Sailing Days at ABYC
May 8, 2019
Ian started his sailing life around 1972 when, as a young police officer, he was assigned to 55 Division and Patrick Lymburner was his training officer. Pat had just purchased a Thunderbird and wanted to get the mast up ASAP. They were working night shift and Ian offered to help. Then, of course, they had to take her for a sail. Ian was a natural. He raced with Pat on Who Knows until Pat bought an Alberg 30 (MYNX) in 1983 and Ian took over the TBird.
Ian and his brother Rob sailed Who Knows and faced the maintenance challenges of a wooden Tbird for many years. Then he went boatless for a while before buying and renaming Who Knew (he would buy a powerboat).
Ian got involved in race management in the mid-70s and became one of the first certified race officers in Canada. He was active in officiating at many events including CORK, LYRA, LORC, and many one-design class events, both as a race officer and as a judge. He was certified as a Canadian Yachting Association Senior National Race Officer and a National Judge (the highest certification levels offered by CYA, now Sail Canada). He worked at many high level events and for several years was on the Laser team at the World Cup in Miami. His commitment to our sport is legendary and even as late as last year he worked on the race committee for the J/24 Worlds at PCYC even though his health was compromised. Ian epitomized the spirit of volunteerism and his dedication to Race Management is second to none. When ABYC needed help he was always there.
Ian was active on committees at ABYC and was well known socially at the club. Many evenings found him at his favourite spot next to the post in Duffy's. He loved gambling and made regular trips to casinos as well as taking part in countless friendly card games.
He will be missed.
(Originally posted on ABYC Ship 2 Shore – author unknown)