This “Clash of the Titans” was the brain child, (maybe after a few beers?), of Roland “Smitty” Smith, OPA’s President. Matt Soper who races his Classic Cigarette “Old School” in OPA’s Class 4 and is only a few points out of first place for the season, and Nick Smith, (one of Smitty’s son’s), then went to work to put it together. Bill Currier, from the Blue Water Offshore Racing Association who is hosting the OPA race in St Clair, also worked closely on the project. Matt will be running “Old School” in the “Clash” event. Also Smitty, possibly Nick, or maybe Smitty’s other son Anthony, will be participating in their Classic 32’ Viper “WAZZUP” in the event.
One of the boats who has committed, Allez Vite, (French for “Go Fast”), has always stood out in my memory as one of my favorite videos to watch and recommend to others who may not have seen it. An incredible offshore statement of what an old school Apache 41’ is capable of in rough offshore water.
Some of the other boats committed at this time that will do their best to participate:
“Warpath”, a 42’ Chief designed and built by offshore Apache throttleman legend Bobby Saccenti. This boat has participated in numerous races overseas, including the infamous Cowes Torquay Cowes, possibly the most brutal offshore race still in existence. They currently may be the rightful owner of the Harmsworth Trophy, an offshore trophy over 100 years old. Gar Wood held that trophy 9 times in the 1920’s. The boat also won the Guernsey Gold Cup. https://chiefpowerboats.com/
“Predator”, another Classic 41’ Apache, has also committed. They also race in OPA’s Class 4, and as of this writing barely lead “Old School” by just a few points. They most recently won the class in the Sarasota race.
John’s Cigarette Hawk has also committed, a beautifully restored classic Cigarette which has done duty as an OPA Official Pace Boat over several years.
Another classic, Dave’s “Endangered Species” aluminum Cougar Marine catamaran. Plus, “Endangered Species” will have Steve Curtis, whose father was the founder of Cougar Marine, in the cockpit running with Dave!
And yet another classic, Bryan’s 1979 36’ Cigarette Wide Body.
Some others who may be there: Josh with his 36’ Pantera, Rick with his 1986 Cigarette Hawk, John with his 28’ Apache, and Sam with his 38 Vice Scarab.
Twelve gods (or are all boats female, so all goddesses?) on the water at one time, who are not from Greek mythology? We can all certainly hope this comes to fruition, and that no Kracken’s arise from the depths!
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