John McCann 1937-2024

Published 14:12 on 21 Sep 2024

John McCanns Memorial Service ~ Friday 6 September 2024, Itchenor.

A Tribute by Guy Darby:

 Contessa Days

 Johns Dinghy sailing started in Cadets at Bognor, not far from here, and rose to the pinnacle of Dinghy racing in International 14s, at Itchenor.

 Keelboat sailing started in the McCanns Family Contessa 26 and continued when Cosantes, a Contessa 32, was purchased in 1973.

 For many years John successfully helmed CO 32 Red Apple for Max & Felicity Jaffe and when Max decided to stop racing, John raced prepared Cosantes and success on the water continued.

 John & Sybs August cruise to the West Country, often in company with other CO 32s, included racing in Fowey Week, where Cosantes was consistently winning, much to the irritation of the locals!

 Johns Gin & Tonics, both racing and cruising, were legendary!

 Not only did John race and cruise Contessas but he made a considerable contribution to the Class Association, over a long period of time. He was Class Measurer for many years and also helped those new owners to get racing. That included racing on other boats to impart his first class knowledge.

John was also Class Captain.

 ohn was a gentleman, on and off the water; popular, admired and respected.

The core of the Cosantes crew was, of course, the indomitable Syb and Daughter Anna - Anna won the Nationals in 2005. John orchestrated evolutions on the boat in a quiet manner and for all the crew in more recent years; Karen, Colin, Zoë and me, it was a privilege to sail on such a happy and successful boat.

 So, from the Crew of Cosantes, and us all:

 Fair winds John!

Last updated 14:14 on 21 September 2024