GSTAAD YACHT CLUB CENTENARIAN OF THE YEARFOLLY
Charles Nicholson designed the 8-M yacht Folly for himself
in 1909, taking inspiration from the 8-M Bryony which had
recently been built at his yard in Gosport. It was Nicholson’s
first attempt to take on Fife in the First Rule International
8-M class. He campaigned her himself, but in 1910 the boat
was imported into Argentina. In 1996 she was bought by
Argentinean naval architect Germán Frers, who had admired
her as a boy. Based on an original half model, one photo and
the Ratsey sail plan, as well as data from a later version,
Folly II, he set about a faithful restoration, which was
completed at Cantieri Navale dell’Argentario in 2000.
Sailed in 1909 style, with gaf rig and no winches, she has
been a picture-perfect part of the Med circuit since then,
taking numerous wins against more modern boats, often
with Germán at the helm.
Designed CE Nicholson, built 1909, Camper and Nicholson,
LOD 37ft 8in (11.5m), rig gaf cutterThe Gstaad Yacht Club was formed in 1998 by a group of sailors
with the vision to “create a unique global yacht club away from
water”. The Centenarian of the Year trophy ties in with the club’s
annual Centenary Trophy race, at Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez,
attracting some of the oldest yachts afloat. The Centenarian of
the Year silver bowl and silver champagne flute (above) are made
and donated by Robbe & Berking.Awards
2018
Winners
THE
JUERG KAUFMANN