The World Water Speed Record: The Fast and The Forgotten

Roy Calley

ISBN 10: 1445637863 / ISBN 13: 9781445637860

Published by Amberley Publishing, United Kingdom, Chalford, 2014

The quest for the Water Speed Record is one of the most dangerous, least forgiving and most unheralded of endeavours. Defined by the fatal crash of Donald Campbell in 1967 on Lake Coniston, it lacks some of the glamour of the land speed record, yet hundreds have made attempts over the years many with spectacular and sometimes tragic results. The first official record of 74 mph was set in 1920 in a boat elegantly called Miss America. Fifty-eight years later, the Spirit of Australia skimmed across the surface at over 317 mph, a speed still unsurpassed. That small 243 mph increase in just under six decades pays little testament to the trials and tribulations endured by the likes of Campbell Snr and Jnr, Segrave, Don and Warby. Whereas the land speed record has been beaten time and again by surprisingly large margins, the water version has been tougher and more pronounced, only being increased by percentages. This book captures the burning desire and incredible single-mindedness that is needed to take on the elements and propel a craft across water faster than anyone before and for what glory? The book has been read, but is in excellent condition. Pages are intact and not marred by notes or highlighting. The spine remains undamaged. Seller Inventory # GOR008727173

Synopsis:

The quest for the Water Speed Record is one of the most dangerous, least forgiving and most unheralded of endeavours. Defined by the fatal crash of Donald Campbell in 1967 on Lake Coniston, it lacks some of the glamour of the land speed record, yet hundreds have made attempts over the years – many with spectacular and sometimes tragic results.The first official record of 74 mph was set in 1920 in a boat elegantly called Miss America. Fifty-eight years later, the Spirit of Australia skimmed across the surface at over 317 mph, a speed still unsurpassed. That small 243 mph increase in just under six decades pays little testament to the trials and tribulations endured by the likes of Campbell Snr and Jnr, Segrave, Don and Warby. Whereas the land speed record has been beaten time and again by surprisingly large margins, the water version has been tougher and more pronounced, only being increased by percentages. This book captures the burning desire and incredible single-mindedness that is needed to take on the elements and propel a craft across water faster than anyone before … and for what glory?

About the Author:

Former BBC journalist Roy Calley first saw Jimmy Armfield play for Blackpool in 1967, not knowing then that he would share the commentary box with him many years later. Although no longer living in the town, he has followed the roller-coaster fortunes of the club ever since. He has written books on various topics, including motor-racing and Mary, Queen of Scots. This book is a tribute to a man he admired and considered a friend.

Bibliographic Details

Title: The World Water Speed Record: The Fast and ...
Publisher: Amberley Publishing, United Kingdom, Chalford
Publication Date: 2014
Binding: Paperback
Condition: Very Good