Two Harmsworth legends

Whilst every winner is worthy of note, two competitors in particular stand out as true legends – Gar Wood and Fabio Buzzi.

Gar Wood is the most successful racer in the Harmsworth’s history after winning the Trophy in 1920 and then successfully defending it seven times between 1921 and 1933. As a result, his success turned the Harmsworth event into one of the greatest attractions in the American sporting calendar. He also passed on a lasting legacy.

To see some fascinating footage of him racing:  CLICK HERE

Fabio Buzzi won the Trophy twice in 2004 and 2010. However it is fascinating to note that seven of the eight winning boats between 1989 and 2010 were Buzzi designed, built and engineered.

Sadly Fabio Buzzi died on 17 September 2019 after setting the record for travelling from Monte Carlo to Venice – an epic voyage which took 18 hours, 33 minutes and 30 seconds to finish, at an outstanding speed of 61 knots. Following his tragic death, the Trustees received the following message from his daughter, Ebe:

“Among the hundreds of competitions and prizes that my father won during his lifetime, the Harmsworth Trophy was by far his favourite and the one he was most proud of. The replica of the trophy sits in the centre of his office and it was among his most treasured possessions.”
Gar Wood 1920
Fabio Buzzi