2025 marks 50 years since Jack Holt created the Streaker dinghy and it is turning out to be one of his most enduring and popular designs. The Class is celebrating this significant milestone - and their recent strong growth - with some special 50th anniversary events.
It is often said that Jack designed the Streaker, at the age of 63, when he started to find his Solo a little on the heavy side. That may be true, and it is certainly a useful storyline in the current single-hander market, but a glance at the original 1975 brochure shows that this wasn't necessarily Jack's only target market. "With the younger ex-Cadet or Mirror helmsman or helmswoman being especially considered, it is a direct inexpensive step before joining the 470 or 505 fleets" the brochure declares!
Indeed, the Streaker is a boat that is very well suited to lighter-weight sailors of all ages. At last year's National Championship, the competitors were aged from 14 to 77 and the top ten included two sailors under 25 and three over 60.
To honour Jack's role in the boat's success, the Class will be holding a Tideway Race, kindly hosted by Ranelagh Sailing Club, on the River Thames. Jack designed the Streaker at his premises on Putney Embankment, a few doors down from Ranelagh SC. He was a member of this historic club for many years, so it will be a fitting tribute to see Streakers new and old returning to their birthplace for this unique and iconic event.
The race will take place on Saturday 17 May 2025 and is being generously sponsored by Holt Marine Ltd, the successor of Jack Holt Limited. Spectators are welcome!
Building on the class's success, this year's Noble Marine Streaker Golden Jubilee National Championship will be at Rutland Sailing Club and is expected to be the biggest yet. The planned programme of events will appeal to Streaker sailors from across the spectrum of owners, including non-racing Streaker enthusiasts who might prefer to cruise around Rutland Water. There will also be a full social programme including a live band and a Golden Jubilee Dinner. The Championship racing takes place from 11-13 July, with some fun and training on the previous day.
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