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Velsheda, launched in 1933 by Camper & Nicholsons and one of the original J Class yachts, was based at Pendennis in Falmouth for four months in 2016 to prepare her for the 2017 regatta season. Built for Mr. W.L. Stephenson, Owner of the Woolworth chain of shops, her name originated from Stephenson’s three daughters, Velma, Sheila and Daphne. At the time of her build Stephenson owned a Camper & Nicholsons classic motor yacht, Malahne (a combination of the remaining letters of his daughters’ names) which coincidentally completed a significant award-winning restoration programme at Pendennis during the previous refit season.
Velsheda’s refit included installation of a new engine, gearbox and drive train replacement and alignment. A 20-year Lloyd’s A1 LMC Survey was carried out alongside deck and interior joinery maintenance, with a repaint of the technical areas and tanks.
Following completion of her refit in August 2016 Velsheda sailed straight to Sardinia to compete in the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup. Certainly, her time at Pendennis seems to have been of benefit as the yacht performed exceptionally well, securing second place overall in the Super Maxi fleet.
