Eight Bells: George Cohon

Nov 29, 2023

While not officially a sailor (he owned a fabulous Hinckley Talaria 48 named McHappy III), George Cohon was a spectacular Canadian businessman and proud contributor of the Royal Canadian Yacht Club. He generously provided his boat to assist with sailing events as well as helping with quiet support of many significant sailing campaigns.

His central involvement was through the RCYC’s annual Paddlethon which raised significant funds for Ronald McDonald House, the charity he founded as CEO of McDonald’s Canada. Fueled by George’s incredible commitment, commodores and members of all stripes dressed in insane costumes to paddle all manner of craft around RCYC’s island as part of the fundraiser.

George Cohon passed on Friday. You will read about George Cohon’s impressive life throughout the media but his contribution to the sailing and boating community is also important to mark.

Thanks George. For everything.

-JM

Related Articles

  • Photo(s) of the Week: 56th Southern Straits Annual Yacht Race

    Photo(s) of the Week: 56th Southern Straits Annual Yacht Race

    April 9, 2026 A total of 67 boats were on the line for three courses at a fast and furious 56th Southern Straits Annual Yacht Race held April 3-5 put on by the West Vancouver Yacht Club. The pics came from club members. Full results are here Time to break out the phones and cameras… Read More…

  • We are all responsible! – part 2

    We are all responsible! – part 2

    The UofT winning team April 9, 2026 By Roger Renaud What’s happening at LYRA? The Director of Racing of the Lake Yacht Racing Association (LYRA) of Lake Ontario, Luc D’Aoust, feels “we forgot about a generation”, when he talks about keeping this sport alive. “We created the years of gaps in what used to be… Read More…