Dons First Career Win

[Marlin275]

http://www.donzi.net/photos/gabelerClaudia2.jpg
Don won the first race of his career in this Formula 27. Claudia II in the 1964 Round Nassau Sweepstakes.
p.24 The King of Thunderboat Row by Michael Aronow.

Its top speed over the measured mile was in excess of 60 mph.
Powered by two 427 cu. in. Interceptor engines

http://www.donzi.net/photos/gabelerWhiteMarlin.jpg
I965 Miami-Nassau Race, White Marlin(former Claudia II) raced Dons new Donzi 007.

In mid - 1964, Marlin Boatworks bought the Formula 27 foot. This became the Marlin 275 Sportfisherman marketed more against Bertram.

[1996Z15]

You'll have to excuse my ignorance here but, these two boats look like sport cruisers without the cabin. Is that what most people were racing back then? I guess these boats are pre-Donzi / Cigarette style boats that we typically see racing?

[Marlin275]

Donzi 008 was a sleeker, lighter and faster
version of his record setting Donzi 007.
Her deck was sheared about two and a-half feet providing low wind resistance. . .
p.52 The King of Thunderboat Row
by Michael Aronow