Eight Bells – Sid Dakin and James Barkman

Feb 2, 2022

1968 – the first of Sid Dakin’s Sharks, all named Duck Soup

Last week the shark fleet said goodbye to two of its finest.

Sid Dakin – One of the first and most ardent supporters of the Shark, his early ventures in the shark brought recognition to the class and a great respect for the sailors that sailed them. Sid won six World Championship, the first five ever held from 1966-1970 followed by a remarkable sixth world title in 1999, 29 years after his previous win.

Sid was awarded the George Hinterhoeller Award in 2000 for contribution to the class. Sid’s love of the shark also spread to his family that has made the Dakin Family the most active family in the shark fleet by far. Our sympathies go out to the entire extended Dakin Family.

James Barkman – Jim was always a man with a smile on his face and time for others in the fleet. He and Jackie were always together, and always smiling as they campaigned Silver Phantom (1842) for many years travelling the circuit and competing at the top end of the fleet consistently. Most of all we recall that he was always a gentleman, on and off the recourse. Our hearts go out to Jackie and the family at this time.

International Shark Class Association, John Brunt

Canadian Shark Class Association, Rod Gardner

 For Sid Dakin’s Globe and Mail obituary, click here.