Eight bells for Peter Gerard
by Camden Classics Cup 22 Aug 16:59 UTC
Remembering Peter Gerard © Camden Classics Cup
It is with sadness that we share the passing of Peter A. Gerard, longtime friend of the sailing community and Principal Race Officer for the Camden Classics Cup. Peter passed away on August 17 at the age of 80, just weeks after joining us in Camden for the 10th annual Classics Cup.
Peter's life in sailing was long and distinguished. He began as a competitor, racing in the J/24 and Shields classes before going on to crew aboard several legendary 12 Metre America's Cup yachts. Peter was also an active member of the New York Yacht Club, Storm Trysail Club, Ida Lewis Yacht Club, and Rush Creek Yacht Club in Dallas, where he had served as Commodore.
We were fortunate to have Peter bring his tremendous experience to the Camden Classics Cup as Principal Race Officer. Remarkably, he remained deeply engaged in the sport until the very end. This July, within a matter of weeks, he served as PRO for both the storied Bayview Mackinac Race and our 10th annual Camden Classics Cup.
Those who knew Peter understood that his love of sailing extended far beyond competition. He cared deeply about the boats, the traditions of the sport, and particularly the friendships created through a lifetime on the water. His decades of service reflected a genuine desire to give back to a sport and community that meant so much to him.
We are grateful that Peter spent part of his final summer with us here in Camden. His presence, expertise, and unmistakable enthusiasm helped shape the Camden Classics Cup, and he will be deeply missed by all of us who had the privilege of working and racing with him.