Shark 007

Addendum.
Is Shark # 7 the forefather of all
fiberglass keelboats In Canada?


There is a chance that my boat, Shark # 7, could be the very first production fiberglass keelboat built in Canada. I know that boat # 5 is regarded as the first Shark to be built of fibreglass. However, a history of the Shark written by George Hinterhoeller indicates that Shark # 5 was really a hybrid. Its hull was made of fibreglass, but its deck, cabin, and cockpit were made out of wood. Apparently, they started building Sharks with fiberglass hull and deck components within the next couple of boats (.i.e. a modern fiberglass sailboat).

I don't know whether or not Shark # 6 was built as a hybrid, but I know that both the hull and deck components of my Shark are made out of fiberglass. In other words, Shark # 7 could be the very first production fiberglass keelboat built in Canada. As such, our boat could be, or is very close to being, the forefather of the thousands upon thousands of sailboats found in various clubs and marinas across the country, including other Sharks .

P. S. Would it be asking too much if I were to suggest that owners of other sailboats, including other Sharks, demonstrate the appropriate level of respect by not intentionally passing my boat on the water. (Okay, I confess. I can use of all the help I can get on the race course. :-) )


Michael McGoldrick, Shark # 7.







[ Home page: www.sailquest.com/shark ]