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The Cross-Channel Motor Boat Races

Calais to Dover, Aug. 8th, 1904.
Photographed, by courtesy of the "Motor Boat," from the Turbine Steamer Queen.
Including views of s.s. Queen's Decks crowded with spectators, Captain's Bridge, four French Torrpedo Boats (escort), Motor Boats at Calais, the start from Calais of first race (most exciting), scenes of Motor Boats racing over Channel.
NOTE.-The Queen, from which this picture was secured, ran so close to the racers that we were enabled to secure a magnificent picture of Napier Minor, driven by Mr. Edge, cutting through the water at tremendous speed. Beautiful spray effects. Great success.
Length 400 ft. Price £10.

The Cross-Channel Motor Boat Races

The credit for the inception of the great Cross-Channel Race is due to Count Récopé, a distinguished French sportsman and ex-naval officer, who is always to be seen at the big motoring contests. He has been one of the greatest advocates for the promotion of the "entente cordiale'' between France and England, and he has the idea that he will be furthering that end, and, at the same time, promoting sport by the organisation of a high-speed motor-boat race between the shores of the two countries. The contest was organised by the Automobile Club of France, and some notable trophies have been presented, as well as a number of other prizes.
The commencement of the series shows motor-boats leaving the river at Calais, previous to the start ; these are followed by three torpedo boats which acted as escort and guarded the course across the Channel. Next is shown the start of seven Motor boats practically leaping over the waters. They appear like a school of porpoises, and as they approach the camera, distinctly show the great spray thrown over their prows in their swift progress. The winner is then shown nearing the cliffs of Dover, while an excellent close view picture of Mr. Edge's Napier boats (which finish second in the race), gives a most exciting finish to the series. As we had the exclusive photographic rights on the fast Turbine Channel steamer s.s. "Queen," exceptional facilities for doing justice to this interesting event were had by us and made the most of.

URBAN 1905-02