The international sailing community is deeply saddened by the passing of Pat Healy on May 17, 2025
May 22, 2025
Pat’s distinguished career in sailing spanned decades. He became an International Judge in 1990 and previously served as an International Umpire. Since 1981, he was a judge for both US Sailing and Sail Canada. Pat contributed his expertise at seven Olympic and Paralympic Games—four times as a coach and three as a judge. His dedication as a volunteer began in the 1980s, serving World Sailing as Chairman of the International Judges Sub-Committee and as an International Judge Instructor. He was also instrumental in teaching racing rules and judging in both Canada and the USA and was a devoted supporter of CORK/Sail Kingston. Pat’s remarkable journey included roles as a Finn sailor, meteorologist, coach, and judge.
Sailing was truly Pat’s love. He played a pivotal role in developing sailors as Head Coach and later Director of Intercollegiate Sailing at the U.S. Naval Academy, as Canadian National Sailing Coach, and in various international capacities. He also served as Regatta Director for the Challenger of Record Committee at the 24th America’s Cup.
Pat’s extraordinary contributions were recognized with inductions into both the Canadian Sailing Hall of Fame and the US Intercollegiate Sailing Hall of Fame, the latter honoring him with the Campbell Family Award for Lifetime Service. He was a proud, longtime member of the Royal Canadian Yacht Club.
Pat’s expertise in racing rules and his talent for teaching were widely respected. His insights and clear understanding of the rules shaped the knowledge of everyone who worked with him. Pat’s warmth, humor, and spirited encouragement inspired all to strive for excellence.
On a personal note, Pat Healy was a terrific coach for us in Los Angeles in 1984. His calm demeanor, and ever steady guiding marshalled us through all of the “Olympic noise” and his work with at regattas prior to 1984 was terrific . The best weather forecasting, the best pep talks and a wonderful debilitating smile that took the edge off when it needed to . He was the best. Pat was always giving and out there and helped a bunch of sailors coaches and in his later years of continuing to give back the officials.
