The Shark Class is saddened to inform the fleet of the recent passing of Peggy Sykes, a member of our Shark family. The Shark Class extends our sincerest condolences to Peggy’s family.
In Memoriam: Peggy Sykes (February 26, 1959 – August 24, 2019)
Far too young, Peggy collapsed from a cardiac event on August 14th, while racing on a sailboat. Despite the heroic efforts of many, she did not wake up. Ten days later she passed. She died doing what she loved… racing a sailboat with great friends.
Peggy grew up sailing with her family. After many years away from it, she took a sailing course and rekindled her love of being on the water. Peggy started racing on a Shark at the Bay of Quinte Yacht Club, where she was a founding member of the Rub-a-Dub Swim Club. In addition to sailing on almost every Shark in the Club, Peggy sailed on many other boats too, and especially enjoyed her time on the J-24.
I was lucky to have Peggy on the foredeck of Tiger Niles on many occasions, both in Club races and at several Shark regattas. She helped us through the Tiger kidnapping at the 2015 Britannia YC Shark Worlds and befriended many of the Class and European sailors there. We sailed to a first place together at the 2016 Golden Horseshoe regatta (she was so proud when we offered her the keeper trophy to take home!). Her name will live forever on the Shark of the Year trophy for helping us win in 2016.
Peggy was a shining star, great on the water and off. She added fun and laughter to all around her, and she was a joy to be with. Most of all, Peggy was a very kind and thoughtful person. We will miss her.
Wishing you well on your next journey, Peggy. Fair winds…
Peter Aker, Tiger Niles 1489
President, International Shark Class Association
Services:
John R. Bush Funeral Home
80 Highland Ave, Belleville, ON
Visitation: Wednesday, August 28th from 2-4pm and 7-9pm
Funeral Service: Thursday, August 29th at 3pm
Luncheon to follow at Bay of Quinte Yacht Club
To share memories of Peggy and for online condolences please visit www.rushnellfamilyservices.com
2019 Homecomers Regatta – 60th Year of the Shark!
