BOAT DESIGN:     ILC 40

DESIGNER:      Farr Design #317

BUILBER:      Carroll Marine

WEIGHT:       13,000 lbs

BEAM:   13ft

DRAFT:   9ft

LENGTH:     41ft
SAIL AREA:

RIG:      Fractional

HOME PORT:    West Vancouver Yacht Club

SAIL NO:     1997

SKIPPER:     Rick Reynolds

PHRFNW RATING:   6
Occam's Razor is a 14th century principle that states, 'There are a multiple number of solutions to any problem, but the simplest solution tends to be the best!'

Occam's Razor started life as, 'Beau Geste', a custom purpose built Farr design under the "Grand Prix" International Level Class rule for noted Hong Kong yachtsman Karl Kwok. The construction of the vessel was with state of the art composite carbon fiber/foam material, which continues to be the premier material used in race boats today.

The boat proved to be a successful performer, with a win in the highly competitive IMS division C at Block Island race week just after her launch. She went on to win other major events such as the South China Sea Race (twice), Corum Cup plus very competitive showings in world-class events such as Admiral's Cup and the ILC 40 Worlds.

In 1997 the boat was purchased and brought to Vancouver by WVYC member, Bill Lougheed, in concert with his long time friend & racing skipper Rick Reynolds. Between them they had compiled an impressive race record on Bill's previous boat, a Nelson/Marek 36. With a new flashy paint job, a refreshment of the sail inventory and some good crew "Occam's Razor" continued true to her pedigree as a tough boat to beat.

Over the years Occam's has posted wins in such challenging events as the Southern Straits Race with two overall wins and one Grand Slam, several overall V.A.R.C. divisional wins and also posted strong results in the Swiftsure Classic and Whidbey Island race week.

A few years ago Occam's was awarded a special Team Spirit/Sportsmanship honour, which is awarded to the boat & crew whose primary objective is to have fun whilst enjoying the great sport of sail boat racing.

In 2005 Bill Lougheed decided to retire from active racing and stewardship of this great vessel. The boat was subsequently taken over by a consortium of West Vancouver sailors. The consortium has continued Bill's tradition and philosophy of pushing the boat hard, whilst maximizing the camaraderie and pleasure of being on the water.