02/10/2024
Bermuda, and the Club, lost one of the backbones of the sailing community this past week, with the very sad news that Penny Simmons has ended his watch. Penny, and his beloved wife, Sacha, have been active Members of the Club for almost 45 years and have competed in Club events for many more.
Penny's history with Bermuda sailing is rich and varied. He represented Bermuda at four Summer Olympics in two classes of boat: Dragons and 470s. He, along with his tight-knit crew from Ariel, hold eight International One Design World Championship titles. No matter how well he did, Penny always remained humble on and off the water. A quiet man, who observed everything. You did not want to meet him in the Protest Room, which was a rare occurrence.
His love for being on the water and sailing passed on to all three of his sons: Scott, Blair and Lars - all having spent their summers & spare time messing around in boats. His grandchildren continue the legacy.
There is a name plaque on the stern companionway of his cherished IOD, Ariel, that sums up everything that was Penny Simmons: 'Sportsmanship before Winning'. That is the legacy of E. 'Penny' Simmons that needs to be remembered - he was all about fair sailing, he just happened to be very good at winning races.
The Executive, Board of Governors, Members and Staff send their heartfelt condolences to Sacha and their three sons: Scott, Blair and Lars & their families, the International One Design family and all of his friends.
Fair Winds and Following Seas.
06/12/2020
31/10/2020
30/10/2020
27/10/2020
01/09/2020
18/06/2020
12/07/2019