Charley Morgan (pictured far left in photo at right) hasn’t lost any of his zip and enthusiasm for sailing at 85 years young. The innovative local fiberglass yacht designer told Paradise News:
“It’s amazing when you look back over the sweep of time how Tampa Bay has remained a major factor in all types of watersports activity. We’ve had sailing World and Western Hemisphere championships as well as the Southern Ocean Racing Conference, among others.
“We’ve stayed at the highest levels of achievement with a great watersports community supporting speedboat to sailing competition, with area America’s Cup competitors and Olympic Gold Medal winners.
“I’m delighted to be part of reinventing the Morgan Invasion as the centerpiece of the Tampa Bay Hospice Cup. The first two events raised over $80,000 with 97% to the two hospice organizations – thanks to incredible volunteer participation. I’m confident it will remain one of our area’s major events in future years. It’s great to see everyone come together for fun and hospice.
“A bonus this year was sailing with the two dozen winning auction bidders on my 44-year-old Heritage 12-meter yacht, that I first sailed in the 1970 America’s Cup trials. It was great of the Newport, RI, 12 Meter Charters to donate this wonderful prize. “Next April’s Tampa Bay Hospice Cup will be the 30th anniversary of our Morgan Invasion, and we expect Morgan owners around the Bay Area and aficionados from around the state will come to support the event. One of most civilized things we can do is contribute to growing hospice support across the country and here in Tampa Bay.”
Hey charley my name is lantz Brunson and I have aquired a 1976 38ft morgan Sloop it has a outisland keel I think and a 69– 71 period With the 38 Morgan topside an you shed any light on this vessels story ? I sure would like to have information on this vessel a friend can no longer use it and has bestowed it to me and I or anyone else can explain it with a story , I’m currently going to start getting it insaili g shape before heading to the Caralinas please help me with the mystery boat and someone it might be one of your boats name blessed ? Thanks for your contributions to our sailing world and I salute you sir , I’m a disable underwater welder / fabricator / and a 100 ton merchant marine captain and
have plans of sailing the rest of my time on this sailboat that I have been blessed with, thanks again captain !