Eight Bells: John Clark

Feb 14, 2024

Following a struggle with cancer, adventurer, sailmaker and world champion, John Clark, passed away peacefully with assistance at the age of 59 with his family by his side at his home, just as he wished on January 17, 2024.

Born in 1964, John learned to sail at Frenchman’s Bay Yacht Club and some of his many sailing accomplishments included being a multiple-time Shark World Champion between 1994 and 2004 and an Albacore World Champion. John’s sailing passions more recently turned to kiteboarding including locally and in exotic locations around the world.

John owned the well-respected Kingston Sail Loft (formerly JC Sails) for over 30 years, crafting race winning sails for many different sailing classes including Sharks, as well as for many offshore sailboats.

He will be missed.

Related Articles

  • We are all responsible!

    We are all responsible!

    Racing on Lake St Clair March 26, 2026 By Roger Renaud Sailing In Canada has published articles addressing the topics surrounding whether ‘club racing’, and/or ‘weekend racing’, will survive or not. This series also looked at what was needed in order to keep the support systems working….to continue to get young sailors involved, so they… Read More…

  • Martin 242 Fleet Captain’s Dinner & AGM, Viennese Masked Ball 

    Martin 242 Fleet Captain’s Dinner & AGM, Viennese Masked Ball 

    Nicole MacRae (l) of  Kitsilano and Carmen Varnel, YC KYC Membership Director and wife of Commodore Rob Varnel March 26, 2026 Ray & Annie Parsons, and Craig Strand were recognized as the inaugural Life Members with speeches and toasts to their great contributions to the Fleet from the very beginning!  There will be more Fleet… Read More…