Nimble by name, Nimble by nature - the Des Townson Classic 12

by Richard Gladwell on 16 Jan 2010
Robert Brooke, of the Auckland Traditional Boatbuilding School, has completed building a replica of Nimble Q8, designed and sailed by Des Townson, and she was the leading points scorer in the New Zealand team that competed in the inaugural event held on Sydney Harbour in 1957.

Over the past week she has been on display at the 50th Anniversary Dinner for the 12ft class, and today was at Auckland Sailing Club.

We are pleased to present this gallery of images, both as a tribute to the beautiful Townson line and also in recognition of the outstanding skills, craftsmanship and perseverance of Robert Brooke who has built a beautiful yacht, accurate to the available gear and fittings of her time.

Nimble's wooden foils were built by Brian Peet, with a very clever kick up control on the rudder.