HIGH HOPES FOR SPEEDBOAT HELD

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23154, 17 January 1950, Page 8

HIGH HOPES FOR SPEEDBOAT HELD

(PA.) AUCKLAND. Jan. 17. Following a second successful trial at the week-end with its new 750-h.p K Rolls-Royce Kestrel engine, (he Auckland hydroplane Barracuda, owned by L. Griffin, has challenged for the Mould Trophy and Masport Cup. both held by the Wellington speedboat, Redhead.

The races will probably be held in Wellington on February 25 and March 4. At the same time a contest for the Griffith Cup. which the Redhead won in Australia last year, may also be held. Further challenges , from New Zealand and Australia are expected. The Barracuda's supporters ' were pleased with her performance at the week-end when at quarter throttle and 001) propeller revolutions she reached 60 m.p.h.. still having 2400 revolutions in reserve.

Designed by Mr. D. Chatficld. Auckland. the Barracuda raced with considerable success during the last four seasons. The previously powered 300-h.p. Hispano Suiza engine had reached a speed of 72 m.p.h. and with more than twice the power in the Kestrel motor it is hoped she will beat, the Redhead's Australasian record of 82.6 m.p.h. She is an orthodox single step hydroplane. 18ft. long with a 6ft. Gin. beam. The Redhead is also a single step hydroplane. 28ft long with a beam of 9ft. She is powered with a IOOOh.p. Alison engine. The owner-skipper is L. Southward.