Daiy Mail trans-Atlantic Prize

[RFT]

Among the possible entries for the Daily Mail trans-Atlantic prize ("Flight" Jan 1919) was Lt-Col Raymond Collishaw DSO.

Raymond Collishaw, who took command of 47 Squadron (South Russia) in the Spring of 1919, was reported to be a possible entrant for this prize using a five-engined Handley Page. I have no information whatsoever on this Daily Mail trans-Atlantic prize or the aircraft.

Does anyone know if Lt-Col Collishaw ever participated in this event.

Thanks

Rob

[beaverpass]

Rob,

On 22 March 1919 the Toronto "Globe" reported that Collishaw would make the transatlantic flight about 1 May accompanied by Major Robert Leckie, RAF.

No mention of the aircraft he intended to use, but he was proceeding immediately to England to ship it back to Canada.

He was reported by the same newspaper to be leaving for Russia on 29 May and did not return to Canada until June 1920.

So, the answer to your question is "yes" he intended to attempt the flight but Russia intervened. The Daily Mail prize of 10,000 Pounds was won by Alcock and Brown in the Vickers Vimy.

Ken

[RobL]

It'd be interesting to know what the five engine HP would be - presumably a V/1500 with an extra engine in the nose or on the centre upper wing

[RFT]

Hi Ken

Thanks very much indeed for your reply and for clarifying matters. It appears a 5-engined Handley Page was to be used by Collishaw.

The report saying he was leaving for Russia on 29 May 1919 is correct. He arrived at Novorossisk 08 June 1919 and, after 2 further days of travel by road, reached Ekaterinodar (with several officers and 176 other ranks) on the 11 July 1919.

Regards

Rob