1

1Slo-mo-shun
World Famous Hydroplanes
& the people who created them.

Article courtesy of Seattle Yacht Club

No member brought more renown to the Seattle Yacht Club than did Stan Sayres. He was truly a gentleman sportsman. Sayres sought perfection in his boats, recognition for his championship crew, and honors for his club and city. He was a tough competitor, but a most generous and gracious champion.Sayres, with his Slo-mo-shun boats, he revolutionized hydroplane speedboat racing, and his achievements made Seattle the speedboat capital of the world. In 1952 he broke his own mile straight-away record with a run at 178.497 miles per hour.

In 1950 he captured the American Power Boat Association's Challenge Cup, commonly called the Gold Cup, and brought it to SYC for the first time. He alone defended the Gold Cup against all challengers for the next four years. He is also credited with bringing the British International Trophy for Motor Boats ( the Harmsworth Trophy) and the President’s Trophy to the club, in addition to winning
five consecutive Cup championships. Stan Sayres', achievements with his Famous Slo-mo-shuns stimulated the organization of the Seattle Seafair gaining national prominence for this community; it was most fitting that these efforts earned him Seattle’s "Man of The Year Award" title. Sayres also received worldwide recognition with the Bronze Medal of Honor from the Union of International Motorboating in Belgium

With the passing of Stan Sayres on Sept. 17, 1956, the Seattle Yacht Club lost one of its most distinguished members. His friendliness, his eagerness to help others, and his loyalty are still remembered.

The Slo-mo-shun IV was the last boat to win the Gold Cup & Harmsworth trophy
plus break the World Starightaway record in a single season. Which it did 50 years
ago.

Dick Carroll
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or contact
Email- Matthew Foss

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