The History of the Victory

A Timeless Tradition: The Story of the Victory Class Yachts

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In 1934, a new era of sailing was ushered in with the creation of the Victory Class yachts. Drawing inspiration from the Bembridge Sailing Club one-design, first introduced in 1904, this elegant fleet was the vision of the Portsmouth Harbour Racing and Sailing Association. Their mission was clear: to promote one-design racing with yachts built to precise specifications, ensuring fair competition by strictly regulating modifications, maintenance, and racing conditions.

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This fresh design quickly gained recognition, earning its place within the prestigious Solent Classes Racing Association. The sail mark "Z" became synonymous with the Victory Class, signifying its uniqueness and prestige (though in Gibraltar, the sail mark is the letter "V"). Each Victory yacht was crafted by approved builders, adhering to official templates and rigorous oversight by class measurers throughout the construction process. Ownership and racing privileges were reserved exclusively for members of the class, further underscoring its exclusivity.

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The introduction of spinnakers in 1935 brought a new dynamic to racing, though their use could be restricted by mutual agreement under the guidance of the class captain. The first recorded Victory race in Portsmouth saw Commander Denham triumph aboard Z 12 Waterwitch, claiming the President's Shield as the highest-scoring boat of the 1934 season.

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The Victory Class’s legacy extended beyond Portsmouth, finding a home in Gibraltar during the 1940s. Of the 32 pre-war boats numbered Z 6 to Z 37, three were shipped to Gibraltar before the war, and another nine followed after the conflict. Post-war production (Z 38 to Z 69) saw 11 more Victories transported to Gibraltar, bringing the total to 23. Subsequent additions to the fleet in Gibraltar were constructed using fibreglass, continuing the tradition while embracing modern materials.

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