NEW ELECTRIC BOAT CHALLENGE SET FOR THE BRITISH INTERNATIONAL HARMSWORTH TROPHY

 The world’s most famous powerboat racing trophy is being promoted as the ultimate reward for a new electric boat challenge. 

The British International Harmsworth Trophy dates back to 1903 and is the oldest powerboat racing trophy in existence.  Often referred to as the “America’s Cup of Powerboating”, it has played a pivotal role in the development of offshore racing.  Over the years the magnificent bronze trophy has been presented to powerboat racing legends including Sir Thomas Sopwith, Garfield Wood, Stefano Casiraghi and Fabio Buzzi.

Originally a challenge between countries aimed at developing and improving the design of powerboat hulls and engines, the Trustees of the Trophy have announced a new challenge for electric powered vessels that will continue the tradition of encouraging design and technical innovation.

The challenge will take the form of a time trial from Poole to a turning mark off Cowes and back – a total distance of approximately 75 nautical miles.  The precise course will be set by the Trustees in conjunction with trophy custodians, The Royal Motor Yacht Club in Poole, United Kingdom.  

The Trophy will be awarded to the fastest electrically powered boat to complete the course in a calendar year, commencing January 2025.  The course must be completed using the same set of batteries and without any other form of propulsion, fuel or outside intervention. The Challenge Course will have a minimum time limit and must be covered in a single day. If required, the challenger will be allowed to recharge at the quick charging facility in Cowes for up to 4 hours.

The vessel itself can be designed for leisure, commercial or military use but will be required to have at least two passenger seats, including the helm, and at least two people on board throughout the challenge.  USV’s (Unmanned Surface Vessels) would not be eligible.

The Harmsworth Trustees will appoint an Official Timekeeper, Cowes Observers, Start and Finishing Officers – but the challengers will be required to provide their own safety vessels.

The successful driver and challenger names will be inscribed on the Trophy and the appropriate presentation made at the Royal Motor Yacht Club at the conclusion of the 2025 Challenge Series.  An entry fee will be charged and prospective challengers must apply to the Trustees via the email below.  Entries will be open from 1^st January 2025.

For more information please email: harmsworthtrophy@outlook.com.