Eight Bells: Paul D Phelan

May 27, 2021

Sail Canada shares with the Canadian sailing community the passing of Paul D. Phelan on May 20. He was 70 years of age. 

Former member of the Canadian Sailing Team in the Finn class, notably at the 1971 Pan American Games in Cali, Paul D. Phelan was also a great philanthropist and supporter of sailing in Canada. 

Phelan created Wind Athletes Canada through the support of the P.J. Phelan Sailing Foundation, in which he mentored many sailors and provided coaching, equipment as well as financial support to countless up-and-coming and Olympic Canadian sailing athletes. 

“Sail Canada is not only losing a great ally and fan of our sport, but also a great supporter of our high performance programs and our athletes. On behalf of all of our members, we would like to offer our sincere condolences to the family of Paul D. Phelan,” said Sail Canada Chief Executive Officer, Don Adams.

In 2011, Paul D. Phelan received the Sail Canada Rolex Sailor of the Year Award for his continuous and unwavering support of Canadian high performance sailing and the National Sailing Team through the P.J. Phelan Sailing Foundation.

Paul D. Phelan also helped in the promotion of the sport of sailing in the country, for instance by supporting the production of high performance sailing documentaries featuring Canadian sailors that were broadcast on Canada’s national television network. 

In 2011, Phelan launched “O CANADA”, a unique platform for Canadian offshore racing helping to demonstrate that Canadian sailors can hold their own in the international offshore arena. “O CANADA” sailors included Canadian Olympic athletes and national team members competing in major offshore competitions and capturing top three finishes in multiple races.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the funeral service will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wind Athletes Canada.