Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.
70 years after Donald Campbell set his first water speed world record, his iconic Bluebird has made a return to the site, much to the admiration of onlookers. The hydroplane, which Campbell piloted to a record-breaking speed of 202.32mph (325.6km/h) at Ullswater in the Lake District back in 1955, was put on display near Glenridding Pier to commemorate the milestone achievement. Gina Campbell, his daughter, expressed her awe at the event, describing it as a “humble” reminder of her father’s remarkable feat of resilience in the face of skepticism from experts who doubted the possibility of such speed on water without breaking up.
Tragically, Campbell lost his life in 1967 during a subsequent record attempt on Coniston Water when Bluebird somersaulted as he tried to surpass 300mph (480km/h). Reflecting on the anniversary of the record, Gina Campbell marveled at the enduring interest in her father’s accomplishments and the immense following he still commands. She highlighted the incredible legacy he left behind for her, her family, and the nation as a whole. The notion of achieving 200mph on water seven decades ago appeared almost inconceivable, yet Campbell’s unwavering determination and courage propelled him to break further records with what Gina refers to as a “heart of absolute steel.”
The Ruskin Museum’s director, Tracy Hodgson, lauded the event as a rare chance to witness a pivotal piece of British high-speed motoring history with the display of Bluebird at Glenridding Pier, close to where it was first launched 70 years ago. Ullswater holds a special place in the Campbell saga, and the museum is honored to host this significant artifact. As part of the celebration, Ullswater Steamers collaborated to offer commemorative commentary during selected sailings, allowing passengers to observe two buoys marking the measured mile where Campbell achieved his record. Plans are also in place for Bluebird to grace Coniston Water again next year, under the command of Australian pilot Dave Warby, son of the late-water speed record-holder Ken Warby. Rescued from the depths of Coniston Water in 2001, the craft underwent reconstruction by a dedicated team of engineers and now resides at the Ruskin Museum following a protracted ownership dispute with its restorer
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.