UK Flying Fifteen Class tribute to HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh
by Tim O'Brien, UKFFA President 11 Apr 2021 16:50 AEST
HRH The Duke of Edinburgh sailing Coweslip with Uffa Fox © PA
By now many will have read and seen the sad news that HRH Prince Philip has died - much will be written about his significant contribution to many walks of life whether science, industry, commerce, environment, sport, and family. Through his concept of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme, launched 65 years ago, he encouraged the youth of the day to build skills, confidence and resilience that equipped them for life - in many cases through outdoor activity.
Prince Philip's other main passion was the sea and his link with sailing was prominent throughout, none more so than during Cowes Week when the Royal Yacht was anchored off Cowes with many of the Royal family actively involved in the week's racing. Flying Fifteen K192 - Coweslip - was a gift from Uffa Fox to Her Majesty The Queen and Prince Philip on the occasion of their marriage in 1949, and Uffa and Prince Philip were often to be found sailing Coweslip throughout the 1950s & '60s, usually in front of the paparazzi of the day and frequently with significant racing success... fun times.
The Prince subsequently became life Patron of the Flying Fifteen class association, and indeed Coweslip can still be seen today on display in Edinburgh with the Royal Yacht Britannia.
The thoughts of the UK Flying Fifteen Association are with the Queen and her family at this moment, and we wish them many happy and fond memories that will hopefully bring smiles to the fore.
Tim O'Brien, UKFFA President