The Shark 24 fleet has lost a treasured member. John Clark, known as JC to many and “Clarkie” by a few, was a passionate sailor who could “feel” the boat like no other. He was a world champion in two classes, both Shark 24 and Albacore. A sailmaker, a father, and an adventuresome spirit, he established himself by opening JC Sails/Kingston Sail Loft in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. He lived his life his way… right to the end. After a struggle with cancer, with assistance John passed away peacefully on January 17, 2024, with his much-loved daughters Ellie and Jeremy by his side.
JC was a 7-time Shark 24 world champion between 1994 and 2004, six of them with his good friend and sailing partner Don Ruddy. He gained numerous friends in both the Canadian and European fleets; his sails were in high demand. In his busiest times, many of the Sharks that European builder Bodo Guenther sold were supplied with suits of JC sails.
With his seemingly effortless ability to make boats sail fast, John was an inspiration to many. He helped countless sharkies become better sailors, and not just by building them fast sails! He taught sailing to juniors, wrote Shark tuning guides, gave seminars and sailing tips, and encouraged fellow competitors at regattas, on the phone, or in the loft. He gave back to sailing, to his community in Kingston, and to the Shark 24 Class.
Smooth sailing John.
2024 CSCA Regatta Schedule Announcement
