Nigel Daniel

The latest addition to the AOD fleet was launched in time for the second river race of the season.  The brand new boat, No.25 Puffin  was built by John Williams. Having completed the Lyme Regis boat building course, John decided to build an AOD for himself and has done a superb job. Puffin’s first race … Read more

Seventy years has passed since the first Axe One Design took to the water in 1953. So, it seemed appropriate to hold a 70th Anniversary Regatta to celebrate the occasion. Rene Drew has once again, generously sponsored us with a new trophy, the AOD 70th Anniversary Cup. The middle weekend of June was chosen for … Read more

As part of the Jubilee celebrations, the AOD fleet including newly launched Avocet assembled on the River Axe for the Jubilee Fleet Review.  Saturday 3rd June saw the AODs take up their moorings adjacent to Coronation Green; with each boat dressed overall. At 11:00 the chartered ‘K.E.Y.S. Yacht’ steamed up the river to take the … Read more

New year, new boats. They say you wait a long time for bus and then two come along! Well, it’s with great pleasure that we can confirm two new Axe One Designs are in the early stages of construction. The first is being built at Peter Williams’ yard, at Bodinnick on the River Fowey. The … Read more

During early September the AYC officially opened its redeveloped Clubhouse. How appropriate that an AYC cadet from some 50 years ago, who is now the Chairman of the RYA, should return to Axmouth to conduct the official opening! Chris Preston started his sailing career from Axmouth beach, ably supported by his parents Bill and Honor, … Read more

Once again, the weather was less than cooperative for the AOD regatta at Axe, programmed over the first weekend in August. Strong south westerlies prevailed with rain, so the event was cancelled; almost. The regatta has been plagued by poor weather over the years, no matter whether programmed in June, July or August. Not to … Read more

After an inevitable year out, it was great to see Fowey Classics back on the calendar this year. Once again a few of the AODs headed west to join in the fun. By coincidence it was the three originals, No.s 1, 6 & 8 that signed up for the classics; with a combined fleet age … Read more

AOD No.6 Swallow returned to Peter William’s yard at Bodinnick, just prior to lockdown for substantial repair work. Her ageing elm bottom boards had become brittle and it was a job keeping her afloat without constant bailing. So, Peter replaced four new elm planks each side including the garboard, and additionally on the turn of the … Read more