David, or “Dr. Grip” as he is affectionately known in the industry, has finally decided that, after a career spanning 40 years in leading the way in topsides systems, it is time to hang up his spray gun and indulge his other passion in life, traveling in his motorhome with his wife Christi. David will, however, remain as a consultant with Awlgrip passing on his extensive knowledge and skills to the next generation of Dr. Grips.
From humble beginnings in 1973 when an as yet un-named topside paint was used on David’s father’s boat, interest steadily grew until the following summer when David somehow got America’s Cup Winner ‘Courageous’ and her tender painted completely with Awlgrip. During that summer Awlgrip became the buzzword in Newport and the phrase “get your boat Awlgripped” was coined. As the brand grew, with David and other Awlgrip colleagues leading the way, Awlgrip launched even