How’s the toilet roll situation down on your manor Jackie?...Pretty much non existent up here in the Bristol badlands.Luckily we can still get copies of “The Sun” or the “Mirror” to fall back on....(Pun intended)😊...



Problem Solved...
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[GENE LANHAM]

Its doubtful whether the EU or the USA has the biggest national debt—— both think they have A flock of “GOLDEN GEESE”————— And a magic wand! It’s spreading too, Boris thinks he’s the new Houdini, and can perform miracles!

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