“The boat is easy to maintain and sail by yourself on a nice day if you want, and the people are just down right fun. I’d always walk up to the porch after racing a different boat and say ‘boy, I’d like to be hanging with those R19 guys.’ Now I am.”
Hijinx, Rhodes 19.16′
Interview with the Captain – Timmy Dittrich
About the boat
Why did you choose to buy a Rhodes?
They have a terrific Fleet here in Marblehead. It’s very competitive (there are a good number of collegiate and All-American Sailors in this Fleet, yet everyone is a sport and willing to help you out). The boat is easy to maintain and sail by yourself on a nice day if you want, and the people are just down right fun. I’d always walk up to the porch after racing a different boat and say “boy, I’d like to be hanging with those R19 guys.” Now I am.
What other kinds of boats did you consider before buying this particular model (and how did they compare)?
I had decided years back that the R19 was a great fit for me so I never considered another model.
How did you come to find/locate her before purchasing (and what’s the boat’s history if you know it)?
R19’s aren’t easy to come by. People love em and keep em. Not a lot of turnover so it was really a “hunt” for a boat of decent quality. I had heard that a fellow bought Jim Raisedes and Charlie Pendelton’s R19 but it was just sitting in a back lot in Hamilton. I chased the boat’s new owner down, but it took 3 tries to get him to part with it. Finally, on December 31, 2019, I brought sleet, snow and a pocket full of cash to that owner and made the deal to bring #1217 back to Marblehead.
What features/improvements have you added or do you plan to add?
The boat was set up very well and I haven’t had to do anything major outside of basic maintenance and fair a few spots on the keel.
What are the features you like most about your boat?
It’ simplicity makes me very happy. It’s easy to get out on single-handed, and fun to race with a partner. I sailed the boat all through the summer of 2020 singlehanded, and that saved me from going crazy!
Who first introduced you to boating/sailing?
My father encouraged me and neighbors and friends took me. I was ALL IN from the get go.
Do you belong to a yacht club or other boating/sailing organizations?
Corinthian Yacht Club, Marblehead, MA. R19 National Association. Classic Yacht Owners Association. International One Design World Class.
What boats have you previously owned?
Artekno H-boat (27’); Town Class; International One Design.
How do you typically use your boat over the summer, and where do you go?
It’s all about waiting for the races for me. In between, I like to get off the mooring and enjoy the gift that I’ve been afforded called sailing.
What is the biggest challenge you have in servicing your boat?
Because it’s so wonderfully simple, I haven’t had many challenges at all.
Do you have any notable boating resources you use?
The beauty of the R19 is that there are plenty of people who are willing to help you out, share notes, and recommend service providers.
Do you have any advice for those looking to buy a Rhodes like yours?
1st, if you’re interested in a R19, be patient. They’re hard to come by. 2nd, ask a friend who already has a R19 to help you. 3rd, make sure you know what you’re getting. It might be better to wait than to jump at the first boat you find.
What’s the story behind the boat’s name?
I wanted to do something fun and that would bring a smile to my face. One of the best times in my life was reading our two boys bedtime Hardy Boys stories. A word that often came up was “Hijinx”. Every time I look at the name now, it makes me smile, chuckle and reminds me of our two grown boys.
CHECK IT OUT
Click the gallery below for more photos and information about Hijinx!
