The 23 Metre cutter ASTRA, owned by Hugh F. Paul leading the J Class cutter VELSHEDA (K7) during Harwich Regatta in 1935. The mate of ASTRA stands on the foredeck, his racing station, where had charge of the set and sheeting of headsails and spinnakers and lookout, directing the efforts of as many hands as necessary to set, trim and shift sails. The mate had, under the yacht's Captain, responsibility for the general maintainence and condition of the yacht during the season, from fitting out to laying up. It was a responsible position, one step away from a command, which followed for many as good racing mates were very capable men. [JL]
Plate.42A in SWW.
Date: 1935