In 1972 I was Sailing on “Charisma” a 56 foot S&S. A wonderful powerful boat. A Hurricane (Agnes) crossed the course to Bermuda. We had 70 knots over the deck at the finish.
The Transatlantic race to Spain started in Bermuda and was in stark contrast as the course crossed two high pressure zones. The boat that won sailed the isobars. I had argued the point to no avail aboard “Charisma” as it meant sailing at right angles to the course. Less than 24 hours after finishing we set out for Sardinia; for what would be the first Mediterranean Championship; winning every race with Bill Ficker steering.
Great Charisma stories. I was the original paid hand, worked at PJ’s during her construction, and sailed her in 2 SORC’s and a Jamaica race.
I remember James McConnell by other names but I was part of the original group of Ray, Geno, Andy, Jesse and sailed on the when we first started out. I sailed on Sorc X 4, Chicago Mack with the Sleeping Bear adventure. Port Huron Mack, Newport Bermuda Onion Patch, Admiral’s Cup, and the best Miami Jamaica. (Did you ever see Lester Abberle’s movie of the race)
Not many around around from the original group.