The Shark 24 fleet has lost a true inspiration. Cameron Smith was a passionate champion of sailing throughout his life. He began sailing in Montreal and Hudson at just eight years old and quickly developed a lifelong love of the sport. His competitive spirit and determination carried him to many successes in the J22, Tripp 33, and, of course, his beloved Shark, “Toga Party”.
This past season, Cam raced in eight counter regattas and every club race at the Whitby Yacht Club. He refused to let cancer keep him from his passion for sailing and competition. The sport—and his family—gave him the strength to keep fighting and to make the most of every single day, which he did.
In September, Cam and his crew finished second at Homecomers in a strong fleet of 36 Sharks. It came down to a two-boat battle in the final race of the day for the championship. A counter regatta win eluded him once again. Smiling, he said, “Oh well, that was my last chance.”
Cam’s consistent presence on the water this season was a beacon to us all. Throughout the summer, we heard countless stories of crews attending regattas simply because Cam’s journey inspired them—they wanted to be there with him, to share in his love of the sport.
On Saturday, many of Cam’s friends and family gathered at the Whitby Yacht Club to celebrate his life and contribution to the Shark fleet. Cam arrived at the club expecting a casual drink with his Shark comrades and was surprised to see so many familiar faces from his past. With his trademark smile and in a quiet, weakened voice, he welcomed us all. He thanked everyone for coming and, with grace and courage, spent the afternoon speaking with friends and saying goodbye.
When Cam began his battle three years ago, he and I spoke about finding a way to honour him by name. This year, the CSCA Board proudly presented Cam with the Spirit Award, which will now live on in perpetuity as the Cameron Smith Trophy – For Exemplary Spirit in the Shark Class.
Although a Counter Regatta championship eluded Cam, he will forever be “first” on this trophy—and in our hearts and memories. To borrow from Animal House’s Bluto: “Nothing is over until we decide it is.”
Cam, you will be deeply missed by all whose lives you touched.
Strong winds and big seas.
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