The association’s festivities will take place at the West Mersea Regatta on 22 August, where there will be all classes of the Faireys competing and displayed for anyone interested in these Uffa Fox designed innovative sailing boats.

The AOA’s oldest and youngest members, aged 92 and 13, will be taking part.

One of the youngest Atalanta competitors Rebecca aged 13

Fairey Marine formed the Atalanta Owners Association on 7th January 1959, with the object of “Keeping a register of all Atalanta Owners and to further the interests of Owners in cruising and racing”. This register is now maintained by the Association’s Honorary Secretary.

2015 also marks the 50th competitive year of the West Mersea Regatta.

An Atalanta yacht in action. Credit: Richard James

AOA secretary Ian Pollard said: ‘This 60th anniversary event is testament to the British, quirky sense of adventure and innovation- self righting and a safe family orientated trailer sailer with a self draining cockpit and able to sail in 18 inch of water!

‘Longevity and ease of maintenance, with at least 30 of these boats still sailing it will be an exciting event culminating in a race between two ladies with over 66 years between them!’

Find out more at: www.atalantaowners.ning.com