Towers-Clark, Major J.
Major J. Towers-Clark
Was educated at Harrow, and entered the Royal Dragoons. He bought from Mr. Stewart Clark the famous yacht Vanduara, and owned the Velzie, 20-rater, designed by Mr. G. L. Watson, and built by W. A. Black and Co., of Southampton, in 1890. Velzie earned a good reputation for sailing, and with one exception, that
Varuna, 40-Rater. Mr. J. A. Mulhall. Designed by Mr. G. L. Watson in 1892.
of Dragon, she was champion of the fleet.
Mr. Towers-Clark then commissioned Watson to design and Messrs. Henderson of Glasgow to build the Varuna. The yacht was a favourite with her designer, but she was outclassed by the Watson boat Queen Mab in 1893. When Queen Nab was withdrawn from the class, Varuna won twenty-three prizes out of forty starts. After selling Varuna he bought Lorna, 90-ton cutter, which he used for cruising.
He was an original member of the Solent one-design class, and built the C. Lark, which he raced for four seasons, during which time he lived on board the Lorna. Having disposed of the Lorna, he gave up yacht-racing, but he is still keenly interested in its welfare.
Clubs: Royal Yacht Squadron, Royal Northern, Royal Clyde, Royal St. George, Castle.
Residence: Coton Hall, Sudbury, Derby.
Vessels: Vanduara; Velzie; Varuna; Lorna; C. Lark