Bluebird K7 re-united with the World Water Speed Trophy

Bluebird K7 was recovered from the depths of Coniston Water in 2001 and fully restored by enthusiasts, before being given to the Ruskin Museum in Coniston who kindly gave permission for the boat to travel south.

Holders of the record have included both Donald Campbell and his father Sir Malcom Campbell, and more recently Australian Ken Warby who took the record to a staggering 317 mph in 1978. The Trophy has spent many years in Australia with the family of the current holder Ken Warby, but since his death last year the family allowed the club to collect the Trophy from Australia and return it to its home in Poole. Ken’s widow Barbara Warby was instrumental in giving the Trophy back to the club and flew from America to join the guests at the event.

The Trophy itself was made in 1870 for the then Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII, and great grandfather of HRH Prince Michael of Kent, as a cup for schooner racing in the UK, replacing the Americas Cup which had been lost to the USA previously. In 1937 the Trophy was given to the Royal Motor Yacht Club and has been presented as The World’s Water Speed Trophy ever since.

Donald Campbell last held the record at 276mph, but this was then exceeded by Australian Ken Warby in 1978 and despite several attempts remains unbeaten. However, there are now credible teams preparing to challenge for the Trophy from UK and Australia, including the current holder’s son Dave Warby, who has already achieved over 260mph in his preparations.

 

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