Very Sad Reminder

[nhschneider]

We met Hugh and Kate, two young Aussies, as we were sailing across Indonesia. They were having the times of their lives, enjoying adventures aboard their boat before they started raising a family. The last we had heard from them they had returned to Australia and are now the proud parents of two little boys.

However, just a couple of days ago, we heard from Kate that Hugh had been killed during an accidental jibe while aboard a friend’s boat. Our hearts are broken.

Please remember that this sport/lifestyle we choose has many inherent dangers and the risks we take can affect lives around the world if a catastrophe occurs.

Please join me in a moment of silence to remember my friend Hugh.

Fair winds and calm seas.

[daletournier]

Is this Hugh Macready?

[Nicholson58]

Reminder to all. Keep your head down and stay aware. I was batted airborn off our deck. Thank you harness.

[roverhi]

I seem to bang my head on something every time I'm on the boat. Think part of it is the loss of the early warning mechanism called hair as I've gained experience and years. Have contemplated getting some kind of helmet to wear instead of a hat. Rock climbing helmets seem to be lightweight, securely anchored so they don't fly off, and with a short or no bill so you can see the sails and avoid stuff overhead.

Head injuries are not that uncommon on a sailboat. Several deaths that I've heard about, incidents on friend's boats, and my own experience.

[a64pilot]

Very sorry to hear that, especially as he had young kids, it’s bad when one of us old guys dies, but it’s tragic when a Father with young kids does.

[NYSail]

Originally Posted by a64pilot

Very sorry to hear that, especially as he had young kids, it’s bad when one of us old guys dies, but it’s tragic when a Father with young kids does.

We all matter......

[a64pilot]

Originally Posted by NYSail

We all matter......

Well yes, but I figure now that my kids are grown and gone, I don’t matter as much as I did when three kids were counting on me to feed and clothe them etc. My primary purpose in life has been fulfilled, not to mean that I don’t enjoy life and am trying to get the most out of it, but I’ll take risks now that I wouldn’t then etc. I feel that I’m less needed now.
When an old man dies, it’s sad, but you know we are all headed that way right? When a young Father dies it’s much worse, but a child passing is tragic.
At least that is how I think of it anyway, not to belittle anyone life, but I think his life is worth more if you will than mine

[Uncle Bob]

Originally Posted by a64pilot

Well yes, but I figure now that my kids are grown and gone, I don’t matter as much as I did when three kids were counting on me to feed and clothe them etc. My primary purpose in life has been fulfilled, not to mean that I don’t enjoy life and am trying to get the most out of it, but I’ll take risks now that I wouldn’t then etc. I feel that I’m less needed now.
When an old man dies, it’s sad, but you know we are all headed that way right? When a young Father dies it’s much worse, but a child passing is tragic.
At least that is how I think of it anyway, not to belittle anyone life, but I think his life is worth more if you will than mine

[double u]

Originally Posted by NYSail

We all matter......

on the contrary: none of us matters! Sail out into the ocean-3 days from land you'll agree.

[CarlF]

As I approach 70, it has occurred to me that a quick accidental death on my boat would be a pretty good way to end my lucky, productive and well lived life.

Far better than the likely alternative of a slow decline ashore.

The trick is not to endanger anyone else.

[a64pilot]

Both my Parents didn’t go well, my Brother was sudden.
Of the three, I’d rather go like my Brother did, even though you could argue that my Parents had the chance to prepare, to ensure their affairs were in order.
I’ve always joked that I want to hit an oak tree after falling asleep at the wheel when I’m 90. I figure if your asleep you’ll never know it, won’t feel the pain, and if you still driving at 90, we’ll that means you still have some quality of life.
I just want to go before the Wife, even though I know that will be tough on her.