Original Photographic Prints by Beken of Cowes
depicting yachts of the "J" Class racing at Cowes.
VELSHEDA. Neg. 19521
Sepia print. Signed "Beken & Son, Cowes"
ENDEAVOUR 1. Neg. 18534
Sepia print.Signed "Beken & Son, Cowes" Inscribed on the reverse 1934/140 23 x 28cm.(9 x 11in.) each. (2)

Footnotes
The UK reluctantly agreed to the adoption of the American Universal Rule for the rating of the big boat class in 1930, to replace the International Metre Rule of 1906. Of the lettered classes, the "J" Class was adopted for yachts competing in the challenges for the America's Cup. VELSHEDA K7 was the second to be built in England to the rule, and was the only "J" Class not to race for the Cup. Thomas Sopwith commissioned ENDEAVOUR l in 1934 specifically to challenge the Americans, although she was soundly defeated by the defender RAINBOW. In this photograph she can be seen racing against the King's cutter BRITANNIA K1.