The International 12 was a classic clinker-built dinghy, designed in England in 1913 and going on to become a major international class in the 1920s, '30s and '40s, with top level success for Ireland when helmed by Captain Jimmy Payne of Cork.
In time, the single straightforward standing lug sail was replaced by a Bermudan sloop setup. But by this stage so many newer boats such as the Firefly were taking over the dinghy sailing scene that the International 12 faded from view, except in unexpected places like Belgium and Italy, where the class continues to thrive under its original rig.
(Above) Alan Henry of Sutton brings the ultra-veteran International 12 Dorado to life in Dublin Bay. Photos: Trish Nixon
There was a reminder of past International 12 glories on Monday (May 12) when Alan Henry took Dorado, one of the few survivors in Ireland, out for a spin at Sutton in the brisk nor'east breeze which swept down from the Hill of Howth.
Another reminder of the 1940s is the annual Book Trophy, originally raced in Int. 12s between Sutton DC and Royal Cork Harbour. It continues—albeit in other boats—so long as the winning team fulfils their duty of writing up the report of that year's racing.
